The results are now official after the recent completion of two recounts by the Kent County Board of Canvassers within the City of Kentwood.
In the Kentwood At-Large City Commissioner race, incumbent Maurice Groce received a net gain of two votes. The post-recount certified totals are: Maurice Groce 3,196; Lily Cheng-Shulting 3,154. The partial recount of the ballots was petitioned for by Cheng-Schulting.
Maurice Groce holds Kentwood At-Large Commissioner seat. (WKTV)
In the Kentwood Ward 2 City Commissioner race, the recount produced a net gain of four votes for candidate David Moore II. The post-recount certified totals are: David Moore II 1,585; Ron Draayer 1,577. The full recount of the ballots was petitioned for by incumbent candidate Ron Draayer.
“Thank you to the public who came to observe, and to the members of our Board of County Canvassers, the teams of recount workers, and our staff for all their hard work,” noted Robert Macomber, Chief Deputy County Clerk.
Even legitimate websites can be impersonated as part of a scammer’s scheme (Courtesy, U.S. Army)
By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
The online culture has opened doors for scam artists (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
In a culture revolving around online and media consumption, local law enforcement and government agencies are working to educate consumers on current scams and how to protect themselves from becoming victims.
Katie Grevious, Better Business Bureau Communications Specialist, told WKTV that falling victim to a scam has become more difficult to avoid as “scammers are becoming more crafty and creative.”
Grevious said that scammers use fear and a sense of urgency to prompt consumers into following their directives: “It is an emotional situation. Something is wrong, something bad is going to happen — that’s what gets people.”
Due to the number of consumers who now shop online, there are ample opportunities for scam artists to create situations involving that emotional response of fear and urgency.
An online society
QR codes boomed in 2020 as consumers needed quick and easy ways to function without physical contact during the pandemic.
QR codes can be used in a multitude of ways (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Now, in 2023, QR codes seem to be everywhere.
“About 94 million U.S. consumers will use smartphone or QR scanners this year,” said a projection by eMarketer. “That number will grow to 102.6 million by 2026.
Access to menus at restaurants, payment for public parking, boarding a flight, or gaining access to a concert or sporting event are only a few ways QR codes are used. With countless other ways to use these codes, scammers have begun hiding harmful links within QR codes to steal personal information.
QR codes are convenient, but can be utilized by con artists (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
These scam links can take you to a site that looks real but is not, allowing scammers to steal information as you log in, or install malware that steals your information.
Covering up QR codes on parking meters with a custom made QR code is another way scammers con the average consumer.
Texting or emailing a QR code with a reason you should scan it is another. These texts and emails create the sense of urgency mentioned above as they:
Say they could not deliver a package and need you to contact them to reschedule.
Ask you to confirm personal information because there is a problem with your account.
Say there is suspicious activity on your account and you need to change your password via the attached QR code.
What you can do
Inspect URLs before you open them. If it is one you think you recognize, double-check there are no misspellings or switched letters.
If you think the message is legitimate, use a phone number or website you know is sound to contact the company as opposed to using the QR code.
Update phone operating systems to protect against hackers, and use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to protect online accounts.
Preying on gift card buyers
Look for signs of tampering before purchasing gift cards (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Copying gift card numbers and their activation codes from where they are kept in stores is a common and simple method of thievery. Once that gift card is bought and activated by an unsuspecting consumer, the fraudster is able to use that card for purchases.
Purchasing gift cards that are kept near checkout lanes where they are more easily seen, and ensuring the cardboard surrounding the gift card has not been tampered with in any way, are ways to protect against this.
Gift cards are used by scammers in a number of other ways as well. Information regarding these scams can be found here.
Porch pirates, phishing, and more
“Phishing emails and phishing texts are still high on the radar,” Keith Morgan, President and CEO of Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce, told WKTV.
Phishing, defined as the fraudulent practice of sending messages designed to trick individuals into revealing personal information, is one of the most common conduits for fraud.
Grevious urges consumers to avoid emails that tell you to re-log into another account you may have, and offer a link to do so. Social media site names are regularly utilized for this scam, and are often ploys that will reveal your password to the sender.
Gaining access to one account can possibly grant scammers access to more (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Your Facebook password may offer a clue on how to get into more important accounts — like bank accounts,” said Grevious.
“People have a lot of similar passwords because it’s too hard to remember 200 different passwords to everything.”
An online scam could also be as simple as clicking on a link to track an order. Scam artists often use the names of larger corporations to send emails offering a link to track an order the consumer may not remember placing.
Grevious urges consumers to hover their computer mouse over the link, which will reveal a bar that states where it will actually take you. Hovering over the sender’s name to see the email address associated with that email is also a good idea. If it is a jumble of letters and numbers, it is not legitimate.
Also look at the browser — if there is a lock symbol and “https” listed there, it means it is a secure and authentic site.
“It is really important that people are vigilant all the time,” said Grevious. “Look for simple grammar and spelling mistakes. Big companies make sure everything is spelled correctly.”
Fraud can be in many forms, online and off (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Fake deliveries are another popular scam.
“If someone says they dropped something off, or was sent to the wrong place, and want to confirm that it was sent to the right place [is a red flag],” said Morgan, adding that they will then try to get you to enter personal information.
Porch pirate thefts are a non internet-based scam that involves stealing delivered packages off residential and business porches.
Cameras at the front of the house or business can protect against thefts. Another option is to have packages delivered to a safe and secure place as opposed to the porch.
“Sometimes homeowners will have packages delivered to the side of the house if they are not going to be there,” said Morgan. “Some organizations with delivery services will allow you to have it delivered while you are at home so you know it gets there.”
Eliminate hurry, double-check sources
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Slowing down is also key to ensuring consumers don’t miss something important.
“Think before you act,” Grevious said. “Our culture has a quick-go pace. We do a lot on our phones, so we don’t do that double-checking and hovering. “You are in control of your information and who you are talking to. Think before you act.”
Consumers are also urged to speak up if they become victims of a scam.
“The more people let us know what is happening, the more we can help,” said Grevious.
Quick response times helped minimize damage in Wyoming apartment fire (Courtesy, WKTV)
By Wyoming Fire Department
At approximately 2 a.m., the Wyoming Fire Department responded to a structure fire at a 36-unit apartment building in the 2200 block of Michael Ave S.W.
The first arriving fire units observed smoke coming from within one of the units. The responding units were able to contain and extinguish the fire, preventing it from fully spreading to the remainder of the apartment building. There were no reported injuries to people or pets.
The Wyoming Fire Department was notified of this fire by an observant tenant who smelled smoke. The tenant’s quick call to 911 allowed the fire department to respond quickly and minimize damage.
Displaced resident support
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Twelve units were affected by this fire. Those residents are currently receiving support from the Property Management Company and the Red Cross for temporary shelter, food, and other essential services while necessary repairs are made.
The Wyoming Fire Department wishes to thank our Red Cross partners who quickly arrived on scene and assisted with the needs of the displaced residents. We appreciate their commitment to the community as they provide crucial support to those affected by fires.
The fire is currently under investigation. Anyone with additional information regarding this incident are asked to contact the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Investigator at 616-257-9764.
Live reindeer from GG Reindeer Farm came to visit (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Brianna Pena Wojtanek, Wyoming Communications Specialist, was excited to see the reindeer (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
All ages joined in at the craft tables! (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wyoming PD officers created a festive sleigh (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Members of the Fire Department helped collect the clothing donations(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wyoming PD Wrap Up Wyoming (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Council Member-At-Large Tommy Brann (left) and Mayor Kent Vanderwood showed their support of the holiday event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Jingle Jams, led by Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin (left) and Wyoming Senior Center Chad Boprie, were a favorite! (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
Santa and Mrs. Claus, reindeer, live music and cookie decorating were only a few highlights of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department’s new holiday event, Wrap Up Wyoming (WUW), that took place Friday, Dec. 1.
Not only did the holiday festivities help bring residents and neighbors together for an evening of fun at the Wyoming Senior Center, WUW also kickstarted a donation drive that will run throughout the month of December.
Wrapping Wyoming in warmth
Warm winter clothing was a greater need in the Wyoming area this year (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
After talking with school partners and other community members, it became apparent there was a great need for warm winter clothing.
“What a lot of the schools need more than anything are coats, hats and boots for their students,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director. “Things that go well beyond the holidays [and] into the colder months.”
Attendees donated new warm clothing such as hats, gloves, scarves, coats and boots. The collected items will be distributed to Wyoming area schools.
“The reason we do this is so that residents can give back to the City, and to residents in need,” said Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “Part of my heart and my passion is to help those who need help.
“Sometimes it’s hard for people to know how they should give gifts at Christmas to those in need. By donating in this way, it makes it a little easier for them. I really enjoy the giving part of it.”
The Wyoming Jazz Band played several festive tunes (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Also in attendance was Tommy Brann, Wyoming City Council Member-At-Large, who likened the festivities to a Hallmark movie.
“This reminds you of a Hallmark movie where it brings the community together, and everybody is in a good mood,” said Brann.
Santa and Mrs. Claus were available for pictures and a merry chat (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Brann went on to say that he wishes the donation drive could continue all year. “People need help year-round, but this is a great thing, and I’m glad Wyoming is doing this.”
Martin agreed that there is a great need for help and support – and the City will step forward to meet that need.
“Anything we can do here at the City of Wyoming and as a community to meet that need for our families, we are looking and willing to do,” said Martin.
Music, Santa, and Cookies – Oh My!
Those with a sweet tooth could decorate their own cookie (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Special performances by the Wyoming Jazz Band and storytime with KDL Branch Librarian Adrianna Triche provided festive experiences for all age groups.
Seeing children’s faces light up with smiles was Martin’s favorite part of the event.
“Anything that is going to bring a smile to a child’s face,” said Martin. “When they come in, their faces are going to light up when they see the Christmas tree, when they see Santa…There are some fun surprises tonight.”
WPD Officers Tyler Zbikowski and Jack Tromp show off their cookie decorating skills (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Live reindeer from GG Reindeer Farm were in attendance, and allowed pictures and petting. Santa and Mrs. Claus were available for pictures and merry conversation, and WKTV Community Media recorded holiday greetings for city officials and residents.
Members of Wyoming Public Safety also participated in the festivities. Members of the fire department organized and collected clothing donations, and several police officers joined in at the craft tables and cookie decorating stations.
A Jingle Jam Sing-A-Long led by Martin and Wyoming Senior Center Director Chad Boprie rounded out the evening.
A new holiday tradition
KDL Branch Librarian Adrianna Triche read a holiday story to the crowd (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“This event is a wonderful way to ring in the holiday season and spend quality time with friends and family,” said Martin. “It’s the perfect opportunity to talk to your little ones about the importance of lending a hand and giving back to your community.”
Boprie said that, since having his own children, he sees the importance of events like WUW that provide ways for people to connect with one another.
“Ever since having kids, my view on things like this has totally shifted,” said Boprie. “Even more, I see the importance of events like this to bring the community together, to create family traditions that you can pass on and share with your kids.”
It takes a village
Clothing donations will be distributed among local schools (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“[For] events like this, it takes a team, it takes a village,” said Martin. “The Parks and Recreation team does a lot to prepare months in advance, but we can’t do events like this without the community support we receive.
“We are grateful for our City leaders and for our sponsors – LMCU and Challenge Island – to help make things like this possible.”
If you were unable to attend but would still like to donate, WUW donation bins are available at Wyoming City Hall through the month of December.
To learn more about the City of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department, click here.
Recognizing when older adults in your life need help is the first step in getting them support that promotes healthy, independent living. (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)
By Care Resources
At some point, the one you love is likely going to need extra help with anything from doing the dishes to navigating stairways.
The question is, how and when do you know?
At Care Resources, there are people and programs in place to help you recognize the signs that changes are occurring, and how to help get the support they need.
“Everyone has their normal baseline, so what you’re looking for are changes to that,” says Amanda Oswald, an intake social worker with Care Resources, a community-based program for people 55 and older seeking to remain in their homes. “You have to look for clues.
“When someone is having trouble with what used to be a routine task, that’s when you might want to have a conversation. It can be about any number of activities.”
In the kitchen alone, says Oswald, there might be signs – scorched pans that signal a burner was left on too long, spoiled food in the refrigerator, a lack of food or stacks of unwashed dishes.
What you’re looking for, she says, is “anything out of the ordinary.”
Oswald suggests keeping an eye out for unpaid bills and bounced checks, sudden difficulty following a recipe, dirty laundry piling up as well as dents and scratches showing up on a motor vehicle.
Sometimes, the changes are a red flag signaling the onset of dementia or other physical or mental maladies.
“Maybe they’re out driving and can’t remember how to get somewhere,” Oswald says. “Or they’re having difficulty managing their medications, which we see a lot of – people who are running out of something too soon, or not getting refills.”
Oswald emphasizes that Care Resources – with a mission to promote healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement – is well-equipped to assist people whose challenges are increasing.
It provides an array of services at its day center at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, and makes home visits to dozens of older adults every day of the week.
Oswald notes that some changes people go through are more obvious.
They may have trouble getting out of a chair or off the toilet or out of bed. They may be undergoing unintentional weight loss, or showing marks or bruises indicating they’re experiencing falls. Their personal hygiene may be declining. They might be avoiding contact with others.
A next step once you zero in on such changes? Have a conversation. Oswald recognizes that can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be as long as you avoid jumping to conclusions.
“Be respectful when approaching someone,” Oswald counsels. “Don’t let it be demeaning. Some of these changes signal the eventual loss of independence, and that can be life changing.”
Partnering with an organization like Care Resources – which provides services to those in Kent and parts of four surrounding counties – can provide interventions that help keep people in their homes.
The important thing, says Oswald, is to intervene “sooner than later,” and emphasize that your primary interest is that they’re safe and have the support they need.
Local nonprofit is determined to bring Christmas to thousands of Kent County children despite the fire at their storage facility (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
A recent fire destroyed over 5,000 of gifts intended for families in need this Christmas. But Santa Claus Girls (SCG) of Kent County is determined to keep Christmas alive for the 8,500 children registered this year.
At 9 p.m. on Nov. 24, multiple agencies responded to a fire at the DeltaPlex Arena in Walker that began in a west wall of the building.
Over 5,000 gifts were damaged by smoke (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
An event center for many years, the Arena closed in summer of 2022, but remained the donation drop-off site for SCG.
Though flames did not reach the area where SCG operates, smoke infiltrated the area for hours, causing damage to thousands of gifts.
SCG Vice President Nancy Ditta said they have not been able to go through the gifts yet, and therefore are not sure if anything is salvageable. SCG will go through their storage area after the first of the year, and will know more then.
Right now, SCG’s focus is on making sure all registered children in need receive a gift in time for Christmas.
A Christmas pivot
“We have 8,500 kids, with 3,500 families, registered to receive gifts,” said Ditta. “We were able to purchase gift cards through Meijer, so we will be delivering gift cards instead of gifts to all of our recipients.”
Santa Claus Girls wants every child to receive a gift on Christmas morning (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The number of registered children is a decrease from the 13,000 children serviced in 2022 due to an unexpected registration cutoff.
“With the fire, we had to stop registrations early,” said Ditta.
With a delivery date of Dec. 9, monetary donations to help purchase gift cards are needed.
While toys, books, and other physical gifts are accepted, Ditta said monetary donations are best since SCG volunteers are not at the DeltaPlex location to accept donations.
Monetary donations can be made via credit card, PayPal or check. Detailed instructions on how to complete donations can be found on the SCG website.
Children and families in need will receive gift cards personally delivered to their door by one of 300 volunteer drivers on Saturday, Dec. 9.
A century of giving
SCG was founded in 1908 by Arianna VanDoorn of Park Congregational Church.
Sponsored by the late Arthur H. VandenBerg, then editor of the Grand Rapids Herald, VanDoorn collected $85 to provide gifts for 150 children who, due to unfortunate circumstances, would not receive gifts at Christmas.
The goal of SCG is to ensure all children in Kent County receives a gift on Christmas morning. Each child receives one new piece of clothing, one new toy, a new book, and hats and mittens.
(Courtesy photo)
For over a century, SCG has helped thousands of Kent County children between the ages of one and twelve years of age – yet many people don’t know the group exists.
“This is our 115th year, [and] a lot of people aren’t familiar with Santa Claus Girls,” said Ditta, adding that the tragedy of the DeltaPlex fire has made more people aware of SCG and their mission.
How you can give
SCG accepts donations at any time throughout the year. Because every person associated with SCG is a non-paid volunteer, 100% of collected funds go directly to the program.
As holiday travel continues at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, local school choirs are set to fill the Airport with festive cheer for passengers and guests.
The 27th Annual Holiday Music Festival will take place the week of Dec. 4 through 8 in the Airport Grand Hall, located just before the TSA checkpoint. Daily performances run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
14 West Michigan choirs will sing 20-minute song sets throughout the day:
• Byron Center Public School
• City High School
• Coit Creative Arts Academy
• East Kentwood High School
• Grand Rapids Public Museum Middle School
• Lee High School
• Legacy Christian
• North Park Montessori 7th and 8th Grade
• Ottawa Hills High School
• South Christian High School
• Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy
• West Side Christian School
• Wyoming High School
• Zeeland Christian School
Airport Holiday Music Festival schedule. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)
“We extend a warm welcome to the talented school choirs from our community as they turn the Airport into a festive stage,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “Thank you to the students and instructors for sharing their time and talents with Airport employees and passengers this season.”
All festival performances are free and open to the public. The schedule of performances can be found at FlyFord.org.
Wyoming City Center plaza rendering shows community gathering space and pedestrian access (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
John Shay, Wyoming City Manager (Supplied)
The City of Wyoming has [re]Imagined its future over the last two decades – and now has the funding to make those dreams a reality.
Recently under new leadership, Wyoming city staff are dreaming of big changes – one of the biggest being the implementation of Wyoming City Center.
“We have a really strong city staff, and I think they have the wherewithal, capability and desire to really start to implement some of the changes that we’re looking at with the City Center,” said John Shay, Wyoming City Manager since May 2023.
Patrick Waterman, Wyoming Deputy City Manager (Supplied)
With 25 years of local government management under his belt, Shay is no stranger to nurturing a sense of community.
Working alongside Shay, and bringing 22 years of local government experience to the table, is new Wyoming Deputy City Manager Patrick Waterman.
Prior to his time in Wyoming, Waterman worked on several projects involving economic development and transformative shifts to downtown areas similar to what Wyoming will soon experience.
Transformation to a traditional downtown
Shay says the Wyoming City Center is a transformational project geared toward creating a central gathering place accessible by walking.
Wyoming’s development is consistent with communities from the 50s and 60s that were developed around vehicles. This culminated in strip malls and large parking lots – and eliminated the traditional downtown area.
“What’s happened in recent years has been a calling for a return to the traditional development patterns of downtown,” said Waterman. “Main streets where people can get out and walk, and shop, and come together as a community.”
Wyoming city staff have worked to create a downtown area that will bring community members together (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)
Unfortunately, Wyoming lacks those community gathering spaces. The Wyoming City Center will change that.
“The city has really worked on that, and came up with this City Center project that will enable us to create a gathering place that will connect certain parts of the city together,” said Shay.
Waterman agreed. “It will be Wyoming’s effort to try to create that more traditional development pattern that makes it inviting for you to step out of your car and enjoy the experience of being there,” said Waterman. “I think it’s a really exciting time.”
How it will happen
Shay and Waterman believe the City Center is not just about the core of the Center, but also how to provide access to it.
Trails and bridges
One avenue of accessibility will be 4.6 miles of new non-motorized pathways that will be completed in 2024.
“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.
“Looking at getting people around without having to get in the car is very important.”
The City Center project includes the construction of a pedestrian bridge over 28th Street (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
The new trail will include an elevated pedestrian bridge over 28th Street that will help pedestrians cross safely.
Shay said that design work is ongoing, with finishing touches on wayfinding signs, lighting, and routes happening now.
Utility lines
Burying utility lines between Burlingame and Clyde Park is also a key component of the project.
Not only will it add to the aesthetic value of the Center, but removing overhead lines will allow space for the pedestrian bridge. It also allows buildings to be closer to the roads with parking lots stationed in the back.
Consumers Energy has already begun the process of removing their overhead lines. Telecommunication companies that also use Consumers Energy poles will remove their lines as well.
“That will be a three or four phase process,” said Shay. “When that’s all said and done, we would have all of those overhead lines buried underground.”
Housing
Due to Wyoming’s steadily increasing population, additional housing is also included in the City Center plans.
“Some have already been built, and much more is on the horizon,” said Waterman, adding that they are focusing on affordable housing. “The important part is to have mixed income housing along all income levels to make it an inviting place to come and live.”
From dream to reality
“We were very fortunate this isn’t just a pipe dream,” said Shay. “We’ve got over $36 million that is allocated with this project.”
Over four miles of new trails will connect areas between Grand Rapids and Byron Center (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
With $20 million from the state, $10 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding from Wyoming, and $6 million of ARPA funds from the county, the Wyoming City Center is a reality.
“We made a very compelling case to the state that this will be a transformational project for the city,” said Shay. “It will really create a different look and different vibe for the city.”
“Our state legislators were instrumental in shepherding this request through,” Shay continued. “This isn’t something that we can do alone.”
Shay went on to say that the City of Wyoming is financially sound due to careful budgeting.
“We budget pretty conservatively, we spend very conservatively, and we’re going to continue to do that,” said Shay. “We’re spending taxpayer money, so we have to be very cognizant of that.”
Community strength
“Wyoming has many strengths, but one of the strengths is the diversity of Wyoming,” said Shay. “There are people of all different backgrounds, all different economic classes, all different needs, and I think that provides a really good mix for the city.”
Both Shay and Waterman have seen a strong pride in community from the residents of Wyoming.
A solid infrastructure system and wide diversity in the economic tax base are additional strengths voiced by the city officials, along with strong manufacturing, sound commercial retail, and a variety of residential housing.
Removing stumbling blocks
Though Wyoming’s diversity lends strength to the community, it also creates “a little bit of any identity crisis,” said Waterman.
Shay and Waterman said they plan to address that identity crisis via a rebranding effort currently in development.
The City Center project is located near the 28 West site and adjacent to Hom Flats (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
With water and sewer projects in the near future, Shay said the city is working to maintain reasonable cost for residents while also maintaining the current infrastructure.
Increasing skepticism of government motives and abilities is another stumbling block Shay intends to eliminate.
“The trust factor in government has really gone down,” said Shay. “That’s been disheartening to some extent, because you have many employees that are really working hard every day to provide services.”
A unified vision
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.
A unified vision is vital to move forward, and both Shay and Waterman believe that is happening in Wyoming.
“The City Council supports that vision,” said Shay. “They’ve been instrumental in charting that course. Having the political support from our local government by the City Council is absolutely vital.”
Waterman believes the reimagined Wyoming is imminent, saying, “We’ll get there together.”
Hospice is a service that remains available year-round to provide necessary care to patients and their loved ones, even on holidays. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice/IStock)
By Emmanuel Hospice
In the words of Joyce Robinson-Beck, “We never close.”
But she’s not employed at an all-night diner or 24-hour convenience store.
Robinson-Beck is a long-time registered nurse for Emmanuel Hospice, where the critical mission of providing personalized care and comfort doesn’t bow to the clock or calendar.
“No matter the hour of the day, no matter what time of year, people have needs, and it’s our privilege to serve them,” she says. “And that goes for holidays – Christmas and New Year’s included.”
Waiting to start hospice care until after the holidays is a common inclination, but hospice services can provide the necessary care and comfort to support both patients and their loved ones during what is already an overwhelming time of year. Having this support can enable families to focus more on cherishing their time together.
“Holidays are stressful enough,” Robinson-Beck says. “There are so many expectations already in place, and when you are in need of healthcare, that just intensifies the situation. So we make it our responsibility to be there, and in what can be the toughest of times.”
According to Robinson-Beck, Emmanuel strives to return a call for service within five minutes. The care team then does everything possible to respond to the need within an hour – which is a pretty tall order for a hospice organization whose service area translates to a 50-mile radius.
Just last winter during the holidays, Robinson-Beck recalls a situation where a patient’s daughter called late at night and needed to admit her mother for hospice care.
Through rain or snow
Despite a blizzard raging, “We were able to bring her meds, equipment and pretty much everything she needed to receive care in that daughter’s home rather than enter a hospital.”
Robinson-Beck says many calls received during the holidays – and after traditional daytime business hours in general – are from older caregivers who are unable to return a patient to their bed following a fall.
“That happens more than people realize,” she says. “These days, people are living longer, and it’s not unusual for a caregiver to be in their 70s or 80s or even 90s, and unable to lift that loved one.”
The reaction Emmanuel receives from its patients and caregivers?
“They’re incredibly grateful,” Robinson-Beck says. “They may be initially hesitant to call us during a holiday, for example, because they don’t want to be a bother. But when they realize this is something we do and want to do, they’re amazed, and it humbles us.”
For Robinson-Beck and many of her colleagues, stepping up at all hours of the day and times of the year isn’t just an obligation or duty.
“It fulfills the needs we have as caregivers ourselves,” she explains. “The way I see it, God gives us all gifts, and it’s on us to uphold that responsibility.”
Her job was made more complicated this past year due to the passing of a brother-in-law this past fall, an uncle seven months ago and her mother five months ago.
“I’ve been really sad since my mother passed away. But I know I have a job to do. And I can hear my mother’s voice whispering ‘Go back to work, Joyce. You’re needed’.”
That work, says Robinson-Beck, “fills my cup, and there’s no bigger calling.”
Anyone can connect a loved one with Emmanuel Hospice. You don’t need a physician referral to begin the process. Visit EmmanuelHospice.org or call 616-719-0919 to learn more.
Last year’s winner of the Kentwood Holiday Light Display Contest won a $100 prize and a Clark Griswold trophy based on Chevy Chase’s character in the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The City of Kentwood is in search of its very own Clark Griswold and invites the community to participate in the third-annual Holiday Light Display Contest.
Interested community members can register online at bit.ly/HolidayLightContest from Dec. 1-14. Entries must be located within Kentwood city limits or the Kentwood Public School district.
Submitted photos will be posted to the City’s social media pages, where community members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite display. The three displays with the most votes will earn cash prizes sponsored by Community West Credit Union as well as bragging rights for a year.
Participants from prior contests. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“We’re excited to again offer this fun and festive holiday light display contest and see how creative our community can get,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “This friendly competition helps bring our community together and encourages residents to get into the holiday spirit and show off their decorating skills.”
The winners receive:
First place – Kentwood’s Clark Griswold Trophy – named after Chevy Chase’s character in the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” – as well as $100.
Kent County shelters are filled to capacity, risking leaving hundreds without access to shelter services during winter (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Homelessess is on the rise (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Homelessness is on the rise, and there is an overwhelming demand for shelter and other services as winter approaches.
According to the latest data, the number of individuals and families needing shelter far exceeds the supply of shelter beds in Kent County. Based on trends and current bed capacity in our community, an estimated 100 to 300 people could be without access to shelter services on the coldest winter nights.
According to the Point in Time count, there were 723 individuals experiencing homelessness in Kent County in 2018. In 2023, that number sharply increased to 1,239 individuals experiencing homelessness.
Current shelters cannot sustain increase in need
Non-profit leaders of Dégagé Ministries, along with Mel Trotter Ministries, Family Promise and AYA Youth Collective fear they will not have enough shelter and provisions to accommodate the increased demand for shelter during the winter months.
Even with the new bunks at Dégagé, they are unable to meet the current need for beds (Courtesy, Dégagé Ministries)
Dégagé provides the only emergency shelter for women in the area. They are seeing up to 125 women a night in the shelter, many experiencing homelessness for the first time.
They are doing all they can to make arrangements to accommodate 150 women per night. Funding limitations, however, will make it difficult to sustain that figure during the winter.
The leaders of Mel Trotter Ministries, Dégagé Ministries, Family Promise of West Michigan, and AYA Youth Collective, alongside the Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness, are releasing an open letter to the West Michigan community.
The letter below outlines the need for this community and its leaders to identify both near and long-term solutions to address the homelessness crisis.
A plea to the public for support
To the West Michigan community:
We present this message to our community with a sense of great concern and urgency as our region’s coldest winter months are fast approaching.
Economic hardships, the loss of supportive resources from COVID, and a shortage of affordable housing have combined to worsen the already difficult situation facing men, women, youth, and families experiencing homelessness in West Michigan. The shifting landscape is presenting an increasingly dire situation for people living on the street and an overwhelming demand for the non-profit service agencies that provide compassionate care, meals, services, and shelter to those in need.
Unable to meet the demand
Shortages include location, space and staffing (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Making matters even more challenging is that just like other employers, some non-profit agencies are facing a worker shortage and a funding shortfall. Adding temporary shelter beds this winter, as has happened in the past, is a significant challenge because there are simply not enough workers to ensure a safe environment for overflow guests.
What’s more, the funding needed to provide additional staffing and a location for overflow shelter space is not presently available. Therefore, non-profits simply cannot meet the demand.
We are committed to providing compassionate support to as many of our neighbors in need as possible, while maintaining a safe environment for all. However, when the population growth of individuals experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in our community far exceeds the limited amount of shelter space, we are faced with difficult decisions and risk loss of life.
Our collective community efforts to address the homelessness crisis must include both near and long-term solutions. Of immediate concern is the urgent need to find shelter workers and shelter bed space. At the same time, we remain focused on initiatives to increase affordable housing, create more access to mental health resources, strengthen workforce development and employment opportunities, and more.
The rising issue of homelessness is one facing our entire country, and an issue that is of paramount importance in West Michigan. Collaborative work between agencies, governmental partners, and community leaders is happening to create a long-term cohesive strategy. As non-profits, we are doing great work, but we can do even more with increased funding, more staff, and more shelter rooms to meet this growing need.
Limited shelter space increases risk of loss of life (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
How you can help save lives
With your help, we can save lives this winter by protecting unhoused individuals, youth, children, and families from extreme, life-threatening temperatures. To learn more or join us in our efforts to combat homelessness, visit us at our websites below.
We remain resolute in our commitment to serve those in need in our community, and we stand ready to continue partnering with our community leaders in taking steps toward finding a sustainable solution that benefits the entire region.
The Kentwood Police and Fire Departments are asking community members to join them for a friendly competition to collect donations for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
Community members are invited to drop off donation items in the lobby of the following locations from Dec. 1-31:
Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE
Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma Ave. SE
Fire Station 2, 4151 Embassy Drive SE
Fire Station 3, 5340 Eastern Ave. SE
The department that receives the most donations by weight will win the contest and earn bragging rights.
The departments also are partnering with Sam’s Club, 4326 28th St. SE, on Dec. 9 and 16. On those two Saturdays, representatives from each department will have a service vehicle parked near the store entrance from noon to 4 p.m. for anyone to place non-perishable food and personal care items in the trunk of their choice.
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is a free resource that provides food and personal care items to community members who are under-resourced. Anyone can give to or take from the pantry, with no questions asked and no application needed.
“We’re excited for this opportunity to serve our community by gathering donations for the Little Free Pantry,” Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “Our department is looking forward to helping brighten the season for our neighbors in need, and a friendly competition with our friends at the Kentwood Fire Department certainly adds a fun element to this initiative.”
The Fire Department also is looking forward to giving back and partnering with police in a fun way, Fire Chief Brent Looman said.
“We support our community every single day, and this is a new facet of that important work,” Looman said. “The Little Free Pantry means a lot for many residents in our community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to work with the Police Department to help restock it through this fun contest.”
Suggested items for donation include:
Canned meats, vegetables and fruit
Cereals
Pasta/pasta sauce
Rice
Soup
Soap of all kinds
Shampoo/conditioner
Feminine products
Laundry detergent
Toilet paper
Deodorant
Diapers
Small toys/games
The pantry operates year-round and has locations at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry was established in 2017 as a Martin Luther King Jr. Day community service project to fill an immediate and local need.
For more information about Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, including how to make a financial contribution, visit kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
KDL wins national award, plans to reinvest the prize money into the community (Courtesy Photo)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
The Jerry Kline Community Impact Award recognizes libraries as a vital community asset (Courtesy, KDL)
The Kent District Library Board of Trustees recently approved a plan to reinvest $250,000 in prize money into the community. The money will be used to support library expansion projects and to establish a scholarship fund.
As the recipient of the fifth annual Jerry Kline Community Impact Award, KDL receives the one-time prize as the 2023 winner of this national award.
Developed as a partnership between the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation and Library Journal, this award recognizes the powerful synergy that results when a library works closely with both its local government and its community.
Funding Details
Four communities in the KDL service area currently have a library expansion project underway — the cities of Rockford and Walker and townships of Grattan and Tyrone. Thanks to this one-time prize for excellence, KDL is able to pledge $50,000 to support each of these projects.
KDL is also establishing a scholarship fund for KDL patrons who are a pursuing a college degree with plans to positively impact their community. The fund will be established with $50,000 from the Jerry Kline prize, interest earned from KDL’s Community Foundation Fund through the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, and private donations.
Scholarship applications will be announced and accepted late in 2024.
Community Impact
“The whole focus of the Jerry Kline Award is community impact, so it only seems fitting we use these funds to have a positive effect on the communities that we serve and love,” KDL Executive Director Lance Werner said. “This is an exciting opportunity to live out our mission of furthering all people thanks to the financial prize that comes with this recognition.
“This gives us a unique opportunity to invest in the physical growth of branches in our community and in personal growth for exceptional patrons. We are so pleased to give back to Kent County, whose residents so thoughtfully support our operations.”
People who would like to donate to the building projects can do so by contacting the government offices for Grattan Township, city of Rockford, Tyrone Township or city of Walker. For those who would like to donate to the KDL Impact Scholarship fund, visit kdl.org/donate.
Impact Award Highlights
(Courtesy, KDL)
The Jerry Kline Community Impact Award was created in 2019 to distinguish the public library as a vital community asset.
KDL was recognized for building relationships with local officials based on a foundation of trust and credibility.
All U.S. public libraries were eligible to apply for the prize whether in a single building in a small town or a multi-branch system serving an entire region.
Nominations were evaluated based the library’s impact on the community in areas such as engagement, inclusion, leadership development, sustainable thinking and inventiveness.
The Wyoming Fire Department is investigating a residential house fire on Averill Avenue (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
By WKTV Staff
At approximately 11:45am, the Wyoming Fire Department responded to a residential house fire in the 5600 block of Averill Avenue.
(Courtesy, WKTV)
The first arriving fire units observed smoke coming from the home. The Wyoming Fire Department was able to contain and quickly extinguish the fire, preventing it from fully spreading to the remainder of the structure. There were no reported injuries to people or pets.
The Wyoming Fire Department was notified of this fire by observant neighbors and their quick call to 911 saved valuable time.
Residents are reminded to prioritize fire safety measures, including having working smoke alarms, developing well-rehearsed evacuation plans and meeting place, and also the education of everyone in the home how to dial 911 in an emergency.
Anyone with additional information regarding this fire is asked to contact the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Investigator at 616-257-9764.
From their GRAMMY® Award-winning 2004 Go Tell It on the Mountain and 2014 Talkin’ Christmas albums, this holiday performance has thrilled sell-out audiences across the United States.
Executive & Artistic Director of SCMC Cathy Holbrook says, “We are so excited to present the 5-time GRAMMY® Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama in concert at SCMC this holiday season! Royce Auditorium will be filled with joy during their performance on December 5.”
Raising roofs and crossing boundaries
The Blind Boys of Alabama perform live shows that are roof-raising musical events that appeal to audiences of all cultures. The Blind Boys are known for crossing multiple musical boundaries with their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material.
Since the original members first sang together as kids at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in the late 1930s, the band has persevered through seven decades to become one of the most recognized and decorated roots music groups in the world.
“Seeing the Blind Boys of Alabama in concert is part living history, part concert, all uplifting experience…the best moments come when the group join forces for stirring harmonies,” claims The Washington Post.
Achieving dreams and world recognition
The Blind Boys’ career spans over 75 years (Courtesy Photo)
The Blind Boys’ music has not only endured, but thrived during seven decades of world events and is recognized worldwide as living legends and modern-day innovators.
Band members Jimmy “Jimster” Carter, Ricky McKinnie, Paul Beasley, Rev. Julius Love, newest addition Sterling Glass, and led by Music Director and lead guitarist Joey Williams helped create a new gospel sound for the 21st century.
Celebrated by The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) with Lifetime Achievement Awards, and inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Blind Boys of Alabama are also winners of fiveGRAMMY® Awards.
Tickets for The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show are $60, $45 and $30 at scmcgr.org or by calling 616-459-2224.
Editor’s Note: WKTV is reposting this unique, local story in honor of George David Payne and all United States veterans.
The weeks leading up to the sinking of the USS Indianapolis during a top secret mission in WWII, 17-year-old sailor George David Payne mailed two letters home from the ship.
Some 77 years after his brother tragically died on that ship off the coast of Japan, Sparta resident David Payne still gets extremely emotional reading those last letters.
“I get choked up when I read that last letter,” said David, who never met George David. “From my understanding he was a quiet, nice kid. I’ve never heard anything bad about him.”
Below is an excerpt from one of the two final letters from George David Payne (Seaman 2nd Class):
One of the two letters Wyoming sailor George David Payne sent home just weeks before the USS Indianapolis sank off the coast of Japan on July 30, 1945. (Courtesy, David Payne)
Dear Mom, Dad and Kids,
I hope this letter finds all of you in the best of health. I feel pretty good myself.
Tell dad and all the kids I said hi. Tell Jean the same. I suppose you are having quite a time with the kids.
Tell grandma and grandpa I said hello. Boy, I’ll sure be glad when I get another leave, but I shouldn’t start thinking about a leave already.
I suppose it is pretty nice weather in Michigan now. Anyway, it should be summer. Well, I’ll have to say so long for now.
Love to all the family,
George David Payne
Tragedy strikes shortly after letters sent home
Tragically, not long after the letters were sent, torpedoes from the Japanese submarine I-58 sank the USS Indianapolis to the bottom of the Western Pacific Ocean within minutes on July 30, 1945.
Only 316 men survived
An estimated 300 men died aboard the ship, while nearly 900 sailors abandoned it, leading to several days of fighting off sharks, dehydration and injuries. Only 316 survived.
Top secret mission delivering atomic bomb components for use on Hiroshima
On a top secret mission that began in San Francisco, the Indianapolis successfully delivered atomic bomb components to Tinian Island. The components delivered were used in the atomic bomb (Little Boy) that the United States dropped on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945.
USS Indianapolis in its prime. (U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
“Many are familiar with Captain Quint’s retelling of the ship’s story in the 1975 film, “Jaws.” Few, however, understand the far-reaching impact of the incident and the tremendous amount of documentation and research conducted in the wake of the incident that continues to impact how the Navy operates today,” according to the Naval History and Heritage Command Communication and Outreach Division.
George David Payne is remembered by two siblings (David Payne and Suzanna Green) in a WKTV interview last summer (2022). July 30, 2023, marked the 78th anniversary of the sinking of the Indianapolis.
Siblings Jim and Cherie Payne, and mom Lillian Payne at their home: 305 Murray St., Wyoming, in 1945. (David Payne)
“I wasn’t born yet when George died,” David continued. “I didn’t realize I had a brother that died in the war until I was seven. In the early fifties, there was a program on TV showing the Japanese sinking that ship and my mother Lillian started crying and said your brother was on that ship.”
While recently looking at a photo of his brother Jim, Mom Lillian and sister Cherie (dated June 20, 1945) enjoying a happy day on the front porch, David said it soon turned tragic about a month later with the death of his brother on July 30, 1945.
David said his brother George David wasn’t old enough to sign up for the war so his dad signed the necessary paperwork in 1945 to let him join the Navy.
A short stint on the ship
“He was only on that ship for two weeks,” said David, age 75, who’s lived in Sparta for over 30 years. “I had an older brother in California (Nick Alberts, from his mother’s previous marriage), and he met him out there. George stayed for Nick’s wedding in California, and then got transferred to the USS Indianapolis.”
David said Nick, a member of the Seabees in California at the time, blamed himself for George’s fate.
“My little buddy”
USS Indianapolis Seaman 2nd Class George David Payne. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
“He blamed himself for getting him transferred and going to the wedding,” said David, as he cried explaining the sad details. “He always called George ‘my little buddy,’ and said, ‘I can’t come home without my little buddy.’”
Because of that lingering guilt, David said his big brother Nick didn’t return home for 15 years.
“He had guilt, but did finally come home in the late fifties when I was 14 years old,” David continued. “Nick left a book on the Indianapolis with me.”
Most of the 12 siblings (seven girls, five boys) grew up on 305 Murray Street in Wyoming and attended Kelloggsville High School.
Providing after death
Many of them experienced the Great Depression. And it wasn’t lost on any family member how far George’s Navy death gratuity went to pay for their necessities.
“Our mother bought our school clothes and everything we needed from that check, it helped out our family so much,” said David, born on September 17, 1945, less than two months after the Indianapolis sank. “Both mom and dad got 20 or 30 dollars a month from George’s death.”
Gruesome shark attack stories
David Payne honoring and remembering his brother George David at a USS Indianapolis memorial in 1995 in Indy. (Courtesy, David Payne)
During a USS Indianapolis memorial event held in Indianapolis in 1995, David learned firsthand about the tragedy from several survivors.
“Through the years, we didn’t talk about it much and we were hoping he wasn’t trapped in the ship or killed by sharks,” said David, who attended with his wife Mary and sister Suzanna Green.
“Some of the guys relayed the terrible stories, talking about sharks dragging away their friends. It must have been hell.”
He said nearly 200 sailors attended, and recalls some talking about the gruesome shark attacks.
“I remember one guy’s account saying he heard a fellow sailor’s last word’s while getting dragged off by a shark, he screamed for his mother, and David imagined his brother George screaming for mom as well, as he cried retelling his memorial experience with survivors.
“There were some terrible stories. They had to go through hell.”
A “wonderful guy”
Green said George David was “kind-hearted, and definitely cared about his country. My mother cried over his death all of her life and made sure all of us knew we had a brother George David. He was a good kid.”
Green, who also attended the 1995 Indianapolis memorial, recalls the heavy emotions of the event.
“We went there because it was in his memory,” said Green, who taught for 30 years in the Grand Rapids Public School system. “And it was very emotional when we found his name on the monument. Dave put Mary on his shoulders and she put a piece of paper up there and she scratched it with a pencil.”
A proud celebration of life and service
Siblings David, Suzanna and Margie Payne at home on 305 Murray St. in Wyoming in the late 40s. (David Payne)
“It made me feel real close to the brother that I never saw,” Green continued.
“I knew him, but never saw him. I was very proud that his name was there and that he was remembered. It was a celebration of his life and his service.”
Green said their faith got her through the tragedy.
“Mom read the bible every day,” Green explained. “I love him like I grew up with him and that’s because my mother kept his memory alive.”
“We love him even though we didn’t ever get to meet him. And he still is well loved.”
Navy changes status
The Navy officially changed the status of George David and 12 other sailors lost when the Indianapolis was sunk in 1945 from “unaccounted for” to “buried at sea,” Navy Casualty announced on May 27, 2022.
The change in status is the result of extensive research between Naval History and Heritage Command, Navy Casualty Office, the USS Indianapolis Survivors Association, the USS Indianapolis Legacy Organization, and the Chief Rick Stone and Family Charitable Foundation.
The announcement helps bring closure to the families of these sailors who lost their lives at the end of a secret mission which helped end World War II.
Remembering George David through his clothing
At age 12, David found one of George’s Navy peacoats.
“I put it on and came upstairs and asked mom if I could have it,” he recalled.
His brother James would put on his Navy uniform occasionally.
A friend’s dad and Battle of the Bulge veteran from World War II, James Emanouil, age 97 at the time of the original article, used to spar with George David in the early forties at a local gym in Grand Rapids.
“I think George David wanted to join this war because of James and Nick.”
Service to the country goes way, way back
David’s fascination with genealogy led to a discovery of another young veteran from long ago. He learned that a great, great, great grandparent fought in the American Revolution at age 15, Eli Payne, Sr. His 100-year-old aunt, at the time, gave David a charcoal drawing of this relative.
Captain Charles B. McVay III
Captain Charles B. McVay III, commander of the USS Indianapolis. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
Per the Naval History and Heritage Command website, “Captain McVay was court-martialed in the aftermath of the sinking and found guilty of recklessly endangering his crew by failing to zig-zag, in spite of I-58 Captain Mochitsura Hashimoto’s testimony at the trial stating that such maneuvers would not have changed the outcome of his attack. The conviction effectively ruined McVay’s career. It was controversial at the time and remains so today.” (Hashimoto was the Japanese submarine commander that sank the USS Indianapolis.)
“McVay had a distinguished naval career prior to the loss of the Indianapolis. He served as Executive Officer of the USS Cleveland during the North African landings in November 1942 and earned a Silver Star for his actions aboard the same ship in the Solomon Islands in March 1943.”
After his death, McVay was exonerated by United States President Bill Clinton and the 106th Congress in 2000. Captain McVay committed suicide on November 6, 1968.
The bold paragraphs below are excerpts from survivor Captain Charles B. McVay’s detailed “Oral History – The Sinking of USS Indianapolis”
This is all documented in the Naval History and Heritage Command Archives. For a complete account of “Recollections of Captain Charles B. McVay, III,” visit here.
Captain McVay:
Commander Flynn
Executive officer [second in command on the ship] came up, Commander Flynn, and said, “We are definitely going down and I suggest that we abandon ship.” Well, knowing Flynn and having utter regard for his ability, I then said, “Pass the word to abandon ship.”
Dividing up rations floating at sea
I looked over the material that we had, the food stuffs, and told the people that I would open one Hormel tin per day. It contains 12 ounces and we would divide that evenly, and I also figured out each person could have two biscuits and two malted milk tablets, which I knew would last us about ten days.
Attacked by sharks
We had sharks, or rather they had sharks down there [in the life preserver group]. We know that because we have two survivors who were bitten by sharks and as I told this one boy in the hospital. I said, “You’d better take some castellan paint and put on that thing before it heals up because nobody will ever believe you’ve been bitten by a shark. You might as well outline the teeth mark and you will have it for the rest of your life and can say, `I know I was bitten by a shark.'”
USS Ringness to the rescue
The (USS) Ringness picked us up by radar. We had a 40 mm, empty ammunition can which I had spent a good deal of energy and time trying to get to, thinking it was an emergency ration, but we picked it up anyhow and saved it and she [Ringness] got a [radar] pip from this can.
I think we had lost probably about 15% of our weight and I was naturally so elated to get on the ship, as were the others that we didn’t turn in at all. We were given something to eat, ice cream, coffee, such as that. The doctor said, “You can eat all you want,” which most of us did. We drank quite a bit of water.
Operation Handshake, where active military members and veterans will receive a patriotic welcome to West Michigan, takes place today (Nov. 22) at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
As military members and veterans arrive in West Michigan, military affiliated groups will line the concourse exits of the Ford International Airport to greet and thank them for their service. The daylong event will include members of the Patriot Guard Riders and Blue Star Mothers greeting the honored travelers, waving American flags, offering words of thanks and singing patriotic songs.
“The Ford International Airport is proud to host this annual event that honors those who have served our nation,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric. “We invite our community members to join us in welcoming our military members to West Michigan.”
Operation Handshake is free and open to the public throughout the day in the Airport’s Grand Hall by the security screening checkpoint.
“Each year it is an honor to greet veterans and active military and see the expressions on their faces,” said Phil Pakiela, captain of the Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan. “We invite the community to join us for Operation Handshake to thank the brave individuals who fight for our freedom.”
Loved ones of military members and veterans traveling through Ford International Airport on Nov. 22 are encouraged to participate in Operation Handshake and provide flight information to Patriot Guard Riders, including arrival time. Information may be provided to Phil Pakiela via email at papapakiela@gmail.com or by phone at 616-916-3064.
Support local businesses by shopping small on Small Business Saturday (Courtesy, SBA)
By SBA, Geri Sanchez Aglipay and Laketa Henderson
Michigan’s 14th annual Small Business Saturday is just around the corner (Courtesy, SBA)
Make big moves in Michigan! Shop and dine small at local independent businesses for Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25 and through the holiday season.
Saturdays are often set aside for errands such as haircuts, gift shops, or to pick up supplies for a DIY home project. Making fun memories with family and friends at corner coffee shops or local restaurants, grocery stocking at the neighborhood grocer or a Michigan farmer’s market, and self-care fitness time are also popular Saturday activities.
More often than not, consumers go to small independent retailers that provide these goods and services.
The value of small businesses
Nov. 25 is the 14th annual Small Business Saturday. Droves of American consumers will shop small or dine small in support of small businesses.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is proud to be a co-sponsor of Small Business Saturday, founded by American Express in 2010.
Small businesses are economic engines, creating two-thirds of net new jobs. In Michigan, 537,058 small businesses employ 1.2 million people. Small Business Saturday advances equity by leveling the field so that small businesses capture a larger piece of the holiday season consumer spending.
“The United States has experienced a historic small business boom being led by women and people of color at a rate 65% faster than the pre-pandemic average,” says SBA Great Lakes Regional Administrator Geri Aglipay. “By shopping small, we help create and preserve jobs which expands opportunities for inclusive prosperity and generational wealth building in communities.”
Shopping small online is also encouraged. E-commerce is a priority of SBA Administrator Guzman because it helps make small businesses competitive across global markets.
A catalyst for growth
The SBA Great Lakes Regional Office and the SBA Michigan District Office are thrilled to promote Small Business Saturday!
Independent businesses are a catalyst for community growth (Courtesy, SBA)
“Everybody should know that independent stores and dining venues are pillars of our communities,” said Laketa Henderson, SBA Michigan District Director. “Small Business Saturday is a day to show appreciation for the unique character of these businesses across the diverse communities in Michigan, from Motor City and Grand Rapids to the UP. They’re a catalyst for neighborhood growth.”
H.U.G.S. Ranch (Hope. Understanding. Guidance. Support.) is located at 284 Byron Road, Byron Center. (WKTV/Janet Vormittag)
By Janet Vormittag
WKTV Contributor
Seventeen years ago, Lisa Carter’s daughter Lindsey was struggling so she gave the fourth grader a book that had been gifted to her: “Hope Rising: Stories from the Ranch of Rescued Dreams,” by Kim Meeder.
After reading the book three times, Lindsey said, mom, “We could do this.”
At the time Lisa Carter was struggling. She was a single mom working four jobs, and she had full custody of her three children, ages 2, 6 and 8. A counselor told her with all the changes happening in her children’s lives it would be best if she could keep them in the family home … 12 acres in Byron Center with a farmhouse, barn and two horses.
“I prayed and asked God for it to be possible, and if so, I would use it to his glory,” she recalled.
Carter, a veterinarian technician, shared the book with a co-worker, Jill Glass. Glass read the book on vacation. When she returned, Lisa said she was on fire and ready to start a ministry where horses were used to help children. Glass already had a name for their endeavor: H.U.G.S. Ranch — Hope. Understanding. Guidance. Support.
(Courtesy, H.U.G.S. Ranch)
She had doubts, but Glass countered them by saying they’d take little steps towards their dream.
That was the beginning of their faith-based, equine-assisted endeavor, which would provide a “healing path for hurting children.”
Glass and Carter attended a clinic at Crystal Peaks in Oregon, hosted by the author of “Hope Rising,” to learn how to start a nonprofit and to check out the various programs the ranch offered. Later, Carter and her daughter volunteered a week at the ranch to experience equine-assisted therapy. Carter also has attended three OK Corral Series clinics and was certified in three of their Equine Assisted Learning activities. Over the years Carter has attended additional conferences to learn how to work with children who have experienced trauma.
“Animals are very therapeutic,” Carter said.
Carter also has an associate degree in horse management from Michigan State University, which she earned while studying to become a vet tech.
H.U.G.S. Ranch owner Lisa Carter says hello to one of her horses. ((WKTV/Janet Vormittag))
In 2008, two years after deciding to start the ranch, H.U.G.S. became a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, located at 284 Byron Road, Byron Center.
In the beginning they used Carter’s two horses.
Besides horses, the ranch now has donkeys, ponies, and mini horses; 17 in all. Plus, two pigs, two goats and a cat.
Using equine-assisted learning, children ages 5 to 18, who have social, emotional or mental health challenges are helped. Each child has an adult mentor.
(Courtesy, H.U.G.S. Ranch)
Currently, four-week and eight-week programs are offered. They’re free, but there is a suggested donation.
“It’s about building relationships and trust,” Carter explained. The mentors ask questions and let the children open up as they work with the horses.
The children don’t ride the horses, instead they do what Carter calls ground work. They learn about horse behavior by watching the horses and studying their body language. They learn how to groom, halter and lead the animals. Sometimes they paint the horses using watercolors.
One child used only black paint when he painted his horse. When asked why, he said he felt like he was in a black hole. Through talking while painting the mentor explored the reasons for those dark feelings.
After the painting sessions the kids give the horses a bath to wash away the paint.
One of the activities for the children is to build an obstacle course for their horse to walk through. In one corner of the indoor arena are the obstacles: barrels, poles, carpet squares, big noodles and other items used to build the course. The goal is for the child to build enough trust with their horse so the horse will follow them through the course with no halter or lead.
“The horse has to trust them, but they also have to trust the horse,” Carter explained.
(Courtesy, H.U.G.S. Ranch)
Only after reaching that level of trust does the child get to sit on the horse while the horse is led around by the mentor. Sometimes they sit backwards to learn about different perspectives.
Jen Kuyt of Wayland said her kids were clients at H.U.G.S. Ranch for five years.
“It was such a huge help in their development. I watched my timid little girl become extremely confident and my wild son calm down.”
She added that the ranch is like none other. Everybody is excepted for who they are, how they are and are supported to become a better person.
“The amount of love that is poured into the clients and the animals is like none other. When you walk on the ranch, you can feel the peace; it’s even therapeutic for the parents as they watch their kids with the majestic animals.”
The H.U.G.S. Ranch welcome center. ((WKTV/Janet Vormittag))
Most horses are donated to the ranch. Some have been abused or neglected, but several have been retired due to minor injuries or health issues.
“We give them a second life and a purpose,” Carter said.
One horse, Cody Joe, was born in 1989. He’s 34 years old and still part of the team.
The ranch is open Monday through Thursday, giving the horses three days off each week.
“They really enjoy their job, but they need a break,” Carter said.
70-80 volunteers in the summer
The ranch’s annual budget is $275,000. There are three paid staff and 70-80 volunteers in the summer, that drops to about 30 volunteers in the winter. Most volunteers are college students, teachers and retirees. At the end of summer, most go back to school or head south for the winter.
Feed for the animals is a big expense, fortunately, most of it is donated. Carter said one horse eats 125 bales of hay per year. The animals also are fed grain in the fall and winter.
Most donations come from individuals
Several area churches and businesses donate to H.U.G.S., but the majority of support comes from individuals.
Fundraisers help pay for the $275,000 budget
Fundraisers also are held. Collecting bottles and cans has turned out to be lucrative. Last year they raised close to $15,000 through donated returnables.
“One dime, one can at a time,” Carter said.
Carter’s daughter is now a farrier and takes care of the horses’ hooves. She also helps find horses for the ranch.
Over the years the ranch has grown from one barn to a complex of buildings.
An indoor arena was donated in 2018 by Larry and Judy Buist in memory of Carter’s father, Robert Wierenga, who was involved with the ranch. Buist Electric donated a building for the volunteers.
The Welcome Center was donated in memory of Scott Taylor by his employer to bring awareness to mental health. Taylor, a volunteer, battled depression. Lumberman’s was the lead donor and several other local companies helped make it a reality.
Looking back at the 17 years, Carter said the first years were hard, but she was driven to provide for her family. She never envisioned the ministry would get as big as it is.
“It’s not that we haven’t had challenges and heartbreak,” she said.
Kids and their piggy banks showed up during a crisis
When a tornado caused damage and she questioned if she could continue, but then the kids came with their piggy banks.
“Through hardships come blessings,” she said.
One of her biggest hardships came last year when Glass passed away unexpectedly. Carter said she’s doing well with the loss, but still adjusting. She’s doing what she has done all along, she’s relying on her faith.
View a draft of the Wyoming parks master plan and share your thoughts (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council recognized a need to improve the community’s parks and recreation options and promote the City as a quality sustainable place to live and play.
As part of this effort, they have chosen to develop a new Five-Year Parks & Recreation Master Plan. This document is intended to serve as a planning tool over the next five years for the Commission and City Officials to make decisions related to future park and recreation amenities and improvements.
After seeking community input, a draft of the Five-Year Master Plan was created and can be reviewed on the City’s website here.
(Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)
The Master Plan draft recommendation highlights include:
Improved ADA accessibility
Marquette Park redevelopment
Improving and expanding current park and recreation programs
Pickleball courts
Playground improvements
Walking trails/pathways
Pavilions
Restroom facility improvements
Focus on maintaining exist parks and new facility development
Safety improvements
Please share your opinion
Your opinion on the park priorities matters. Please let us know what you think of the plan, all feedback is requested by Dec. 21.
Click here to leave the Parks & Recreation office a note. Call the Parks & Recreation office at (616) 530-3164. Email the Parks & Recreation office at Parks_info@wyomingmi.gov. Give feedback in person at:
Planning Commission Meeting November 21, 7 p.m. City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW
City Council Work Session December 11, 5:30 p.m. City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW
Parks Commission December 13, 7 p.m. City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW
The City of Kentwood will offer holiday tree and string light recycling services to residents this winter at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
Residents may bring holiday trees to the recycling site Dec. 27 through Jan. 31 between 6:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. The drop-off site will be closed Jan. 1-2 for the New Year’s holiday and Jan. 15 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, when City offices will be closed.
String lights drop-off box open now through Jan. 31
A drop-off box for string lights is located near the front doors of the Public Works building now through Jan. 31.
“We are proud to provide residents with a convenient and environmentally friendly way to clean up after the holidays,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director.
The tree recycling site is available to Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required. All decorations, lights, wires and other non-natural materials must be removed from the trees in advance.
For more information about the Department of Public Works and its other seasonal services, visit kentwood.us/DPW.
The City of Kentwood is encouraging community members to help brighten the season for their neighbors by participating in its holiday giving programs.
“For our community members who are able, I would encourage you to consider being part of our Kentwood effort through this year’s holiday giving programs,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “This is a special time of year, and we want to help everyone in our community experience the season with good food, warm clothes, and gifts for those they cherish.”
The Adopt-A-Child program helps support local students who are experiencing homelessness and other challenges. See details below. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The City offers four giving programs that run through Dec. 13: Adopt A Child, Be a Santa to a Senior, Holiday Hat and Mitten Tree, and Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
Each program offers different options for participation:
The Adopt-A-Child program helps support local students who are experiencing homelessness and other challenges. To participate:
Select an Adopt-A-Child tag online, from one of the trees at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, or in the lobby of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE., or check out the Amazon Wishlist.
Purchase the item(s) on the tag.
Tape the tag to the unwrapped gift and return it during business hours to City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, or the Kentwood Activities Center by Dec. 13.
City team members will wrap and deliver the gifts.
Be a Santa to a Senior is hosted in partnership with Home Instead Senior Care. To participate:
Grab a tag from the Senior Santa Tree at the Kentwood Activities Center.
Purchase the item(s) listed on the tag.
Wrap the gift, tape the tag to the outside and return it to the Kentwood Activities Center during business hours by Dec. 13.
Help decorate the Holiday Hat and Mitten Tree at the Kentwood Activities Center with new or gently used hats, scarves, mittens, coats, boots, snow pants, socks and blankets by Dec. 13. Donations can be brought to the center during business hours and will be distributed to individuals in local school systems and through community organizations.
The City is always accepting donations for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. Drop off donations during business hours at the Kentwood Activities Center or make a financial contribution at any time. For more information, including a list of suggested donations, visit kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
The Kentwood Activities Center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. City Hall opens weekdays at 7:30 a.m. and closes Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 4:30 p.m., Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Fridays at noon.
The Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch is open 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Kentwood Little Free Pantry. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Emmanuel Hospice volunteer Jim Parent talking with a patient. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
By Emmanuel Hospice
At Emmanuel Hospice, you might say Veterans Day is every day when it comes to providing patient care to those who have served in our country’s military.
Just ask Jim Parent, a mostly retired machine repairman, who never thought that his own service in the U.S. Marines more than a half century ago would set the stage for how he gives back to fellow veterans receiving end-of-life care.
“It was a couple of years ago when I turned to my wife, Mary, and said, ‘You know, I’m thinking of retiring, and she said, ‘Well, you might want to look into volunteering,’” Parent said.
So, he did. In exploring his options, Parent learned of something sponsored by Emmanuel Hospice dubbed its “veteran-to-veteran” program. Open to veterans and active-duty service members in West Michigan, the volunteer program offers an opportunity to provide companionship and support to veterans facing a life-limiting illness.
The first patient he saw was so disconnected from friends, family and community that, had it not been for Parent’s efforts, his funeral would have been attended by no one.
“He was in his late 50s, and even though we were fellow Marines, he didn’t want to talk about much at first,” Parent recalled. “He had children earlier in life, but I never saw any family or friends with him during my visits to his facility.”
Parent, whose own service was in Vietnam in 1969, was able to gain the vet’s trust in part by showing him magic tricks he learned via YouTube. Along the way, Parent had assured the veteran that when he passed, he would not be alone.
When he died on a cool day the next spring, Parent and four team members from Emmanuel attended his funeral at Fort Custer in Battle Creek.
“We were able to keep that promise, providing him a military funeral with a 21-gun salute,” he said. “I guess you could say Emmanuel was his family.”
Parent has since spent time with a half-dozen other veterans, whose stories are the stuff of legends, including one World War II vet who turns 102 soon and, at 100, was still piloting around his 400-plus horsepower Chevrolet Camaro.
Another WWII vet – also still living, at age 97 – grew up dirt-poor in a West Virginia coal-mining town and quit school at 14 because he was tired of being teased about his shoes, which were fashioned from cardboard and tape. He worked the mines until he was 17, then joined the U.S. Navy.
Parent says he receives more out of his volunteering than he gives.
“I get so much from their stories, and it makes me a better person, more aware of the different paths they walk, that we all walk,” he said. “I guess I’m cultivating a little empathy, too. And it’s a great learning experience.”
For his service, Emmanuel Hospice awarded him the Sister Gabriela Caring Spirit Award to honor him as the 2022 volunteer of the year.
Parent was humbled to receive the honor. The award recognizes a volunteer who carries with them the mission and vision of Emmanuel Hospice and who goes above and beyond with their compassion for patients and their families. It is named after Sister M. Gabriela Hilke, the founding visionary behind the creation of Emmanuel Hospice and the award’s first recipient.
“Jim embodies what we look for in all our team members and volunteers – the ability and willingness to go that extra mile for all the people we serve,” said Sara Lowe, Emmanuel Hospice executive director. “He’s an excellent example of all that we try to be, and to bring to our people.”
Emmanuel Hospice is seeking more volunteers for its veteran-to-veteran volunteer program, which is offered year-round for patients. Those who are interested may visit EmmanuelHospice.org/volunteer to learn more and register.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting a busy week and is reminding guests to pack their patience.
The Airport is currently tracking 4% above its pre-pandemic passenger levels and is expected to exceed 2019 numbers, which was a record-breaking year. Total estimated passengers from November 17 through November 29 is 154,938.
“During this Thanksgiving travel season, our commitment to ensuring a seamless and joyous travel experience for all guests is unwavering,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric. “Our team and partners are ready to welcome the increased holiday traffic, working diligently to make this special time of year stress-free for everyone.”
The peak for departures will start Friday, November 17, and carry through the weekend. The busiest return day for passengers is expected to be Monday, November 27.
Some top Thanksgiving destinations
New York, Orlando, Clearwater/Tampa and Punta Gorda.
WUW will be the kickoff event to a donation drive that runs throughout the month of December. Attendees are asked to donate new, warm clothing such as hats, gloves, scarves, coats and boots. The collected items will be donated to Wyoming area schools.
Meeting a need through change
“This is a reimagining of Wyoming Gives Back, [with] some of the same elements that were there previously,” said Martin, adding that the most noticeable variation is the giving element.
Previously, donations consisted of toys that were then given to the Salvation Army. Martin said the City is still accepting toy donations internally, with drop-off sites located at all City buildings.
After talking with school partners and other community members, however, a greater need was revealed.
“What a lot of the schools need more than anything are coats, hats and boots for their students,” said Martin. “Things that go well beyond the holidays into the colder months.”
What to expect at WUW
(Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Rec)
The WUW event will feature musical acts from Godwin Heights High School Percussionists and Wyoming Public Schools Jazz Band, cookie decorating, a hot cocoa station, and several crafts.
Several holiday displays will highlight different holiday traditions reflected in the Wyoming community.
Wyoming Public Safety will be in attendance with their vehicles for a Touch-A-Truck opportunity, and attendees can look forward to a visit from Santa, Mrs. Claus – and live reindeer from GG Reindeer Farm.
“We are going to utilize the whole space,” said Martin of WSC. “Most of the crafts and musical performances will take place inside, but we’ll have a staging area set up outside with the reindeer. It will be a good opportunity for kids and families.”
A community effort
The Parks & Rec Department is working with several local organizations to ensure WUW is a success – and to also provide a unique opportunity for a certain group of community members.
Empower U, a Kent ISD program for individuals with special needs who have aged out of the K-12 system, provides specialized instruction, employment opportunities and independent living skills.
“They have been coming and doing some volunteer work at the senior center, providing them with job training,” said Martin. “After the event, they are going to come and go through all of the warm items and sort things for us so they are ready for us to take out to the schools.”
Let the festivities begin!
Lend a hand, give back, and ring in the holiday season at WUW (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
WUW is open to everyone to attend, so come join in the spirit of giving and fun festivities.
If you are unable to attend but would still like to donate, WUW donation bins are available at City Hall now through the month of December.
“This event is a wonderful way to ring in the holiday season and spend quality time with friends and family,” said Martin. “It’s the perfect opportunity to talk to your little ones about the importance of lending a hand and giving back to your community.
“We hope to create a fresh, even newer holiday tradition for everyone in Wyoming.”
For more information about Wrap Up Wyoming, please contact the City of Wyoming Parks & Recreation team at 616-530-3164, parks_info@wyomingmi.gov or www.wyomingmi.gov.
The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to celebrate the holiday season at its annual tree lighting ceremony and holiday light parade on Thursday, Dec. 7.
The festivities will run from 6 to 8 p.m. at and around the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The event will kick off with a parade, followed by outdoor activities for all ages, including reindeer, take-home children’s crafts, caroling karaoke and a visit from Santa.
Dune Buggy food truck will be on-site with food and beverages for purchase. Complimentary coffee and hot chocolate also will be available.
Student essay competition determines grand marshal
For the second year, a student essay competition will determine the event’s grand marshal, who will help Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley light the tree. Students ages 5-18 who are Kentwood residents or attend school in Kentwood, Kelloggsville, Forest Hills or Caledonia school districts are eligible to participate.
Students can enter by submitting an essay that is 1,000 words or less and answers this prompt: “Why do you love living in Kentwood?” Entries are due by Nov. 27, and a winner will be chosen and notified by Dec. 1. Essays can be submitted online at kentwood.us/TreeLighting or in person at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE.
Last year’s essay winner and grand marshal was Clara Wells, a fifth grader at Brookwood Elementary at the time. She was in the same float in the parade with Mayor Kepley and later helped him light the Christmas tree in front of the library.
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and essay contest winner Clara Wells at last year’s event. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“We are looking forward to ushering in the holiday season as a community with this special event,” Kepley said. “These festivities mark the beginning of one of the most wonderful times of the year as our remarkable community gathers to bring good tidings of peace and joy to all.”
Parade begins at 6 p.m.
The parade will begin at 6 p.m. and travel from the City’s Public Works Facility at 5068 Breton Ave. SE to the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE. Sections of Breton and Walma avenues will be closed from 5:50 to 6:25 p.m. for the parade.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Tree lighting and caroling at 6:30 p.m., photos with Santa at 6:45
The tree lighting ceremony and caroling will follow at 6:30 p.m. in front of the library. After the ceremony at approximately 6:45 p.m., community members can take photos with Santa, visit with reindeer, enjoy caroling karaoke, and more. The event is free and open to the public.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Attendees also will have the opportunity to donate non-perishable food items to Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry. A list of suggested items can be found at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
Groups interested in participating in the parade should complete the online entry form. The cost to participate is $15.
Woodland Mall is working to make the holiday season that much more special with big plans for Santa’s arrival, activities supporting local organizations and other festive events.
In addition to a number of charitable efforts, the mall is preparing for Santa’s grand arrival with a parade through the mall, followed by a pajama party, photo opportunities and dance and musical performances by local groups, among other activities.
“Our focus this year is on spreading holiday cheer through fun events with the man in red himself, as well as charitable activities, vendor shows and community performances,” Marketing Manager Kennedy Vancalbergh said. “With a few new experiences alongside the winter staples we’re known for, Woodland Mall continues to offer the best in holiday shopping and festivities for shoppers of all ages.”
(Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
Santa’s Parade and PJ Arrival Party – Nov. 17
Santa will make his grand return to Woodland Mall with an indoor parade beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 17. Santa’s procession will begin near the entrance of the food court and end at his holiday home in the Macy’s court. Santa will be guided by the Academy of Dance Arts.
Following the parade, the mall will give a warm and cozy welcome to Santa with a fun-filled PJ party in the Macy’s court 6-8 p.m. All are encouraged to come dressed in pajamas for the event, which will include a meet and greet with holiday characters, an opportunity to take photos with Santa, balloon twisters, holiday crafts, face painting and a prize wheel.
Shoppers who bring in new pajamas to donate to The Salvation Army during the event will receive a coupon for a free 8-by-10 photo print with a Santa photo purchase.
Salvation Army Angel Tree – Nov. 17 through Dec. 14
Woodland Mall has partnered with The Salvation Army to give back to children in the community. Shoppers will find The Salvation Army Angel Tree in the Macy’s wing starting Nov. 17 through Dec. 14. Tree tags represent children or teenagers who might not otherwise receive gifts this holiday season. Shoppers can take a tag and return an unwrapped gift at the mall’s security office during mall hours.
Academy of Dance Arts Performances – Nov. 18
To celebrate Santa’s arrival, Woodland Mall will welcome Academy of Dance Arts Studio for several performances by various age groups. Throughout the afternoon of Saturday, Nov. 18, the dance group will perform to holiday music in the Von Maur wing.
Photos withSanta – Nov. 18 through Dec. 24
Santa will take photos with guests and listen to holiday wishes Nov. 18 through Dec. 24. Reservations are encouraged but not required for the photo opportunity. Digital photo packages are available with options to purchase prints and a family portrait.
Visitors also can visit Ursa, the enormous 12-foot polar bear decked with thousands of holiday lights, while they wait to see Santa.
(Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
Fur babies included
Beginning Nov. 20, “fur babies” will again be welcome to visit Santa for photos on Mondays through Dec. 18. Feathered and whiskered pets of all kinds are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash, in a crate/carrier or held by the owner at all times. Pet owners must also sign a release prior to visiting Santa.
(Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
Cards for Kids Spending the Holidays in Hospitals – Nov. 18 through Dec. 11
Woodland Mall has partnered with Cards for Hospitalized Kids to provide holiday cards to local children who are spending the holiday season in the hospital. From Nov. 18 through Dec. 11, there will be a table near Santa in the Macy’s court where individuals can decorate cards for the children.
Black Friday Deals – Nov. 24
Woodland Mall will be closed on Thanksgiving Day to enable retail employees to enjoy the holiday with their loved ones. The mall will reopen at 8 a.m. Friday, Nov. 24 so guests can enjoy an early start to the traditional shopping weekend. Several seasonal stores will offer discounted gift items on Black Friday. Visit ShopWoodlandMall.com for a full list of in-store deals and retailer information.
Vendor Shows – Nov. 25 and Dec. 9
Shoppers can connect with an array of small businesses and vendors during the Small Business Showcase, hosted by Britney Sylvester, on Saturday, Nov. 25, and at the Holiday Bash Craft and Vendor Show, hosted by Kelly Hume Events LLC, on Saturday, Dec. 9. Shoppers can explore a wide variety of items such as wreaths, candles, jewelry and more at the shows during shopping hours on both dates.
Women’s Resource Center Winter Clothing Drive – Dec. 1-31
Woodland Mall will hold a winter clothing drive for the Women’s Resource Center, which offers programs and services to educate and empower women for workplace success, during the entire month of December. Collection bins will be at each entrance of the mall for donations of new or gently used hats, gloves and winter socks.
Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive – Dec. 1-24
The iconic red kettles and volunteers will be stationed at the mall’s JCPenney entrance throughout the season. Characters from Star Wars will make special appearances throughout the month. Donations go toward improving the lives of families in the local community. Every gift is precious – big or small.
Artists Creating Together Concert – Dec. 4
Artists Creating Together, which empowers individuals with disabilities to learn, grow and celebrate through the arts, will give a musical performance on ukuleles and Tubano drums 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Von Maur wing.
More Surprises for Shoppers
There will be surprise visits from a variety of fun characters and drop-in performances for shoppers to enjoy on occasional weekends throughout the holiday season.
Holiday Hours
The mall will have extended hours to ensure guests can get all their holiday shopping completed. Visit ShopWoodlandMall.com/hours for details. To avoid the crowds, Woodland Mall recommends shopping Monday through Thursday when traffic is at a lighter pace.
On Christmas Eve, Woodland Mall will be open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The mall will be closed on Christmas Day. The mall will be open the day after Christmas 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., on New Year’s Eve noon to 6 p.m. and on New Year’s Day 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Wyoming Fire Department responded to a garage fire on Nov. 11 (Courtesy, Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
By Wyoming Fire Department
At approximately 3:45 p.m. on Nov. 11, Wyoming Fire Department responded to a garage fire in the 2000 block of Wyoming Avenue.
The first arriving fire units observed a well-involved attached garage fire that was spreading into the home. There were no reported injuries as residents were able to evacuate the home safely. Wyoming Fire Department contained and extinguished the fire preventing it from fully extending to the rest of the home. The Red Cross was notified to assist the homeowners.
Wyoming Fire Department encourages practicing regular fire safety measures such as checking your homes smoke alarms, having a well-rehearsed evacuation plan and meeting place.
Anyone with additional information regarding this fire is asked to contact the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Investigator at 616-257-9764.
Honoring its veterans is just one way that Care Resources – a community-based program for people 55 and over who wish to remain in their homes – utilizes its Grand Rapids site, which features a day center, clinic and pharmacy.
At Care Resources, veterans and other participants have access to a wide range of services, from physical, occupational and speech therapy, to daily meals and activities in the day center, to rehab and durable medical equipment, such as walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen and diabetic testing supplies.
Care Resources also makes daily home visits to nearly 60 men and women – veterans included – who are seeking ways to prevent being placed into nursing homes. Promoting healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement is the mission of the organization.
Care Resources values all the veterans they care for throughout the year. But on Veterans Day in particular, the organization takes the time to publicly salute the men and women who brought honor and dignity to the uniform they wore and to the flag they served.
For the last several years, Care Resources has hosted a ceremony during which the veterans in their care are showcased for the sacrifices they’ve made. A married pair of active-duty officers from the Michigan National Guard are only too happy to emcee the special event held every November at the organization’s day center at 4150 Kalamazoo Avenue SE.
This year’s program was held Friday, Nov. 10, and featured the National Anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance, remarks from Sgt. Maj. John Gebhard and the presentation of a pin and a commemorative coin to every veteran in attendance.
(Courtesy, Care Resources)
“We’re so thankful for them and it truly is an honor to let them know it, to show our appreciation,” says Sgt. Maj. John Gebhard.
His wife, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Krista Gebhard, adds: “We get to hear their stories, and make such important connections. It’s a great opportunity for us all.”
To learn more about Care Resources, visit CareResources.org or call 616-913-2006.
In honor of Veterans Day and in conjunction with Kent County’s observance of Operation Green Light, the University of Michigan Health-West has changed the illumination of its hospital tower to green.
The University of Michigan Health-West, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, will illuminate its hospital tower in green to express solidarity with veterans in observance of Veterans Day on both Friday and Saturday, Nov. 10 and 11.
Operation Green Light is a national initiative led by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers. It aims to showcase support for veterans and raise awareness about the available resources at the county, state and federal levels.
The hospital’s ties with veterans include hosting the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Wyoming outpatient clinic on its campus, providing a range of essential services to veterans.
Operation Green Light sheds light on the programs and benefits available to veterans and their families through Kent County Veterans Services, including emergency funds, disability benefits, burial assistance, and more.
At approximately 9:20 a.m. on Nov. 10, police personnel from the Wyoming Police Department responded to 982 Lee Street SW (Godfrey-Lee Schools East Lee Campus) on the report of school staff locating a firearm in a student’s backpack.
The 15-year-old Godfrey-Lee student was taken into police custody without incident.
Godfrey-Lee’s school staff were able to safely locate this weapon by following word-of-mouth rumors that someone had brought a firearm into their school. The Godfrey-Lee school faculty’s commitment to the safety of their students is unwavering and truly exemplified by their diligence in following up on this matter.
This incident will be presented to the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office for a review of appropriate charges.
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.
Kent County Health Department encourages residents to support local restaurants across Kent County through Nov. 11. (Courtesy, MSBDC)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Supporting local restaurants benefits the entire community (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The Kent County Health Department (KCHD) is encouraging residents participating in Restaurant Week GR, taking place from Nov. 3-11, to broaden their dining experiences and support restaurants across Kent County.
To assist residents in finding and selecting a restaurant, an interactive map was created featuring local restaurants across Kent County.
“Restaurants hold a unique place in our community,” said KCHD Director Dr. Adam London. “They are often where memories are made, and life’s milestones are celebrated. Supporting these establishments not only preserve our local flavors but also strengthen the bonds that hold our community together.”
Community support and benefits
Though the restaurant industry has rebounded, the workforce remains low (Courtesy photo)
Spending at local restaurants benefits the community by supporting jobs and businesses. Whether dining in, ordering take-out, or buying gift cards, consumers contribute to local employment and business growth.
In the United States, the restaurant industry has rebounded to employ a record 12.37 million people as of September 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. However, Michigan’s restaurant workforce remains about 6% below its peak, underscoring the importance of supporting local restaurants.
The Health Department works with a diverse range of food establishments, spanning from restaurants to mobile food trucks to healthcare facilities, as part of their annual licensing renewal and inspection process. Consequently, they are uniquely positioned to comprehend the challenges that restaurants have faced over the years.
Interactive maps make exploring easy
Clickable icons provide establishment details (Courtesy photo)
“We created an interactive map to encourage residents to explore our local eateries during restaurant week and beyond,” said Environmental Health Division Director Sara Simmonds. “Whether it’s an old favorite, someplace you have heard about and haven’t tried yet, or an out-of-the-way spot with a unique menu, they all help make up the fabric of Kent County.”
The map can be found on the KCHD social media site and website, and allows residents to search within a specified distance of their location. Each restaurant has a clickable icon and provides residents more details about the establishment.
Residents are also encouraged to follow our social media to learn how our team partners with local restaurants.
Vonnie Woodrick is determined to change attitudes surrounding mental health (Courtesy, Davenport University)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Woodrick has made mental health her life’s work (Supplied)
Davenport University leaders have announced that Yvonne (Vonnie) Woodrick has joined its Alumni Association Board for a three-year term. Woodrick, a West Michigan native, graduated from the university in 1984. She said it’s wonderful to be part of the university that means so much to her.
“It’s truly an honor to be in a position to highlight Davenport, a university that is near and dear to my heart,” said Woodrick. “Witnessing the growth from a college to a university has been amazing, and the expansion of Davenport’s mental and behavioral health services and academic programs is extremely important to me.”
Mental health is health
Mental health has been a focus for Woodrick since her husband, Rob, died from depression in 2003. The young widow with three children set out to change attitudes surrounding mental health and suicide. This cause has become her life’s work, and she founded the nonprofit organization i Understand in 2014.
Her work and Davenport’s recent additions of a campus wellness center and two master’s degrees connected to mental health make this renewed connection between Woodrick and the university even more meaningful. This fall, the university launched the Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, and the Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling.
“The actions taken in this area by Davenport leaders display their understanding that mental health is health,” Woodrick said. “At the university, the topic is discussed, resources are readily available and career choices in this field are cutting edge.
“I am grateful Davenport University is bringing the mental and brain health conversations to the forefront. I am excited to be a part of this, and can’t wait to see what the future holds in this area.”
Whole health for students
Woodrick joins 11 other Davenport alumni who serve the university and its mission through its Alumni Association Board.
“We’re delighted to have Vonnie join our strong alumni board,” said Rachel Render, Executive Vice President for Advancement at Davenport. “Vonnie’s expertise is important as we focus on the whole health of our students as they pursue their higher education dreams.”
Incumbent Maurice H. Groce held onto his Kentwood City Commission At-Large seat, holding off candidate Lily Cheng-Schulting, while David Moore II defeated incumbent Ron Draayer for a Ward 2 Commission seat in unofficial results from the Nov. 7 general election.
Groce received 3,194 votes (50.20%), while Cheng-Schulting tallied 3,154 (49.58%). There were 14 write-in votes. Turnout was 16.3% for the At-Large seat. Moore II received 1,581 votes (49.83%), while Draayer had 1,577 (49.70%). There were 15 write-ins. Turnout was 18.78% for the Ward 2 seat.
David Moore II edged incumbent Ron Draayer for a Kentwood City Commission Ward 2 seat in unofficial results. (WKTV)
Seven ballots and certification in the balance
Chief Deputy Kent County Clerk Robert Macomber said all results are currently unofficial until the completion of the County Canvass when results will be certified and deemed official.
“Additionally, a few things have changed due to the implementation of Proposal 2022-2. The first being that any absentee ballots that come back from military or overseas voters (MOVE) within six days after the election are valid to be counted as long as they are postmarked by election day,” Macomber continued. “We know of three outstanding MOVE ballots in Ward 2 that could be en route.
“Secondly, there are four absentee ballots in Kentwood Ward 2 that were returned by voters that have an issue with their signature (either missing or not matching).Those voters have been notified and they have three days after the election – until Friday – to rectify their signatures and have their ballots accepted and counted. This is also a new change.”
Macomber went on to say that once the canvassing is complete, which can take up to 14 days, but is usually shorter in these odd year elections, the results will be certified and those will be the official election results. The canvass is where any outstanding ballots turned in from MOVE voters or signature cures will be counted.
Incumbent Ron Draayer loses Ward 2 seat by four votes in unofficial results. (WKTV)
Draayer has six days after certification to petition for recount
“We do not have automatic recounts in Michigan, regardless of the vote margin,” Macomber explained. “Any candidate who believes they are aggrieved may petition for a recount. They have six days after the election is certified to do so. The cost of the recount is calculated based on the margin, and a deposit is collected from the petitioning candidate. If the outcome changes, the deposit is refunded.”
Ward 1
Robert Coughlin ran uncontested and received 2,470 votes to maintain his Ward 1 seat.
