Category Archives: 3-bottom

International students embrace American culture at Wyoming High School, gain education money can’t buy

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Travel, West Michigan, , , , ,
Wyoming High School provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for five foreign exchange students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Five foreign exchange students representing four countries embarked on a journey that led them to Wyoming High School.

Alexandra (Italy), Edward (Germany), Daisy (Thailand), Linh and Hieu (Vietnam) have traveled thousands of miles to experience the American way of life.

Though not always easy due to cultural differences, all five students have expressed enjoyment of their time in the United States.

International Exchange Coordinator and Educatius Local Coordinator Sunflower Swan is determined to help the foreign students get the most out of their time in America.

“My job is to help them to achieve that experience of positive outcome,” said Swan.

Swan (left) helps the international students express their experiences, emotions and goals while in the United States (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Swan, raised in Korea, came to America as an exchange student when she was in college. Her experience inspired a passion for helping others find that same joy.

“I want this experience to be fun and engaging. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Swan.

Swan creates that fun environment through various interactive events and activities.

Upon the exchange students’ arrival, Swan hosted a gathering at a local park for the students and their host families. Cookie-eating contests, marshmallow-stuffing contests, and 3-legged races were among the planned activities.

But Swan said the games accomplished far more than just having fun.

“The [3-legged race] is a metaphor that they have to [coexist] in harmony with each other,” said Swan. “Because, to have a successful experience, they can’t do their own thing. You have to tie together.”

Exuberance for life and the American way

Swan’s passion for life was evident during a conversation with Swan and the foreign exchange students.

That conversation involved far more than a question and answer session to see how the students were faring at WHS. Props, signs, face mustaches, picture taking, dancing, and laughter were also part of the mix.

“I don’t do boring stuff,” Swan said as she tossed this reporter a flowered lei with instructions to put it on before she took a picture. “That’s fun, isn’t it? A celebration of life, I call it.”

Alexandra loves trying new things while in America (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Alexandra is also embracing life and several new experiences.

“I am making new friends every day, and I am not afraid to talk to [others],” said Alexandra. “I’m shy, but I’m trying to be more confident.”

Alexandra said she joined the WHS golf team because she had never tried the sport before. “I’m not good,” Alexandra said with a shrug. “But I don’t care.”

WHS English teacher and Alexandra’s host mother, Joslyn O’Dell, said Alexandra fit right into her family.

“As soon as we got the name Alexandra, Drake (O’Dell’s son) looked her up on social media and became friends with her,” said O’Dell. “So before she even got to the U.S. they were interacting. Weeks before she arrived, we had already started that relationship.”

Watching Alexandra seize every new experience has been fun for the O’Dell family.

“Just seeing her try the American school and see how that fits for her has been fun,” said O’Dell. “She’s had a lot of new experiences and she’s enjoyed a lot of them; she wants to experience everything.”

Daisy is also embracing new things, with music festivals, camping and learning a different genre of music among the Thailand native’s recent experiences.

Valuable lessons learned

Some experiences, however, are internal and more personal.

Daisy said that she is naturally shy but is learning to open up to people.

“Here, she has learned that exerting her opinion does not mean she isn’t humble,” said Swan. “[It is] gaining maturity and speaking when you need to speak.”

Hieu (left) and Edward discuss a question asked during the meeting (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Hieu (Vietnam) enjoys playing basketball, is making friends, and is also learning to be more confident.

“I used to be shy to talk to people, but now I am more open,” said Hieu.

Linh said that through the kindness she has seen at WHS, she “learned to be respectful to everyone.”

Edward says being in America has instigated more meaningful conversations with his parents back in Germany.

“I talked to my parents [before], but here I do more,” said Edward.

Making mistakes and overcoming obstacles

Though most of the exchange students’ experiences have been positive, some difficulties have emerged.

Differences in culture such as body language, difficulty level and concept of school classes, and homework are some of the most common obstacles for foreign students.

“Some students don’t do homework because in their culture, homework is optional, it is not part of their grade,” said Swan, adding that some of the students have had to realize homework is required in the U.S.

Edward enjoys the class activities WHS includes in the curriculum (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Daisy said that while she loves the freedom America offers, she struggles with students’ disrespect toward teachers.

Because of Swan’s own experience as an exchange student in college, she understands the hurdles these students face.

“I know what it’s like, adjusting,” said Swan. “Sometimes they are afraid to speak because they don’t want to mispronounce a word.”

But Swan said making mistakes is part of the learning process.

“You have to make mistakes to learn the language and assimilate,” said Swan. “Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. Mispronunciation is good. You don’t have to have perfect English to engage in conversation; that’s not reasonable.”

A few of their favorite things…

Increased freedom, friendly teachers and students, learning activities for students, and free food and refills on drinks were some favorite things mentioned by the group. ArtPrize was also a highlight this fall, with all five students exploring exhibits together.

30 countries, 20 years, and public diplomacy

Swan has spent 20 years and traveled to 30 countries while helping students experience other cultures.

“We are training future world leaders,” said Swan, adding that 200 out of 300 world leaders were involved in some kind of student exchange program.

Swan (left) said Linh (right) had very limited English when arriving in America and is a perfect example of how hard work and tenacity help students grow (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“This is called public diplomacy,” Swan said. “It’s one of the greatest, powerful public diplomacy the U.S. can have, having exchange students here, learning American culture, American way of life.”

But for Swan, it is about far more than diplomacy.

“I traveled the world, but I discovered people are all the same,” said Swan. “I am more compassionate as I meet people because they all need to be loved and appreciated.

“We are all the same. We have so much focus on skin or education or status but forget they are human.”

And where Swan goes, fun and new friends follow.

“For me, I live fully,” said Swan. “I want to enjoy it. Life is too short, and I want to celebrate life.

“It’s not easy to do what I do. It’s a lot of problem-solving, but I’m making a difference.”

Education money can’t buy

Swan says learning about new cultures reminds us that we are all human (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Swan encourages families to consider hosting an exchange student, saying it benefits families as well as students.

“In my experience, host family children become much more diverse and stronger,” said Swan. “You are providing education money cannot buy.”

To learn more about local exchange student hosting opportunities, visit Educatius.

Local Teen CHARGE program holds writing competition, promotes drug-free living

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Education, Kent County, Kids Activities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , ,
“The Best Me Is Drug Free” writing contest is open to all West Michigan 7th-12th grade students (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Submissions for the writing contest will be accepted until Oct. 23 (Courtesy: pxhere.com)

“The Best Me Is Drug Free” is the theme for the student-led Teen CHARGE program’s writing contest currently underway – and that is still accepting submissions.

Wedgwood Christian Services’ Teen CHARGE program is celebrating Red Ribbon Week (RRW) with a writing contest that focuses on drug abuse awareness and living drug-free lives.

All 7th-12th grade West Michigan students are invited to submit an original written work to the contest. Submissions can be in the form of a poem, story, song, rap, essay or personal narrative that relates to the theme “The Best Me Is Drug Free.”

Submissions can be emailed to teencharge@wedgwood.org, and will be accepted until Oct. 23. Winners will win gift cards and will have the chance to have their piece published on the Teen CHARGE website if they so choose.

“Every year we try to do things to recognize Red Ribbon Week,” said Gina Boscarino, Wedgwood Christian Services Group Specialist. “I wanted to do something they would be excited about, and I have a lot of students who enjoy writing, specifically creative writing.”

Raising awareness, making a difference

Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program (Courtesy: h9images, Freepik.com)

RRW is an annual, nationwide drug abuse awareness campaign that takes place during the last week of October. The campaign began after the death of Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was brutally murdered in 1985 by a Mexican drug cartel.

Camarena was known to say, “I’m only one person but I want to make a difference.”

The RRW celebration was created in 1988 by the National Family Partnership (NFP) to honor and acknowledge Camarena’s sacrifice by recognizing the harmful effects of drugs on our communities and making commitments to live a drug-free lifestyle.

Authentic and true

Boscarino says many of the written RRW submissions received to date have been “very powerful.”

Many students pledge to live drug-free lives during Red Ribbon Week (Courtesy: storyset, Freepik.com)

“Some of them are talking about why they are not going to do [drugs], or why they don’t feel the need to do drugs or alcohol,” said Boscarino. “And the other half is looking at it from the other perspective, showing the dangers of it [and] how a person loses themselves once they become addicted to something.”

“We are looking for [pieces] that are authentic and true,” Boscarino explained, adding that students do not have to have a personal experience with drugs in order to create a powerful and authentic written work.

Though this is the first year having a writing contest for RRW, Boscarino says they will definitely be doing it again.

“I think one of the great things about writing is that it is a confidence builder for a lot of people,” said Boscarino.

Blog submissions always welcome

Teen CHARGE promotes creativity and accepts blog submissions regularly (Courtesy: pxhere.com)

In fact, students interested in writing are encouraged to submit to the Teen CHARGE blog at any time.

“If kids are interested in writing, we are always taking submissions for the blog even if they’re not a specific Teen CHARGE brand representative,” said Boscarino. “We just really want to promote creativity and making healthy decisions.”

To find out more about Wedgwood Christian Services, visit wedgwood.org. To learn more about Teen CHARGE, visit teencharge.org.

Kent County Department of Public Works launches fall recycling guide with tips and tricks

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Recycling, West Michigan, ,




By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has launched its fall recycling guide to help residents ensure recyclable and hard to dispose of materials don’t end up in a landfill this fall.

The 2023 Fall Recycling Guide is part of the DPW’s efforts to familiarize Kent County residents with items that can be placed in their recycling bins to move toward the goal of reducing landfill waste by 90 percent by 2030. The guide also includes tips for properly recycling or disposing of material that can’t go in a recycling bin, but can still be kept out of a landfill like leaves, pool chemicals and clothing.

“The fall season and fall holidays can bring about a lot of waste, from food containers to costumes to decorations, so it’s important Kent County residents are knowledgeable about what can be recycled and put to better use than sitting in a landfill,” said Micah Herrboldt, waste reduction educator at the DPW. “We’re proud of our community’s commitment to recycling and reducing waste all year-round.”

In the fall, the DPW tends to see items like cider jugs, paper cups and cartons, certain plastics and cardboard boxes end up in the trash when they could be placed in curbside recycling bins and eventually repurposed. Items like soup and broth cartons, rigid plastics and metal cans and tins for pie filling, also can be recycled.

If an item can’t be recycled, there are other options for residents to avoid contributing to the landfill. The DPW offers tips for what to do with Halloween costumes and wigs, sweaters and coats, as well as clothing that’s been outgrown by children.

If a garage clean-out is on your fall to do list, household hazardous waste can be brought to any of the DPW’s SafeChem locations throughout the county for free responsible disposal. Organic waste like branches, leaves and garden plants can be provided through a local waste hauler.

The Kent County Department of Public Works provides municipal solid waste disposal services to ensure the effective removal, storage and disposal of residential and commercial solid waste through various facilities and programs, including Waste-to-Energy, the Recycling and Education Center, North Kent Transfer Station and South Kent Landfill.

Fashion for a Future brings local celebrities and community together for Hope for Single Moms

3-bottom, West Michigan, ,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Local philanthropist Dr. Carla Ludwig said like many nonprofits, hers was started based on a personal story.


Her inspiration: Her youngest daughter Christina.

“My husband John and I had a daughter who became pregnant during her freshman year of college,” said Ludwig, founding director of Hope for Single Moms, to WKTV. The complete story and more can be seen on her website Hope for Single Moms. “My daughter and granddaughter (Ashley) moved away from Michigan when my granddaughter was nine months old. Without a career with a $40,000/year or more income, it was always going to be a struggle to pay the bills.



Hope for Single Moms philanthropist and founding director Carla Ludwig’s inspiration for the organization: Her daughter and granddaughter Christina and Ashley. (Courtesy, Carla Ludwig)



“A year after they moved, my husband and I offered our daughter the opportunity to go back to college. Long story short, she went back to college with a two-year-old, and I just saw a lot of challenges to success. I think the hard part was just to see that there wasn’t the support and resources at the university available to her.



“But honestly, we weren’t independently wealthy. What could I do? I tried to dismiss the thought. But God pursued me. I really didn’t know what I could do.”


Fashion for a Future (Photos Courtesy of Brock Visuals)

  • Hope for Single Moms client Kayla and two of her children in clothes by Runway Angels. (Courtesy, Brock Visuals)
  • Hope for Single Moms client Tanya and her two children in clothes by Runway Angels. (Courtesy, Brock Visuals)
  • Melisa Rose in clothes by Ashley Kinsey. (Courtesy, Brock Visuals)
  • Taryn Taplin (model, event coordinator, model coordinator) walks the runway wearing clothes by Ashley Kinsey. (Courtesy, Brock Visuals)
  • Doofan Iortyer walks the runway in clothes by Ashley Kinsey. Fashion for a Future. (Courtesy, Brock Visuals)
  • Celebrity model Terri DeBoer, former WOOD TV 8 meteorologist. (Courtesy, Brock Visuals)



Ludwig said it was a privilege to be included in her daughter’s journey.


“This experience showed me how hard single parenting is,” Ludwig continued. “I learned about the barriers single moms have to just about anything and everything in life. And then there’s the stress of trying to pay bills. But most striking was seeing the isolation and loneliness of being a single mom.

“I’ve learned a lot. It’s a privilege to be able to now serve the West Michigan community. After she graduated, we went and said, ‘Let’s do it here in Michigan.'”



Dr. Carla Ludwig, Hope for Single Moms founding director, talks to WKTV during her Fashion for a Future event on Sept. 28. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)



Fashion for a Future

One of the events Ludwig created to fundraise for Hope for Single Moms is Fashion for a Future, which held a third annual benefit on Sept. 28 at New Vintage Place in Grand Rapids.

Statewide celebrities like WOOD TV8’s Terri DeBoer, former Detroit Tigers pitcher Dave Rozema, who was on the team during its 1984 World Series Championship, and NPR/PBS host Shelley Irwin took part in the fashion show, the major fundraiser for Hope for Single Moms.


Former Detroit Tigers pitcher Dave Rozema hit the runway (see video above)

“I just met Carla this week and what a fantastic organization she has,” said Rozema, who walked the runway at the fashion show and signed autographs as well. “Carla’s a tremendous person. I just can’t see men assaulting wives … I’ve been married for 38 years and that’s unacceptable, so I’m helping out here. I have a nice couple of outfits and I’m here to sign autographs, raise money, and brought some donations in from Tram (Alan Trammell) and Kirk (Gibson) to help out. Every little bit counts.”




WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director Cris Greer (left) and former Detroit Tigers pitcher from the 1984 World Series season Dave Rozema talk at Fashion for a Future. (WKTV/Cris Greer)




A native of Grand Rapids, Rozema graduated from Grand Rapids Central High School where his junior and senior seasons were spent as an all-city pitcher for the baseball team. He later pitched for the Detroit Tigers for eight years, including the 1984 World Series championship season. He retired from baseball after 10 years, posting a 60-53 record, 17 saves and a 3.47 ERA.

Fashion for a Future draws 200 people

“There were about 200 people there plus an additional 60 volunteers, including 20 professional models,” Ludwig said. “One flew in from New York City, one drove in from Cadillac, Traverse City and Kalamazoo. Everyone had a great time and learned about the needs of single mom families and how they, through partnering with Hope for Single Moms, can address those needs with real solutions that lead to transforming lives. Not only have people donated, but they are volunteering to help these families thrive.



“What people like about our program is that Hope for Single Moms provides long-term solutions. Their donations remove the financial barriers to a career education. They know these families will maintain economic independence because they are learning the life skills needed to do so. When I can tell a donor that a family will move from poverty to prosperity in about three years, they know they are making a difference and changing lives.”


Emcee Jennifer Feurstein (ABC 4 West Michigan)

“Jennifer Feuerstein has been our emcee all three years,” Ludwig said. “She has been a solo mom for eleven years, so it’s a cause close to her heart.”


Fashion show featured designer Ashley Kinsey

Ashley Kinsey was the featured fashion designer at the event showing 17 looks from her new collection. A designer in the industry for about 20 years, she has worked for a variety of companies, including major brands like Anthropologie, J.Crew, Cato Fashions and most recently Meijer.

Ashley Kinsey, featured fashion designer at Fashion for a Future. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)





“I support this event just because I love what they’re doing for single moms, helping them get educated, giving the mentorship that they need so that they can support their children better in the long run,” said Kinsey, who donated 20 percent of the sales of the show’s designs to Hope for Single Moms.






Grand Rapids Ballet School and Junior Company Director Attila Mosolygo

“I’m very grateful to be part of this wonderful event,” Mosolygo said. “I always look for opportunities to reach out into the community, to do community work, and this a fantastic way to do it. I work with a lot of students on a daily basis … and it’s good to know that there’s somebody out there that’s thinking of those single parents, single moms and their kids and their difficulties. I could not say no to this event.”



Celebrity model Attila Mosolygo, Grand Rapids Ballet School and Junior Company Director. (Courtesy, Brock Visuals)



“Education is the key”

As Ludwig will tell you, one of the key headlines on her Hope for Single Mom’s website states: “Education is the key to moving single mom families from poverty to prosperity!”

When helping her daughter Christina she noticed, “many organizations/programs offered short-term material assistance to single moms and their children. Good and necessary, but there were no long-term solutions available.”

“Our program is for single parents who are full-time students in college or trade school,” Ludwig continued. “Our goal is to help parents and their young children develop the educational and family life skills needed to achieve self-sufficiency.”

Teach a woman to fish approach

“What that means is helping a woman get the education she needs to provide well for her children,” Ludwig explains. “Hope for Single Moms focuses on a career education, but also provides community, life assistance and mentoring.


“Not only do we give them a career education, but we have volunteers who help with life assistance, such as budgeting. If they honestly need it, whatever it takes.”

A holistic/whole person approach

“We really want to have a holistic approach so that we’re not just throwing money at them to go back to school, but we want to set them up for success,” she explained. “So, in addition to finances, we also provide mentors. We also provide life assistance teams because some of our clients don’t have a supportive family. We want to be that help and encouragement that they need.”

Four new families to help

“We’re about $6,000 short of the goal, but are moving forward with our four new families, two of whom were there,” said Ludwig, whose organization is providing laptops, car repairs, tuition bills, car insurance and gas money, among other expenses. “We also have two families on our waitlist to enter the program.”

“People often have stereotypes about single moms; however, once they meet the women we work with, that stereotype is broken. We are able to transform so many lives with not a ton of money, and of course, because our staff is all volunteers. These women have already done so much of the groundwork and are highly motivated.”

West Michigan is very generous

Ludwig talked about the upcoming holidays and said they’ll be asking the community to make sure every family has the food they need for the holiday.


“We also do a holiday gift drive,” she continued. “Each family has a Christmas wishlist we put on Amazon, and people can buy as little or as much as they want. West Michigan is very generous and we often have couples who buy everything for an entire family for Christmas.”


For more information on how to donate, visit Hope for Single Moms.



‘Teddy Bear’ drive launched by John Ball Zoo commemorates life of brown bear Yogi

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Pets/Animals, West Michigan, , , , ,
Yogi was a beloved brown bear at John Ball Zoo for almost 30 years (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Yogi will continue to bring joy and comfort to children through the stuffed animal drive (Courtesy, PxHere)

John Ball Zoo is collecting stuffed animals in commemoration of one of its beloved bears to provide comfort to children at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

The stuffed animals are being collected in honor of Yogi, a brown bear who was humanely euthanized at John Ball Zoo this week after suffering from arthritis due to his advanced age.

Yogi was born in the wild and had been with John Ball Zoo since 1994 after repeated human area conflict in Yellowstone National Park. Yogi would have been euthanized at that time if the John Ball Zoo had not provided him with a home. At the Zoo, he lived well beyond his life expectancy.

A 30-year zoo icon

“John Ball Zoo is heartbroken by the loss of Yogi, who was a beloved presence at the Zoo for almost 30 years,” said Jaime Racalla, zookeeper supervisor at John Ball Zoo. “We’re very proud of the long life he had and the excellent care he received from our team into his later years. It is heartwarming to know that Yogi will continue to bring tokens of joy and comfort to children through the stuffed animal drive in his honor.”

Yogi’s caretakers will miss his gentle, easygoing personality.

“Yogi’s favorite day of the week was bone day,” said Jackie Wolflinger-Zellinger, swing keeper at John Ball Zoo. “He would pass up his dinner and any sweet snack we had for him, such as his evening medications mixed with honey or jam, for it, and he would be busy chewing until all the meat was gone. He was such a joy to work with.”

Teddy bear drive details

Donated stuffed bears can be dropped off at John Ball Zoo Guest Services through Oct. 19

John Ball Zoo will collect stuffed animals from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily Oct. 5-19 to be donated to the children’s hospital. The toys should be new with tags and can be dropped off at John Ball Zoo Guest Services office.

“Thank you to John Ball Zoo and our community supporting our pediatric patients at the hospital,” said Jeannine Brown, certified child life specialist at Helen DeVos. “These stuffed animals comfort our kids during their admission and aid in the healing process. We pass out many stuffed animals every day to brighten a child’s stay, especially if they forgot their treasured stuffed animal or lovey at home. Thank you for helping us make their hospital stay a little bit better with something to hold and hug.” 

Wyoming 36th Street Marketplace planning continues, aims to be community hub

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Local Business, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
A satellite view of Site 36 shows location of the forthcoming 36th Street Marketplace five-acre parcel of land (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The City of Wyoming is making steady progress with plans regarding the forthcoming local marketplace at Site 36 Industrial Park.

“We’re very excited about it,” said Nicole Hofert, Wyoming’s Director of Community & Economic Development. “I think that we are going to be creating a really nice hub for families. Somewhere where they can feel safe and want to be.”

Formerly a General Motors stamping plant, Site 36 North is directly adjacent to the Godwin High School athletic field (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Site 36 Industrial Park is an 80-acre parcel of land with 75-acres on the south side of 36th Street, and an additional five acres on the north side.

The 36th Street Marketplace will be located on that five-acre parcel.

Formerly a General Motors stamping plant, the 75 acre parcel of Site 36 was sold to commercial real estate investment company Franklin and Partners (FP) with an agreement that FP would help Wyoming develop a community marketplace on the north side.

“What’s also fortunate about this property is that Godwin High School sits just across the street, and their athletic field sits directly adjacent to the site,” said Hofert.

Hofert went on to say that the City has acquired a parking agreement with the school that will benefit both school and marketplace events.

Marketplace planning sneak peek

The marketplace design incorporates a long rectangular building with a flexible layout that will allow for up to 24 vendors.

Farmers markets have become increasingly popular and offer more than just fresh produce (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“You could have a farmers market one day and then maybe an artisan market later in the week that requires a slightly different layout,” said Hofert.

Garage doors on all sides can be raised or lowered as needed, allowing the market to function year-round.

Programmable outdoor space is also included in the design.

A designated food truck parking area will allow food truck and other similar events to proceed even when the market isn’t in operation. A smaller outdoor space on the front of the market will allow for music events and other outdoor activities.

“We’ve had a tremendous team working on it,” said Hofert. “We’ve been very lucky with our internal partners as well as our external partners, and they were very thoughtful in a lot of their recommendations.”

Hofert went on to say that the City did a large amount of market research leading into the planning process. They also traveled to several farmers markets, which led to the rationale for the garage doors.

36th Street Marketplace planning has involved large amounts of research, including on-location visits to similar venues (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

With West Michigan’s variant weather, Hofert said the question was how the City could “bring something to the community that they can ultimately embrace, and is available to them 365 days out of the year and not just a limited 3-month window.”

Conversations with local entrepreneurs provided feedback on what would be helpful for vendors. The City also sought support and feedback from the Division Avenue Business Association.

“Hopefully we’ve designed something that’s reflective of their needs to really maximize the benefit of this,” said Hofert. “There are opportunities to expand beyond just fresh fruit or vegetable offerings, and we really wanted to make sure that we were providing for those opportunities.”

Once the marketplace is built, leadership of design and vendor needs will pass to Krashawn Martin, director of the Parks and Recreation Department.

A family and community hub

The City’s goal is to make the marketplace a venue where people want to spend time and that is accessible from every direction.

Families and other community members will be able to access the marketplace from multiple routes (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Marketplace planners hope that the south side of Site 36 develops quickly, creating a natural magnet that will draw people to the north side.

“It’s also an area of the community that still has a very tight grid system,” said Hofert. “We have a very walkable neighborhood surrounding it and we are hoping…it becomes part of the neighborhood’s aesthetic.”

The Silver Line runs along Division Avenue, creating broader access for neighborhoods. Site 36 and the Silver Line are only a quarter mile apart, allowing visitors to easily walk to the marketplace.

A reconfigured trail network will bring the non-motorized trail off of Buchanan to Site 36 and also around the site.

“Anyone using the trail is going to have to go through the marketplace,” said Hofert. “You now have families that can bike to the marketplace, get some fresh fruits, vegetables, some artisan goods, maybe a cup of coffee, and then head home.”

Timeline and extra perks

Farmers Market (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“I am hopeful that we will be breaking ground late this year, into early next year,” said Hofert. “We’re finishing up due diligence. We have to complete a Brownfield Work Plan, and then obviously construction will have to begin.”

Hofert is remaining conservative in the City’s expectations on project completion, however, knowing that there are often delays in the current construction industry.

A generous grant will provide an extra marketplace perk once construction is complete.

“We received a $50,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation for public art on the site,” said Hofert.

The City plans to solicit a local artist to place public art that will honor the site for what it is.

Community renewal and healing

Hofert said the loss of the GM stamping plant was significant for Wyoming and greater Grand Rapids families who worked there.

“It was a tremendous loss to the area when that plant left,” said Hofert. “To be able to bring something to the community, that’s for the community and not just a development asset for a private company, is something that we at the City are really excited about.”

Kentwood’s annual Trunk or Treat features candy, costumes and fun on Oct. 21

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to enjoy some spooky, seasonal fun at its annual Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 21.

The free event takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE. Kids can collect candy and explore more than 25 City and community vehicles.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



These vehicles will feature seasonally decorated trunks for community members to view and enjoy. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk during and after the event using the online form that will be available at kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat.

Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and bring their own bag for collecting candy.

“Our Trunk or Treat event gives community members, City personnel and local organizations an opportunity to connect and celebrate the season, while providing a more controlled trick-or-treating environment,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We’re excited to welcome our city’s best ghosts and ghouls for this spooky celebration.”



Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley passing out candy at a previous Trunk or Treat event. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Local businesses and community groups wishing to participate in Trunk or Treat can register for free online until 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. Pre-registration is not required for community members to attend the event.

For more information and to sign up to volunteer, visit kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)

WKTV We the People: Get to know the Kentwood City Commission candidates before the Nov. 7 general election

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Politics, We The People, West Michigan,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



For the Michigan Nov. 7 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited all Kentwood City Commission candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.

Kentwood City Commission is made up of seven officials, including the Mayor, elected by the residents. It is the City Commission’s responsibility to set policy and provide financial oversight for the City. All Kentwood elected officials serve a term of four years. The City Commission generally meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall unless otherwise posted.


View the City of Kentwood Ward and Precinct Map.


Kentwood City Commission At-Large Seat

The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, one of two seats, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. The non-partisan candidates listed in the Nov. 7 general election are incumbent Commissioner Maurice H. Groce and candidate Lily Cheng-Schulting. Betsy Artz is in the middle of her term.




Maurice H. Groce —  Incumbent Candidate,
Kentwood Commissioner At-Large

Why are you running for office?:

I am running for re-election to retain my seat as Commissioner At-Large. I have been involved with the City of Kentwood since 2007 serving on the Local Officer Compensation Committee, Housing Commission, Planning Commissioner, and three times as a City Commissioner.

My drive and commitment to serving the City of Kentwood are centered around championing public safety, safeguarding the city budget, promoting better communication, and planning for the future generations of our city.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is paramount. I am dedicated to working closely with our department leaders to implement effective strategies to prevent crime and enhance public safety. Responsible fiscal management is crucial for the prosperity of our city. I will work to safeguard taxpayer dollars by diligently examining the city budget, identifying areas of potential savings, and prioritizing essential services and infrastructure development. By promoting better communication channels, we can forge stronger partnerships, address community needs, and work collaboratively to make our city an even better place to live. I will work to plan for the long-term future, ensuring a balanced and inclusive growth that preserves our city’s unique identity and legacy.

I am devoted to upholding these values as your City Commissioner. I humbly ask for your support and trust on August 8 as we work together to build a safer, prosperous and united City for ourselves and for the generations to come.

Two issues you are focused on:

Championing Public Safety

·Prioritizing funding for police and fire services to meet the needs of the community.

·Advocating for safe and healthy neighborhoods by supporting community policing efforts and building positive relationships between law enforcement and residents.

·Supporting initiatives such as crime prevention programs and neighborhood watch initiatives.

Safeguarding the City Budget

·Continue to be a driving force to keep Kentwood a city with a continually balanced and fiscally responsible budget.

·Committed to ensuring the city budget is allocated and spent efficiently without wasteful expenditures.

·Forecast budgeting assessments for future projects, challenges and liabilities to ensure the city’s financial stability.




Lily Cheng-Schulting — Candidate,
Kentwood Commissioner At-Large

Why are you running for office?:

I am running to represent all Kentwood residents as your servant leader. I will always remember that I work for you, regardless of your status, income, gender, age, race, skin color, cultural background, educational background, or abilities. 

As your Kentwood City Commissioner, I will listen to your concerns, advocate fiercely for you, and work together with you for positive changes and real solutions. 

If you have any local concerns, please call me. I will be your fiercest advocate, since I have been a successful, proven advocate for almost a decade. Many people already know about my leadership and advocacy in benefitting many thousands of students with disabilities, teachers, and staff at the KISD center-based (special education) schools, through systemic change, which led to better funding, resources, and accountability.  

Therefore, my mission is to dedicate my skills, experience, and energy to improve the quality of life for all Kentwood residents and to ensure a better, more accountable, inclusive, and responsive Kentwood City government.

Two issues you are focused on:

Many residents have expressed to me their strong concerns, if not disappointment, that they were not actively informed nor did they have a strong voice regarding recent major proposed changes and projects. You deserve better. I will, therefore, increase community engagement and uplift your voice, including by creating town halls and monthly office hours. 

I will champion public safety for all residents, including for people with disabilities and mental health challenges. I will listen to your concerns and work with you and your neighborhood associations to create real solutions, including ensuring the resources for effective public safety and exploring options, such as neighborhood watch and joint programs with social workers. 
 

I will also strengthen the economic development and resources for small businesses and start-ups. Small businesses and minority-owned businesses have been an integral part of the growth of Kentwood. I will aid and explore options with small business owners, including minority-owned small business owners, to ensure their success and that they have a strong voice.  

Most importantly, as a proven leader, I will listen to all concerns and advocate fiercely for all Kentwood residents. I love and respect each and every resident in Kentwood. I will work for all Kentwood residents, and I will be an active servant leader for you. 

For more information:  

Please visit my website at Lily4Kentwood.com or email me at lilyformichigan@gmail.com.  



Kentwood City Commission Ward 1

The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9 and 17, roughly the southwest areas of the city. Incumbent 1st Ward Commissioner Robert Coughlin is running unopposed in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, and Clarkston Morgan is in the middle of his term.

Kentwood City Commission Ward 2

The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-16 and 18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. David Moore II will run against incumbent candidate Ron Draayer in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, while Jessica Ann Tyson is in the middle of her term.




Ron Draayer — Incumbent Candidate
Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2

Occupation: Kentwood City Commissioner (since 2019); Computer Science and Cyber-Security Professor — Davenport University (Emeritus)

Why are you running for office?:

I am running for office to ensure that our residents continue to receive top-quality service from our City workers and that our tax dollars are safe and well-utilized.

Two issues you are focused on: 

My top priority will continue to be the safety of our residents with strong support for our police officers, fire fighters and first responders.

Another priority will be to continue Kentwood’s strong financial position so that we can support and maintain our wonderful parks and trails along with city streets and other city facilities.




David Moore II — Candidate
Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2

Occupation: Self-employed Writer

Why are you running for office?:

Kentwood needs commissioners who will listen to its residents and invest in making their city feel like home.

Two issues you are focused on:

1. Overseeing that the voter-approved Parks and Recreation millage is spent as was promised.

2. Working closely with Mayor Stephen Kepley and other Kentwood commissioners to ensure Kentwood empowers and rewards its residents with clean and safe streets and responsible spending of city revenue and tax dollars.





WKTV 25 to air RECLAIMIMG Their VOICE documentary by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker

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Dorothy Fadiman’s film follows Native American communities as they fight against injustice (Courtesy of Alice Fernandez-Ahmie)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Fadiman’s film includes several personal stories from diverse backgrounds (Courtesy, Concentric Media)

Oscar-nominated and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Dorothy Fadiman’s latest documentary has been coined “captivating” and “eyeopening.”

Narrated by Peter Coyote, RECLAIMING Their VOICE: The Native American Vote in New Mexico and Beyond follows Native Americans in New Mexico who are taking a stand against injustice in the political process.

WKTV will air Fadiman’s 42-minute insightful documentary on WKTV 25 Monday, Oct. 9 at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct.11 at 2:30 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m.

“A moving work of art…”

Fadiman’s film has been described as both “heartbreaking” and “eyeopening” by Nancy Stapp of KVOT, New Mexico. “A ‘must see’ to understand how fragile our democracy is and how important it is that we stay awake and be informed,” said Stapp.

Personal stories demonstrate how minority communities are using their voting rights as they participate more fully in elections. These stories capture the growing awareness and activism taking root across the United States.

Each segment of the film depicts challenges faced by Native communities, actions taken to protect their rights, and outcomes of their efforts.

What viewers can expect

The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 stipulated that Native Americans born in the United States were automatically citizens by birth (Courtesy, Concentric Media)

Along with the historical chronicling of the Native American suffrage movement, the documentary follows the Laguna Pueblo’s groundbreaking project that led to significant positive changes in New Mexico state election law.

RECLAIMING Their VOICE also documents The Pueblo Revolt (1680), Wounded Knee (1890), The Sacred Alliance for Grassroots Equality’s (SAGE) fight to protect the sacred art of the Petroglyph National Monument, the passage of legislation to ensure greater election security for Native Americans, and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.

Fadiman’s work has been hailed as a model for how other minority populations can work together to gain political justice, and won the Best New Mexico Film Award at the Duke City Doc Festival in 2010.

Learn more about a career with the Kentwood Police Department Oct. 11

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Community members are invited to learn more about a career with the Kentwood Police Department at a recruitment event Wednesday, Oct. 11.

The event will take place at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE, from 6 to 8 p.m. Individuals who attend will learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current team members, tour the department and more.

The event will include two one-hour informational sessions held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. that will provide an overview about working for the department. Attendees only need to attend one of the sessions, which will cover the same information. Tours, networking and opportunities to learn more about specialized units at KPD will follow. Refreshments will be provided.


(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



“We’re fortunate to have a department filled with passionate individuals who are committed to serving the Kentwood community,” Police Chief Litwin said. “We’re looking for more community members who have that heart for service and are looking to join a supportive, dynamic police department.”

The event will provide information about a variety of opportunities with KPD, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Through this unique position, KPD will provide selected applicants a full scholarship to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in spring 2024. No prior law enforcement experience is required to apply for this position.

Competitive pay, comprehensive health insurance, and more

Sponsored recruits receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 12% employer contribution to retirement, continuing education and training in addition to the academy sponsorship. Individuals who successfully complete the academy and other required certifications and training will be sworn in as patrol officers with the Kentwood Police Department.

No prior law enforcement experience required

No registration is required for the event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Individuals who are interested in working for KPD, but cannot attend the event should contact Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us.

For more information about the event, visit kentwood.us/KPD2023 or check out the Kentwood Police Department’s  Facebook page. To explore current job openings and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.

East Kentwood marching band sparks love of music in students, creates lasting relationships

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Kentwood Public Schools, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
Drum major Sofia Daniel directs the band during a school day rehearsal (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

East Kentwood High School (EKHS) band directors Mike Gozzard and Sho Dembinski strive to make music a memorable and welcoming experience for each of their 200 students.

“Even if kids don’t continue in music after high school, we’re just trying to make their experience as good as possible while they’re here, making sure they know they are welcome and that they have fun,” said Dembinski.

A love of music instilled in the next generation

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_7910-scaled-e1696341806203-1024x903.jpg
Students practice their show outside each day (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The last two years have brought heartache and necessary adjustments to the EKHS band family.

In May 2022, Kentwood Bands lost their beloved director, Marshall Werling, to cancer. Through his time at EKHS, Werling passed on a lasting love of music to the students.

“Music has always been a very big part of my family, but also the teachers who have led me here,” said Sofia Daniel, drum major and junior at EKHS. “Especially Mr. Werling. He and Ms. [Natalie] Sears were a very big part of why I love music.”

Daniel went on to say that she has always had a positive experience with the EK band program, whether that experience came from new friends or a connection with a teacher.

Bringing a community together

Directors Gozzard and Dembinski continue to bring students of all backgrounds and activities together through the band program.

“The thing I like the most is that [the program] is diverse in the typical meaning of diverse, but also in other meanings,” said Dembinski. “For example, we have kids that do cheer, football, and do other clubs and robotics and things like that. It’s cool to see them come together and do one thing.”

Jennifer Pham enjoys all genres of music (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Daniel agrees, saying she enjoys being in a class where everyone likes music. “It’s a kind of family of people doing what you love as well,” said Daniel.

EKHS junior and flute/piccolo player Jennifer Pham says sharing her love of music is important to her.

“Music has always been a big part of my life,” said Pham. “I love listening to it in my free time, so the chance to be able to play something and share my love of music is something that I like.”

Pham participates in marching band, concert band, jazz band, and combo groups. Though flute is her main instrument, Pham recently learned bass for jazz band.

“I like that there are so many opportunities we are given,” said Pham. “Although you have to pick an instrument, just because you pick something now doesn’t mean that you can’t learn another one later.”

Pham says she will keep music in her life even if she does not choose it as a career path.

Finding the right niche

Raul Aquino-Gonzalez, trumpet player and EKHS senior, joined band because his brothers had also been in the program. But Aquino-Gonzalez didn’t feel a connection to music right away despite saying the atmosphere was inviting.

Aquino-Gonzalez plans to study jazz in college (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Last year is when I really began to get into it, and I really started trying to get better,” said Aquino-Gonzalez. “I just loved it from then on.”

The catalyst for that change of heart?

“I joined jazz band, and I think that was the spark,” Aquino-Gonzalez said. “That’s when I would spend hours every day playing and trying to get better.”

Aquino-Gonzales recently formed a jazz group outside of school that performs for different events, including the school’s fall play.

A legacy of lasting relationships

While Dembinski and Gozzard work to ensure a certain level of proficiency in all students – and they see improvement in musicianship each year – Dembinski said the first week of band camp is his favorite part of every year.

A family atmosphere forms strong ties between students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“My favorite time of year is the first week of band camp when all the freshmen come here for the first time,” said Dembinski. “We work a lot with the section leaders and the leadership, trying to make everyone feel welcome. We do a bunch of games during camp to make sure all sections of the band are one big family.”

Dembinski said that he sees close ties form between students, and knows many of them will last.

“There are a lot of lasting relationships,” Dembinski said. “I see it all the time. Most of my closest friends are friends from high school band or college band.”

A show all ages can enjoy

That sense of relationship is demonstrated in the Home title and theme of the EKHS 2023 marching band show.

There is still time to see the 2023 marching band performance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Featuring artists from Michigan, the show incudes “Lose Yourself” and “Not Afraid” by Eminem, “Juice” by Lizzo, “Bring It On Home To Me” arranged by Roy Hargrove, and “I Wish” and “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder.

Dembinski said some college marching band shows have also recently featured a home theme.

“We liked the idea, we just wanted to put our own spin on it with the music we picked,” said Dembinski.

Picking music everyone enjoys, however, is not easy.

“If you pick new music, students like it but parents don’t,” said Dembinski. “If you pick ‘old music’ from the 70s and 80s, parents like that but students don’t. This show has a bit of both.

“I’ve heard band parents say they really like the Eminem section, and every time I leave class, students are playing Stevie Wonder,” Dembinski continued. “It surprised me a bit. But I think this show has something that everyone can jam out to.”

Experience the magic of music

The EKHS marching band show can be seen at the Hastings Invitational Oct. 7, the EKHS home football game Oct. 13, and the East Kentwood Invitational Oct. 21.

Dembinski encourages the community to attend the invitational and experience performances from schools all across Michigan.

“You get to see our band, but also a bunch of other sweet bands too,” said Dembinski. “It’s nice to see a bunch of different sized schools, different demographics and different show ideas.”

To learn more about Kentwood Bands, visit www.kentwoodbands.org.

Wyoming community invited to celebrate fall with annual Trick-or-Treat Trail

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Wyoming’s annual Trick-or-Treat Trail is a free family-friendly event with a variety of activities (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

By Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department

deborah@wktv.org

The spooky season is almost upon us! The City of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department is excited to host its annual Trick-or-Treat Trail Saturday, Oct. 7 from 4 – 6 p.m. in Lamar Park, 2561 Porter Street SW.

This family-friendly, free event promises an afternoon filled with candy, costumes, face painting, music, bounce houses and more. Local businesses, clubs and organizations will be handing out treats as attendees stroll through the beautiful park.

“The Trick-or-Treat Trail was created to be a fun, safe event for the fall, providing an alternative to traditional Halloween events,” said Krashawn Martin, Director of Wyoming Parks & Recreation. “Trick-or-Treat Trail gives families an opportunity to interact with neighborhood businesses while enjoying all the amenities of Lamar Park and the beauty of the fall season.”

In previous years, the event has welcomed over 65 local businesses and organizations, and more than 6,000 attendees.

Wyoming Parks and Recreation hosts public input meetings, continues accepting community feedback

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Development, Going Local, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,
Interactive boards provided opportunities for residents to show their priorities for the parks system. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Over 700 respondents have given feedback on the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department’s five-year master plan, and the department is requesting even more input from the community.

Director of Parks and Recreation Krashawn Martin talked to WKTV about the importance of community feedback regarding the future of Wyoming’s parks (Courtesy, WKTV)

“The park master plan is very important for our long-range visioning for the park system,” said Parks & Recreation Director Krashawn Martin. “We have a beautiful parks system already here in Wyoming, but these opportunities really help us to get community input, which is really the driver of everything that we do.”

Together, the City and engineering firm Fleis & VandenBrink are working to ensure every option is heard. Two public input meetings have been held with plans for more public opinion opportunities still coming.

“This process is meant to give everyone a voice,” said Rick Stout, Registered Landscape Architect of engineering and architecture firm Fleis & VandenBrink Engineering. “We want to hear your thoughts.”

“We really pride ourselves and do our best to be community responsive,” said Martin, adding that the input helps the department know how people are passively using the parks system for recreation, and also the things they would like to actively see in the parks system.

Input from the community is encouraged by the Parks and Rec Department (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The public input sessions provided three interactive boards that parallel the Parks & Rec online survey. The boards listed possible goals, objectives and priority elements.

During the public input sessions, community members were invited to place stickers next to their top three priorities in each section.

“What potential actions in the area of recreation do you see for the City of Wyoming,” Stout asked input session attendees. “What do they really need to focus on?”

How the planning process works

An approved Parks plan must be on file with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) no later than Feb. 1, 2024.

There will be a final public hearing and then approval by the Wyoming City Council based on compiled community feedback. Once approved, the plan will be available for a 30-day review period before submission to the DNR.

The ultimate goal, said Stout, is to have a draft plan finished within the next month and start the public review process early.

Landscape architect Rick Stout (right) explains what kinds of feedback will be helpful for the 5-year master plan (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Ideally, we would like to get this whole process wrapped up in December so we leave ourselves some room on the back end in case something does come up and it gets delayed,” Stout said.

Though a wide range of feedback has already been received from the public, Stout and Martin urge community members to continue involvement in the planning process.

“There will be multiple opportunities to get some more input as the plan gets developed, but in order for us to develop a draft plan and bounce some of these ideas off the recreation advisory committee, we need your feedback,” said Stout. “That’s why we want to reach out to you right now and make sure there is not an opportunity lost.”

Gaining perspective and meeting needs

Fleis & VandenBrink and the Parks & Rec Department have worked to create both broad and specific goals for the Parks plan. This, Stout said, will help them gain a more accurate perspective of what citizens and the general public want.

Aiming for a well-rounded process, the Parks department also plans to talk to youth at local schools since they are primary users of the parks.

Both broad and specific goals are included in the planning survey (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Many trends revealed from the community are fairly universal to all parks and speak to universal accessibility, featuring facilities that appeal to multiple age groups and a variety of activities.

As the City continues to grow, so does the number of people searching for quality recreational facilities.

“The younger generation wants quality of life,” said Stout. “They have high expectations of what their community has to offer for recreation.”

Recreation options can often be a tipping point in deciding whether individuals and families move into a community.

“Communities are known by their assets. Whether it be parks or public spaces or where people have a chance to socially interact, those things are key,” said Stout. “Those really define a community.”

Stout believes the City of Wyoming has made great efforts in defining a sense of place and striving to create those assets.

“I think the next 20 years are going to be really exciting for the City of Wyoming,” said Stout. “It’s a very diverse community, and it really wants to make sure it’s meeting the needs of everyone.”

How to submit feedback

The parks online survey is still available to receive feedback (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

The online survey will continue to be open throughout the planning process and can be found on the City of Wyoming website and social media page.

Martin urges those unable to attend a meeting in person to fill out the online survey.

“We’re just excited to hear from the people,” said Martin. “Not just in this process, but anytime. We are always open to ideas for improvements or recreation programs that our community would like to see in the future.”

Local businesses strive to walk alongside clients, educate community about how to achieve financial wellness

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Finances, Going Local, How-To's, Kent County, Local Business, West Michigan, , , ,
Financial advisor and money mindset coach Dinorah Caro Livingston welcomes participants to a local financial wellness workshop (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Attorney Rose Coonen engages community members in coversation (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce businesses have partnered to help local community members navigate individual and family financial needs.

Dinorah Caro Livingston, Regional Vice-President of Primerica Advisors, recently hosted a financial wellness education workshop to help unravel the mystery surrounding financial wellness.

“It’s about providing education,” Livingston said. “The more that people know, the better they can make informed decisions for what they need.”

Education you won’t get in schools

With 20 years operating in the financial arena, Livingston is dedicated to helping people take control of their finances and their future.

“If you want something different in the future, you have to do something different today,” said Livingston.

Dinorah Caro Livingston talks about life moments that create our “WHYs” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

But Livingston also understands that taking the reins can seem overwhelming.

“Unfortunately, people get scared, and they are scared to ask for the information,” said Livingston. “[But] there are no dumb questions. People can take baby steps to become financially stable,” Livingston added.

Livingston urges people to begin taking those baby steps to avoid a situation where they run out of time or it is too late to put plans in place.

“If you drop them little seeds of education along the way, sometimes it spurs them on to stop dragging their feet,” said Livingston. “And depending on where they are in their lives, the message is heard differently.”

Livingston provides quarterly workshops to the public but also presents workshops for specific groups such as employers, schools and churches.

“We have multiple investment partners who will help us with these,” said Livingston, “We believe education should be free.”

When Livingston met personal family lawyer Rose Coonen of Coonen Law, PLLC, she found that Coonen also focused on educating her clients via relationships and informational workshops.

A partnership was born

With 20 years of estate planning experience, Coonen believes financial planning goes hand in hand with estate planning. Like Livingston, however, Coonen has found that most people are reluctant to take that first step.

Attorney Rose Coonen talks about gaining and maintaining control of your estate and assets (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Especially from an estate planning standpoint, it’s important, but not urgent,” said Coonen. “And no one wants to think about it.”

The solution?

Coonen says that she encourages people to think about who they are setting plans in place for, and offers to come alongside them to help.

“We do education pieces to say why it’s important, here is what could happen, let us be of service to you and help you,” Coonen said.

Communication and empathy are key

Both Livingston and Coonen have noticed that the success ratio for businesses is higher when the focus is partnership with families rather than transactional.

Rose Coonen answers questions about estate planning from the audience (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Every family is different,” said Coonen. “Every family has different family dynamics.”

Coonen’s law firm was recently nominated for West Michigan Woman Readers’ Choice Awards – for the third time.

She believes the community has chosen to nominate her firm because she is not the “typical” attorney.

“I do not consider myself a traditional estate planning attorney,” said Coonen. “We are more holistic. We tell clients right from the start that they are not a number, that we come alongside them, not just to get a plan set up, but we stay in contact with them. They hear from us regularly.”

Coonen said her goal is to give families peace of mind.

“We guide families,” said Coonen. “We spend a lot of [time] building those relationships with our clients.”

Coonen has spent hours during the day calling clients to check in and see how they are doing, if anything has changed, and how life is going.

“Estate planning is an on-going process,” said Coonen, adding that the law firm does reviews every two years to make sure a client’s established plan is still current to their needs.

Get rich – slowly 

Mark Everswick talks about the importance of long-term investments (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Franklin Templeton Investments Regional Director Mark Everswick has also joined forces with Livingston and Coonen to bring the component of long-term investments to the table.

With an ever-evolving economy, investing can be a puzzle. Everswick provides strategies to help people invest confidently at every age.

Everswick said that patience is key in long-term investing.

“This investing thing is [about] getting rich slowly,” said Everswick, adding that the benefits are seen over a period of time.

The goal, Everswick continued, is not to simply acquire financial stability and retire, but to pass that stability on to family, preserving it for the future.

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

Consistency is key in financial planning (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Livingston recited an old saying to help convey the value of consistency.

“That consistency is so important, whether on the legal side or the financial side,” said Livingston. “Sometimes you need a coach to stay on track. It’s never ‘if’ you’ll fall down on the financial mat, it’s a matter of ‘when.’ And when that happens, we are going to be with you.”

For more information about financial services and financial wellness workshops, visit Dinorah Caro Livingston, How Money Works.

To learn more about how to get started on estate planning, visit Coonen Law, PLLC.

Investment information can be found at Franklin Templeton Investments.

Ford International Airport announces fourth round of FLITE

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, together with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines® and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, has announced the fourth cohort of companies that will receive more than $100,000 in grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship, or FLITE.

One of the first airport-based initiatives in the nation, FLITE provides funding to encourage the design, development and pilot testing of new products and services in a live airport environment. The five companies that will receive grant funding through this next round include:

  • Dataspeed Inc.: Autonomous research and development for vehicle integrations
  • DD DANNAR: A mobile power station with a multi-functional, zero-emissions, configurable platform for maintenance and emergency response needs
  • Numina: Computer vision system that applies a privacy-by-design framework
  • Signapse: AI technology that automatically translates written text to sign language via video
  • Volair Technologies Inc.: Flight perception technologies to support aviation operations and expand aerial mobility options

“FLITE continues to be a leading platform for new technologies in the aviation industry, and we’re excited to introduce the fourth cohort of companies testing their innovative solutions,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “This program is a collaborative effort with our partners to further enhance the guest experience and pursue advancements in the aviation industry.”

As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job awareness, and community development with a focus on growing the local economy, the MEDC provided grant funding to FLITE through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, or OFME.


Dataspeed Inc. will engage in comprehensive research and exploration to develop an intuitive and highly efficient user interface specifically tailored for an automated airport service vehicle.




Dataspeed Inc. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




DD DANNAR is testing a mobile power station that can be configured for various maintenance tasks and serve as a mobile energy storage asset, capable of distributing power in a variety of ways.



DD DANNAR. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




Numina uses computer vision systems to detect movement in streets, curbs, places and open public space — without collecting personally identifiable information. Numina will deploy sensors at key curb locations around the Gerald R. Ford International Airport to generate automated and continuous multimodal traffic insights to increase cost savings and improve the guest experience.

Signapse utilizes AI technology that automatically translates written text into a sign language video. This technology will be used at the Ford International Airport to deliver real-time departure and disruption messages in American Sign Language for deaf and hard of hearing passengers.

“Having the support of a program like FLITE is invaluable to a start-up like ours,” said Leia Clancy, head of business development at Signapse. “The program enables us to develop a flagship case study for our AI technology, giving us an opportunity to grow our business in Michigan and beyond.”

Volair Technologies Inc. deploys on-aircraft sensor pods to collect in-flight imagery, positional and traffic data through routine flight school operation. This project will provide flight data for advancing aviation safety-enhancing perception systems.

To date, the Ford International Airport Authority has provided support to 19 companies through FLITE, awarding over $500,000 in grant funds across four rounds. The six core focus areas for new technology advancements through FLITE include:

  • Automation & Analytics: Improving operational efficiency and optimization of workforce and other resources through automation and analysis of data
  • Electrification & Sustainability: Switching fossil fuel vehicles and infrastructure to electrics and other decarbonization projects
  • Safety & Security: Strengthening passenger and worker safety and security throughout the airport campus
  • Door-to-Door & Terminal Guest Experience: Improving the efficiency of getting to and from the airport and improving the pre-boarding experience
  • Advancing Aviation: Exploring the enabling infrastructure and implications of emerging commercial aviation use cases

Applications for round five of FLITE are being accepted now through October 31, 2023 at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.

TeamAgar delivers breathtaking, inspirational message at The Vibe Adaptive Rec fundraiser

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Sports, ,
TeamAgar, from left, Jeff, Johnny and Becki Agar, were guest speakers at Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs fundraiser The Vibe on Sept. 14. (Courtesy, DK Photography)



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Guest speaker Johnny Agar held everyone’s complete attention when it was his turn to take the mic at The Vibe fundraiser for Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs.



“On the road of life there are many mountains to climb, valleys to get lost in and rocky roads to forge through,” said Agar to the very attentive audience on Sept. 14. “I see you all as signposts helping others to their own finish line.”


Born with cerebral palsy, and who doctors thought would never walk, Agar continued, “I fail all the time, but to me failure is just part of the process. If I let that stop me, I wouldn’t be able to get out of bed every morning. Together, there’s no stopping what you can do.”


Check out our WKTV video of The Vibe fundraiser. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)



Agar and his parents Jeff and Becki delivered many positive, inspirational messages to the audience at The Vibe, Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs fundraiser at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.



From marathons to motivational speakers … media outlets to TV commercials

Johnny, who uses a wheelchair, and his dad Jeff have competed in more than 200 races in various states, including multiple marathons, half marathons, 25Ks and more than 30 triathlons. They’ve also competed in six Ironman races where Jeff pulled Johnny 2.4 miles in a kayak, rode 112 miles on a custom tandem bike and pushed Johnny in a racing jogger during the marathon portion. In September 2022, TeamAgar completed their first full-distance Ironman in Maryland, where Johnny walked across the finish line.

“Featured on ESPN, NBC Nightly News, CBS Mornings, Today, and other media outlets, TeamAgar delivers a powerful moving message of family, faith and extraordinary courage. Their tenacity and indelible spirit have caught the attention of Olympic swimming great Michael Phelps and the sports apparel company Under Armour — so much so that UA placed them in two commercials: One with Phelps and the other with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.” TeamAgar are also accomplished motivational keynote speakers and authors. (Source, johnnyagar.com)



  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)
  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)
  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)
  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)





After the fundraiser, Johnny and his parents shared more with WKTV.


“Does no good to have my failures bring me down”

“I like to take life one step at a time and just stay even-keeled because it doesn’t do me any good to have my failures bring me down,” Johnny explained. “The highs can sometimes look a little different for me having cerebral palsy because to an able-bodied person they may be “miniature wins” — like learning to do an everyday task such as opening a candy wrapper or brushing my teeth by myself – but to me they are huge victories. Most people can do those things without even thinking, but for me it takes a lot of effort and a lot of patience.
 


“From the day I was very young, my parents never put any limitations on me. My parents have always made sure to go the extra mile for me to make sure I have the best life possible despite my challenges. To watch them in action work so hard to help me fulfill my goals – while setting theirs aside – makes me understand how hard I need to work to let them know how thankful I am for them.”



Becki said when Johnny was born, his premature birth really turned their world upside down.



“He was our first child and as a young couple we never anticipated having any complications with his birth,” she explained. “So, when the doctors told us he had cerebral palsy and would probably never walk or talk, we were pretty jolted. Our reality had to be shifted. However, our faith had taught us to lean on God and not our own understanding. We knew God had a bigger and better plan than we could have ever imagined for Johnny, and we had to trust in that plan.



“One of the greatest things that came out of the news that Johnny had cerebral palsy was that it strengthened our resolve to raise Johnny as a typical child and to love him no matter what he could or couldn’t do. It strengthened our faith because it made us realize that we aren’t as in control as we like to think we are, and it brought our family closer together so we could work on raising this little boy to believe in his possibilities.”

“I am so proud of the man he has become”

“Now when I see Johnny encouraging others, turning his cerebral palsy into a positive rather than a negative, and using it to help encourage others and motivate others, it makes me want to burst with happiness. I am so proud of the man he has become. What a blessing it is to be able to watch your son change the trajectory of people’s lives in a positive way.”  



When raising Johnny, they decided to not make any excuses for him.

“We wanted to treat him as if he had no disability,” Jeff explained. “We weren’t in denial as we saw his challenges every day first-hand, so there was no getting away from it. We knew it would be hard for him, but we also knew life was going to be hard for him. I think that mentality helped him to believe in himself and place no limits on himself.



“Johnny has always seen himself doing things that most would have said couldn’t be done given his disability. I am really proud of the fact that he didn’t listen to any of the naysayers and kept focused on his goals.”


Watching him speak to thousands the greatest gift

“Along with that, he keeps a sense of humor and learns to roll with the punches. Now, to watch him speak to thousands of people all over the country, to help encourage them with their challenges, is one of the greatest gifts to watch as his dad.” 


Favorite TeamAgar moment?

“One of our favorite moments of all our races was crossing the finish line at Ironman Maryland,” Becki said. “We put so much time and effort into making moments like that happen. With it being our first to finish, it will always hold a special place in our hearts.”


Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and his wife Susan watching the TeamAgar presentation at The Vibe fundraiser. (Courtesy, DK Photography)



Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said he was amazed with TeamAgar’s presentation and story.



“It’s just an amazing inspirational story that gives you the vision of what can be,” said Kepley, after Johnny and his parents spoke at The Vibe. “They just give that inspiration saying, ‘If we can do it, then you can, too.'”



Kepley had much to say about the Kentwood Adaptive Recreation program as well.



“I think it’s successful because of the people running it,” Kepley said. “They see a vision, they have a passion, and that passion manifests itself in a very special way. The staff takes it personally and that’s why it is special. That’s why it’s an incredible program and has a great reputation because of the staff, their heart, their vision and because of the empowerment that they give people who participate in the program.


“As a city, we take care of Kentwood residents, but the adaptive sports program is one of those things that goes much farther than our city limits. Because all of it is being sponsored by corporations, gifts or the fundraising, we’re able to swing the doors wide open to people wherever they’re coming from … Traverse City, Lansing, (even) Florida.”


The Vibe fundraiser “A big success”

“The event was a big success with 120 guests in attendance,” said Laura Barbrick, marketing and events coordinator for Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “We raised over $7,000 between the silent auction, live auction and giving wall. Thank you to everyone who came out to support our Adaptive Recreation programs.”


Money raised at this year’s event will help purchase new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs. These offerings include active sports such as archery, kayaking, rock climbing and water skiing as well as more relaxed activities like leisure club and social events.


Kentwood Recreation Program Coordinator Ann Przybysz. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)



Kentwood recreation program coordinator Ann Przybysz said the wonderful thing about the adaptive programs is you don’t have to be a Kentwood resident to participate.



“We have people from all over West Michigan that come to participate in our programs,” Przybysz said. “A lot of people have been wanting things to do in their free time; healthy leisure opportunities, making new friends, seeing new places and just having a good time in the community.



“We serve people of all different diagnoses and abilities. We have a lot of individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities like autism, Down syndrome and we also serve people who have physical disabilities as well, maybe a spinal cord injury or spina bifida, people using wheelchairs.”



What’s the most popular program?

“Many of our programs are popular, but one of our big ones recently has definitely been our adaptive bowling program,” Przybysz said. “It’s a really positive social program that we’ve seen grow a lot. Also, our water sports programs are popular … water skiing and kayaking. Our adaptive recreation programs have been going on for 30 years and are very well established with the City of Kentwood.”


The adaptive water sports programs are popular at Kentwood Parks and Recreation. (Courtesy, DK Photography)



The emotional draw for employees

“I love getting to know the participants and their families, and hearing their stories and what lights up their lives,” Przybysz explained. “I love that we get to be a part of that … I love being able to touch peoples lives.”



Katelyn Bush, Kentwood recreation program coordinator, said it has been exciting and an honor to watch it grow, add new sports and buy new equipment.

Katelyn Bush, recreation program coordinator. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)

“The people that come to our programs are from age five to well into their eighties; all ages and really all abilities. We have programs designed for all these different needs and it’s really fun to watch them succeed in whatever it is they’re doing.



“I think when you can find something that you’re passionate about and match it to a need in the world, that’s when you’ve truly made it. When you’re having fun doing your job and you’re serving others … that’s really satisfying and fun for me.”




The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming alongside several community partners, including Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and more. Programs also are made possible thanks to the help of a strong volunteer network.

Programs are open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond. Learn more about Kentwood’s adaptive programs and current offerings at kentwood.us/adaptive.

State Rep. John Fitzgerald provided Wyoming residents direct access to important resources with first annual Senior Resource Fair

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Our Cities, Senior Living, West Michigan, , , , , ,
State Representative John Fitzgerald speaks of his commitment to help the senior community while in office (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

State Representative John Fitzgerald spoke with several community members during the Wyoming Senior Resource Fair (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

State Representative John Fitzgerald met with members of Wyoming’s senior community during the first annual Senior Resource Fair on Sept. 25.

Fitzgerald partnered with City of Wyoming Parks & Recreation and the Wyoming Senior Center (WSC) to bring resources specifically geared toward seniors into the local community.

“This was prompted by the recognition that our senior community in Wyoming is one that deserves to have attention provided to it, and services delivered right to their doorstep,” said Fitzgerald. “We really looked at what this community needs, and it is more direct services from the state. This is an opportunity for us to begin a tradition of providing these resources directly to the community.”

The Resource Fair included several community organizations that provided information, resources, goodies, and even lunch for attendees. The goal was to not only reach members of the Wyoming Senior Center where the event was held, but also the general community with resources specific to older adults in Wyoming.

“It’s very easy for older adults to slip through the cracks,” said Chad Boprie, WSC Director. “As people hit retirement age, they start to have these needs and they don’t know where to find help. By doing an event like this, [seniors] can get a lot of the resources in one place and be able to tap into those,” said Boprie.

A need for resources and compassion

The Senior Resource Fair is expected to become an annual fall event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Resident Janet Thompson attended the Resource Fair for that exact reason.

Housing, transportation, and service providers such as plumbers and electricians were among Thompson’s top priorities.

“We want to stay in our homes as long as we can,” said Thompson. “We figured we would hire what we need done, but we don’t know where to go to hire it done.”

Where to get help – and help from providers experienced with the senior community – is not always clear, Thompson continued.

“I thought maybe the [vendors] who come here are used to dealing with seniors…and might be more patient and have more knowledge,” said Thompson.

Providing knowledge and expertise

Senior Real Estate Specialist Patti Grover Gabrielse (left) works to provide seniors with customized and fair expertise (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Senior Real Estate Specialist, Patti Grover Gabrielse, participated as a vendor at the Resource Fair to help provide that experience and knowledge.

“What we do is we focus on the senior adult community,” said Gabrielse. “Of course we want to stay in our homes as long as we can, but when the time comes that we have to sell, I make sure to protect that asset and get the most amount of money for them.”

Gabrielse went on to say that there are real estate agents out there who take advantage of people who don’t know the market.

“It’s a real area of elder abuse,” Gabrielse said. “That money, whether [seniors] are going to go to assisted living or if they are going to go to family and live, every dime matters to them.”

Health and wellness education

Tina Ezell (left) of Urban League of West Michigan chats with a senior resident (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Tia Ezell with Urban League of West Michigan participated in the Resource Fair to provide information on COVID-19 and tobacco reform.

“Today we are here with information about COVID-19,” said Ezell. “We have some resources, masks, sanitizer, and literature on the vaccine and that explains things you can do to help prevent the spread of COVID.”

The Grand Rapids Urban League is also looking to end the sale of all flavored tobacco in the state of Michigan, including menthol flavored tobacco.

“[We are] doing our best to engage and educate the community that we serve about the harms of tobacco smoke, and why there is a need for tobacco reform in the state of Michigan,” Ezell said.

Grand Rapids Urban League also provides resources in regard to health and wellness education, housing resources, employment opportunities, and the Cure Violence program.

“The communities we serve are under-resourced, marginalized, and we are aware that we need to do what we can to inform them and provide whatever resources are available,” said Ezell.

A community that cares

The Wyoming Senior Center offers resources for both physical and mental health (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The Senior Center works to provide the senior community with care and resources for more than just physical recreation.

“We want to be a hub for recreational services,” said Boprie. “Within that recreation there are so many goals related to not only physical fitness and physical health, but also mental health.”

Boprie went on to say that the WSC staff often sees loneliness and depression in older adults and believes that being active and involved in social programs helps reduce that issue.

“We also offer Meals on Wheels here two days a week, so there is also the nutritional component that we can provide for people as well,” Boprie said.

“We are very fortunate to have a senior center like this in Wyoming,” said Fitzgerald, “where we can have a gathering place to have all these wonderful organizations and people who serve our senior community get right to the source, to the people who need their services most.”

Dedicated to a life of service

A member of Rep. Fitzgerald’s staff sets out complimentary lunches, provided by Meals on Wheels, for attendees (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Serving his first term representing the 83rd House District, Fitzgerald is dedicated to building policy that will solve everyday, real issues that impact West Michigan residents. His commitment to community service stems from his mother and grandmothers who devoted their lives to giving beyond themselves.

“My personal connection with the senior community began when I was a child,” said Fitzgerald. “Starting at the age of three, I delivered Meals on Wheels with my mom. I would go in there and begin to chat with those who we were delivering meals to, and hear how their day was going.

“In my teenage years, I played cards with a number of my church members who were older,” Fitzgerald continued. “Even today, I look to support our senior community in a number of non-profit ways as well.”

To learn more about Rep. Fitzgerald and his policies, visit housedems.com/john-fitzgerald.

Constituents may contact Rep. Fitzgerald via email at JohnFitzgerald@house.mi.gov, or call 517-373-0835.

ArtPrize exhibits continue to amaze visitors in final week, artists reveal stories behind their creations

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Local Business, Our Cities, West Michigan, , , ,

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The final week of the ArtPrize exhibition and competition has begun, but there is still time to view all creative works at various public venues in downtown Grand Rapids.

“Balsagrom” by Aron Balorda, as displayed at The B.O.B restaurant and entertainment venue (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

From Sept. 14 – Oct. 1, artwork from 950 artists are displayed at 150 public venues across the city.

Visitors were able to vote for their favorite works, with the top 25 finalists announced Sept. 22. The competition side of ArtPrize will wrap up on Sept. 29 at Rosa Parks Circle with a reveal of the $125,000 Public Vote Grand Prize winner.

But ArtPrize is more than just public votes and cash prizes.

“Everyone needs times of connection and belonging,” the ArtPrize website states. “The thrill of being part of something bigger than ourselves. The jubilant intersection of creativity, fellowship, and wonder.”

Founded in 2009, ArtPrize was immediately established as a cultural phenomenon by grabbing the attention of artists and art critics worldwide. Not only did this annual event provide artists an opportunity to display their creations, ArtPrize also inspired conversations and engaged imaginations.

Driftwood, rocks and agates – oh my!

Pasha Ruggles poses with “Adam” portrayed as the movie character Groot (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Pasha Ruggles, resident of Oceana County and creator of “MI-Eden,” felt that spark of imagination while on a Michigan beach with her children in 2015.

“I was on the beach with my kids and they asked me to carry some driftwood,” said Ruggles. “When I threw it in the back of my vehicle…it landed just-so and I thought, ‘That looks like a fish. I’ll make a fish out of that.’”

Ruggles shrugged and smiled. “That’s how it started. And here I am,” she said, gesturing toward the multiple creations surrounding her.

A portrayal of the tree and snake in the biblical creation story (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“MI-Eden,” which can be found outside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, is composed of wood, stones and agates from Michigan streams and lakes.

Eden’s “Adam” is portrayed by Groot, and if visitors look closely they will see an apple dangling from one of Groot’s hands.

Accompanying “Adam” are a variety of animals. “MI-Eden” also incorporates a tree and snake from the biblical account of creation.

Finding solace in nature’s artwork

A “MI-Eden” eagle appears ready to take flight (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Ruggles said that many visitors and passersby think she carved the lifelike pieces in “MI-Eden,” but the artist said she does not shape the wood she finds.

“Nature shapes it and I just put it together,” said Ruggles.

Though Ruggles admits that she fell into art “by accident,” she has also found solace in her work.

“I absolutely love it,” said Ruggles. “It’s more therapeutic than anything to me. Walking on the beach, finding the stuff. If I’m not looking for driftwood, I’m looking for rocks.”

Natural elements and mixed media

Artist Tom Gifford with his 3D mixed media creation titled “MI Light” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Muskegon resident Tom Gifford also finds beauty and peace in Michigan’s natural elements.

Gifford’s 3D creation can be found at Biggby Coffee in Grand Rapids. Titled “MI Light,” the exhibit strives to display the beauty of Michigan through various forms of art.

Two photographs Gifford took himself create the Michigan outline, while the base takes the shape of a lighthouse with a light that comes on after dark.

“I like how much of a challenge it is to fit what you think of Michigan into one piece,” said Gifford.

Gifford wanted more to portray more than just a sunset for “MI Light,” and worked to incorporate all of the state’s natural elements: cliffs, sandstone, rocky beaches and clear water.

The lighthouse base was formed from pallet wood Gifford salvaged from dumpsters and then burned with a torch to give it an antique facade.

A change in plans and sleepless nights

Gifford admitted that the photograph forming Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was only taken a few weeks prior to the beginning of ArtPrize. Not quite happy with the picture he had already picked out for the mural, Gifford took one more trip up to Pictured Rocks.

As night falls, a light will illuminate the top of the lighthouse (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

He found his perfect photo, but Gifford said that, “when I order the print, it takes weeks to get the print. So it was the Tuesday before ArtPrize and I was cutting it out and getting ready. It was a lot of last minute work.”

Gifford said that last minute work on his creations is not unusual.

“I’m not just going to get it done and over with, I’m going to put every ounce of energy I’ve got into it,” said Gifford. “It definitely takes a toll on you after a while. [There are]a lot of sleepless nights.”

Michigan memories

Gifford also created a small room in the lighthouse base just big enough for two people to stand inside. Sticky notes and pens are available so visitors can post a note of what brings light to their lives.

The entrance to the room where visitors can post their favorite Michigan memories (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“People can write their own favorite Michigan memory on the wall,” said Gifford, adding that he plans to make a collage out of all the notes once ArtPrize is finished.

Gifford says he likes hearing people inside the small room.

“They are reading stuff and laughing and having fun,” said Gifford. “It makes it nice and interactive.”

To find information on artists, exhibit locations, and to keep up-to-date on events, visit artprize.org.

Wyoming Wolves Band cultivates student leaders, redefines success

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, West Michigan, , ,
The Wyoming Wolves Marching Band performs for residents at Michigan Veteran Homes in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Band Director Shawn Gurk introduces the band to the veterans (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The Wyoming Wolves Marching Band is about more than just making music – it’s about leadership and excellence.

This reporter recently caught up to the band at Michigan Veteran Homes in Grand Rapids where they performed songs from their 2023 marching band show, Thriller, for residents and staff.

Student leadership was immediately evident as students unloaded instruments, assembled into sections, and began to warm up – all while the director stepped aside to talk with me about the band.

“We really thrive on a high level of student leadership,” said Shawn Gurk, Director of Bands at Wyoming Public Schools. “They have their responsibilities, they have their roles, and they are the ones who really make it happen.”

Redefining success

Led by directors Gurk and Kayla Cordell, the 70-member band regularly receives Division I ratings at marching, concert, and jazz festivals. But Gurk says those ratings are not what convey the band’s true success.

Drum major Chesson Oliver (second from left) steps in to play percussion during a song (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“We measure success in excellence,” said Gurk. “We do perform competitively, but our goal is to win by performing excellently. If that means we get some awards and trophies, great. But I find, as a band director, the trophies are the ones who show up every day and do the work. And that is my students.”

And those students are stepping into roles of leadership with enthusiasm.

Gurk firmly believes that leadership is not always about having a personality for it or being prone to it.

“Leadership can be taught,” said Gurk. “They might be the shyest person, but get them behind an instrument and all of a sudden there is someone different. We are seeing kids thrive.”

But Gurk continued to say that thriving is not always easy for students because they tend to be hard on themselves. However, he works to help them focus on finding what they are good at and then improving upon those things.

“[It is] a self-acknowledgment of what we are capable of, what we are doing well without being arrogant,” said Gurk. “There is a sense of humility, but it’s humility in driving to make us better.”

Finding connections and community

Chesson Oliver, drum major and a junior at Wyoming High School (WHS), said that band participation is a family tradition, but the kindness she has seen from the directors and students is what kept her going in the program.

“The people are very supportive and kind and great friends, so it’s a great place,” said Oliver.

The Wyoming Wolves Marching Band prepare to perform songs from their marching band show (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Oliver continued to say that there is a definite level of care and community in the band program.

“I don’t know everyone’s name in the band, but I can say ‘hi’ to all of them and we know who each other are without knowing each other personally. We care about each other’s well-being,” said Oliver.

That care and connection are a hallmark of the WHS Band.

“We are a band family,” said Gurk. And like all families, “we go through our ups and downs.”

Isaac Zavala, bari sax player and a senior at WHS, works to ensure that there are more “ups” than “downs.”

Band members fill the veteran homes courtyard with music (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“I try to hype up the band and pick up the energy,” said Zavala with a grin. “They call me the Hype Man. I have a lot of energy every morning, every rehearsal.”

Zavala says he makes it a point at rehearsals to ask how other students are doing.

“I always try to engage and talk to everybody,” said Zavala.

When asked why he feels compelled to make those connections each day, Zavala said his parents always taught him to be kind to others.

“They would always say, if someone feels down, pick them back up and try to give them the energy they need to have a better day,” said Zavala.

Time well-spent

The Wyoming marching band schedule begins the second week of summer to help build that family aspect (through games and bonding activities) and prepare students for the season.

But Gurk is always aware of how much time he asks the students to put into the program.

“We give the kids opportunities to be in sports, to have jobs, to spend time with their families, to rest,” said Gurk.

The directors encourage the students to focus on the time they do have in rehearsal and use it well.

A life-changing impact

A color guard member waits for the drum major to begin (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Symone Gray, color guard captain and WHS senior, enjoys the time she spends with the band.

“The people in band are the people I’m the closest to in the whole school,” said Gray.

Gray admitted that she was in a different place than usual in her life when she joined band.

“A lot of people would probably say that I’m really outgoing, but during my freshman year and beginning of sophomore year, I was very shy and kind of insecure,” said Gray. “The band helped me get to know different kinds of people in all grades, and it really put me out there more.”

Drumline captain and sophomore Rhiley VanDyken joined band in sixth grade because it helped calm her anxiety.

“It’s opposite of what it seems to be, but [drumline] really helped with my anxiety,” said VanDyken. “It was just calming, with beats and melodies of different instruments.”

VanDyken wasn’t sure about joining drumline at first. After meeting some upperclassmen in the section, however, VanDyken thought it would be a place where she could fit in.

“Last year I had the best year of my life,” said VanDyken. “I was in such a bad place before then, but drumline has been one of the biggest things that has helped me through everything.”

Giving back to the community

The veterans home is only one of many community performances from the Wyoming Bands.

Several veterans braved the morning chill to hear the band (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Visits to Vista Springs Nursing Home and Pine Oak Apartments, as well as annual performances at band camp, parades, school concerts and festivals, and local holiday craft shows are some ways the Wyoming Bands look to engage the community.

“Getting out into the community is super important,” said Gurk. “We think about those who society doesn’t necessarily care for, and about getting to older people who may not be visited.

“Music is a gift,” Gurk continued. “It’s not ours to horde, it’s a gift to the community.”

A Thriller of a show

The 2023 Wyoming marching band show is entitled Thriller, though Gurk explained the objective is a spooky narrative, not scary.

Featuring Bach’s “Toccata and Fugue”, the Halloween movie theme, “This is Halloween” from The Nightmare Before Christmas, “Spooky Scary Skeletons,” and Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” the Wyoming Wolves Marching Band show can be seen at home football games, the MSBOA Marching Band Festival on Oct. 10, and the Jenison and East Kentwood Invitationals on Oct. 21.

Patient Wishes: Making the most of every moment    

3-bottom, West Michigan
Emmanuel Hospice patient Rita Shaheen with her husband, Dan, on their lunch date. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)



By Emmanuel Hospice


They both grew up in South Dakota, but lived in different towns. When they finally met as students at the University of South Dakota – he was studying business while she was studying education – he remembered her being “so dang popular” that he hesitated asking her out.

That was nearly 50 years ago, when Dan Shaheen never could have predicted all the joy which that engaging college student would give him over a lifetime of mutual sharing and caring. And then the bitter pill to swallow: dementia that enveloped Rita over the last few years, to a point where she has trouble with walking, talking, reading and other daily affairs of living. They eventually moved her into Clark Retirement at Franklin in January 2023 for additional support.

They’d both enjoyed successful careers – Rita as a special education instructor mostly with Forest Hills schools. She retired in 2017 and the medical journey began shortly after that. Dan served as a vice president for Meijer, Inc. until retiring early in 2011, then worked part time several years delivering flowers.

He was skeptical about considering hospice care for Rita until a few months ago, when a doctor asked what he wanted for his wife.

“To keep her comfortable, out of the hospital and receiving the best care possible,” he answered.

In that moment, it was clear: Hospice would serve as a gift.

“How do you want to live?”

They chose Emmanuel Hospice for its overall commitment to patients and their loved ones, caring culture and complementary therapies designed to engage the senses and create unique, joyful experiences for both the patient and their loved ones. The nonprofit always begins with the question, “How do you want to live?” as the starting point for a dialogue that focuses on making every moment matter.

When a counselor gently asked Dan whether there was something special he might like to provide for Rita, he reminisced about their favorite pastimes.

A boat ride around the lake where they still had a cottage came to mind at first, but seemed difficult to achieve since Rita relied largely on a wheelchair and was at risk of another seizure. Similar concerns came with his other ideas.

And so the counselor suggested, “How about a luncheon for two?” and Dan thought it was perfect. 

It’s standard protocol at Emmanuel, where granting patient wishes is an important touchstone and part of their culture in answering “How do you want to live your life?”    
 

“We’ll do our best to make things happen”

“As part of that answer, we often hear patients wish for things,” says Bereavement Coordinator Katie Mayberry. “We’ll do our best to make things happen, whether it’s someone still capable of taking a trip or simple things that connect them to their past, their loved ones and their friends.

“We’re grateful when businesses and others in the community step up with donations to help out.”

And so, Emmanuel Hospice reserved the Emily Clark room at the facility Rita had moved into six months ago. Rita wore a pretty dress of blue and white with a dainty collar. She had her hair done and wore a little makeup and “looked like a million bucks,” Dan said.

Before they dined, two musical therapists, Miranda Eden and Ashley Sherwood, from Emmanuel performed songs by John Mayer and Kacey Musgraves.

Rose’s restaurant on Reeds Lake provided their catered lunches. She nibbled on a margherita pizza and Dan enjoyed walleye. Afterward, they feasted on hot fudge sundaes brought in from Jersey Junction.

Dan sat on her left. He worked Rita’s fork for her. He leaned in to wipe her chin, smiled and managed some laughs. He whispered that he loved her, and how he meant it from his own heart and the hearts of their three children, Michael, Kelly and Kaley.

And even though it wasn’t a wish steeped in drama or faraway travel or fireworks, he told her this was enough. Choking back tears, he said it was “just nice being close.”

He held the hand of the girl who nearly got away, but ended up marrying the guy willing to bide his time. Afterward, Dan brought her back to her room and sat with Rita while she peacefully took her usual afternoon nap, leaving that day with a memory that will be remembered and cherished forever.


Brighten the night at Kentwood’s Glow in the Park event; fun run, crafts, food and more on Oct. 7

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to enjoy glow-themed fun at its Glow in the Park event on Saturday, Oct. 7.

This year’s event will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 355 48th St. SE. It will feature a variety of glow-themed activities, including light-up games, crafts, a dance party, costume contest, fun run/walk, food and more. Attendees are encouraged to wear glow in the dark and brightly colored clothing and accessories.


(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



“We’re looking forward to gathering with the community to get our shine on at this special fall event,” said Ann Przybysz, recreation program coordinator. “We have a wide variety of glow-themed activities planned that will ensure a bright and fun night for all.”

The event begins at 7 p.m. with registration followed by the fun run/walk at 7:30. Participants can choose to do either a quarter mile or 1-mile run or walk along a park path that will be lit up with colorful lights and glow sticks. Following the race, community members can enjoy a glow dance party and a costume contest at 8 p.m.

Bounce house, music, light-up playground games and more

Light-up playground games and crafts, a bounce house, music and snacks will be available throughout the event, which will conclude at 9 p.m.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)




General admission for the event is $5 and includes glow supplies. For an additional $15, individuals also can get an event T-shirt that glows in the dark.

Sponsors for the event are Metronet, National Heritage Academies, Sinclair Recreation and Floor & Décor.

To learn more and register, visit kentwood.us/GlowInThePark or call 616-656-5270.

One person injured in weekend shooting, Wyoming Police Department continues to investigate

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, West Michigan, , ,
The Wyoming Police Department responded to reports of a shooting that left one Grand Rapids male hospitalized (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

By Wyoming Police Department

deborah@wktv.org

One person is injured after a shooting near the intersection of Marquette Street and Nagel Avenue SW.

At approximately 7:55 p.m. on Sept. 24, 2023, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming
Department of Public Safety responded to the area of Marquette Street and Nagel Avenue SW on
the report of a large fight. When officers arrived, they learned that a 24-year-old male Grand
Rapids resident sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The male was transported to an area hospital
in serious condition.

Wyoming Police detectives and Forensic Services Unit continue to investigate the circumstances
surrounding this incident.

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

Tune in to WKTV Government 26 for upcoming special programming events from NASA TV

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Upcoming Events, , ,
WKTV Government 26 features NASA programming (Courtesy, NASA)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

On Wednesday, Sept. 27, the Soyuz MS-23 Spacecraft will return to earth carrying NASA Flight Engineer Frank Rubio, Commander Sergey Prokopyev and Flight Engineer Dmitri Petelin, cosmonauts from Roscosmos.

Roscosmos cosmonauts will return home after a year working aboard the International Space Station (Courtesy, NASA)

The trio has spent the last year working aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and are now turning their attention to their trip home. The cosmonauts recently spent time checking out the Sokol launch and entry suits they will wear inside the spacecraft.

Live coverage of the Soyuz MS-23 hatch closing begins at 12 a.m. with the actual closing scheduled for 12:20 a.m. The undocking of the spacecraft from the ISS is scheduled for 3:51 a.m. with coverage starting at 3:30 a.m.

Live coverage continues at 6 a.m. for the deorbit burn and landing near Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan. The burn is scheduled for 6:20 a.m. with the landing scheduled to take place at 7:14 a.m.

For more information on NASA TV or the International Space Station, visit www.nasa.gov.

NASA TV can be seen on the WKTV 26 Government Channel on Comcast and AT&T U-verse 99 Government Channel 99.

Lee High School to celebrate 100 years of tradition and history with Centennial Celebration Sept. 30

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Local History, Upcoming Events, , ,
Over the years, Lee Middle & High School has grown from the single front wing built in 1923 (Courtesy, Lee High School)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

The district’s K-10 Godfrey Avenue School grew from two classrooms to 12 between 1894 and 1916, and was still overcrowded with classes meeting in stairwells (Courtesy, LHS and the Godfrey-Lee Parent-Teacher Association)

In November 1923, an excited band of students, led by Principal Francis W. Marsh, left the old Godfrey Avenue School and entered the halls of the new Lee Street School for the first time.

One hundred years later, on Saturday, Sept. 30, the community and alumni will celebrate Lee High School (LHS) with a Centennial Celebration event.

“[Lee High School] has such a rich history and traditions,” said David Britten, Former Superintendent and Alumni Representative. “Even though much of that has changed, I think it’s important that the people who live there, and the people who are involved with the school district, know what some of that is in order to better understand what is going on today and why it is what it is.”

A rich history

As Wyoming’s oldest high school, and the only school still occupying its original 1923 structure, LHS represents the entire district.

Lee High School in 1949, with original front section built in 1923, east wing addition (1925), and west addition (1930) (Courtesy, Lee High School)

“The tradition is more than the 100 years of Lee High School, but the school district itself, dating back to 1857,” said Britten.

Britten went on to say that the primary focus of the celebration is to help the current community learn about the depth of history of the entire area.

“People don’t realize [LHS]’s roots, its history, is really Wyoming’s history,” said Britten.

A member of the Wyoming Historical Commission, Britten is doing what he can to make people citywide more aware of the history and traditions of the city itself.

“I made it a point while I was there (at LHS), and even since I’ve left there, to make that history visible to people, either through Facebook or presentations,” said Britten. “It gives you clarity.”

Traditions – then and now

A full-size gym with regulation court was built in 1952 at the north end of the west wind along Havana Ave and was considered one of the best basketball courts in Wyoming (Courtesy, Lee High School)

As a freshman at LHS in 1969, then serving as middle school principal, conjoined middle and high school principal, and then superintendent of Lee schools until his retirement in 2017, Britten has seen traditions come and go.

“We used to be more social as a school,” remembers Britten. “Back in our day, we had dances after every home game. It didn’t matter if it was football or basketball.”

Britten also remembers another lost tradition – socializing at soda bars.

“You could walk from school over to Chicago Drive or to Burton, and one of the drug stores would have a soda bar,” said Britten. “Now, kids are more alone. Their connection is through their phones or online video gaming, but not so much the kind of social things that we did.”

Britten believes that is why the Centennial Celebration is so important.

“The more a school district or school itself or parents can put together these kinds of celebrations, whether it’s for a 100th anniversary or something else, and bring people together, the better,” said Britten.

What attendees can expect

Centennial Celebration activities will include an all-years alumni reunion, homecoming activities, and an open house to view the progress of the reconstruction, upgrade, and remodeling of Lee Middle & High School.

In 1938, an 11-acre athletic complex was completed on Godfrey Avenue (Courtesy, Lee High School)

The traditional homecoming parade, followed by a varsity soccer match that will begin at 5 p.m., will be held on the preceding Friday.

Saturday activities will commence at Lee Field on Godfrey Avenue at 12 p.m. with the traditional homecoming football game between the Lee Legends and Eau Claire Beavers. State Representative Winnie Brinks, a former member of the Godfrey-Lee staff, will welcome fans to the stadium just prior to kickoff.

The game will include performances by the award-winning Lee High School band and other activities. At half-time, the traditional crowning of the homecoming king and queen will also feature on-field representation by several dozen past Lee High School royalty, extending back to the 1950s.

The Centennial Celebration community open house and alumni reunion will begin at 1 p.m. in the Lee High School gym on Havana Street. Aside from guided tours of the school, a substantial historical display will highlight the history of the Godfrey-Lee community since the first landowners of 1833.

David Britten and Thomas DeGennaro compiled 100 years of memories and history in a book and with all proceeds going to Lee High School (Courtesy, Lee High School)

Three hundred copies of a new 128-page book titled 100 Years at the Lee Street School by David Britten and Thomas DeGennaro will be made available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting Lee High School.

“It became a labor of love over a couple of years,” said Britten about the book. “We think it’s going to be a key part in this celebration.”

Several other activities will be ongoing until the open house/reunion ends at 5 p.m., and attendees will be encouraged to donate to a scholarship fund for Lee students.

Complimentary light refreshments will be available.

“A hundred years only comes once”

Britten urges community members to come out, enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and support LHS students by attending the football game, presentations, and performances.

“A hundred years only comes once,” Britten said with a laugh. “I’m not sticking around to plan the 200 year celebration.”

To learn more about Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, visit www.godfrey-lee.org.

Shooting on 5800 block of Christie Avenue; suspect arrested, no injuries

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kent County,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



At approximately 11:54 a.m., officers from the Kentwood Police Department, Kent County Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police responded to a residence in the 5800 block of Christie Avenue in Kentwood. A caller inside the home stated that a family member fired a shot at him while inside the residence.  


One family member was able to exit the home prior to police arrival. The victim and suspect were still inside the home when police units arrived on the scene. Officers surrounded the home and made contact with both persons that were still inside. The suspect surrendered without incident and was arrested. Shortly after, the victim was able to exit the residence. No one was injured during this incident. There is no further threat to the public.

An adult male resident of the home was arrested on an assault charge and was transported to the Kent County Correctional Facility pending charges.

The Kentwood Police Department continues to investigate this incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.  

Local Black business owners unveil heart behind their businesses in Pitch Black Grand Rapids competition Sept. 28

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Going Local, Local Business, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
The Michigan Small Business Development Center presents Pitch Black Grand Rapids, a pitch competition for Black business owners (Courtesy, MI-SBDC)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

In an effort to uplift the Black business community, the Michigan Small Business Development Center (MI-SBDC) has announced a Grand Rapids pitch competition on Thursday, Sept. 28.

The Pitch Black competition began in 2021 in response to the detrimental effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on Black-owned businesses in Muskegon County. Pitch Black is now coming to Grand Rapids and will focus on Black-owned businesses operating in Kent County.

Business owners will have a chance to present their pitch to a panel of judges for a chance at a cash prize (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

“It’s sort of like Shark Tank meets America’s Got Talent,” explained Ed Garner, West Michigan Regional Director for the MI-SBDC. “It will be on an auditorium stage in a game show style fashion.”

Twenty Black business owners were selected from a pool of applicants to be Pitch Black contestants. All contestants received pitch training in preparation for a preliminary round presentation to a panel of Black Judges.

Five to seven contestants will then be chosen as finalists and pitch for their share of $10,000 in front of a live studio audience.

“It’s our way of uplifting the Black business community and is part of our DEI initiative called Uplift Michigan™, a strategic movement designed to ensure equitable access for all diverse entrepreneurs across Michigan,” said Garner.

Bringing culture and personal awareness

Bertina Polk, owner of My Little Love Bugs Childcare LLC, applied for Pitch Black to bring awareness to early childhood education in the African American culture.

Polk remembers being teased because of the darkness of her skin, kinkiness of her hair, and her broad nose.

“It always made me wonder if I was good enough,” said Polk.

Seeing her own traumatic childhood memories repeated in following generations of children as young as preschool age bothered Polk.

Bertina Polk’s childcare business teaches children to have confidence in who they are (Courtesy, Bertina Polk)

“It hurts my heart that these babies are going to school not knowing who they are, the importance of their existence, their value, and being proud of their culture and the skin they are in,” said Polk. “I pride myself on the fact that my daycare has a strong emphasis and focus on making sure that our children know that their black is beautiful.”

Polk does this by building a daily childcare routine that focuses on self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem.

“Childhood trauma can turn into adulthood trauma,” said Polk. “Being hurtful and mean to children can ruin self-esteem in the very early stages of life.”

Whether Polk is a winner of a cash prize or not, she considers it a blessing to bring awareness to issues that young African American children encounter. She is also thankful for the opportunity to gather information that will help her grow her business.

“I’ve learned a lot after doing research about the African American culture and how it affects our children in the Early Childhood stages,” said Polk.

If Polk receives a cash prize, she plans to use it to move and expand her childcare facility.

Having located the building she wants for the new facility, Polk is already working with other agencies to provide funding for a playground, educational materials for children, as well as training for staff.

“This will give me the opportunity to grow from the family group daycare into a center, and I’ll be able to provide more services to our community and our African American children,” said Polk.

More than just a business

Reggie Macon, owner of martial arts school Battle Ground JKD LLC, joined the Pitch Black competition after it was suggested to him by a client.

At Battle Ground, Reggie Macon (center) is focused on helping women and children defend themselves (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)

“Of course, the [prize] money sounds good, but I was also intrigued by the information I could potentially get from [the competition],” said Macon. “If anything, I can get some great information on how I can move forward with the business.”

Macon’s primary objective, however, is to share his passion of martial arts with youth and women.

Macon founded Battle Ground out of a desire to keep his two daughters safe. Having recognized and researched the dangers of human trafficking, Macon is focused on using his 17 years of personal training experience to help others learn how to protect themselves.

“I started out training my daughters and training a couple of kids out of my garage, and it kind of went from a passion to something I can see myself doing as a living,” said Macon.

Battle Ground features classes for youth, women’s self-defense, strike classes for MMA boxers, and Sweat It Out Saturdays – a co-ed group of various ages geared toward participants attending with a friend or partner to gain accountability in their weight loss goals.

With countless self-defense and martial arts schools available to the public, Macon differentiates himself by being more hands-on than most.

All ages are welcome at Battle Ground martial arts school (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)

“It’s not just technique and that’s it,” said Macon. “I teach how to read body language, situational awareness, how to create separation to escape in certain instances, and how to build confidence in oneself to know that just because I know how to fight doesn’t mean I have to. I can walk away confidently enough to know I won’t have to cause any harm.”

During the course of the Pitch Black competition training, Macon feels the information contestants have received has been helpful in showing how and what they can apply to their businesses.

“It’s been great information throughout the competition.”

Macon hopes to purchase more safety equipment for the gym if he wins a cash prize, and also to increase marketing for Battle Ground.


“Hopefully Battle Ground will be a household name pretty soon,” Macon said.

Showcase and competition details you don’t want to miss

A business and resource showcase will be held before the competition (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Prior to the Pitch Black competition there will also be a business and resource showcase featuring all 20 contestants as well as selected organizations that support Black-owned businesses.

The competition and showcase will take place Thursday, Sept. 28 in Loosemore Auditorium at Grand Valley State University’s DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton Street in Grand Rapids. The showcase opens at 5 p.m. and the competition begins at 6:30 p.m.

Three cash prizes will be presented by the Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at GVSU. The Grand Prize is $5,000, with a 2nd place prize of $3,500, and a 3rd place prize of $1,500. The prize money can be used for any legitimate business purpose.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration is encouraged due to space limitations. All audience members are asked to dress in casual black attire.

For more information or to register, visit https://michigansbdc.org/pitch-black-gr/.

Frederik Meijer Gardens plants the seed for their 25th annual chrysanthemum exhibition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, design, Kent County, LANDSCAPING & GARDEN CENTERS, West Michigan, , ,
Chrysanthemums & More! showcases thousands of blossoms in an artful Autumn Tapestry (Courtesy, Johnny Quirin)

By Lauren Konsdorf

WKTV Contributor

Chrysanthemums & More! is underway with its 25th annual exhibition (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

Thousands of blossoms span 158 acres at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park during their 25th annual chrysanthemum exhibition.

Blossoming flowers and phenomenal sculptures may seem like all there is to see at Frederik Meijer Gardens, but their annual Chrysanthemums & More! event is now underway displaying thousands of blossoms in artful tapestry.

“View artfully manipulated patterns of chrysanthemums and enjoy a multitude of textures provided by ornamental cabbage, kale, pumpkins, grasses, gourds, and more,” said Steve LaWarre, Vice President of Horticulture.

A mum column stretches high in a multi-colored display (Courtesy, Peter McDaniel)

From Sept. 15 through Oct. 30, florists and civilians from all over Michigan can enjoy the fall air and take part in the largest exhibition of its kind showcasing chrysanthemums, fall foliage and family-friendly activities.

At home in art and nature, many florists in attendance are showing off their skills while weaving a floral tapestry entitled Autumn Tapestry throughout the Gardens.

Amy Gorman, floral manager and wedding coordinator at Horrocks Market located in Kentwood, participates yearly in the event.

“It’s free advertisement,” Gorman said. “We make a beautiful arrangement for them to display throughout the week.”

Gorman’s involvement in floral design first began in high school, and she has worked in floral ever since. For Gorman, it was more than just taking a class.

Gorman’s Chrysanthemums & More! design consists of many different colors; rose, peach, orange, burgundy, and black.

The Glow Garden is a fun evening event for visitors (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

Designs for this event are inspired by geometric patterns, uncommon color combinations, and the repetition of formal garden styles. Each flower has been hand-picked to create the tapestry.

The Grand Entry Garden, Welcome Center, and Gunberg and BISSELL Corridors showcase the tapestry and plantings among the horticulture staff and florists.

Exhibition programs include Fashion and Nature, Sept. 24 from 2-3 p.m.; Weaving with Nature, Oct. 1 from 2-3 p.m.; Fall Family Day, Oct. 7 from 1-4 p.m.; Hallowee-ones, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; and much more.

Enjoy the crisp fall air outdoors and attend the must-see exhibition Fredrik Meijer Gardens has to offer!



Lauren is a senior at Central Michigan University and is studying Broadcast and Cinematic Arts with double minors in Journalism and Communications. She is a radio host for a specialty show on 101.1 The Beat, and is Promotions Video Editor for WCMU Public Media. She loves animals, community service, being on camera, and hopes to become a lifestyle reporter or host after college.

Veterans History Project at GVSU helps veterans process and share military experiences

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Local Faces, Local History, Veterans, West Michigan, , ,
James Smither (left) interviews World War II Navy veterans David “Goldie” Goldsboro and Sid Lenger (Courtesy, WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Capturing information and details not officially recorded anywhere else is a job James Smither, Professor of History and Director of the GVSU Veterans History Project (VHP), has undertaken for 15 years.

With well over 1,000 military veteran interviews under his belt, Smither continues to seek out anyone who was in military service from World War II onward who are willing to share their experiences, whether they have seen combat or not.

“If you have been in the U.S. military, we want to talk to you,” said Smither.

All ages of veterans welcome

WWII Navy veteran Don Morell spoke with Smither in 2018 (Courtesy, WKTV)

Smither said he has noticed a trend of veterans wanting to make sense of their military experiences approximately 40 years after the conflict.

“WWII veterans really began talking a lot about it in the 80s, Vietnam vets mostly in the past 20 years,” said Smither. “But a lot of the (veterans) who have been through Iraq or Afghanistan, for a lot of them it is probably still too soon.”

Many recent veterans also don’t consider their experiences as part of history, or consider what they did as important.

“They don’t think of what they did as being part of history, but when I get them, it’s great because they remember a lot of stuff,” said Smither. “And those who say they ‘didn’t really do anything,’ after a few questions, it quickly becomes apparent that a story is there.”

More than just fact-finding

But Smither views the VHP as more than just a fact-finding mission.

“We see our job as giving veterans a way of telling their story, and telling it in the way they want to tell it,” said Smither. “The whole story, or as much as they want to tell.”

Air Force veteran Mike Sutton shared his military experiences with Smither in 2019 (Courtesy, WKTV)

Smither said that veterans are not required to talk about things they don’t want to talk about. They have full control over their own content.

“We do our best to make it as easy for them as possible, and to treat everybody and their stories with respect,” said Smither. “For a lot of them, they are working through their experience. Sometimes I am the first person they have told the whole story to.”

Interviews range from veterans who have previously held back from talking about their experiences, and some who have told bits and pieces but never tried to put their entire story together.

Smither said that veterans appreciate talking to someone who understands military language and with reasonable knowledge of wartime events because the veterans often remember things but don’t know why those things happened (the context of the situation) or how they wound up that particular situation.

Gaining background information from Smither, or having him bring a different perspective, has often helped veterans find clarity.

“People who haven’t talked about it, I can help them tell their story,” said Smither. “And even people who do talk about it sometimes, I can help them put it together and make sense.”

Smither has encountered veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) who have said the interview process was helpful and that they found peace and healing by telling their stories.

“You help them get control over their stories, and [for] some of them, it helps them process the trauma,” said Smither.

A view rarely seen

Capturing veterans’ experiences yields multiple benefits.

“On a basic level, it’s a teaching tool,” said Smither. “You can imagine what warfare is like, but unless you are in it yourself, you tend to have a more abstract or sanitized view of the reality of how bad it is. It doesn’t ever really sink in.”

Hauenstein Center GVSU Ford Museum Veterans Day 2021 (Courtesy Photo)

With the VHP interviews, viewers get a very different picture of a soldier’s experience than would be portrayed in journalistic reports and official records.

“There’s this whole layer of human experience that you get in these interviews that doesn’t have a place otherwise,” said Smither.

Another value to the VHP’s interviews is preservation of historical information.

“There is a huge amount of historical information out there that gets lost if you don’t [record it] that can help people get a better understanding of reality,” said Smither.

Fully invested in a career path he never saw coming

“I originally trained as a conventional European historian,” said Smither. “I was the Renaissance Reformation guy at Grand Valley when I got there in 1990. But I always had an interest in military history and developed a course in military history.”

In 2003, Smither was contacted by an oral historian working with a local group to establish a military museum. The intent was to record interviews with local veterans and post them online in conjunction with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project.

Grand Valley State University Professor James Smither, head of the GVSU Veterans History Project, has dedicated 15 years of his life to telling veterans’ stories (Courtesy, GVSU Veterans History Project)

The hope was to “catch up” with World War II veterans before they were all gone.

“I met [the oral historian] in the summer of 2003, and a couple of months later he had me onstage with four DDay veterans, helping them tell their stories in front of a live audience,” said Smither.

One of those veterans was Ralph Hauenstein, part of Eisenhower’s intelligence staff.

When the museum group folded in 2005, Smither – as chairman of the GVSU History Department – was tasked with continuing the interviews and archiving all completed interviews. Smither knew a lot of background facts about the veterans’ stories and realized he could apply that knowledge.

Things really began moving in 2007 when Smither was contacted by the Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission. They offered to help recruit veterans for interviews and recommended WKTV Community Television to help with the recording process.

Since 2008, Smither has completed over 100 veteran interviews at WKTV.

“I have been all over the place for interviews, but WKTV has been a regular home for the project and does good quality studio shoots,” said Smither.

WKTV General Manager Tom Norton said, “WKTV Community Media is pleased to have played a role with Dr. Smithers, GVSU, and the Library of Congress for all these years, and to be the resource for recording the oral history of our veterans.”

A life-changing experience

Being part of the Veterans History Project has had a profound effect on Smither.

“On a basic level, doing this transformed my own career,” said Smither. “When I was doing 16th French history, there was always something missing. I was never quite sure what it was. I didn’t have a really good feel for the significance of what I was doing.

Veterans’ stories have a lasting impact (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

“Then,” Smither continued, “when I started working with veterans, I realized that this is what I’m supposed to be doing.”

Smither has also noticed he now has a form of PTSD.

“You absorb a lot of the trauma and psychological damage that these people suffer because you are listening to the telling of these harrowing stories,” said Smither. “You are living it while they are telling it to you.”

Smither admitted that some things he once found appealing, such as action/adventure movies and game simulation warfare, are no longer of interest to him.

“It does take its toll in a certain sort of way, and changes your perspective on certain things,” said Smither.

But Smither has no plans to back away from helping veterans tell their stories.

“If we don’t record these things and make them available, then all of that knowledge and all of that information is lost,” Smither said. “What (veterans) did, did matter.”

If you are a veteran and would be willing to share your experiences, please contact James Smither at: smitherj@gvsu.edu or 616-331-3422.

Reducing the risk of falls for older adults at home

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Physical therapist Peter Vander Weide (right) is working with participant Anwar on steps in the extensive rehab gym at Care Resources. (Courtesy, Care Resources)



By Care Resources

It happens in the blink of an eye.

And before you know it, you’re part of the club to which nobody wants to belong: someone who’s suffered a fall.

At Care Resources, physical therapist Steve Vanderkamp knows only too well how quick and dangerous it can be for older adults living in their homes to incur falls, some of which land people in the hospital – or worse.

“It happens more often than people think, or would like,” he says, noting that people 55 years and older especially are more likely to suffer a fall because their capacities are diminishing – vision, reaction time, strength, flexibility and cognition.

Data from multiple sources confirms one in five falls results in a serious injury, and that yearly, some three million older adults visit U.S. emergency rooms to be treated for falls. More than 75% of falls occur at or close to home, but according to Vanderkamp, some of those can be avoided by taking preventive measures.

What follows are considerations he says can make all the difference:

Make the light right. Too many older adults don’t have adequate lighting in place, especially at night, when they’re prone to visit the bathroom. As an inexpensive safety measure, leave a light on, or use on a night light or motion-sensor light. Also, don’t travel dark areas where you might trip on clutter – books, magazines, toys, trash – where a well-placed light might otherwise illuminate.

Clear pathways. Again, rid pathways of clutter. Avoid decorating with throw rugs, which are likely to bunch up and cause a trip. And by all means, don’t lay electrical cords across travel areas. Instead, route cords behind furniture and secure them along walls.

Add safety measures to stairs and steps. Don’t skimp on strong stair railings, wherever you have steps. To differentiate stairs from landings, put some strong, brightly colored tape at those transitions.

Be mindful of beds and baths, too. Consider grab bars in shower and tub areas, and next to toilets. Invest in a bathtub bench that extends over the edge of the tub and onto the adjacent floor, so you can sit and pivot out of the tub. Using a hand-held shower head can make it easier to stay seated while showering. Resort to a non-skid rug to soak up water as you exit the tub or shower.

In the bedroom, keep a lamp handy next to your bed. And even though those satin sheets and sleepwear might feel nice, they can be slippery and contribute to a fall while attempting to stand.

Use walking aids. If you have poor balance, don’t be too proud to use a cane or walker, and keep it handy. “I talk to some people until I’m blue in the face about the need for them to use their walker,” Vanderkamp says. People often resort to risky furniture or “wall walking,” placing their hands there to assist in locomotion.

It’s also a good idea to assess your entire property – what’s risky in the garage or other outbuildings, as well as sidewalks, decks and anywhere else you walk. During winter, take extra precautions to keep walkways clear and dry of ice and snow.

As for ladders and step stools, use with extreme caution. Where you have cupboards, arrange it so items you use most often are between hip level and eye level, reducing your need to bend down or elevate yourself.

Assistance with fall prevention is a service provided by Care Resources as a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, which is funded by Medicare and Medicaid. If you’re worried about you or a loved one falling, call Care Resources at 616-913-2006 or visit CareResources.org to learn more.

Minority-led ballet company Ballet 5:8 to present BareFace dance production in Grand Rapids Oct. 7

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Ballet 5:8 will present the dance production BareFace at the DeVos Center for Arts and Worship during Hispanic Heritage Month (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

BareFace is a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling.

Ballet 5:8, a female and minority-led Chicago ballet company, will present BareFace at the DeVos Center for Arts and Worship during Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 7 at 7:00 p.m.

The complexities of human existence

Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

Rubio Slager’s choreography portrays the power of human connection and relationships (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

The dancers embody the complexities of human existence, peeling away societal expectations to confront their true selves. Through Rubio Slager’s innovative choreography, the journey of self-discovery unfolds on stage, inviting audiences to reflect on their own identities and the masks they wear.

The power of human connection and relationships takes center stage in BareFace. Just as Cupid and Psyche longed for each other, the dancers’ movements intertwine and interact, portraying the intricacies of love, longing, and the universal desire for connection.

“With technical precision and graceful beauty,” writes Kathy D. Hey from Third Coast Review, “the talented artists of Ballet 5:8’s dance company convey a range of emotions, from moments of grief and longing to lighter moments of comedy.”

A captivating story that embraces the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity, BareFace challenges us to confront our own masks and delve into the rawness of our emotions. Set in the Grecian fairytale world of Glome, the production captivates with its cinematic storytelling, sweeping stage pictures, and gliding sets.

A lasting impact

BareFace showcases Rubio Slager’s choreography that, as described by D’onminique Boyd-Riley from See Chicago Dance, “Flows like chimes, leaving an enduring impact long after the wind has passed. The performance is nothing short of phenomenal.”

Dancers rehearse a previous Ballet 5:8 production. (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

The athletic prowess of Ballet 5:8’s dance artists, along with the work of costume designer Lorianne Robertson, scenic designers Sarah L. Freeman and Graham Louthan, and projections by Sarah L. Freeman and Julianna Rubio Slager, bring this full-length story ballet to life.

Artistic Director, Co-Founder and Chicano Resident Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager co-founded Ballet 5:8 in 2012. She is known for engaging audiences in discussions of life and faith through exquisite choreography, and for empowering minority women to command space in the professional ballet scene.

Since its founding in 2012, Ballet 5:8 has presented more than 45 critically acclaimed ballets, engaging and captivating communities in Chicago, the Midwest and across the nation.

For more information about Ballet 5:8, visit Ballet58.org and connect on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.

Ticket pricing and links

Tiered single tickets are available ranging from $15 to $45 based on seating and available online at: https://www.ballet58.org/calendar/bareface-gr. Specific children, student and senior ticket prices are available. For groups of 10 or more adults, patrons can use the code: B58GROUP to redeem $5 off each ticket.

The Rapid seeks community input on public general transportation needs

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An online survey and in-person events are scheduled as part of transit master planning process (Courtesy, The Rapid)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The TMP will help build a community-led transit system (Courtesy, Thriving)

The Rapid is asking for community input on the future of transit as part of its Transit Master Plan (TMP).

Titled “Thriving: A framework for the future of connectivity,” the TMP seeks to identify what the public needs from The Rapid and general transportation in both the short and long term.

Individuals can participate through an online survey or by attending an in-person community engagement workshop from now until Dec. 8. This feedback will help The Rapid strategically build a community-led transit system for the next 20 years.

The survey, along with additional information, can be found at www.transitthriving.org.

Everyone in the region is encouraged to participate, regardless of whether they use public transportation or not. The study area for this project extends well beyond The Rapid’s service zone with the intent to garner feedback from individuals who currently don’t have access to The Rapid.

Public transportation users as well as non-public transportation users are invited to participate in the survey (Courtesy, Thriving)

“As our region grows, so does the need to expand transit options,” said The Rapid CEO Deb Prato. “We need to create a plan that outlines how public transportation will meet the needs of all our residents. Gathering feedback from everyone, both users and nonusers, is crucial to the success of this plan.”

There will be an in-person open house event Thursday, Oct. 19 at Rapid Central Station, 250 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, Grand Rapids. There will be three sessions: 7 to 9 a.m., 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m.

Once the public engagement period ends on Dec. 8, The Rapid and TMP project consultants from internationally recognized firm AECOM will develop the roadmap for implementing, improving and potentially expanding transit options in the future.

Wyoming Police Department invite community to utilize public comment portal

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Local community members are invited by Wyoming PD to provide commendations or concerns via public comment portal (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

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

CALEA offers agencies information to support continuous improvement and pursue professional excellence (Courtesy Photo)

CALEA Accreditation is a coveted award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence, and competence. The community and police department can take pride in their department, knowing it represents the very best in law enforcement.

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

https://cimrs2.calea.org/811

Comments can be in the form of commendations or concerns. The overall intent of the accreditation process is to provide the agency with information to support continuous improvement, as well as foster the pursuit of professional excellence.

All comments made through the portal will be sent directly to CALEA. Submitters will receive acknowledgment of their submission.

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

Sunday Night Funnies competition draws large crowds for standup comedians

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The 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition is in full swing and is packing the house (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

The 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition at Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) is delivering weekly standup comedy routines and drawing large crowds.

From here, there, and everywhere

Located at Woody’s Press Box inside the Spectrum Entertainment Complex, SNF is a free admission weekly standup comedy show that is geared toward featuring comedians from around the Midwest. However, Brian B. has had several comedians travel from out of state to participate.

Kingpin of Comedy previous winners (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)


Brian B. remembers comedians driving up from Alabama just to do the show. “They did it for the trip experience. I picked up a woman at the airport who flew in from New Jersey to do the show,” Brian B. added.

SNF regularly draws comics from Detroit, Chicago, and Toledo, with the Kingpin of Comedy competition featuring a comedian from Canada.

Brian B. said many comics are willing to do a routine “for the stage time and to perform before a good-sized audience. It’s a very low-key, low-budget kind of thing.”

Voting system encourages audience participation

A comedian himself, Brian B. opens each show and serves as emcee.

With only three more quarterfinal rounds, the competition will soon be moving into three weeks of semifinals, with finals taking place Sunday, Oct. 29.

Sunday Night Funnies’s 2022 Kingpin of Comedy winner Seth Lee holds his winnings (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

The Kingpin of Comedy winner will be determined with a voting system, so the audience is encouraged to participate.

Audience members are given a ballot at the beginning of the show – the only requirement is that they vote for three comics, “no more, no less.”

This helps ensure that the comics work to win over the entire audience, not just friends they bring along, Brian B. explained.

As for comedic content, Brian B. said adult situations and swearing do occur.

“It’s not a clean comedy show, and I don’t bill it as that,” said Brian B.

“I don’t censor the comics,” Brian B. continued. “That is a slippery slope and I won’t do that. [Content] is subjective – you don’t know what offends people and what doesn’t offend people.”

Filling a comedic void

Brian B. began SNF to fill a gap for local comedians.

“At the time, the only place local comics could get face-time was Dr. Grins, and that was only on Thursday nights,” Brian B. said. “They’d get three-minutes of time and could only perform every three months. There was a void that needed to be filled for local comedians.”

That void has been filled with approximately 1,200 different SNF comics over the years.

Sunday Night Funnies presents the 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition, now in full swing (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

The SNF stage has found a home at several different locations since its inception in 2008, with the first being in Douglas, MI. Shortly after, however, Brian B. wanted to bring the show closer to home.

He approached Bob Sullivan, who was owner of the Radisson Hotel on Ann Street in Grand Rapids at the time. A partnership was born, and SNF took the stage for eight years.

When the hotel changed ownership, all entertainment was disbanded and Brian B. was once again on the hunt for a stage.

While having lunch at Spectrum Entertainment Complex, Brian B. began exploring and found Woody’s Press Box. Thinking it would be a good place for a comedy club, Brian B. approached the owner and SNF resumed in February 2018.

Audience attendance was slow-moving at first, with a recent uptick in numbers as former audience members realize the show is still in Grand Rapids, just in a different location.

Comics are also flocking to the stage, with 91 comedians participating in the opening round of Kingpin of Comedy.

“I don’t want to leave anyone out who wants to be in it, so the opening round was 14 weeks long,” said Brian B.

Brian B. works to encourage novice comedians, especially those who are unsure about participating in competitions.

Brian B.’s response: “Just do it. It’s still stage time, so you still get to get up before an audience, and – who knows – you might hit right with the audience and advance.”

Don’t miss out – be “in the know”

SNF is located at 5656 Clyde Park SW, Wyoming (between Meijer and Craig’s Cruisers), and the show begins at 8:30 p.m. Doors open one hour before start time, and food and drinks are available for purchase.

Watch the SNF Facebook page for updates and announcements about start times, comedian participation, and competition results.

To find out more about SNF, visit these sites: GRTV, YouTube, Facebook.

Up north folk rock band, Troll for Trout, to perform at Valley Field Sept. 16

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Troll for Trout will take the stage at Valley Field on Saturday, Sept. 16 (Courtesy Photo)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Troll for Trout, an “up north folk rock band” will be at Valley Field (Sullivan Field) Saturday, Sept. 16.

The vintage ball park is hosting a Back to the 90’s Ballpark Jam festival-style show that will feature several musical artists.

Kicking off at 2:30 p.m. and running until 10 p.m., the show will consist of continuous music, beer, food trucks and of course – fun!

Troll for Trout will play alongside Papa Vegas, Domestic Problems, Knee Deep Shag and Craig Griffith. Between band acts, guests will be treated to solo performances by Adam Mikrut, Glen Danles, Ed Dupas, and more.

Troll for Trout is celebrating their 30th anniversary of colorful musical history. Over the years, the Michigan band has earned a diehard following and generated an impressive array of recordings.

“Troll for Trout and our music has always been about a lifestyle,” Michael Crittenden, founding member and chief songwriter, says on their website. “It’s that excited feeling of leaving work early on a beautiful Friday afternoon and pointing your vehicle North where there’s no schedule. It’s about finding and reconnecting with the peace that resides in all of us, but gets buried by the day to day grind.”

“Reboot” is a benefit for the restoration of Valley Field. A portion of the proceeds will also go toward the GVSU Aris Hampers Broadcasting Scholarship.

Tickets are available via Troll for Trout’s website at www.troll4trout.com.

Circle Theatre’s “Sweeney Todd” — A wonderfully tasty musical extravaganza

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(Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



By Colleen Pierson

WKTV Contributor



“Sweeney Todd” is a Sondheim Masterpiece. It is a highly challenging project that is haunting, powerful and thrilling. Go see Circle Theatre’s production running now through September 23.



In my opinion, I have never heard some of the most beautiful voices in community theater on one stage. Ever. It is not one to miss.

Let’s set the scene: An infamous tale, “Sweeney Todd,” (played by Cory Schutter) an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge (Nate Reynolds) who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Todd to Mrs. Lovett, (Emily Diener) a resourceful proprietress of a failing pie shop, above which he opens a new barber practice with the closest shave in town. Mrs. Lovett’s luck sharply shifts when Todd’s thirst for blood inspires the integration of a special ingredient into her meat pies that has the people of London lining up and dying for. The carnage has only just begun!


Sweeney Todd (played by Cory Schutter) and Mrs. Lovett (Emily Diener). (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



The musical first appeared on Broadway in 1979 and was categorized by Sondheim as a “dark operetta.” That means a huge percentage of the score — probably about 80 percent — and storytelling is sung throughout.

And where does one find the voices in West Michigan to handle this challenging music that needs a very highly skilled cast?

Kudos to directors Carrie McNulty and Scott Patrick Bell for doing just that. There is not one ordinary voice onstage. All are extraordinary. No weak links. Each and every role is gorgeously sung in perfect characterization. The cast members are worthy of being in the Broadway talent pool. Sure, I am gushing, but the range of voices and challenges of the music leads to such a theatrical and glorious treat to experience by an immensely talented cast. A definite treat for the ears.  

Cory Schutter: “much variety and intensity … and impeccable singing”

Cory Schutter, taking on the role of Sweeney Todd, does so in a vicious, desperate and intimidating manner. At the same time, he was both vulnerable and volatile. There was much variety and intensity in his performance and he sang impeccably.

A “wow factor” in Emily Diener’s voice

Emily Diener portrays Mrs. Lovett with such delightful charm, charisma and humor. She mastered the craft with her comedic timing.  Such a wow factor in her voice with so many challenging songs to portray.

Sweeney Todd’s daughter Johanna, played by Maddie Vanderwell, has an angelic voice. A soprano voice with a beautiful lightness and wonder that perfectly matched her innocence. I was in awe of her talents. She dueted so effectively with young sailor Anthony Hope played by Alex Weiss.

It is very difficult to find a young boy with a soprano range to take on the role of Tobias Ragg. Directors gave the role to Meaghan Gietzen, who proved extremely believable with great depth to portray this important role. Witnessing her descent into madness was chilling. 

I appreciated being in an intimate theater setting that Circle Theatre provides on Aquinas College’s campus. Being up close and personal to hear every piece of sung and spoken dialect, experience the lighting design of Catherine Marlett Dreher and see the costume details provided by costume designer Jess Luiz was captivating. The staging of when Todd kills his clients and then sends their bodies directly through a chute into the pie shop’s bakehouse was always done effectively. Perfectly timed out.

Sometimes the actors were blocked to use the aisles of the theater to come onstage and then they got very close to us through inventive direction — making it feel so intimate and intense.

It was a challenge brilliantly handled by cast and crew of the final production of the season. Go see “Sweeney Todd.” For more info: circletheatre.org.