From Left: Kentwood Deputy Chief of Police Stephanie Morningstar and Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley at the Midwest Michigan Snowplow Roadeo and Equipment Show 2024. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
More than 600 people attended the 2024 American Public Works Association Midwest Michigan Snowplow Roadeo and Equipment Show on Oct. 9 in Kentwood.
Hosted by the Kentwood Public Works Department, it featured a timed obstacle course where drivers from across Michigan competed to test their skills and an equipment show with local vendors displaying their products and services.
“The event was fantastic and a huge success,” said Chad Griffin, Kentwood Director of Public Works. “We had one of our best ever turnouts for the event, between attendance of vendors and participants/guests.”
The Roadeo provides an opportunity for public agencies to prepare for winter snow removal operations by training drivers, networking and viewing a variety of useful products and services.
Midwest Michigan Snowplow Roadeo and Equipment Show 2024. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“This is an opportunity for staff to brush up on their snowplow driving skills while competing with their peers, preparing for the winter season ahead,” Griffin explained. “Team drivers represent their respective municipalities (Road Commissions and Public Works Departments) driving a course layout of challenging obstacles which have to be navigated with fully-equipped snowplow trucks carefully.
“Additionally, vendors attend the event to show off new and innovative snow removal equipment, road repair products and many other items/materials which improve the operations of our road crews.”
Kentwood Director of Public Works Chad Griffin. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Kentwood team takes first place
“Out of 39 teams represented, taking first place is a show of dedication our staff has for the snowplow training and the skills they possess to serve the Kentwood Community with excellence,” Griffin said. “The Kentwood DPW team consisted of Alex Hiestand and James Norton. We are very proud of our crews.”
James Norton wins Top Driver
“”James has been with Kentwood DPW for seven years, working as a Streets Maintenance Technician II,” said Griffin, who has a staff of 39 full-time workers responsible for everything from utilities, grounds, streets, buildings and fleet maintenance.
“Winter snow maintenance is an all-hands-on-deck operational effort. We cover nearly 21 square miles of Kentwood, which includes over 380 lane miles of roads. We also remove snow and ice from our city facilities and parks parking lots.”
The City of Wyoming and the City of Walker came in second and third, respectively. The City of Cadillac and Kent County Road Commission South earned the fourth and fifth spot.
Grand Valley fans are encouraged to join Grand Valley Athletics and its partners, WLAV, SpartanNash and the American Red Cross, in relief efforts for hurricane victims across the southeastern United States.
Donation items
The American Red Cross is asking the public for donations of individually-wrapped snacks such as granola bars; fruit cups; bags of pretzels, chips, popcorn, or crackers; juice boxes or beef jerky.
Help hit GVSU’s goal of contributing 150,000 individually wrapped snacks. Something to eat can make a big difference for someone dealing with the aftermath of a disaster.
Even something as small as a snack can help those in need (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Where and when to drop off
Lakers fans can drop off these items prior to Grand Valley’s home game against Northern Michigan from 3-7 p.m. on Oct. 12 in Parking Lot B2 at WLAV’s location in Tailgate Town.
Three SpartanNash store locations are also accepting donations through Saturday: Family Fare, 6370 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale; D&W, 1116 Robbins Road, Grand Haven; and Forest Hills Foods, 4668 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids.
This high school level robotics competition will showcase 18 Michigan teams battling in complex two-minute matches against highly skilled competitors in last season’s game, Crescendo.
Highlighting women in tech
GRGRC is a FIRST Robotics off-season event (Courtesy, GRGRC 2022)
The GRGRC is a FIRST Robotics off-season event. Michigan boasts the most FIRST Robotics teams in action, and the competition will be energized.
During this unique event female team members will be the primary drivers, operators and pit crew members of their team’s robot.
“I’ve really looked forward to the Girls Tournament every year since I’ve known about it,” said Emma Bustraan, #4967 That ONE Team – Our Next Engineers. “It’s kind of a neat experience, because there’s something special about being responsible for how you end up placing.
Female team members operate their team’s robots (Courtesy, GRGRC 2023)
“It’s a cool feeling to have the joystick in your hands and knowing that, if you break the robot, you have to fix it.”
The GRGRC will begin with a Ladies in Tech panel at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12.
This panel is a great opportunity to connect and learn from female STEM leaders in our community.
The robotics competition begins with opening ceremonies at 8:45 a.m., concluding with the awards ceremony at 4:30 p.m.
Family-friendly and FREE
Mark your calendars for this family-friendly event and to learn more about STEM and FIRST Robotics. All events are FREE, open to the public and will be held at Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW.
GRGRC is hosted by Demons Robotics #858 from Wyoming High School, Red Storm Robotics #3875 from East Kentwood High School, Red Storm Rookies #9566 from East Kentwood Freshman Campus, and community team That ONE Team #4967.
Stay up-to-date on competition details on the GRGRC Facebook page.
The American Presidency on Screen, a new 80-minute documentary, will make its debut screening at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The American Presidency on Screen, a new 80-minute documentary, will make its debut screening on Oct. 9 at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids. A panel discussion with subject matter experts will follow.
Five centuries of American history
What connects us as Americans is far stronger than what divides us (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The Washington Political Film Foundation is set to premiere its latest documentary, The American Presidency on Screen, at events cosponsored by two of the National Archives Libraries & Museums this fall. This initiative highlights how Hollywood has interpreted history to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences through movie, television and streaming platform depictions that explore pivotal moments in American history.
The primary focus of the initiative is to explore the role of American Presidents. From portrayals of real-life Presidents to fictional Chief Executives in films and television series, the documentary roars along to cover key moments in the timeline of American history.
This timely documentary spans five centuries of American history, from the colonial era to present day. In exploring historical portrayals of the U.S. Presidency, the film serves as a reminder of the shared history and democratic ideals that unite all Americans.
Released during the lead-up to the presidential election, The American Presidency on Screen carries a critical message of unity, emphasizing that what connects us as Americans is far stronger than what divides us—an especially important message in today’s polarized political climate.
Documentary contributors and sponsors
The documentary highlights the power of film and common bonds of American citizens (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The film benefited from important contributions made by veteran LA-based producer Kirk Saduski, known for his high-profile work with CNN, HBO, and Apple TV+. Saduski was an advisor to the Washington Political Film Foundation, which developed the idea and produced the film.
“This project underscores the unifying power of film in a divided political landscape and a violent world,” said Lee Johnson, Chairman and CEO of The Foundation. “For over a century, Americans have been inspired, educated, and entertained by some of the greatest creative talent ever assembled in film and television.
“With The American Presidency on Screen, our hope is that audiences will be reminded of our common history and the ties that bind us together.”
The American Presidency on Screen is made possible through the generous support of the Goldman Sachs Foundation.
Additional screening and film information
The second screening will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor on Oct. 17.
The third event will take place Oct. 18 at The Carter Center in Atlanta, sponsored by the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum in Atlanta, also featuring a post-screening discussion.
For more information about the film and upcoming screenings, click here.
Benteler Automotive’s proposal to build a new battery components assembly plant on Site 36 was approved at a recent City Council meeting (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
The Wyoming City Council recently approved a $150 million investment project that will bring new life to the long-vacant former General Motors stamping plant.
The GM plant opened in 1936, closing operations in 2009. Over the years, the city worked to prep the land for redevelopment. Benteler Automotive’s proposal to build a new battery components assembly plant on Site 36 was approved at a recent City Council meeting. The plant will focus production of a battery tray, tray cover and charging modules weld vent for the V801 Ford Transit Van.
“We are really excited to have them,” said Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development for Wyoming. “It’s a huge investment in the community. They already have a location in Wyoming, and it’s always great to see a local business grow.”
City documents show the project includes a 299,845-square-foot facility and an additional 17,120-square-foot single-story office area. Site plans include access off 40th Street and Stafford Avenue, a shared drive off Buchanan Avenue, and loading docks adjacent to the railroad.
City officials estimate the Benteler plant will generate 150-170 new jobs.
Benteler Automotive Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Benteler Automotive Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Benteler Automotive Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Benteler Automotive Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Benteler Automotive (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
But wait – there’s more!
The Benteler plant is one of three developments coming to the 75-acre parcel of land that was sold to commercial real estate investment company Franklin and Partners in 2022.
In March 2024, the Wyoming City Council approved Corewell Health’s proposal for a 296,515-square-foot consolidated service center.
“All of their medical supplies for all their hospitals throughout the region will have a centralized location, and that will take place here in Wyoming,” said Hofert.
The development project will provide space for Corewell Health’s supply chain offices, document and mail services, a 36,000-square-foot shell space and a dedicated parking area for lab courier fleet vehicles. EV charging stations will also be included.
This development will generate an estimated 240 new jobs.
Corewell Health will also develop a non-motorized path along the east edge of the property to provide residents a direct path to the new 36th Street Marketplace.
Corewell Health Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Corewell Health Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Corewell Health Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Corewell Health Rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
The third and final section of Site 36 has garnered notice by other businesses.
“Franklin Partners still retains ownership of this third parcel, but they are in conversations with a business,” said Hofert. “We’re hoping that we’ll be able to hear some good news about that shortly.”
Turning the page…
City officials have seen an abundance of support for the Site 36 revitalization.
“It’s no secret that when the GM stamping plant closed, Division Avenue and that surrounding neighborhood suffered because a lot of the people who worked at the plant lived in that neighborhood and patronized the shops on Division Avenue,” said Hofert.
Hofert went on to say that when she spoke with city residents during the Wyoming master plan efforts, she noted enthusiasm and support for bringing more industry to Site 36.
“What we saw during the Corewell approval process and the Benteler approval process is that the community is really excited for these developments, and excited to be turning the page into something new,” said Hofert.
(Courtesy photo)
Hofert believes the infusion of Corewell Health, Benteler Automotive and additional area developments will also bring more business investments along the Division Avenue corridor.
“I see a very positive trajectory based on the types of development that we’re seeing in Wyoming,” said Hofert.
Though the former GM plant property sat vacant for 15 years, Hofert said city officials have never stopped striving to develop Site 36 and the City Center project. That dedication, she said, is the product of Wyoming’s city leaders.
“We really believe in this community and want to continue to see advancement,” said Hofert. “Some of these projects take time, but now we’re seeing something happen.
“We’re really lucky to be a community that’s a little bit more forward-thinking and wants to make sure that we’re making investments into our community.”
Though Benteler Automotive has not revealed a construction timeframe for the new plant, they hope to break ground this fall.
Stay in the know
For more information on Wyoming happenings, visit the city website.
The contest began May 12 with its first of 14 qualifying rounds, followed by six quarterfinal rounds. Three semifinal rounds run Oct. 6, 13, and 20 with finals held Oct. 27.
Competition details
Kara Coraci performs during the SNF (Courtesy, SNF)
Seven comedians are given eight minutes to perform in each round. The line-up order is drawn as the show progresses, with comedians unaware of when they will be performing.
Audience members are given a ballot before the show begins. Following all performances, the audience votes for three out of the seven comedians they feel should advance to the next round. Once collected, the ballots are tabulated while a non-competing comic performs, with the three finalists announced at the closing of the show.
“We have a very diverse lineup of comedians going into the semifinal round,” says Brian B. (Brian Borbot), creator & MC of the SNF. “Of the 21 moving on, there are eight comics of color, four women and one senior citizen!”
Kingpin prize package
The competition winner will receive $500 cash and prizes from Wyoming businesses: Craig’s Cruisers, Spectrum Entertainment Complex, Midtown GR and Gilda’s LaughFest. The winner also receives a Kingpin bowling pin trophy, a customized bowling shirt and the opportunity to close the Sunday Night Funnies LaughFest show in 2025.
The total prize package is worth over $1,000 in value.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought the winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title, Funniest Person in Wyoming,” said Brian B.
(Courtesy, SNF)
About the SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of comics from around the Midwest. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has released its annual fall recycling guide, which shows residents how to properly dispose of common household items.
The fall recycling guide highlights items that are commonly used in the fall – like disposable coffee cups, soup cartons, jugs, foil and cans – that can be recycled, but are often thrown away and are placed in a landfill. It also shows items that are not recyclable but can still be disposed of in a way that avoids landfilling.
“Each year we are proud to help Kent County residents take steps to reduce their landfill waste with the Fall Recycling Guide,” said Dar Baas, director of the DPW. “We can all do our part to protect our land, air and water and have more sustainable fall season for the benefit of our whole community.”
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Online waste disposal resources
The DPW’s recycling guides are a helpful tool for Kent County residents to learn how to do their part to reduce landfill waste.
Beyond common fall items, the DPW has an online Recycling & Waste Directory that allows users to search virtually any item and find ways to dispose of it through donation, composting or the safe disposal of hazardous waste.
The Kent County DPW 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.
Lee Middle School has rekindled their partnership with Affinity Mentoring in a recent ribbon cutting ceremony at their newly renovated mentoring space (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
South Kent Chamber of Commerce presents Affinity Mentoring with a certificate at the ribbon cutting ceremony (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“I see you, I hear you. You are valued, and I know things you have to say right now are things that need to be heard by all of us.”
This is the value Affinity Mentoring provides youth in our local schools, says Lauren Enos, Affinity Mentoring Program and DEI Director.
Lee Middle School in Wyoming has rekindled their partnership with nonprofit Affinity Mentoring after a two-year hold due to necessary school roof renovations.
Focusing on schools facing disadvantages, Affinity supports students in K-8th grade by matching them with a caring adult role model and striving to create a safe space for local youth to utilize their voice.
Small commitment = big impact
Affinity mentors journey alongside students for one hour each week.
“All of our mentors have said it’s the smallest commitment they’ve ever made for the biggest impact on their life,” says Enos. “We have a 90% retention rate. Mentors come back year after year to work with the same student because they become friends. It’s a true relationship.”
Affinity Mentoring Executive Director Rocio Moreno (left) talks about their partnership with the Godfrey-Lee School District (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Holly Kroeze, mentor and Mars Hill Bible Church staff member, is entering her seventh year mentoring Lee Middle School student, Eternity. During that time, Eternity was adopted by her foster mother – and Kroeze has built a relationship with Eternity’s entire family.
“I have found that developing a relationship with [her] mom has been helpful because she gives me insight into things that are going on in Eternity’s life,” says Kroeze.
Kroeze went on to say that she has enjoyed partnering with other adults in Eternity’s life to give more extensive care and support.
“It’s fun to see kids like Eternity get care from multiple adults,” says Kroeze, adding that kids need support from five adults in order to thrive. “I’m grateful I get to be one of those people for her because she has grown a lot. It’s been so fun to watch her journey.”
Lee MS Principal Adrianne Rose speaks at the Affinity Mentoring ribbon cutting ceremony (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We’re really excited to be back in Lee Middle School,” says Enos. “We’re now able to follow the kiddos from early childhood into middle school.”
Lee MS Principal Adrianne Rose echoes Enos’ enthusiasm.
“We wanted to rekindle that partnership because this is an incredibly important piece to the whole child in our academics,” says Rose. “Our 6th graders, they’re excited to see their mentors. They ask about them, they want them to be here, and that to me tells me the mentors are doing what they’re here to do.”
A safe and inclusive space
While Affinity’s mentoring program has seen positive results such as increased school attendance and class engagement from students and a decrease in truancy, bullying and behavioral concerns – there are also personal benefits.
“We really hone in on our mentor centers to be a safe, inclusive space for our mentees to be able to share their difficulties,” says Rocio Moreno, Executive Director at Affinity Mentoring. “Some of it might be home-related or life-related, and we can tailor our program to that.
“Behavioral concerns tend to decrease because they’re able to engage in those hard topic conversations with their mentor as to why they might have made a particular choice throughout that time.”
Staff and mentors are excited for this opportunity to support Lee Middle School youth (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
An overall improvement in self-esteem comes from knowing that one-on-one support is available.
“[Students] feel more confident,” says Enos. “They’re willing to take risks and make mistakes because there’s someone there to say, ‘I was in that same place, and I made those mistakes too,’ normalizing all the everyday things they go through.”
That support can often go both ways.
Since beginning her journey as a mentor, Kroeze and her husband became foster parents.
“Eternity was the first person to give me the best advice about what to do and what things she liked,” says Kroeze.
“Our relationship has been mutually beneficial because I’ve learned a lot from her. Learned how to be a good parent, and learned how to relate to foster kids. For Eternity, she’s [gained] some stability and accountability in her life.”
100+ students are waiting…
Affinity Mentoring is always in need of new community volunteers who are willing to donate an hour of their time once a week.
“One hour a week eating your lunch, hanging out and making slime will go by so fast,” said Moreno with a smile. “But the need for volunteers is high as we currently have over 100 students on our waitlist that desire a mentor.”
Kroeze recommends joining the mentoring program with a spouse or partner.
“My husband and I do it together, and we’ve done it together since Day One,” says Kroeze. “It’s fun to put faces to names when you talk about what your day was like with your mentee.
“Mentoring together makes things a little bit crazier – but a lot of fun.”
Eventually, Moreno would love to expand Affinity’s mentoring program to Lee High School as well. “Because this is a middle school-high school, it would be an easy transition to continue for the students we currently work with.”
For more information about Affinity Mentoring services, click here.
LOVED youth program founder Steve Carigon and VP of Advancement Brooke Jevicks talk with Managing Editor Deborah Reed on WKTV Journal Soundbites about how they WOW kids with love at Wedgwood Christian Services.
“The majority of the kids that come into our care have been chronically neglected and abused,” says Brooke Jevicks, VP of Advancement at WCS, adding that many youth go through 7-12 failed placements before being referred to WCS for help.
(Courtesy, WCS)
When youth are critically neglected and abused, it reinforces doubt and the question: Am I worthy of being loved?
“It’s critically important for a human to know that they are valued and worthy, and that they are loved,” says Jevicks. “You want to work on yourself differently when you know and believe that. You work harder for yourself, you fight for yourself, you advocate for yourself.”
Love – with intention
Youth pastor Steve Carigon founded LOVED when the previous WCS youth ministry faltered under pandemic gathering restrictions.
Based on bible verse John 3:16, LOVED was born shortly after – with intention.
“It’s something that the kids need,” says Carigon. “These kids have not been loved properly, and we’re going to do everything we can to show them that they are loved by God, and by us, any way we can.”
LOVED is held at 4 p.m. every other Thursday and is open to all WCS home residents. However, attendance is not mandatory.
Even the bubbles are intentional
LOVED begins at the front door with a bubble machine and a red carpet.
“We want them to feel like stars and that they are awesome,” says Carigon.
Wedgwood supporters play a game similar to a game LOVED youth play while being cheered on (Courtesy, WCS)
Jevicks agrees. “Staff are cheering for every kid. They are seriously in the business of making sure those kids know, without a shadow of a doubt, that they are worthy of being loved.”
Upon entering the building, youth choose a flavored sucker and receive a raffle ticket. They are then ushered into the music-filled chapel where kids can sit or play games before the program begins.
A countdown on the screen gets things rolling. After the welcome and a reminder that they are loved, an interactive on-screen game begins that typically involves a lot of…yelling and candy-throwing.
For the next game (anything from flipping bottles to using sticky gel hands to retrieve items off a table), youth approach the stage when their name is drawn, are introduced, and then cheered on by everyone in the room.
Raffle tickets, crab legs and a…unicorn?
Next onstage is the…raffle unicorn.
“We have a unicorn costume, and kids always want to be the unicorn,” says Carigon with a laugh.
Wedgwood guests cheer when names are called as is done for youth who attend LOVED (Courtesy, WCS)
Raffle numbers are read, and winners choose what they want for lunch the next day.
“They love it,” says Carigon. “The kids are starting to understand that I literally will get them anything they want for lunch. Last week I went to Red Lobster and got crab legs.”
A 10-minute talk on God’s love wraps up the program.
“They’re getting it.”
“I see a bunch of kids receiving and expressing love in normal conversations,” says Carigon, noting that a large portion of that happens outside of actual LOVED events.
One of Carigon’s favorite things is hearing youth shout, “You’re loved!” across campus.
“It means they’re getting it,” says Carigon.
(Courtesy, WCS)
Carigon also enjoys seeing WCS youth wear LOVED wristbands, shirts and hats around campus.
“They wear the shirts, and it’s like a proclamation saying, ‘I’m loved. I’m wearing the shirt, I’m loved.’”
That declaration is about more than shirts – it is about relationships.
“It’s me, the leaders, the other chaplains building relationships with kids,” says Carigon. “We’re well-known around campus because we work at doing rounds and seeing kids in between classes, at lunch and after school. We try to intersect their lives as much as possible.”
Loved people…love people
“The same question all humans ask is, am I loved?” says Carigon. “I’m also a human, so I feel that too. Our own brain is really good at telling us that we’re not good enough.
(Courtesy photo)
“Even though you may not think you’re enough, you are exactly enough.”
Carigon firmly believes that consistently hearing we are loved and valued changes the way we interact with ourselves and with other people.
“When you feel love yourself, you start loving other people,” says Carigon. “[And] we’re supposed to love other people. My hope is when these kids feel loved, it changes their outcome.”
Jevicks says that is the heart of LOVED. “They’ve put so much thought and intention into it, [and] there is a meaningful message for youth so they know that they are loved by their Heavenly Father. Exactly who they are right now, today, He loves them deeply.”
That extravagant love is why Carigon loves his job.
“When you love people – especially kids that haven’t been loved well – how can you have a bad day?”
Refusing to abandon our youth
“What sets WCS aside is that deep love for these kids – and not abandoning them,” says Jevicks. “LOVED is not a mandatory program to receive good care and to be loved. We’re going to love you anyway. That’s the gift of Wedgwood.”
A LOVED event guest writes a blessing for a youth in WCS residential care (Courtesy, WCS)
WCS staff continue demonstrating support and love even when youth push them away.
“We anticipate that, we understand it, we’re not surprised by it,” says Jevicks. “It’s a trauma response; it’s protection. It’s all they know.”
When youth push, WCS staff plant their feet, respecting boundaries while continually acknowledging and caring for them. Over time, youth often take steps to close that gap.
“Those are powerful moments,” says Jevicks. “It illustrates the power of love. True, sincere, Christ-like love. Go ahead and push me away, because I understand why you’re pushing me away. You do what you need to do, and I’m going to keep being right here for you.
“That’s what Wedgwood does for these kids, and they get even more of that at LOVED.”
For more information on LOVED and other WCS programs, click here.
The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to enjoy glow-themed fun at its Glow in the Park event on Saturday, Oct. 5.
This year’s event takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. at Pinewood Park, 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE. It features a variety of glow-themed activities, including light-up playground games, crafts, a dance party, food and more. Attendees are encouraged to wear clothes and accessories that glow in the dark and are brightly colored.
Kentwood Glow in the Park. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“We’re excited to see neighbors and friends light up the park with their attire and smiles,” said Shelby Henshaw, recreation program coordinator. “We’ve planned a wide variety of glow-themed activities and crafts for all ages to enjoy.”
Glow in the Park begins at 7 p.m. with games and crafts. Community members are invited to walk along a park path that will be lit up with colorful lights and glow sticks. Olly’s Mini Donuts will be on-site offering delicious donuts and drinks for purchase. The evening will conclude with an after-party featuring music, dancing and snacks at the park shelter.
General admission for the event is $5 and includes glow materials. Event sponsors are Metronet, Sinclair Recreation and Vista Charter Academy.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) raises several ethical and controversial questions regarding topics such as privacy and surveillance, human autonomy, job displacement, the role of human judgment – and many more.
Kent District Library (KDL) is hosting the Next Nexus Summit: AI for Business to provide community members with an opportunity to hear unbiased information presented by local AI leaders. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions during the Summit ethics panel.
“Even though the focus is on how AI impacts your business, this is a good way for everyone to get a somewhat unbiased approach of what AI really means,” said Hannah Lewis, KDL Community Engagement Librarian.
“AI just kind of came out of nowhere, and you can’t escape it. That’s scary, and it’s okay to feel that.”
AI is impacting libraries and several educational fields (Courtesy, KDL)
Lewis went on to say that the Summit evolved due patron feedback and AI impact on education.
“A lot of patrons have been coming in to ask questions about AI,” Lewis said. “AI is impacting libraries too; they’re impacting the educational fields a lot.”
Bright local minds in artificial intelligence, technology, innovation, and legal considerations will come together to explore the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on our world and business.
Local AI leaders are willing to answer questions and provide clarity for the community (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Those minds include:
Joe Chrysler With a deep background in machine learning and AI ethics, accelerator manager and software consultant at Atomic Object Joe Chrysler will discuss how you can leverage AI in marketing and business development using AI tools that are available today.
Amy Baddley A leading data privacy attorney, Amy Baddley will address the legal implications of using AI as part of your business model and the concerns of AI, intellectual property, and privacy.
Jessica Bratt An advocate for inclusive technology, Jessica Bratt, an instructional designer from Casual Simulation, will provide a visionary outlook on where AI is headed and how you can stay ahead of the curve.
Morgan Hanks Kent District Library’s User Experience Manager and a pioneer in bringing AI to the library to support staff and patron needs, Morgan Hanks will introduce each speaker and moderate the closing panel discussion on the ethical concerns related to the use of AI.
“This is a group of people that are not Google, they’re not Microsoft, they’re just telling you the pros and the cons without mega corporation baggage behind it,” said Lewis.
A safe place for conversation
The event ethics panel is prepared to answer tough questions regarding AI (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
There will also be an ethics panel where these experts will answer honest questions people have been asking, Lewis continued. Questions such as: how can we avoid issues and build trust? How do we determine what’s true and what’s not true? Will this take over the world?
“We’re totally experienced in handling any questions, especially those tough ones,” said Lewis. “Part of what [the event] is about is being able to ask those questions.
“I do think that, for the most part, this is going to be a very positive and optimistic experience. We know this is something that’s on a lot of people’s minds.”
Through the Next Nexus Summit, KDL is providing avenues for community members to gain information and clear takeaways while in a safe environment.
Registration details
Each event can accommodate 100 patrons, and both event programs feature identical content.
Interested participants can register themselves and one other person using a KDL account. Registration can also be completed using an email address.
Those unable to attend but who have questions for the presenters about AI can submit questions on the event website.
Business owner attendees are invited to bring business cards and/or other promotional items to give away.
It’s important older adults – and those who care for them – take action each fall to help prevent severe complications that can come from contracting viral illnesses. (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)
While fall brings with it sweaters, corn mazes and all things pumpkin spice, it also marks a peak in respiratory virus illnesses.
As the new season begins, Care Resources Clinical Quality Manager Bethany Graham says now is a serious time to focus on illness prevention, particularly for older adults.
“Every year in the fall, we start seeing an increase in influenza and COVID in the U.S.,” says Graham, who oversees infection control for Care Resources, a community-based program that serves people 55 years and older. “Flu and COVID are viral illnesses that impact everyone differently depending on age and different risk factors.
“For our more frail, medically complex elderly population, these viruses can be really detrimental, so it’s important older adults – and those who care for them – work diligently to avoid illness each year.”
Medical professionals strongly recommend updated flu and COVID vaccines each fall to provide protection through the winter season when those viruses are more widespread in the community.
While the vaccines don’t fully prevent people from contracting the flu or COVID, Graham says they do significantly decrease the severity of symptoms and the risk of hospitalization – or worse – for vulnerable populations.
“Where grandkids and other family members may be sick for just few days and then recover, for unprotected older adults, getting the flu or COVID could result in hospitalization and severe complications like pneumonia or death,” Graham says. “Staying up to date on recommended vaccines can help prevent those complications. That is why older adults in particular should get vaccinated each fall.”
To help those who are hesitant to get vaccinated, Graham and her team work to educate the community about common myths.
“To be clear: You cannot get the flu or COVID from vaccines. That’s simply not how it works. It is not possible,” she says. “We also want people to understand that some side effects are completely normal and temporary – things such as soreness or pain at the injection site, fatigue, even a low-grade fever – it’s just your body reacting to the vaccine, which is a good thing. Side effects should only last two or three days at most.”
What else can caregivers of older adults be doing to help prepare for flu season? Graham says keeping open lines of communication about how everyone is feeling is key.
“First and foremost, get into the habit of talking about any symptoms they’re having,” she says. “If they are not feeling well, make sure they’re not going near loved ones – and the other way around.
“Get comfortable having discussions about illnesses and symptoms before visits to avoid contact with family members who are sick.”
As the holiday season nears, Graham urges everyone to take personal responsibility of not spreading any illness.
“If you are not feeling well, be honest about your symptoms and don’t visit grandma and grandpa,” she says. “It’s not worth the risk.”
If contact cannot be avoided, particularly for caregivers of older adults, Graham recommends wearing a mask.
“I like to remind people masks are not a COVID-specific tool,” she says. “If you’re not feeling well but need to be around a loved one, wearing a mask will decrease the risk of giving any illness to them and vice versa.”
Handwashing also is very important – especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating. Graham recommends “really ramping up hand washing even more than you might normally do” in fall and winter.
Actual hand washing with hand soap and water is best, but hand sanitizer is better than nothing – and sometimes easier in certain caregiver situations.
“If your loved one has dementia, offering hand-washing reminders can be really helpful,” she adds. “And just modeling it yourself, making it the norm.”
Additionally, Graham says to keep up with regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces, such as door handles, bed rails and cane walkers.
Care Resources offers a variety of medical care and home health services, including vaccine clinics for participants, to help older adults stay healthy and independent. To learn more, visit CareResources.org or call 616-913-2006.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its Sensory Room, located at the beginning of Concourse A. This new area is designed to offer support to travelers with sensory sensitivities.
The Sensory Room is intended to provide a therapeutic setting that helps individuals feel comfortable in their surroundings. The space is designed to minimize overstimulation and provide a calm and inclusive environment for individuals of all ages with cognitive and/or development disabilities.
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)
“We are pleased to continue our commitment to enhancing the airport experience for all travelers,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “This room includes sensory aids that stimulate reactions, encourage communication, and reduce agitation and anxiety sometimes caused by air travel.”
Developed in partnership with Disability Advocates of Kent County, the Sensory Room is intended to provide a calm and controlled setting that offers a sense of familiarity for travelers. The space is divided into four different zones, including:
Transition Zone: Provides a comfortable adjustment from one sensory experience to another.
Active Zone: Engages multiple senses through various activities.
Respite Zone: Offers sensory separation and recalibration in a public setting.
Airplane Simulation Zone: Prepares individuals for new sensory situations to decrease anxiety.
Sensory Room. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)
“We would like to thank Delta Air Lines and Aero BridgeWorks Inc. for their support of this project and for their donation to the Airplane Simulation Zone, which will help travelers practice the process of boarding a plane, walking on a jet bridge and finding their seat,” Richardson said.
Additional features in the Sensory Room include an activity wall, campfire sitting area, soft surface play area and more.
The Sensory Room is now open to travelers and can be accessed through a call button next to the entrance door.
Woodland Mall will host an event in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month on Saturday, Sept. 28 in partnership with West Michigan’s Spanish-language radio station, La Poderosa.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the celebration will feature a Mexican dance performance, a variety of Hispanic-owned vendors, a coloring station and prizes in the mall’s Von Maur wing. La Poderosa will be programming live from the event, playing today’s Hispanic music hits and doing giveaways. In addition, On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina will be offering chips and salsa samples.
La Poderosa will be programming live from the event. (Photo Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of Hispanic and Latinx history, culture and contributions to the United States. It’s celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 each year since 1988.
“We look forward to bringing the community together to celebrate Hispanic and Latinx heritage and culture here in West Michigan,” said Marketing Manager Kennedy Vancalbergh. “This all-ages event will feature traditional dance performances, crafts for children, prizes and delicious food. We are delighted to again partner with La Poderosa to honor Hispanic Heritage Month.”
A special performance by Mexico Mix Ballet Folklórico, a local Ballet Folklórico dance group, will kick off the celebration at 11 a.m. The group consists of 10 adults and 10 children who will perform traditional Mexican dances for the audience.
Other activities include a booth where children can color maracas and a passport bingo game inviting guests to “travel” to all the vendors, matching countries on their bingo card to each booth. Once the bingo sheet is complete, guests will receive a prize and can also enter into a gift card giveaway.
Additional event information, including a full list of Hispanic-Owned vendors, can be found at ShopWoodlandMall.com. Vendor space is available. Businesses interested in registering may complete an application by contacting Cynthia Canos at cynthia@canosbroadcasting.com or 616-451-0551, ext. 100.
The City of Kentwood invites local organizations and community members of all abilities to its third Adaptive Recreation Expo on Thursday, Oct. 3.
The free event takes place 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. It is open to all community members, and no ticket or pre-registration is required. The event features a variety of local organizations with programs and resources for individuals of all abilities and provides opportunities for community members and vendors alike. A free pizza dinner also is provided to those in attendance.
“We are looking forward to hosting our third Adaptive Recreation Expo,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “This event has helped raise awareness of what equipment, resources and recreation options are available to people with disabilities and their families. When organizations come together like this, the community wins.”
During the event, individuals who have disabilities and their loved ones can learn more about a variety of local programs and resources, including recreation opportunities and adaptive equipment demonstrations. Students and community members interested in adaptive recreation can connect with local agencies and learn about volunteer, internship and employment opportunities.
Vendor applications are still being accepted. Vendors will have an opportunity to connect directly with potential new clients and volunteers as well as other organizations. If your organization is interested in becoming a vendor, contact Ann Przybysz at przybysza@kentwood.us or 616-656-5284.
The event’s gold sponsor is Secure Financial Group, silver sponsor is Hanger Clinic and bronze sponsors are Beyond26, Clock Mobility, Coloplast, Disability Advocates of Kent County, Life Beyond Barriers Rehabilitation Group, Novo Chiropractic Sports & Wellness Center, Ready for Life and West Michigan Bike and Fitness.
Brennan Carroll, from left, (Kentwood recreation program coordinator ), Jocelyn Dettloff (The Vibe guest speaker) and Ann Przybysz (Kentwood recreation program coordinator) at The Vibe Fundraiser 2024. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
While sledding down a sand dune in Sub-Saharan Africa back in 1997, Jocelyn Dettloff hit a mound of dirt which instantly changed her life.
“I don’t remember flying through the air, but I definitely remember as soon as I hit I could hear people calling my name,” Dettloff recalled. “I looked fine; you couldn’t tell that I was injured in any way. So when I woke up and I couldn’t feel anything, I knew that was a bad sign. I broke my back at thoracic 5 which is about bra line, mid-chest. I have what’s called a complete spinal cord injury. I have no feeling or movement from the point of injury down.
“This trip that I was on, they have you take out this evacuation insurance where they’ll fly you home from anywhere in the world and cover you up to a certain amount. So I actually had a nurse and a paramedic fly down from London to fly back with me to Kalamazoo.
Dettloff said she did quite a bit of traveling after college.
The Vibe guest speaker Jocelyn Dettloff. (Courtesy, Jocelyn Dettloff)
“I went on a trip to Europe, I spent a year backpacking through Australia and New Zealand, and I decided that Sub-Saharan Africa was going to be my next destination. I signed up for a company in England that did overland trips and we started in Kenya, and we were supposed to end up in South Africa. It was a very rustic trip. You just brought your sleeping bag, clothes and a roll mat and the truck had all the equipment that you would need.”
After the accident, she waited 3-1/2 hours for an airplane to get her because they were “literally in the middle of nowhere.”
“One of the drivers had to drive back to the campground, radio for a plane, and I was flown to the capital city of Windhoek (Namibia) and spent three weeks in the hospital there. They did surgery and stabilized my spine, and then I flew home to Kalamazoo and then went to Mary Free Bed for my rehab. And then just stayed in Grand Rapids.”
How long did it take to sink in that this was your new life?
“I say not long because when I got to the hospital my doctor was looking down at me and flicking sand off of me, and even before I knew his name, the very first thing he said to me is, ‘I want you to know you’ll probably never walk again.’ So there was just a little voice inside me that said, okay. But I’m good at compartmentalizing things, too, but it’s just focusing on the next thing to move on.”
Dettloff, now a Major Gift Director with the Mary Free Bed Foundation, was the guest speaker at the City of Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs fundraiser last Thursday called The Vibe, held in the courtyard of the Kent District Library — Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch.
About 10 years ago, Dettloff wrote a memoir entitled, “It Rained in the Desert: One Woman’s Story of Spirit and Resilience,” and recently recorded it through audible.com. You can find it HERE.
A passion for wheelchair tennis
She discovered wheelchair tennis and began playing competitively on a USTA local travel league. Her love for being active led her to trying a variety of other sports, including participating in Kentwood Parks and Recreation’s water ski program.
“Water skiing is one of the first adaptive activities that I did,” Dettloff explained. “They did that in partnership with Mary Free Bed. They do a few things in partnership with Free Bed, and then they have their own programming. But they partner together on downhill skiing clinics, water skiing, archery and golf.
“I still think that I should be able to do everything that I used to be able to do in a semi-similar way,” continued Dettloff, who talked about the effect and value wheelchair sports has had in her life.
Adaptive Recreation Water Skiing was one of the many information stations at The Vibe Fundraiser 2024. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Whatever happens in life, you can move on
“I mean, just to show that whatever happens in your life you can move on, you can,” Dettloff said. “I always say, I hit a mound of dirt and it changed my life. Many people have their version of a mound, whether it’s an illness, a different kind of accident, losing a job, divorce. I mean, the list could go on.
“But there is moving on from any kind of tragedy.”
Amongst the hors d’oeuvres and live music provided by Main Street Dueling Pianos, a silent auction was held and many adaptive equipment displays and videos could be seen at the 6th Annual Vibe.
All money raised at this year’s event will help purchase new equipment for Kentwood’s adaptive recreation program, which includes active sports such as archery, kayaking, bowling, water skiing, rock climbing, downhill skiing and pickleball as well as social opportunities such as leisure club and dances.
Adaptive Recreation Bowling was one of the many information stations at The Vibe Fundraiser 2024. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Parks and Rec newcomer Brennan Carroll, a recreation program coordinator, talked about why he enjoys working in the Adaptive Recreation Programs.
“I gravitate to it because it’s a population of people that I love working with,” Carroll said. “It’s just very cool to see how many people love and keep coming back to the same stuff that we’ve got going on, that I could be a part of that.”
Ann Przybysz, recreation program coordinator, spoke about who the Adaptive Rec Program serves.
“We do serve all sorts of disabilities and abilities, we have all sorts of diagnoses, people with physical disabilities, intellectual and developmental disabilities, so there’s really no cut off for who can participate in our programs,” Przybysz said. “We accept everyone and try to help everyone be successful in whatever that looks like for them.”
What do you enjoy most about the program?
“I love being able to connect families of people with disabilities to other families because, really, no one knows what their lives are like except for people in similar circumstances,” Przybysz explained. “I love seeing those connections and that socialization piece, not just with our participants, for their families as well, and really feeling connected, and involved and not alone.
“It can be really hard to know where to start for a lot of families, and so being able to connect them to just one resource here, and share more resources, that’s what I love about it.”
Kentwood’s adaptive recreation program is open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond. Learn more and sign up for the various offerings HERE.
Little ghouls and goblins are invited to participate in this trick-or-treating adventure where local businesses and organizations will be passing out candy and goodies.
Treats, bounce houses, and fun surprises can be found along the way!
(Wyoming Parks and Rec)
“We’re thrilled to bring back the Trick-or-Treat Trail,” said Krashawn Martin, Director of Wyoming Parks & Recreation. “Our goal is to provide a safe, enjoyable experience for families to celebrate the season together.
“It’s a wonderful alternative to traditional Halloween festivities, and we’re excited to see the community come together to enjoy all the amenities of Lamar Park and the beauty of the fall season.”
In previous years, the event has welcomed over 50 local businesses and organizations, and more than 4,000 attendees.
To be considered for the honor, organizations needed to be Great Place To Work-Certified™, have under 1,000 employees and provide senior housing or care. To determine the rankings, FORTUNE and Great Places to Work analyzed survey feedback from more than 181,000 U.S. employees on issues from pay and benefits to personal development opportunities and collegiality.
In the past year, Great Place To Work surveyed companies employing 8.2 million people in the U.S. and received 1.3 million survey responses. Of those, over 181,002 responses were received from employees at companies who were eligible for the 2024 Fortune Best Workplaces in Aging Services list.
National recognition – in triplicate!
(Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
This is the third national recognition for Beacon Hill in recent months.
“We are as dedicated to supporting our staff as we are to serving our residents,” President and CEO Jeffrey Huegli said. “We believe each and every employee is a valuable and integral part of our community’s well-being.
“This award underscores our commitment to our team and to creating an exceptional work environment. We are again delighted to receive national recognition in our industry.”
Heart and hospitality
Beacon Hill at Eastgate is a distinctive, nonprofit, continuing care retirement community nestled in the established and vibrant Eastgate neighborhood. The retirement community offers residents a host of tasteful living and care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The nonprofit also provides rehabilitation services.
Beacon Hill at Eastgate is known for their heart and hospitality (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
Beacon Hill hires for heart and talent – its team of approachable, passionate experts not only provides the highest level of hospitality but also emotional connections, spiritual support and resources residents can use to flourish in their homes and live independently.
The nonprofit helps residents feel at home by giving them access to a variety of on-site amenities that include four restaurants with weekly rotating menus, an indoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness center, art and exercise classes, community gardens and walking paths.
To learn more about Beacon Hill at Eastgate, click here.
The Bridge of Arbor Circle is a safe, no cost shelter program for youth, ages 10-17, who are facing homelessness or considering running away (Courtesy, Arbor Circle)
Join Arbor Circle on Sept. 25 from 4-6 p.m. to learn more about The Bridge of Arbor Circle and services for youth experiencing homelessness during the End of Summer Celebration.
During the event, guests will have the opportunity to tour The Bridge youth shelter and learn more from staff about the different programs available for youth. In addition to a sneak peek of some exciting construction projects underway at The Bridge, this year’s open house will feature snacks from New City Neighbors’ New City Café as well as a mural created on site during the event.
The Bridge End of Summer Celebration will offer sneak peeks of construction projects, snacks and a mural created on site (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Offering youth stable and accessible shelter
The Bridge of Arbor Circle is a safe shelter program for youth, ages 10-17, who are facing homelessness, housing instability, or considering running away. The Bridge offers youth a stable and accessible place to stay. Located in Grand Rapids, The Bridge is open 24/7/365.
“We are excited to open this space to the public for the evening and spread awareness of the important services provided at The Bridge,” shared Monique Carter, Director of Youth Development Services at Arbor Circle. “This space is incredibly special and we want folks to know what support is available to youth in our community.”
Free event registration
For more information and to register for this year’s free event, click here.
Sponsors for this year’s event include Veneklasen Construction.
The Wyoming Fire Department responded to several reports of a garage fire located near 44th Street and Oriole Avenue SW on Sept. 21 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
At approximately 12:15 p.m. on Sept. 21, the Wyoming Fire Department responded to several reports of a garage fire located near the area of 44th Street and Oriole Avenue SW.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The first arriving fire units observed a garage that was fully involved and quickly spreading to nearby homes and garages. Explosions were noted, likely from tires within the garage. The fire had already spread rapidly throughout the garage, causing significant smoke that could be seen from several miles away.
The fire also involved a Consumers Energy power pole and power lines above the area. Consumers Energy was contacted for an emergent response to cut power to this area while the fire was being extinguished.
The fire was extinguished, preventing it from fully spreading to the nearby house. A neighbor’s garage adjacent to the structure fire also sustained damage, along with nearby homes that suffered melted siding from the intense heat of the fire.
There were no injuries or fatalities, as the occupants were able to evacuate safely.
Importance of fire safety
The Wyoming Fire Department was notified of this fire due to the actions of observant neighbors and passers-by who saw smoke and flames arising from the garage. Notifying 911 quickly helped Wyoming firefighters get on scene and successfully extinguish the fire and limit damage to nearby properties.
The Wyoming Fire Department would like to thank the many local and municipal partners involved with this fire either directly or indirectly to include: Wyoming Police Department, Kentwood Fire Department, Byron Township Fire Department, American Medical Response for standby for firefighter safety, Grandville Fire Department for covering other emergency calls during this incident, Consumers Energy for their quick response, and DTE.
Additional information regarding fire welcome
This fire is currently under investigation for origin and cause. Anyone with additional information regarding this fire is asked to contact the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office Fire Investigator at 616-257-9764.
In a world filled with a fair amount of negative, painful stories, this one should put a smile on your face.
Take a look at the body cam footage of this great interaction between Kentwood Police Officers Mendez and Joseff with Dominic Russell stranded on his power wheelchair on Sept. 17 near the corner of 44th St. and Breton in Kentwood.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
After a conversation about how to get Russell home, whether via an ambulance, police car or other method of transportation, the officers ended up pushing him home a good distance. Russell’s wheelchair battery had died so he ultimately called 911 and within 10 minutes was greeted by Mendez and Joseff.
Kentwood Police Captain Tim Wierenga said the officers took turns pushing the heavy, motorized wheelchair until they reached Russell’s residence.
“(I’m) happy to pass along these positive stories; this one sure has gotten a lot of attention,” Wierenga said.
Facebook “thank you” from Dominic Russell
(Image Courtesy, Kentwood Police Department Facebook)
“We are thrilled to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Cook Carillon Tower, an iconic landmark of our campus,” said Jenny Hall-Jones, Vice President for Student Affairs.
“Its melodies have welcomed countless individuals to Grand Valley over the years, and we are excited to welcome our community to campus for a series of memorable concert experiences.”
Concert schedule and details
Each 45-minute concert will include a unique selection of music played by a professional carillonneur. Music will range from well-known GVSU classics, like the fight song and alma mater, to an evening of Taylor Swift-themed tunes on Oct. 11.
Attendees are encouraged to bring snacks, or grab some from a selection of food trucks that will be present.
An inside look at the Cook Carillon Bells (Courtesy, Bernadine Carey-Tucker)
Concerts currently scheduled for this fall include:
Sept. 21 at 12 p.m. – Family weekend concert
Sept. 28 at 1 p.m. – Classical concert
Oct. 11 at 5:30 p.m. – Love Story: A Taylor Swift-inspired concert event
Nov. 2 at 11:30 a.m. – Homecoming concert
Dec. 5 at 2:30 p.m. – Holiday concert
More information on the concert series can be found on Grand Valley’s Student Affairs website.
The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department will unveil improvements made at East Paris Nature Park during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 25.
Community members are invited to join the 2 p.m. celebration at the park, 5995 East Paris Ave. SE. The enhancements include trail improvements, signage and new amenities such as pet stations, bike repair stations, benches and more. These upgrades create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for community members of all ages and interests, inviting them to travel the trail, relax on a bench, learn about the wildlife that calls the park home and much more.
(Courtesy, Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
This project was funded in part by a grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund and through the voter-approved City of Kentwood Parks, Trails & Recreation millage.
“We’re excited to officially unveil and celebrate the improvements at East Paris Nature Park,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation director. “Through the parks millage, we are committed to enhancing the experience for all park visitors. We look forward to community members enjoying these wonderful amenities for years to come.”
Mayor Stephen Kepley will provide remarks during the ribbon-cutting. He will be joined at the event by other City of Kentwood officials.
More details on the East Paris Nature Park improvements are available on the City of Kentwood’s website.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been certified through the Airports Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program. The program is recognized internationally, with airports across the globe participating.
ACA includes a framework that helps airports identify, manage and ultimately reduce carbon emissions. The program comprises seven levels of certification, each of which represents a unique phase in carbon emission identification and reduction.
The Ford International Airport was certified at “Level 2,” which recognizes ongoing reductions in carbon emissions and sets goals for future carbon management. To date, the Ford International Airport continues to transition light fixtures to LEDs throughout the terminal and on the airfield. In addition, the terminal lighting system integrates efficiency measures such as light sensors in all the restrooms, private offices and passenger space in Concourses A and B. The Ford International Airport’s newly expanded Concourse A includes energy efficiency design as well. The design of Concourse A focused on leveraging building performance to enhance energy efficiency; there is a 70% energy reduction goal from 170 kBTU/sf/year down to 51 kBTU/sf/year.
“The Ford International Airport is committed to environmental and sustainable leadership,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “This is just the beginning of ongoing efforts as we continue our journey to reduce our environmental footprint in the West Michigan community.”
As a part of the ACA program, the Ford International Airport has developed and is implementing a carbon management plan to continue reducing emissions from sources under its control. The Ford International Airport has published its carbon reduction policy commitment with a goal of 20% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions per passenger (measured in kilograms per passenger) by 2035 compared to 2021 levels.
“We are thrilled to receive this certification as it underscores our commitment to sustainable aviation and responsible carbon management,” said Michelle Baker, environmental manager for the Ford International Airport Authority. “Our team has worked incredibly hard over the past three years to reduce emissions.”
Recognition of the Ford International Airport’s certification took place during the Airports Council International – North America’s (ACI-NA) 2024 Annual Conference in Grand Rapids in September 2024. It is one of only 57 commercial airports in North America to successfully become certified through this program.
“Congratulations to the Ford International Airport,” said Kevin M. Burke, president and CEO of ACI-NA. “This achievement will contribute to our industry’s shared vision of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. We look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts with airports to further reduce our collective carbon footprint.”
The magazine states on its website, “The list is a celebration of the incredible contributions that Latinos have made to our state, and it serves as a reminder of the many ways in which we are shaping the future of Michigan. The individuals included on this list are role models who have made a significant impact in their communities and beyond, and they serve as an inspiration to us all.”
About Gilda Gely
Gilda Gely is a proven leader in higher education (Courtesy, Davenport U)
Gely is a proven leader in higher education. Prior to joining Davenport, she held leadership positions at Cambridge College in Massachusetts, Aquinas College and Grand Rapids Community College. Prior to that, she held academic roles at universities in her native Puerto Rico.
“I am honored to be part of this group of 25 esteemed leaders in the Latino community across Michigan,” Gely said. “The attention is on us for a moment because the work we do as a group will last into our collective future. I am grateful that Vive Michigan is committed to helping our community provide access to education and opportunities, so more Latinos are able to assume leadership positions across our state.”
Gely earned her Ph.D. in Spanish from the University of Illinois from Urbana-Champaign, her Master of Arts in Spanish from Middlebury College and her Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting and Spanish from Kansas State University.
She has been in her current role at Davenport for more than five years. She spearheaded the creation of Casa Latina at Davenport, a new online bilingual initiative that enrolled its first students this fall.
Sanchez came on board to lead the unique degrees program.
About Carlos Sanchez
Carlos Sanchez worked diligently to bring the first students to Casa Latina (Courtesy, Davenport U)
“This has been such an exciting year launching Casa Latina, and now this special honor,” Sanchez said. “I admire my colleagues on the list and look forward to continuing our good work to improve the lives of Latinos in our community. Thank you to Vive Michigan for this recognition.”
Sanchez earned a Master of Arts in Design from Kendall College and a Bachelor of Science in International Business from Davenport University.
“I am proud that two of Davenport’s leaders have been named among the most influential Latinos in our community,” said Pres. Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. “Gilda and Carlos are tremendous leaders at the university and in the larger community. Provost Gely brings her talent and energy to the university every day and has been instrumental in our strategic planning and the design and development of new degrees, including Casa Latina.
“Carlos, as the leader of this new innovative program, continues to work diligently as our first students in Casa Latina have just started classes. They both deserve this honor given by Vive Michigan for their work in education that will pay dividends for years to come.”
Before joining Davenport, Sanchez led initiatives at Ferris State University and spent time as the executive director of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He serves on numerous boards, including those of the Grand Rapids Economic Club and Trinity Health.
Gely has also served on numerous boards, including the Grand Rapids Public Museum and the World Affairs Council. She was honored in 2011 with the Distinguished Woman in Higher Education Leadership Award by the Michigan ACE Network.
West Michigan families and their four-legged best friends are invited to attend Paws With A Cause’s fourth annual Retriever Fever! This free, dog-friendly gathering will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Riverside Park located at 2001 Monroe Ave NE in Grand Rapids.
What to expect
This event is centered around a friendly competition between Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever fans with retriever races, raffles, and merchandise sales contributing to deciding which dog breed is named “Top Dog” and raises the most money for PAWS.
Retriever Fever will also include food trucks, games and activities, local community vendors, Dog CPR/First Aid Demonstrations by Blue Pearl Pet Hospital, Pet Headshots by Tailwagger Dog Photography, and the opportunity to get your dog’s nails trimmed. Attendees will also be able to hear about the life-changing impact of a PAWS Assistance Dog from a Client Speaker and see PAWS Assistance Dogs in action through demonstrations.
Dogs enjoy the Retriever Fever Race on the day of the event (Courtesy, PAWS)
“We’re so excited to be hosting this event back to our community for a fourth year in a row,” said Kristy Blackmore, Special Events Manager at PAWS. “There are new additions this year including dog nail trims, CPR demonstrations, new community vendors, and new PAWS Dogs to meet.
“It’s going to be a fun day. We hope people bring their dogs join in on the excitement!”
Supporting the PAWS mission
Opportunities to support the PAWS non-profit in their mission to serve people with disabilities through assistance dogs are available through event sponsorships and donations.
A PAWS Assistance Dog rests at the feet of its owner (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Thank you to our incredible event sponsors, Blue Pearl Pet Hospital, Dan Vos Construction, Outfront Media, and Chrispy Media. With their support, we’re able to host events like these and continue our mission.”
More information about Retriever Fever can be found here.
Treasured Brown Girl aims to restore confidence, hope and belonging in brown girls with Alopecia by normalizing their condition and unlocking their confidence (Courtesy photo)
September commemorates Alopecia Awareness Month, and a Grand Rapids organization is looking to shed light on the hair-loss disease and bring awareness to those living with it in their day-to-day lives.
Treasured Brown Girl (TBG) was founded by Tyra Thomas after she witnessed a loved one dealing with Alopecia firsthand. TBG aims to restore confidence, hope and belonging in brown girls with Alopecia by normalizing their condition and unlocking their confidence.
Providing confidence and strength
TBG Alopecia wig box with custom contents (Courtesy, TBG)
TBG specializes in “wig boxes” for young girls living with Alopecia. Each box comes with a custom, age-appropriate, natural headband wig, and confidence-boosting supplies that include a mirror, nail polish, pens, and accessories for the wig. Also included in the boxes is a charming story about the impact of Alopecia on a little girl, and a guided journal for girls to process their emotions and examine their strengths.
Boxes can be curated to fit the needs of each individual.
“Treasured Brown Girl came to be because someone I love has Alopecia,” said Thomas. “Alopecia has several stages, and she tried different oils, different shampoo, but nothing was working and the condition kept getting worse.”
TBG journal (Courtesy, TBG)
Thomas, who previously owned a hair salon, found that many of the wigs they were looking into buying weren’t the right texture, or were not age appropriate. Even though vendors Thomas was familiar with through her salon could provide wigs, they did not supply them for children often.
“No one is looking at the whole emotional impact this hair loss has, or what support systems are out there,” Thomas said. “With the emotional toll that Alopecia takes, it’s important that the product feels like your natural hair.”
Giveaway registration details
To honor Alopecia Awareness Month, TBG is giving away a wig box and a makeover for a girl between the ages of 8-16 with Alopecia. The giveaway is supported by Opportunity Empowered.
Registration for the giveaway is online from Sept. 8-18, and the winner will be chosen Sept. 19.
At approximately 7:47 p.m. on Sept. 14, officers from the Kentwood Police Department responded to Main Event, a business establishment located at 3121 28th St. SE, with reports of an active fight involving 15-20 people.
Officers arrived on scene and were able to separate several people, adults and juveniles, that were engaging in assaultive behavior. Upon investigation, it appears that all people involved had been attending a birthday party and were known by each other.
One person sustained a minor injury as a result of the altercation. It does not appear that any weapons were involved. No arrests have been made at this time, and the case continues to be investigated by Kentwood Police detectives. 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.
The City of Kentwood is debuting its Fall Festival to celebrate the change in seasons with food trucks, a beer tent, live music, a farmers market and activities for community members of all ages to enjoy.
The free-to-attend festival will run from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, on the lawn of Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE.
“We look forward to celebrating the start of the fall season as a community with a variety of outdoor activities,” Kentwood Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo said. “We have something for everyone to enjoy, whether you want to lean into your competitive side in the volleyball competition or scarecrow building contest or opt for a relaxing activity like visiting the farmers market or artist vendor booths.”
The farmers market will be open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the food trucks, beer tent, artist vendors will be available 11 a.m.to 8 p.m. The beer tent features craft beers and seltzers from Railtown Brewing Company as well as other local seasonal and domestic beers.
Food Trucks: from barbeque to kettle corn, and much more
There will be an array of food trucks offering cuisines like barbeque, tacos and burgers as well as sweet treats like kettle corn, cheesecake, ice cream, donuts and more.
Local artist vendors and farmers market
Local artist vendors will feature goods like jewelry, posters, woodwork, books, home décor and more. Farmers market vendors will sell everything from fruits and vegetables to coffee and baked goods and much more.
Live music starts at 11 a.m.
Live music will start at 11 a.m. with Hot Leslie, followed by DJ Snax, Astro Jackson and RocknSoul. Attendees will hear everything from rock and pop to blues and hip-hop.
The Fall Festival also will feature a scarecrow building competition for all ages. Each team of two to four people will have an hour to create a scarecrow. The straw, stuffing, and stake will be provided, but each team will need to bring all additional materials such as clothing and accessories to dazzle the judges at 4:30 p.m. Teams can pre-register online and are required to pay a $10 entry fee.
Free children’s activities: face painting, bobbing for donuts and more
Free activities for children of all ages also will be offered, yard games and face painting throughout the event. At 1:30 p.m. there will be bobbing for donuts and at 2:30 p.m. there will be pumpkin rolling.
The event’s diamond sponsors are Macatawa Bank and Mary Free Bed Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics.
Volunteers are needed for helping at the Kids Fun Zone. Sign up to support this new community event and find additional event details and volunteer requirements at kentwood.us/FallFest.
Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan (RMHCWM) is calling on the community to help ensure families staying at the House have access to the comfort of home-cooked meals, easy meals and individually packaged snacks. On Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., RMHCWM will host a collection drive at 1323 Cedar St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
Your generous donations keep families nourished with the comforts of home (Courtesy, RMHC)
During their stay, families of hospitalized children rely on RMHCWM for a comforting place to rest and eat. By donating essential food items, you can help ease their burden, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—their child’s health. Your generous donations help stock the RMCHWM pantry and keep families nourished with the comforts of home.
Wish List:
Individually packed shelf-stable snacks: Chips, granola bars, fruit snacks, crackers, mini-muffins, etc.
Easy meals: Kraft macaroni, ramen noodles, soups, hamburger helper, etc.
Rice: Plain and mixes
Pastas: All varieties – 16 or 32 oz. boxes
Pasta sauces: Red sauce and alfredo, jarred or canned
Canned vegetables and beans: tomatoes (all varieties), corn, green beans, black beans, etc
Broths: Beef and chicken
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, parsley, oregano, chili powder, cumin, etc.
Marinades and sauces
Baking chips: Chocolate, white chocolate, cinnamon
Dessert mixes: Cakes, brownies, etc.
If you cannot drop off your donations in person, you can still participate by shopping on Amazon and shipping your items directly to the House. Visit the RMCHWM Amazon Wish List at https://a.co/9nk0vfN to find the items most needed.
Let’s work together to keep the RMHCWM pantry fully stocked (Courtesy, RMHC)
Spread the word!
Share this collection drive with friends and family, and let’s work together to keep the pantry fully stocked, ensuring that every family staying at RMHCWM has access to the comfort foods they want during their stay.
About Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan
The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan is to keep families together who travel to Grand Rapids when their child is receiving medical or mental health treatment in the hospital.
Since 1990, RMHCWM has been serving families throughout Michigan and worldwide. Families live at the House where they have access to a safe, clean, and comfortable room with bath plus hot meals and transportation to and from the hospital, all at no cost to the families.
“We always start with location, and in this case, we love the site in Grandville and its strong position within the greater Grand Rapids area,” said Poag, adding that he began looking at the mall as a potential acquisition upon the suggestion of a friend.
Poag is looking forward to use their redevelopment expertise to reimagine the RiverTown property (Courtesy, Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
After visiting the Grand Rapids area last summer, Poag was impressed with the Grand Rapids MSA, Grandville in particular.
“This property has so much potential for redevelopment given its great location and proximity to rooftops,” said Poag. “We are energized about the opportunity to deploy our redevelopment expertise to reimagine the property, both inside and outside, and its role in the greater Kent County area.”
The Poag CEO was also impressed with Grandville’s passion for the area – and for the future.
“There is a lot of growth in the area, and we walked away very impressed and encouraged,” said Poag.
Revitalizing through creating experience
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Though RiverTown Crossings boasts five anchors including Macy’s, Kohl’s, JCPenney, Celebration Cinemas and Dick’s Sporting Goods, the two-story enclosed super regional shopping mall has seen a decline in patronage over the last several years.
Poag believes the reason for the decline in mall patronage is twofold.
“Online shopping is certainly one cause over the past 15 years,” Poag said. “The operations of a mall are another. When a mall or any property is neglected, the customer sees that and feels the decline. They are less encouraged to come back.
“Our history is about creating experience. Our first mission is to take care of the property, from filling in potholes to trimming back overgrown landscaping to getting the carousel working again.”
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Poag aims to revitalize the mall through redevelopment by adding new uses and activating underutilized parking fields, though the planning process is in early stages.
“While we know we want to add new uses and leverage underutilized real estate, we can’t yet say what that will look like just yet,” said Poag. “It could be multifamily, hotel or more retail.
“Until we take the necessary steps to understand what changes and additions the community would most like and what would be most viable, we can’t share anything definitive just yet.”
A team effort
The Memphis-based developer will work with JLL, its strategic management and leasing partner, to maximize the potential of the property.
Poag will also be consulting the Grandville community.
Poag actively engages local communities in the early planning process of redevelopment (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“We believe it’s a team effort,” said Poag. “We know that we do not know the community better than the folks that live there. We are not the type of developer to come in and tell the community what they need.
“We actively involve local community leaders and members, city representatives and nearby business owners in the early planning process to get an understanding of what works and doesn’t work currently, what they feel is missing, and what folks think would resonate well in the local community.”
The retail developer adds RiverTown Crossings to its portfolio on the heels of its acquisition of Oak Court Mall, an 800,000-square-foot enclosed mall currently undergoing redevelopment planning in Memphis, TN.
Alana Springsteen will be coming to West Michigan with Tyler Hubbard’s STRONG World Tour in October (Courtesy photo, Alana Springsteen with Two Step Inn)
Released in August 2023, Springsteen’s first studio album is being described as groundbreaking and a “pathway to those seeking connection, solace, and understanding” by American Songwriter. Lead songwriter on all 18 tracks and co-producing nearly every track, Springsteen has put her heart and soul into TWENTY SOMETHING – and is connecting with millions of listeners because of it.
Authenticity on tour
Springsteen loves connecting with fans at live shows (Courtesy, Lily Mason)
The rising star is hitting the road with singer-songwriter Tyler Hubbard on his STRONG World Tour and will perform at GLC Live at 20 Monroe in Grand Rapids on Oct. 31.
Springsteen performed with Hubbard on the West Coast in 2023, prompting Hubbard’s invitation to join him on the STRONG tour.
“From the second I hit that stage, the energy I felt from his fans and his community was another level, and it felt like we just connected,” says Springsteen. “I loved those shows so much.”
Springsteen’s arrival in West Michigan follows 10+ years chasing a dream, performing and collaborating with Country superstars and GRAMMY Award-winning writers, over 200 million streams globally, and the accumulation of numerous accolades.
But the twenty-something singer is more concerned with finding her most authentic self than she is with awards.
A dream comes true
Growing up surrounded by cornfields and strawberry fields in a rural Virginia Beach community called Pungo, Springsteen began singing in church as soon as she could talk.
“Music is something I fell in love with really early in life. When I was seven years old, I picked up the guitar for the first time and fell in love with it.”
Springsteen wrote her first song at age nine, and calls it the turning point.
Springsteen processes the world through words and music (Courtesy, Alana Springsteen)
“I realized that I could say things in music and writing that I couldn’t say to even my closest friends and family,” says Springsteen. “Writing has always been my therapy. It’s how I process what’s going on inside me, and also in the world around me.”
Springsteen had her heart set on becoming a country music artist and told her parents she wanted to go to Nashville. At age 10, her parents took Springsteen to Nashville where she had her first experience co-writing a song.
“I got to see that there was this entire community that existed that loved the same things I love, or was passionate about the same things I was,” says Springsteen. “It felt like we spoke the same language, and I felt right at home.”
Springsteen’s first publishing deal came at age 14, officially making her a paid songwriter. Shortly after, Springsteen and her family moved to Nashville.
Cycles of life in song
Springsteen began writing and co-writing full-time. Prior to TWENTY SOMETHING, the singer released EPs relating to recent relationship breakups – but had more intricate plans for her debut album.
A self-professed romantic, Springsteen admits to feeling things deeply – and learning hard lessons through those breakups. Springsteen turned to writing and music to process her emotions.
Alana Springsteen in Dallas (Courtesy, Anna Clary)
“When I wrote ‘twenty something’ – the title track – it felt like exactly where I was in life. I was like, this is it.”
Springsteen’s album consists of personal experiences depicting the cycle of mistakes, figuring things out and getting things right.
“I wanted to release the songs in that order and take fans along that journey with me,” says Springsteen.
What people don’t know…
Springsteen shares her story through music with the hope it will encourage others (Courtesy, Lily Nelson)
What most people don’t know, Springsteen says, is that she is an introvert – and revealing her emotions is not easy.
“[The album] is some of the most personal songs I’ve ever written, and I was terrified to release a lot of it because it’s like putting yourself on display,” says Springsteen, likening the album release to that of sharing her deepest, darkest feelings with the world.
“What drove me was knowing that if I was scared to say these things, then there were probably so many other people out there going through the same things and needing to hear it.”
Springsteen lives by a code of authenticity.
“In your twenties, you’re pulled in different directions trying to find where you fit,” says Springsteen. “If I’ve learned anything through this process, it’s that the only thing we’re chasing is the most honest, authentic version of ourselves all the time.”
Springsteen’s song “Amen” is a promise to always stay true to herself and live on her own terms.
Alana Springsteen on stage in Toronto (Courtesy, Tyler Glasenapp)
“A lot of those lyrics are really hard for me to say,” Springsteen says. “But it was so healing just putting it on paper, releasing it, and being able to have these conversations with friends and family that I never would have been able to without this song.
“If I can help them take one thing from this album, it’s to chase the most honest, authentic version of yourself.”
Springsteen says she is a regular 23-year-old girl making mistakes, living life and working her way through it. Feeling seen and understood through the music community has felt like coming home – and she is grateful.
“That’s what makes music special. It’s so healing, and it can connect people in ways that nothing else can.
“There’s nothing better than getting through [life] together, sharing stories and being there for each other. That’s why I love live shows. I’m really excited to feel that energy again on the tour.”
Find out more about Alana Springsteen and her music here.
STRONG World Tour dates and ticket information can be found here.
For retired nurse Amy Lyons, being a volunteer for Emmanuel Hospice continues her lifelong pursuit of caring for others.
As a patient/family support volunteer, she’s at the bedside of a hospice patient providing comfort and peaceful companionship through the end of their life. Sometimes she talks with patients or reads to them, other times she’s more of a calming presence while she holds their hand or crochets a lap blanket.
“I was always taught the Holy Spirit will tell you what you need to do,” she says. “I can’t necessarily provide physical care as a volunteer, and as a former nurse, it’s hard not to help, but you find other ways to support. I’ll play music, hold their hand – whatever makes them comfortable.”
As she leaves a session with a patient, which normally lasts an hour to 90 minutes, she likes to ask if there’s anything she can bring them next time – something that brings them joy.
“One lady said sunflowers,” Lyons recalls. “Well, it was too early for real sunflowers, so I brought artificial ones. I explained this to her, and she said, ‘why yes, it is too early’ and then proceeded to tell me all about growth of sunflowers.
“I believe every patient always has something to teach you. If nothing else, it’s how to die with grace – all of them have been at peace in the end and that makes me happy.”
Lyons has been with several patients in their final moments in what’s known as “sitting vigil” – being at the bedside during someone’s last days or hours as they’re actively dying.
“I find it so rewarding,” she says. “People often ask how can you do that? And I can’t tell them enough what an honor it is to go and be selected to be with a person until their final breath.”
While most vigils last a few hours, the first patient she sat vigil with lasted nine days. She chose to be there with him for three to four hours a night, and when he passed, “It was a relief for both of us.”
“I thought, ‘he’s comfortable now,’ ” she remembers. “That is all I ever want to see, that you’re comfortable with where you’re heading. I tell patients, ‘no matter what you think or what you’ve done or haven’t done, it’s OK. You don’t have to be afraid.’ And for some, it seems that’s all they needed to hear – that it’s all going to be OK.”
Lyons also is a spiritual director trained by the Dominican Center in Grand Rapids, so she brings a spiritual side to her hospice volunteer work.
Lyons and her husband, who also is a spiritual director, have curated a library full of spiritual texts to better understand other belief systems and to offer readings that will resonate best with each individual patient.
“Figuring out what faith care they would like, and how to honor that is important to me,” she says.
One of her favorite tools for helping patients feel more comfortable and to open up about their life story is a book that contains a series of questions a father would typically answer for his own kids.
“I’ll look in the book and ask something like, ‘What’s your fondest memory of your grandkids?’ or ‘What do you remember about your grandma?’ and that usually gets people talking,” she says. “I’ll share about my life, too. I explain that being a nurse is very physical work, but I can sit and I can talk to them and hold their hand. I can’t care for them the way I used to, but now I can care for their spirits.
“I would never hesitate to volunteer again. If I knew how rewarding it would be, I would have become a hospice volunteer sooner in my life.”
Emmanuel Hospice is always looking for volunteers in the greater Grand Rapids area to provide companionship and support to patients. The nonprofit matches the unique skills and interests of prospective volunteers with the right opportunity, ensuring each volunteer receives a tailored area of assignment. More information can be found at EmmanuelHospice.org/volunteer.
The Kentwood Police Department responded to a personal injury accident at approximately 8:50 a.m. Sept. 12 in the 5100 block of Eastern Ave.
During the initial investigation it was determined that one pedestrian was struck while crossing Eastern Ave., along with a second vehicle immediately after. The pedestrian was treated and transported to a local hospital for serious injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.
Drivers and passengers of both vehicles involved were checked and treated for injuries, one of which was also transported to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. All the people involved have been cooperating with the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department at 616-698-6580. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
Leticia Perez (Co-President of the Board for the 55th Annual Fiesta Mexicana, held this weekend at Calder Plaza in Grand Rapids) was our guest on WKTV Soundbites Wednesday.
Be sure to check out the 55th Annual Fiesta Mexicana this weekend at the Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids, featuring everything from awesome music and food, karaoke, kids activities, arts and crafts, a Lowrider Show, and believe it or not, a cash prize soccer tournament.
“Typically, we expect between 25,000 and 30,000 people,” said Leticia Perez, Co-President of the Board for the 55th Annual Fiesta Mexicana, held Sept. 13-15 at Calder Plaza, 250 Monroe Ave. in Grand Rapids.
(Photo Courtesy, Fiesta Mexicana Board)
“This is our big event; planning definitely takes a whole year,” Perez added. “Our Board consists of nine very dedicated people. We do have a lot of volunteers and committee members that help, too.”
Many, many bands will grace the festival, including Los Morros del Norte headlining from 10 to 11:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13. Check out the below poster for the entire weekend of bands and special events.
“On Friday we kick things off at noon … and with kids activities throughout the day in the ‘Kids Zone,’ and music from local bands,” Perez said. “We’re expecting a big attendance for the kickoff night.”
(Photo Courtesy, Fiesta Mexicana)
On Saturday the music, dancing, food and Kids Zone continues, along with karaoke from 4 to 5 p.m. and a cash-prize soccer tournament.
“We’re going to have the front of the Calder Plaza right on Ottawa Ave. shut down from Noon to 4 for the soccer tournament,” Perez said. “The kids putting it on are very talented.”
There also will be El Grito De Independencia (The Cry for Independence) from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, commemorating the actual day of Sept. 16 with the raising of the flag.
(Image Courtesy, Fiesta Mexicana)
According to the Mexican Heritage Association’s website, it’s the oldest ethnic festival celebrated in Grand Rapids. “Founded in 1969, a group of Mexican women shared a vision of celebrating their cultural heritage with the wider community. Thanks to her and the countless others who have planted the seeds over the past 52 years, we can now look beyond the struggle to validate the richness of our culture in the mainstream mindset.
“This vision eventually evolved into the modern-day Fiesta Mexicana.”
Perez added, “As an organization, we do other cultural events like Cinco De Mayo, bringing our culture to the community.”
Lowrider Show from Noon to 8 Sunday
Wrapping things up on Sunday, there’ll be more bands, another Kids Zone and a Lowrider Show from noon to 8 p.m.
(Photo Courtesy, Fiesta Mexicana)
“Last year was our first time having the Lowrider Show back; it used to be a staple,” Perez said. “It will be all along Ottawa Ave. with a category for Classic Cars, Fifties Cars, New Lowriders and Muscle cars. It’s going to be a very nice selection.”
