The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is investigating two separate crashes involving pedestrians and vehicles.
At approximately 6:52 a.m. on February 9, officers and firefighters responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by a semi-truck at 28th Street and South Division Avenue. The semi was turning from northbound Division Avenue to westbound 28th Street when it struck a 55-year-old male Wyoming resident who was crossing 28th Street at the intersection.
The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital for significant injuries. He was last known to be in serious condition.
At approximately 7:24 a.m., officers and firefighters responded to a report of a pedestrian struck near Chicago Drive and Nagel Avenue Southwest.
A 32-year-old female resident of Wyoming was crossing Chicago Drive when she was struck by a vehicle traveling westbound. The pedestrian was then struck by another vehicle traveling eastbound. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The name of the pedestrian is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin. Wyoming accident investigators are currently investigating both crash scenes and the circumstances of the crashes.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
A tragic situation lead local artist Kim Johnson to be a witness to the chaos world of the healthcare workers as they struggled to help those with COVID 19, which in turn has lead to an insightful and personal narrative of what Johnson saw.
“If My Paintings Were on These Walls” will premiere on Feb. 17 on WKTV’s Comcast Channel 25. (WKTV)
Friday, Feb. 17, WKTV will premiere Johnson’s short film “If My Paintings Were on this Wall” at 7 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 or you can live stream it at WKTV.org. The film is a combination of watercolor paintings and an essay by Johnson with video clips, narrated by Grammy Award winner singer, actress and author Debby Boone.
“Having seen Kim’s artwork, I knew that she would do a beautiful job executing this project.” Boone said. “There is real emotion and humanity in these pictures that is quite beautiful and her essay really communicates the sacrifice [many] have been willing to provide for people during such a trying time with the pandemic and the overload in these hospitals.
“You know they are exhausted and their personal lives are maybe falling apart and yet, they still show up with love and compassion for the people they’re trying to serve.”
The story of Kim and Georgia Johnson
Covid 19 turned many people’s lives upside down and local artist Kim Johnson and her mother, Georgia thought that was going to be the case for them.
But a trip to the hospital lead to the discovery that Georgia did not have Covid like everyone thought, but rather metastasized breast cancer, which would take her life in 21 days.
During that time, Kim Johnson spent every waking hour at the hospital and when her mother was getting tested or sleeping, Johnson, with sketchpad in tow, would draw what see was seeing: the nurses looking so tired but kept going, health care workers being yelled and assaulted by frustrated and frightened patients; and those running from one hospital room to another to take care of patient needs.
“At the time, I was a pretty bitter person,” Johnson said. ”I disliked anyone in the healthcare field. I disliked [Georgia’s] doctor because I thought he could have caught it.
“I was pretty nasty and my attitude stunk in the time that she was there and a lot of times I left the room and took my sketchpad with me and God worked on my heart a little bit because one of the first things I saw, or rather heard, was there was a patient screaming. The F-bomb was flying right and left, and the next thing I know this nurse came out and she was balling…she crumbled to the floor in tears and someone came to console her.”
This would be the first of many sketches but after her mothers death, Johnson’s resentment toward anyone in the healthcare, caused her to pack up the drawings along with her art supplies. After selling the family home, she had no intention of having anything to do with art.
Finding compassion and gratitude
Six months later, Johnson began to have a change of heart, developing compassion for the healthcare workers. She rekindled her love for drawing and watercolor painting, and through most of her supplies were in storage, she was able to find a few supplies packed away including the sketchbook she had at the hospital.
One of the 38 paintings by Kim Johnson.
It is from that sketchbook she wrote her essay about her experiences and interactions within those 21 days and painted 38 4×6-inch paintings, all of which is included in the video.
Johnson has long followed and admired four daughters of legendary singer Pat Boone since 1977 when Debby Boone recored the song “You Light Up My Life.” She also was a fam of the 1979 Boone Family Easter Special. Through a meeting on the now defunct My Space, Johnson meet and became friends with Cherry Boone O’Neill, Debby Boone’s sister. It was through that friendship, which eventually migrated to Facebook, that she met Debby Boone, who upon hearing of the project agreed to narrate it.
“Honestly, I never thought that I would ever have the opportunity to meet Debby Boone, let alone work with her on a project I created,” Johnson said. “She narrated something I wrote. I still cannot believe that it is happening. I am beyond honored.”
There will be a private showing of the film at the WKTV Community Media Center in February. In March, there will be a public showing that will be followed by a brief appreciation recognition for healthcare workers in all capacities. The film also will be available on Kim Johnson’s YouTube channel at the end of March.
Cassandra Lawson (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolf Pack Press)
Cassandra Lawson loves art, but she loves teaching even more. For her, enjoying the job is the most important thing.
“If you want to be an art teacher you have to love teaching even more than you love art because it’s even more important,” Lawson said. “I think there are a lot of people that go into education who do it cause they love the art, they love science or social studies.
“Still, they don’t love teaching as much and you have to love teaching, which I do you have to be a people person. You have to talk to people all day and you’re using your brain all day long.”
Lawson went to Macomb Community College for a year and then finished off her schooling at Grand Valley State University. She majored in art education and minored in ceramics. She student taught at Grand Rapids Public Schools’ Coit Creative Arts Academy and teacher assisted here at Wyoming High School.
Lawson wanted to be a teacher originally but she added art to the title as well. She talked about the WHS’s welcoming student body.
“I love it,” she said. “I really like the student body I feel like everyone here has a sense of community and family. Everyone is really friendly. I’ve worked in other schools where everyone is pretty self-sufficient but I feel like here everyone leans on each other in a good way.”
Regan Mead is a junior at Wyoming High School. Regan is a journalism student and member of the cheer team.
Meet English Teacher Elizabeth Schoof
By Matthew Czurak WKTV Contributor
Elizabeth Schoof (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolf Pack Press/Elizabeth Schoof)
To get to know her students, English teacher Elizabeth Schoof spent the first week of school playing fun games and activities such as the Soup-Salad-Sandwich game, where students not only learned a little about each other but also about Schoof such as her favorite book is the “Twilight”series.
“It was a good week it’s good and it was nice to get to meet and know and learn about each other,” Schoof said..
A graduate of Aquinas College, Schoof strides to be nice to all of her students and is always helpful if they are stuck or confused.
Everyone has role models and Schoof’s was her English teacher. Schoof herself not only was a student teacher, but she was also at one point a student who wanted to be a teacher. I asked her her opinion on the best first steps to becoming one.
“Pay attention to what teachers now are dealing with in the classroom cause you will deal with it too,” she said as advice to those wishing to pursue teaching as a career. “And when you are in the classroom pay attention in college.”
Before entering the field, most teachers start as student teachers, studying under other teachers. From the experience, they understand how students will think and act. I asked Ms. Schoof what her experience was like as a student teacher and if she thinks “it’s better being your own teacher.”
“It has been fun. it’s nice to be able to teach my own way without someone else controlling the classroom I like the freedom” was her reply to the question she also was a student teacher under her English teachers.
I asked Ms.Schoof what she would like people to know about her this was her response.”I like to have fun I like to talk I like to have conversations about what is going on in the world, cultures, movies all sorts of stuff”
Matt Czurak is a freshman journalism student at Wyoming High School. Matt enjoys French class.
The City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc are partnering to host the eighth annual Freeze Fest doubles disc golf tournament and food drive on Saturday, Feb. 18.
Disc golfers of all skill levels are invited to join the best-shot doubles competition at Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Dr. SE from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. All proceeds will go to support Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
On-site registration begins at 9 a.m. and the first round of the tournament starts at 10 a.m. Pre-registration is encouraged online at kentwood.us/FreezeFest. The cost is $25 per person or $50 per team and one canned food donation.
A photo from a previous Freeze Fest tournament. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“It has been exciting to watch Freeze Fest and our other disc golf events continue to grow each year,” said Lori Gresnick, Kentwood recreation program coordinator. “We continue to be amazed by and are grateful for the generosity of the disc golf community.”
The Kentwood Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a community service project in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. The small food pantry is open to all community members year-round and is designed to fill an immediate and local need. It offers nonperishable food and personal care items. Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry. No application is required and no questions are asked.
“The annual Freeze Fest gives the disc golf community a great opportunity to enjoy the game during the off season while also supporting the local community,” said Shea Abbgy, owner of Great Lakes Disc. “This is one of our favorite events of the year and we’re proud to continue partnering with the City of Kentwood on this tournament.”
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The demand for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, has steadily increased since its opening. To help meet the growing need, the City of Kentwood opened a second pantry location in 2021 at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. More information is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
Eliminating noncompete agreements would allow nurses to be better advocate for patients, according to some in favor of the ban on noncompete agreements. (Pxhere.com)
LANSING – The Federal Trade Commission’s recent announcement that it is considering a ban on noncompete employment contracts will improve wages of health care workers, as well as care for patients, according to a policy expert for the nation’s largest nurses union.
FTC Chair Lina Khan said such contracts are bad for workers and prevent wages from raising. In a press release announcing the proposed ban, it was estimated that the change would increase wages by $300 billion a year.
Noncompete contracts are agreements between employees and employers that typically bar workers who resign from taking new jobs in the same industry in the same geographical area for a set period.
The proposed ban, which would bar employers from entering or continuing a noncompete contract, is now in a question and comment period which will last until March 20.
Giving employees more flexibility
Economic Policy Institute President Heidi Shierholz said noncompete contracts are typically used to keep workers from a source of power: quitting and taking another job.
Shierholz said because noncompete contracts prevent people from resigning to work elsewhere, they keep wages low and contribute to a mismatch in the labor market.
“Noncompetes keep people locked in jobs that aren’t necessarily the best job for them,” Shierholz said. “Our whole economy works better when there are good matches between jobs and workers.”
Shierholz, whose institute is a liberal-think tank in Washington, D.C., said about 45% of jobs that require a college degree use a noncompete contract.
According to Bloomberg Law, 45% of primary care physicians are bound by noncompete contracts.
Local case heading to court
Last week, it was announced that Trinity Health Michigan and four surgeons have filed in federal court seeking to have noncompete contracts with Orthopedic Associates of Michigan (OAM). According to the lawsuit, the four surgeons, who worked for OAM, are being prevented from working at Trinity Health Grand Rapids (formerly St. Mary’s) due to noncompete contacts.
As reported by MiBiz, Trinity and the surgeons are alleging that “monopolistic behavior by OAM, which will seriously disrupt care for patients needing orthopedic surgery in Kent County,” and cost Trinity Health Grand Rapids millions of dollars, according to court filings.
According to the lawsuit, OAM, through mergers with other orthopedic groups, has about 64 percent of the market share. It is estimated that Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) has about a 23 percent share with the rest held by private groups.
Noncompetes limit advocacy
The National Nurses Association, which is the nation’s largest registered nurses’ union, opposes noncompete contracts and similar agreements that prevent nurses from more easily leaving their jobs.
The Michigan Nurses Association, based in Okemos, is its state affiliate.
Brynne O’Neal, a regulatory policy specialist for the union, said noncompete contracts have consequences for patient care because nurses won’t be able to work locally for a period if they resign for any reason, including to protest unsafe patient conditions.
“Nurses are patient advocates,” O’Neal said. “That’s a very core part of their role.
“When employers hold nurses hostage as debtors, nurses can’t speak out about unsafe working conditions and can’t exercise the professional judgment required to provide safe and effective nursing care. Ultimately, patients suffer,” she said.
Other changes FTC is considering
In addition, the FTC is considering banning “training repayment agreement provisions” (TRAP) that require employees to repay their employers for training they underwent to work at the company unless they stay there for a set period of time.
O’Neal said TRAP contracts are a common way for employers to discourage employees from quitting, calling them “de facto noncompete clauses” because employees could incur major costs for leaving their job.
John Karasinski, the Michigan Health and Hospital Association senior director for communications, said the organization has no position about the possible ban on noncompete agreements but would like to see policy changes that bring more health care workers to the state.
The American Hospital Association declined comment on a possible ban, but pointed to a letter cosigned with other business groups which asked the FTC to extend the question and comment period to late April.
Shierholz said that if noncompetes are banned, workers who were subject to them will, over time, see their wages go up because they will more easily be able quit lower-paying positions and take ones with higher pay.
O’Neal, of the nurses’ union, said that a ban will allow nurses to more easily encourage safe patient conditions and keep their jobs.
Joanne Bailey-Boorsma contributed to this story.
Dan Netter is a journalist who started at Michigan State University in 2019. His interest in journalism includes policy reporting, identity reporting and a little bit of news design. Other places where Dan’s work has appeared include The State News and 101.9 WDET-FM. His favorite song is “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye.
Second from left, Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt joined from left, CALEA Executive Director Craig Hartley, (Holt), Wyoming Public Safety Chief Kimberly Koster,, Wyoming Sergeant Jeremy Walter, Wyoming Captain Eric Wler, Wyoming Lt. Brian Look, and CALEA Commissioner Marcus Brown for the Wyoming Department of Public Safety’s recertification. (Supplied, CALEA)
Public administration was never a calling for Curtis Holt. In fact, when he entered Grand Valley State University in the 1980s, his goal was to become a certified public accountant.
“I got through my sophomore year and I thought, ‘Geez, I am not sure I want to do this anymore,” he said. “I took another semester and I thought I am pretty sure I don’t want to do this. So I kind of said I have a four-year scholarship [for football and wrestling] and I need to get out of school in four years. What fits all my classes?
“It was public administration.”
After being in public administration for 36 years, 26 in the City of Wyoming, Holt is retiring as Wyoming’s city manager on Feb. 16. The announcement of Holt’s retirement was made in October with the city currently conducting a search for his replacement. Current Deputy City Manager John McCarter will serve as acting/interim city manager until a city manager is appointed.
At Monday night’s council meeting, Holt was recognized by state and local leaders for his dedication and service to the City of Wyoming.
“Curtis is the only city manager I have ever known,” said Mayor Kent Vanderwood, who presented Holt with a watch as well reading a city proclamation thanking Holt for his years of service. “He is the only one I have ever worked under and he has taught me a lot in those 17 years, everything you need to know about city government and some.”
To watch the Feb. 6 Wyoming City Council meeting where the city honors Curtis Holt, click here.
Vanderwood noted that Holt has worked on numerous local, state and national boards. He was instrumental in helping the city construct its current city buildings, the city hall, public safety department and the 62-B District Court and for the sale of Site 36, where the former GM plant once was located. Holt also was a leader in consolidating area dispatches into the Kent County Dispatch Authority Board.
”I’ve had the privilege to work with City Manager Holt for the past 16 years, and he has always been an advocate for the City of Wyoming and our staff,” said former Mayor Pro Ten and city councilor Sam Bolt when Holt announced his retirement in October. “He is one of the hardest-working people I know and his commitment to our city and our residents is reflected in the caliber and consistency of his leadership.”
The trail to Wyoming
Holt hails from another West Michigan community, Spring Lake, and that is where he would start his public administration career, as an intern, working for a man who would become his mentor, then Spring Lake Village Manager Eric DeLong, who recently retired as deputy city manager for the City of Grand Rapids.
Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt. (WKTV
“Eric taught me a ton and he put me on a bunch of projects and it kind of became fun,” Holt said. “The variety over accounting is what really attracted me [to public administration]. Sure there was accounting, but there was personnel and projects, and engineering and everything else. You kind of get a taste of so many different things and become an expert in none of them but you get to be a part of so much and that is what has been fun.”
After graduating from GVSU in 1985, Holt continued at Spring Lake with a two-year internship along with coaching football and wrestling and taking classes for his master’s degree. In 1987, he earned that master’s and landed his first job as assistant city manager at Cedar Springs. Two years later, he became the city manager of the City of Ostego.
“Within the city manager field, you’ve got to move up if you are going to be successful,” Curtis said. He interviewed for Wyoming’s deputy city manager position on a Wednesday and the next day, he interviewed for the city manager position in St. Joseph. Expecting a call back from St. Joseph on Friday, he instead received a call from then Wyoming City Manager Don Mason.
Friends and peers pointed out that the Grand Rapids area was a good opportunity because there were a lot of communities that were working and growing together. This meant that there would be lots of opportunities for partnerships and working together on issues in Lansing. So before St. Joseph could call back, Curtis decided to take the position in Wyoming.
Wyoming became home
“It became home,” Curtis said. “My kids went to [Wyoming] Rogers [now the Wyoming High School,] my wife worked at Rodgers. We’ve had really good councils. Councils that were very supportive of the staff and what we did. The staff itself, great staff members, really good people.”
Mayor Jack Poll with City Manager Curtis Holt (left) and City Clerk Kelli VandenBerg during a City Council meeting. (WKTV)
Holt leaves a mark not only on the City of Wyoming, but the community in general, noted State Rep. John Fitzgerald, who served on the city council for two years. During his state proclamation presentation to Holt at the Monday night meeting, Fitzgerald said along with the city facilities, Holt had overseen three master plans including the current “Re-Imagine” plan and improved the financial standing of the city.
“The biggest struggle I have had over the years is money,” Holt said. “Funding cities is a difficult business today— especially to adequately fund the services residents need.
“If you compare the City of Wyoming to virtually any other city in the state of Michigan, you will find that we are one of the leanest city’s out there, which is great because it means that we have been very judicious in people and things.”
Achieving that has not been an easy feat since the State of Michigan funds its cities at one of the lowest levels and is one of the strictest on its property taxes. This provides little options for cities to generate revenue, Holt said, adding while other states allow for local taxes or impact fees, Michigan cities can only raise money through property or income taxes.
There’s no ‘I’ in ‘we’
Still, the City of Wyoming has been able to provide many services other cities do not such as snowplowing the sidewalks, taking care of water lines including lines from the home to the main line, and even clearing debris for residents after the 2016 tornado.
“I say ‘we’ because this is not a Curtis idea but that it is something that staff has said is the right thing for the community because they are good people,” he said.
Proudest achievement: “The sexy thing would be to say we built these billings, but I don’t think that,” Holt said. “What I am most proud of is that we haven’t kicked any cans down the road for our future residents to pay for.”
This is because city staff has done its “due diligence” in maintenance and asset management, taking care of its roads, water, sewer, and city buildings and paying on its debts, he said
Time for the next level
Holt admits that there are other projects he would like to work on and see to completion, but he recognizes that now is a good time for him to retire. There are family things, a first granddaughter to be specific, and just wanting to do some adventuring, play golf and fish.
Curtis Holt address the audience during the Feb. 6 City Council meeting. (WKTV)
But mostly, he sees the city is going through a change. There is a new mayor and three new council members and the next generation has stepped into many of the city’s leadership roles, allowing him to leave the city in good hands.
“I know this that the people who are working here are 100 percent capable, 110 percent capable of taking this city, what we do and how we do it to the next level and you can trust them,” he said during Monday’ nigh’s meeting. “You can support them and you know that the first thing they believe in is it is about ‘we,’ not about me and that really is the way I have always lived my life.
“I believe that is the way that this city will go and that the ‘we’ will win and the ‘we’ will be better every single day.”
We know how critical movement and strengthening classes are for older adults. Studies show that incorporating a balance and exercise program can help prevent falls, leading to maintaining independence. Throughout the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s nine-county region (Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties) evidence-based classes are offered through a number of partners. Recently, we have worked to encompass the entire area and it’s healthy aging classes into a cohesive and consistent branding through a new name: “Engaging Wellness.”
The Engaging Wellness community is comprised of the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, Grand Rapids Community College, Ionia County Commission on Aging, Ludington Senior Center, Mecosta County Commission on Aging, Osceola County Commission on Aging, The Salvation Army, Senior Neighbors, and St. Ann’s Senior Services. All programs are designed specifically for older adults and these partners are dedicated to helping them stay active and independent.
Engaging Wellness programs focus on aging with resilience for fun, fitness, falls prevention, and friendship. Wherever they live or take classes, we want participants to recognize they are part of this Engaging Wellness collective that is committed to the same set of standards and quality classes while meeting seniors where they are on their fitness journey.
Yoga is just one of the options offered in the Engaging Wellness. (Pxhere.com)
“We’re so thrilled to restructure our classes under the Engaging Wellness brand,” shared Barb Nelson Jandernoa, Healthy Aging Contract Administrator with the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan. “This will give older adults in our area a boutique fitness experience where they are understood, heard, and seen. These classes, our wonderful instructors, and, of course, our amazing seniors help make up the vibrant community of Engaging Wellness. We’re excited for what is to come.”
Engaging Wellness classes are offered throughout the region both in person and online so that participants can take classes that are the best fit for them. A Matter of Balance and the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program will give folks just beginning to exercise, or those recovering from illness or injury, a place to start. Yoga, EnhanceFitness, Tai Chi, and Silver Sneakers Circuit are other classes that will help build endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Class fees and Silver Sneakers certification vary by location.
Those interested should check out the classes in their area. For more information, call 616-588-2580 to be connected with the partner in your county. To participate in Engaging Wellness classes, participants must be over 60 years of age and live in one of the following nine counties: Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, or Osceola.
The eaglets, E21 and E22. (Southwest Florida Eagle Cam Foundation )
After surviving the devastating hurricane Ian, losing the entire nest, returning as a couple to rebuild one stick at a time, delivering two healthy eaglets and then fending off attacks by owls and other eagles, our cherished eagle, Harriet, has gone missing…her fate is unknown at this time.
She was last seen Thurs., Feb. 2 leaving the nest located on the Pritchett property as she has countless times. A typical day…until it wasn’t! This time, she strangely has not returned. This is totally out of character and a sign something is very wrong. Meanwhile, M15 has been staying closer to the nest with the two eaglets doing double duties of both adult eagles. Many eagle watchers are deeply pained as we watch him so sorrowfully (yes, eagles speak in various tones with many meanings we recognize) calling out and looking for his loved mate. He even brought in her favorite treats, trying to entice her return.
Other eagles in the area
However, deeply concerning has been the presence of and attacks by other unfamiliar eagles entering the area, some as a grouping. After suffering through several brutal owl attacks in recent weeks, M15 bravely had to leave the eaglets unattended as he fought off three apparently invasive, attacking eagles at the same time. We held our collective breath wondering how one eagle could protect, feed and train two feisty eaglets alone…more so while fighting off multiple strange eagles at the same time. Yet, always amazing us, he has been doing all that and thankfully keeps returning so far.
While we pray and try to be positive, the attacking group of unfamiliar eagles is not a good sign, more so with Harriet’s mysterious, uncharacteristic absence. Did she try to fight them off? We know Harriet would not allow this and M15 can only do so much. Just leaving the babies unattended as he flies to get necessary food leaves the babies and nest vulnerable. It reminds eagle watchers of the horrific incident that took place during Christmas in the northwest area of Florida. After weeks of waiting, the shell broke open and the bird was almost out…but as the newborn was literally seconds from being completely out of its shell, an unknown eagle swooped down grabbed it, killed it in seconds in front of horrified eagle watchers. And we have not forgotten about Ozzie or how M15 came to the nest.
Leaving the nest alone
A 2016 photo of Harriet and M15 (Southwest Florida Eagle Cam Foundation)
Media and eagle groups are putting out much information. People in the area have been reminded of laws in place to protect eagles. Basically, reminding people the Pritchett family is allowed to have cameras up but laws to protect eagles and human property on which they nest will be enforced. There appears to be trouble with well intended people trespassing, disturbing the area as they search for Harriet and baiting. No one is allowed to bait the area (as it appears some have done) for many valid reasons. For instance, where did the meat come from, how was it handled, was it contaminated by salmonella or a creature that had eaten rodenticide, or hit with lead…things that could harm an eagle. Placing meat next to the road can be risky for the eagles as well as drivers. And, it can attract unwanted competitors…like the more aggressive eagles seeking new territory.
It has been reported the Pritchett family and eagle watchers are distressed but not giving up yet. They reportedly have been out searching their grounds, working with media to ask people to be on the lookout, to call authorities immediately if Harriet or an injured eagle is located, but to please not venture onto their private property.
The search for Harriet
One unverified report I saw claimed a person in the area saw Harriet Thursday, the day she left, struggling to cast a pellet (undigestible waste) but could not because it appears she had swallowed fishing line with a hook…which could be treatable if she is found but fatal if not. (That would be a mankind created crisis which would legally allow human intervention and treatment.) Is that report true? We do not know. Others question if an owl or unfamiliar eagle fought with her? She is a very old bird who has led a remarkable life…anything is possible.
I stated early on this season that territorial fights for food and nesting would be intense this year after Hurricane Ian came through the area. Just look at the photos of all the downed trees with nests in them!!! None of us, however, foresaw Harriet missing while M15 fought three eagles at once without her protecting their territory or babies. If Harriet can, she will return. If she cannot, we do know M15 will risk his life to save all and assume her duties. Can he continue doing that? It is rare, but has happened elsewhere and the season ended with strong birds.
One thing about this nest which continues to impress is how for years it joins thousands of people across the globe together…how we share in learning, joy, pain and support. Today, we sadly brace for the worst but collectively hope and pray for another miracle.
About 25 different vendors were at the expo. (WKTV/Nathan Slauer)
The event was about making connections.
More than 200 participants attended the expo. (WKTV/Nathan Slauer)
A family explores options at Mary Free Bed.
By Nathan Slauer WKTV Contributor
The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department highlighted recreational opportunities during its inaugural Adaptive Recreation Expo on Thursday, Jan. 26. The community event featured 25 vendors and attracted more than 200 guests.
During the expo, local businesses and agencies spoke with attendees about adaptive services available for people of all abilities. Information booths provided information about sports ranging from hunting to karate.
City of Kentwood employees enjoyed opening the Kentwood Activities Center up to the public and creating an environment focused on learning and collaboration, said Ann Przybysz, recreation program coordinator for the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department.
“We’re highlighting Kentwood’s programs, but also our community partners,” Przybysz said. “This is a one stop shop for people to get involved. We have the space, and we want to be a jumping off point.”
The Adaptive Recreation Expo took place as part of an ongoing effort to promote healthy living in Kentwood. For more than two decades, the City of Kentwood has offered adaptive recreation programming to the public.
Young people ages 12 and up are the primary audience of the adaptive recreation program, although there are special events geared toward adults. Participants with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities can each find something to enjoy.
Dance, rock-climbing, and bowling rank among the adaptive recreation program’s most popular activities. Each week, the Leisure Club provides social activities such as cooking and arts & crafts.
During the summer, participants have the opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. Kayaks are available for use, and many individuals leave their wheelchairs on the shore and paddle out onto the water.
For Przybysz, it is empowering to see people with disabilities challenging themselves and trying new things. Although many cities currently do not provide adaptive recreation programs, Przybysz said she believes it is possible to build a culture of physical activity for people of all abilities by establishing effective partnerships.
“See who you can partner with,” Przybysz said. “Are there organizations already serving disabilities? Support people who are already doing good work. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel.”
Those who missed this year’s Adaptive Recreation Expo can still find ways to get involved. Volunteers are needed for the Valentine’s Day Dance on Feb. 9.
For more information about the City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation opportunities, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.
Spiritual caregivers provide a caring listening ear for hospice patients and their loved ones as unique questions and experiences arise during life’s final journey, helping them find peace. Pictured are Spiritual Caregiver David Veldt with former patient Richard Murley. (Courtesy of Emmanuel Hospice)
There are a lot of ways to define and discuss the ways in which a hospice professional might nurture a patient’s spirit.
For the Rev. Madelyn Thompson, a spiritual caregiver at Emmanuel Hospice, it doesn’t lean much on credentials she might bring to the bedside. Instead, it relies on her ability to listen, learn and be actively present.
“One of my favorite spiritual influences,” says Thompson, “is Henri Nouwen, who said, ‘The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing…not healing, not curing…that is a friend who cares.’
“Generally speaking, being spiritual is being in a relationship – with yourself, with other people, with nature, with your pets, with creation,” Thompson says. “What I’ve discovered is that patients can be most distressed at life’s end with regrets or unforgiveness, wishing they’ve done something differently. I might not be able to fix things, but maybe I can help them be at peace with themselves. That’s nurturing the spirit.”
Although Thompson has an advanced degree and plenty of experience, she prefers to focus on how she’s still observing and absorbing.
“I don’t have a plan when I walk through a door,” she acknowledges. “I have to rely on something other-worldly, something other than myself.”
Over the course of some 20 years working in hospice care, Thompson has become increasingly aware of how the spirit is much more powerful than any words she might bring to a patient and their family.
She’s also been struck by how an awkward moment can be placated in the most beautiful and bittersweet ways. Many years ago, flustered at not being able to reconcile all the people in a room paying their final respects to a dying woman, a 5-year-old great-grandson burst in, flung himself on the patient’s bed and said, “I will love you forever, grandma,” then kissed her and disappeared.
“The whole countenance of the room started to change,” says Thompson, who believes that moment – and so many others she’s witnessed – was rendered by the divine.
She’s quick to admit how “that’s not always the lovely case,” but more times than not, if you’re patient, “some redemption can occur.”
Thompson has worked for other hospices, and emphasizes, “Every hospice shares some components, but you can tell which ones go above and beyond, who extend complementary therapies, who continue to offer a hand and an ear to loved ones even weeks and months after a loved one has passed.”
She says the best hospices attend to the whole person, including their spirituality. “And that involves listening to their life story, to their experiences, allowing them to guide us into how we can help them, rather than walking in and saying, ‘I know how to help you.’”
As an interfaith organization, Emmanuel Hospice meets the spiritual needs of all individuals, guiding patients and their loved ones in finding solace and strength through a peaceful life transition.
Over the years, Thompson says she’s discovered “we all express ourselves and our spirituality in different, creative ways.”
She notes the more she exposes herself to opportunities for more learning, the better she’ll be prepared to nurture that spiritual side.
“I like to assume we’re all interconnected and interested in one another’s stories,” she says. “I find solace in building on that base of love and understanding.”
The sturgeon tank at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is located on the top floor with a window overlooking the Grand River. (WKTV/Adam Brown)
A new immersive experience for the whole family has arrived at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The Sturgeon Excursion, the first interactive virtual game built on the museum’s new PublicOS platform, is now open to the public.
The Sturgeon Excursion is an element of the larger aquatic exhibit known as Grand Fish, Grand River. Chief Curator Alex Forist said the exhibit tells the story of lake sturgeon and their unique role in the watershed and native culture of the region. In addition, Grand Fish, Grand River seeks to educate the public about threats faced by the lake sturgeon, including how they have become endangered due to overharvesting and what the public can do to help.
Sturgeon Excursion is a natural extension of that educational mission. Patrons may visit Grand Fish, Grand River to read about lake sturgeon, with the interactive game as an option for those visitors looking for a deeper dive and a way to interact personally.
“Human beings are social learners,” said GRPM Digital Strategist Josh Freeney. “We like learning with other humans, that’s why a place like a museum is so amazing.”
Simply put, a museum is a place to share a learning experience with others since we all experience the exhibits together. The digital game enhances that experience by immersing patrons in the exhibit’s distinct world.
What is the Sturgeon Excursion game?
To play the Sturgeon Excursion, GRPM guests can scan any of the QR codes around the exhibit with their personal devices. Then, players are given a virtual sturgeon and tasked with helping it swim to freedom by traveling down the Grand River into Lake Michigan. The game asks questions, which the player can answer by watching a brief video or reading the information around the room. Each correct answer gives the player a piece of virtual food to feed the sturgeon. Give the sturgeon enough food, and it will grow big enough to swim to freedom.
Screenshot of the online game available on the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s website. (WKTV)
The Sturgeon Excursion is not limited to Grand Fish, Grand River. To get enough food to free the sturgeon, players must also visit two other exhibits – West Michigan Habitats and Anishinabek: The People of This Place. Players learn about the sturgeon and answer questions through the context of these other exhibits, with the Anishinabek exhibit adding the historical factor.
There is a single-player option intended for members of the general public, where one patron plays the game on their own device. The game also features a multiplayer component that the GRPM designs for student groups from local schools. With this method, all players collaborate and share one sturgeon. Multiplayer encourages students to work and learn together to help the sturgeon get to Lake Michigan.
Per Freeney, the GRPM hopes to make the multiplayer version more accessible to the general public, which is why they encourage the public to play the game and give feedback on what works and what might not. In addition, the QR code method was designed to increase accessibility, allowing anyone with any device to play the game.
The Public Response
The public response to the Sturgeon Excursion game and greater Grand Fish, Grand River exhibit has been positive overall. Freeney highlights one instance of a school group acting particularly rowdy, then working together to help the virtual fish when given the tasks of the digital game. Also, when quizzed about what they learned at the end of the game, the group answered every question correctly.
Participants answer a series of questions to move through different levels in the game. (WKTV)
Freeney attributes this to the “game-ified” nature of the experience, as it is still a quiz but disguised as a scavenger hunt-type game. As a result, the students learn valuable information all through the lens of a fun, interactive virtual game.
All the information in the game is available around the exhibit’s room. However, it’s the presentation of that material that matters. Each person learns differently, and younger students learn better when playing a game versus reading books and facts.
What the Future Holds
Ultimately, Forist said he hopes that the game, coupled with the related exhibits and historical context, can one day be taken out of the museum into the community to increase public awareness.
“Eventually, this will help us break outside of the walls of the museum altogether. There’s all kinds of great content and learning opportunities in the community,” Forist said. “If we can still bring that museum quality experience to those, it’s unlimited where you could go with it.”
The GRPM’s digital platform allows for easy communication and collaboration between the museum, the local community, and other institutions sharing the same mission.
A remote version of the game is also available for those who cannot make it to the museum. Originally developed as a contingency after Covid-19 closed the museum, the remote game remains available and follows a similar setup as the in-person game. Schools can log on to the game remotely and work together to answer the questions, and single players can access the game from home, at work, or wherever they might be. The remote game features a virtual map of the museum, complete with models of the accompanying exhibits, so all of the information from the museum is accessible to those who cannot physically attend.
With the remote option, each person can learn in whatever way suits them best, whether by physically coming in or remaining in the comfort of their home. The public can access the remote version by visiting the Grand Fish, Grand River page on the GRPM’s website.
Kent County’s Waste-to-Energy facility. (Courtesy, Kent County Department of Public Works)
Vicinity Energy, a decarbonization leader with the nation’s most extensive portfolio of district energy systems, will partner with Kent County Department of Public Works to operate the Waste-to-Energy facility in Grand Rapids.
Vicinity and Kent County have entered into a long-term service agreement that ensures the facility will operate safely and efficiently. The partnership will save Kent County in operating costs annually while reinforcing its commitment to quality service, the environment, and the local workforce.
“For more than 30 years, Waste-to-Energy has been a key part of Kent County’s integrated waste management system, and it allows our community to responsibly and reliably dispose of solid waste while producing local energy and reducing the amount of waste going into landfills,” said Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works. “We’re continuing to invest in the Waste-to-Energy facility, and this new partnership with Vicinity will ensure it operates safely and efficiently for years to come.”
Vicinity has welcomed the existing plant employees to its team and will hire more team members to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable services are delivered to the residents and businesses served by the facility. This partnership marks a critical milestone in Vicinity’s commitment to sustainability and bringing new jobs and services to West Michigan.
“We are proud to serve as the new operator of this critical piece of Kent County’s waste management system and look forward to continuing to work with the community well into the future,” said Kevin Hagerty, deputy CEO and chief operating officer of Vicinity Energy. “In addition to ensuring a smooth transition from the prior operator, our team has been hard at work on providing the most reliable, resilient, and sustainable services possible.”
The Waste-to-Energy facility incinerates non-hazardous solid waste from municipal and commercial operations in Grand Rapids, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming. Each year, the facility prevents 190,000 tons of waste from going to landfill, generates enough energy to power 11,000 homes, and recovers enough steel to make 3,000 cars.
The Waste-to-Energy facility upholds the highest environmental standards, achieving Michigan’s Clean Corporate Citizen (C3) designation each year since 2006. The facility also meets or exceeds the strictest federal standards set forth by the EPA and other regulatory bodies and employs sophisticated clean-air technologies to achieve superior environmental performance. The plant operates, on average, 90% below permit limits.
“We are thrilled to partner with Kent County and welcome the new members to the Vicinity team in Grand Rapids,” said Jesse Douglas, vice president and general manager of Vicinity’s Grand Rapids operations. “This transition of operations is an exciting step for both the County and Vicinity to bring innovative solutions to the communities we mutually serve.”
Vicinity also owns and operates the heating and cooling facility that provides clean steam to about 10 million square feet of space in downtown Grand Rapids. Vicinity’s district energy system maintains between 90-95% efficiency year-round. All Grand Rapids customers connected to district energy have a 38% lower annual carbon footprint than if they were to self-generate heat, with future improvements intended to offer renewable, carbon-free energy solutions as part of Vicinity’s Clean Energy Future plan.
The Kentwood Police Department is inviting individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to attend its recruitment event on Wednesday, Feb. 15.
The event will take place 6-8 p.m. and include two one-hour sessions at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Similar to the department’s fall event, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current officers, tour the department and more.
The informational sessions will be held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., beginning with an overview about working for the department. Attendees only need to attend one of the sessions, which will cover the same information. Tours, networking and opportunities to learn more about specialized units at KPD will follow. Refreshments also will be provided.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“We’re seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our team, especially as a sponsored police recruit,” Police Chief Litwin said. “This position has been an important part of our efforts to recruit students of all backgrounds and to hire individuals who are representative of our diverse community.
“We met a lot of great candidates during our last recruitment event and look forward to connecting with even more people interested in careers in law enforcement this time around.”
Selected recruit applicants receive full scholarship
The event will feature information about all department employment opportunities, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Selected police recruit applicants will receive a full scholarship from KPD to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in fall 2023.
No prior law enforcement experience required
In addition to the police academy sponsorship, recruits receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 9 percent employer retirement plan contribution and continuing education and training. Individuals who successfully complete the academy and other required certifications and training will be sworn in as patrol officers with the Kentwood Police Department. No prior law enforcement experience is necessary to apply for this position.
No registration is required for the event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend. Attendees should plan to bring something to take notes with.
A photo from a past recruitment event. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Individuals who are interested in working for KPD but cannot attend the event can receive more information by contacting Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us.
The City of Kentwood will host its sixth annual Valentine’s Dash 5K at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 to benefit Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which provides food and personal care items to community members in need.
The 5K route will include a combination of trails and paved pathways starting and ending at Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
Participants are encouraged to wear Valentine’s Day-themed costumes. While intended to be a fun run, the race will be chip timed and awards will be given for the fastest runner overall and in each age group.
A photo from a previous Kentwood Valentine’s Dash. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
An awards ceremony will follow in the library’s community room around noon, including Valentine-themed snacks, music and a photo booth.
“It can be difficult to find opportunities to run in the winter, especially races,” said Spencer McKellar, lead recreation program coordinator. “Our Valentine’s Dash provides a fun, festive opportunity to participate in a winter race, whether you’re an avid walker, first-time runner or a seasoned racer. All are welcome to come out and join us.”
Online registration is available until Feb. 10 and includes a long-sleeved shirt and other participant-packet goodies while supplies last. Racers should register by Jan. 26 to guarantee a shirt. Registration is $30 until Jan. 29, $35 from Jan. 30 to Feb. 10 and $40 on the day of the event. Runners who sign up as a couple save $5 each. Participants who bring a nonperishable item or monetary donation for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry will be entered to win a special door prize.
Kentwood’s first Little Free Pantry opened to the community in 2017 at the Kentwood Activities Center, where it remains available year-round during business hours. The City launched a second pantry at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch in 2021. More information, including a list of suggested donations, is available atkentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
There also are volunteer opportunities available for this event. Volunteers will help with racer check-in and registration, keep traffic off the race route and hand out water to runners during the race.
Around 8:37 p.m on Jan. 31, officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the report of a stabbing that occurred inside Brann’s Steakhouse and Grille, 4157 S. Division Ave.
The initial investigation indicates that a physical altercation occurred inside the establishment between two patrons. One of the involved individuals, a 34 year-old male, was stabbed several times and transported to a local area hospital in a private vehicle prior to police arriving on scene. The individual is currently undergoing surgery and is in critical condition.
A person of interest in the stabbing, a 54 year-old male, was located a few blocks away from the restaurant and is being detained for questioning.
It is early in the investigation and detectives are working to learn the circumstances that led to the stabbing.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345
Are you looking to make positive changes in the new year? Self-care is always a great resolution. If you’re in the market for styling and pampering, Grand Rapids’ Heartside neighborhood offers a palette of beautifying businesses within a five-minute walk of ArtRat Gallery (46 Division Ave. South).
Owner Laura Signore at Lilith’s Lair (Courtesy, ArtRat)
Like the neighborhood itself, Heartside’s salons and stylists offer everything from classic elegance to the cutting edge. Since it opened 10 months ago, Lilith’s Lair (25 Division Ave. S) has set the standard for coloring outside the lines. The rainbow-colored basement salon invites you to come as you are and connect with a look that expresses your identity.
Owner Laura Signore described the underground salon as “creepy cute. It’s basically a permanent spot for my Halloween decorations.”
In addition to nine independently contracted stylists, Lilith’s Lair provides shelf space for the products of half a dozen local artists, including adorably weird stickers, prints and handmade lashes. “It’s a total sensory experience,” Laura said.
“It isn’t about reinventing yourself,” Laura told ArtRat. “It’s about being who you have always been meant to be!
“I’ve seen people walk in here with natural blonde hair and leave with a head of rainbows. It may take nine hours, but it’s always a blast.”
“It isn’t about reinventing yourself,” Laura told ArtRat. “It’s about being who you have always been meant to be! (Courtesy, ArtRat)
The rainbow walls aren’t just for show: Every stylist in the shop is part of the LGBTQ+ community. (But Laura promises they “won’t check your gay cards,” and everyone is welcome.)
The stylists at Lillith’s Lair offer options that range from natural or vivid color, voluminous layers, and short, spicy cuts; to hair and lash extensions; to tinsel and glitter spray. “There’s something for everyone!” Laura exclaimed.
The stylists at Lillith’s Lair offer options that range from natural or vivid color, voluminous layers, and short, spicy cuts; to hair and lash extensions; to tinsel and glitter spray. “There’s something for everyone!” Laura exclaimed.
Lilith’s Lair provides shelf space for the products of half a dozen local artists. (Courtesy, ArtRat)
“In 2022, we were so blessed to find stability, and in 2023 we want to do so much. We’re excited to participate in our community more and more. We want to interact with local organizations, like The Diatribe. We want to have more events, like we did on Halloween and New Year’s Eve, and to keep pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a sex-positive, gender-affirming, safe place for the queer community.”
Whether you need a short, masculine cut; lush natural color; or a rainbow mane, you can head to Lilith’s Lair’s Instagram and Facebook to peruse the salon’s work and find the perfect artist for your needs.
Here are some more choice cuts from Heartside’s salon district:
Pure Vanity (3 Oakes St. SW) is your destination for wigs (both synthetic and human hair); tape-in extensions; and beautiful balayage. In English or Spanish, owner Paloma Maldonado offers customers an “ever-evolving” resource for hot new Heartside hair talent — whether you’re looking to bring some life back into your mane, picking out the perfect lace front,or seeking a stylist que tiene los mejores chismes, Pure Vanity has you covered. Appointments 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, and 12-5 p.m. on Sunday.
Blonde Theory (64 Division Ave. S) is a small, sultry and sophisticated boutique focused on creating a luxurious, individualistic salon experience. Blonde Theory can take you from a brunette bob to 12” platinum blonde. Blonde Theory is available by appointment only. Visit the salon’s website.
Avenue Barber Shop (123 Division Ave. S) is a “grassroots-as-you-get” homage to the classic barber shops of the ‘40s and ‘50s. Grand Rapids native Chris Lapham opened the shop in 2017, where he cuts hair and trims beards with a staff of three. Ask about bookings for wedding parties! Appointments11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday (lunch break at 2 p.m.),11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday.
Posh Nails and Spa (38 Commerce Avenue SW) After fighting tooth-and-nail through 2022, why not stop in for a mani-pedi? Posh offers both dip powder and acrylic options as well as a variety of aromas for your pedicures. Whether you prefer a Lavender Field Escape or to be Pampered by Pitaya in state-of-the-art massage chairs, Posh promises “everything it takes to restore your energy and revitalize your spirits.” Appointments 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, Saturday 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m,. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
This article provided by ArtRat, located at 46 Division Ave. S. For more about ArtRat, visit the gallery’s website at www.artrat.us. To join ArtRat Gallery’s mailing list of events and exhibits, email matthew@artrat.us.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Mixing and mingling at the annual Chamber Meeting and Awards Dinner. (WKTV)
Incoming Chamber Board Chair Valerie Cook (WKTV)
From left, Kentwood Commissioner Betsy Artz with Kentwood City Tresurer Laurie Sheldon (WKTV)
From left, Chamber President and CEO Keith Morgan, Summer Vasquez, incoming Board Chair Valerie Cook, and outgoing Board Chair Tony Marino (WKTV)
RoMan Manufacturing members take a few minutes in front of the photo screen. (WKTV)
The Santa Clause Parade Committee which was honored at the awards banquet. (WKTV)
Chamber members at the annual Chamber Meeting and Awards. (WKTV)
From left, Wyoming Councilor Renee Hill, Wyoming Deputy City Manager John McCarger, and Chamber President and CEO Keith Morgan. (WKTV)
Bob O’Callaghan talks to WGVU’s Shelley Irwin (WKTV)
Marge Wilson (center) (WKTV)
It was an evening of fun and fellowship at the Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting and Award Dinner, which was Jan. 27 at Kentwood’s Viewpond Banquet Hall.
Chamber President and CEO Keith Morgan noted it has been a year of change as he took over the Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce in the beginning of January 2022. New programs, such as the BIPOC committee, have been formed, along with the Chamber continuing to build relationships and connections. This has included an expanded footprint for the annual Metro Cruise which now has stages at both Wyoming’s Rogers Plaza and Kentwood’s Woodland Mall.
At the banquet, Morgan pointed out that it was another night of celebrating change as Board Chair Tony Marino was stepping down with Valerie Cook having been named the new board chair.
Hosted by WGVU’s Shelley Irwin, the Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony recognizes three chamber businesses along with presenting the volunteer of the year, distinguish service, and committee of the year awards.
Manufacturer of the Year
RoMan Manufacturing
861 47th St. SW, Wyoming
Started in 1980, RoMan Manufacturing is a producer of water coolant transformers for the resistant welding business and has sine expanded into other markets. The company made Wyoming its home because of “convenience.” According to Chief operating Officer Nelson Sanchez, many of the employees who started with the company lived in Wyoming and it was close to the highway.
Service Business of the Year
University of Michigan Health-West Main campus: 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming
University of Michigan Health-West is a progressive, innovative hospital system in Wyoming, serving all of the West Michigan with about 30 sties in four counties. University of Michigan Health-West was founding in 1942 by a group of physicians. Seeing the potential growth in the the southern area of Kent County, the main hospital was moved to the Wyoming area in 2007.
Retail Business of the Year
B2 Outlet Stores Various locations 962A 28th St. SW, Wyoming 350 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids
B2 Outlet stores started with a father and son duo, Duane and Matt Smith, who were purchasing liquidation items for an online auction. The pair opened a store in Hudsonville in 2015 and from there the retail business grew to 21 stories including 1 in Illinois and 1 in California. B2 stands for benefit twice: the first benefit is for the customer who receives the great values and the second benefit is to the various local nonprofits that B2 has supported.
Other Award Recipients
Rich Wadsworth received the Distinguished Service Award. (WKTV)Amanda Villa receives the Volunteer of the Year Award. (WKTV)Jerry Good accepts the Committee of the Year Award on behalf of the Chamber’s Santa Claus parade. (WKTV)
The Gerald E. Fessell Distinguished Service Award was given to Rich Wadsworth, a financial advisor for Edward Jones in Wyoming. Wadsworth was recognized for his years of service on the Chamber board, most recently serving as the executive vice chair for community relations. He has been the lead mentor volunteer for the last few Metro Cruise events and has helped to grow the footprint of the event.
The Daniel VanDyke Volunteer of the Year Award went to Amanda Villa, from The Source. Villa found the Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce through the Chamber’s Young Professionals group. When the Young Professionals group needed a committee role to be filled, she volunteered. She shared the information she had learned from the Chamber with her employer, who also became a Chamber member.
The Daniel McLaren Committee of the Year was the Chamber’s Santa Parade Committee, with committee member Jerry DeGood accepting the award on the committee’s behalf. The committee was recognized for its dedication in hosting the annual event, which was cancelled in 2021 due to high winds. The committee honored all 2021 sponsorships and was able to raise additional funding to help with other costs. The committee also smashed its goal of 45 participants by having more than 60 in the 2022 parade.
For more about the Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce, visit its website southkent.org.
“A living trust…is more flexible and more private than a will. It affords you, your assets, and your heirs greater protections should you become incapacitated.”- Consumer Reports
Most people understand that a will is an estate management document that takes effect after a person dies.
However, there is also a way to administer your estate and ensure your wishes are followed. A living trust is a fund set up while you are alive to help you plan your estate more efficiently and privately.
A living trust is a legal vehicle used to pass on the assets of an estate, such as property, investments, collectibles, and other assets. It is sometimes chosen by people who want to help their heirs avoid a lengthy and expensive probate process or fear they may become incapacitated later in life.
A living trust provides clear instructions about dividing assets once the original owner passes away.
You can fund a trust using several sources, including:
· Cash and bank accounts
· Real estate
· Insurance
· Intellectual property, including patents, copyrights, and trademarks
Formation of a living trust involves the owner of the assets, called the “grantor,” removing his or her name from ownership. Then, the assets are placed into the trust’s name. This process is known as funding the trust.
Once funding occurs, the grantor designates a “trustee,” charged with ensuring that all the trust provisions execute correctly. A trustee must be carefully selected and could be a relative or close associate of the grantor, or even a reputable third party such as a lawyer, banker, or accountant.
Establishing a trust fund enables the grantor to leave an inheritance to their heirs, also called “beneficiaries.” The grantor can even place specific conditions on receiving trust items.
Living trusts come in two different versions: revocable and irrevocable. Revocable trusts tend to be the least complex and most common type. Revocable trusts offer flexibility in that they can be changed or canceled by a grantor.
Advantages of a Living Trust
All living trusts offer some unique estate management advantages.
These include:
Increased privacy.
Unlike wills, living trusts are not public documents. The public cannot get copies of a living trust without permission from the trustee.
Shorter, less expensive probate. With a trust, the trustee can take care of end-of-life issues, like dealing with creditors, more efficiently. The trustee can act immediately, without the need to wait for a probate judge to decide.
The Downsides of a Living Trust
Before deciding to set up a trust, you should recognize that there are potential downsides.
Trusts can be costly: Depending on your circumstances and your goals for a trust, it can be expensive to set up. Some people attempt to set up trusts themselves, using forms or an online platform to avoid this.
You must participate in the process: When a grantor establishes a trust, he or she has the sometimes tedious job of retitling assets. Failing to retitle assets means the trust will not perform to expectations.
Whatever you decide, always use an authorized attorney to prepare your trust. Never use an insurance agent who claims to be working with an attorney; these can be more costly and are frowned upon by the legal community.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
During the pandemic, Isabella Diaz-Borrello branched out starting her own jewelry business. (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolf Pack Press)
Over the past couple of years, a Wyoming high school student has worked to develop her own line of alternative jewelry, Dusk Shoppe, that is affordable to all.
In 2020, during the first quarantine, Isabella Diaz-Borrello decided to start up a business as a way to make money and express herself through jewelry. It all started when her father gave her money and told her to “make something out of this, try to double what I gave you and make more.”
While brainstorming ideas, she came across videos on TikTok of other people making handmade jewelry.
She felt inspired.
“I thought, I can do that too,” she said. Dusk Shoppe came to life at this moment. Originally, Dusk Shoppe started off as just an earring business: charms, toys, and other accessories. Eventually, Isabella expanded to wire-wrapped earrings, more intricate designs, polymer clay earrings, and resin earrings as well.
As her business evolved, Isabella started to experiment with other types of accessories. She now makes beaded necklaces with chain details and charms, bracelets, keychains, and stickers (which are her very own design). There may be more additions as well.
“I hope to make and sell ceramic at my shop sometime soon,” she said.
For handmade jewelry, her products are fairly priced. Resin earrings are $10, polymer clay earrings are $15, wire-wrapped earrings are $8, necklaces are $25, bracelets and keychains are $6, and her stickers are $3.
The challenges of having your own business
Although her business has grown, there have been struggles. Advertising has been one. She advertises on Instagram and TikTok through her business accounts.
Earrings created by Isabella Diaz-Borrello (Courtesy, Dusk Shoppe)
“I tried making a TikTok once, but it didn’t work out,” she stated.
Isabella hopes to advertise Dusk Shoppe more in the new year through Instagram and TikTok posts. She is also planning more advertisements about her Depop shop and looking at other art markets.
Advertising has not been a huge hit, but her art markets have. At art markets, her business can run itself.
“I’ve only been doing art markets for a year, I did about six last year,” she said.
She hopes to do way more art markets this year, but her real goal is to partake in a market at the yearly Pride Festival.
“There was a booth that was selling jewelry, but it looked like mass-produced jewelry,” she said. “It had a huge line.”
She believes her business needs to grow in size and get better at advertising, that’s the milestone. “It can be expensive and you need a lot of products,” she said.
Dusk Shoppe has had its ups and downs, but Isabella has succeeded in her past goals. Stay updated on new additions to her shop, and remember, if you’re wanting to start a business, think of the wise words of Isabella: “I can do that too.”
Isabelle Mosher is a senior journalism student at Wyoming High School. She plans to study biochemistry at Michigan State University.
Sunday Night Funnies will host shows honoring Black History Month and Women’s History Month. (Courtesy, Sunday Night Funnies)
The Sunday Night Funnies standup comedy show celebrates diversity by hosting both a special February Black History Month show and a March Women’s History Month performances.
The Black History Month show features an all-African American lineup of comedians on Sunday, Feb. 5. Besides that night the two other Sunday Night Funnies performances on Feb. 19 and 26 will feature African American comics who didn’t perform on Feb. 5. Note, there is no show on Feb. 12 because of the Super Bowl.
March 5 will be the March Women’s History Month show featuring an all women lineup of comedians for the first time in the fourteen-plus-year history of the Sunday Night Funnies.
“Both of these special shows are something that I’ve been wanting to do for a while,” said Brian B. producer and MC of the Sunday Night Funnies. “Because of Covid, we were off for close to two years and didn’t start back up again at Spectrum Entertainment Complex till late February of 2022. Now that we’ve been back a year, I felt the time was right to do them both the right way.
“Besides these two special performances I plan on doing more like these throughout the year. Those are in the planning stages right now and will be announced at a later date.”
Brian B. said since he started the Sunday Night Funnies back in the fall of 2008, one of his goals for the show was to be able to offer a stage to a diverse lineup of comedians.
“I think it’s much more interesting for the audience to hear from people of different races and ethnicity, gender, as well as age ranges,” he said.
Since the start of the Sunday Night Funnies in the fall of 2008, more than a 1,100 different comedians have performed at the show.
“We’ve had a great spectrum of comedians perform from pretty much every type of background imaginable,” Brian B. said. “Also, I’m happy to say that I’m seeing a lot more women doing standup now than we did in the past which is great. As far as age ranges go, we’ve had a wide span of performers- everything from a nine-year-old girl to man in his mid-seventies and everything in between.”
About the Sunday Night Funnies: The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. (Brian Borbot.) It’s a weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring a variety of comics from the Midwest and around the country. The Sunday Night Funnies is a weekly free admission show that starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Spectrum Entertainment Complex, 5656 Clyde Park SW.
Looking for a new resolution for the New Year? How about a beer and free movie?
B-Movie Euphoria hosts free movies the last Sunday of every month. This Sunday, Jan 29, the featured flick will be the 1983 classic “D.C. Cab,” which starred Gary Busey, Mr. T, and Irene Cara. The film was directed by Joel Schumacher, who would go on to direct “Lost Boys” and “Batman Forever.”
Show time is at 8 p.m. at Speciation Cellars, located at 928 Wealthy St. SE.
“D.C. Cab” is a greasy classic about a bunch of street-wise loser cabbies working at a rundown Washington D.C. cab company and the madness that ensues.
In his first State of the City address, City of Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood called it a “season of change” for the city as he highlighted several successes from 2022 and looked to the future at upcoming projects.
Mayor Kent Vanderwood presented his first State of the City address on Jan. 16. (WKTV)
“Change can be scary. With change comes new opportunity. With new leadership comes fresh eyes and energy,” Vanderwood said at the Jan. 16 City Council meeting where he presented the State of the City address. “Building on the legacy of those who have come before, Wyoming is a city with a proud history and a bright future…and I say with confidence that the best days are in front of us.”
Representing that “season of change,” Vanderwood noted that three of the six current city council members are new along with a new mayor pro tem, Rob Postema, as well as himself having been seated as mayor in December. Vanderwood recognized guests State Rep. John Fitzgerald, State Majority Senate Leader Winnie Brinks, whose district includes the cities of Wyoming and Kenwood, and Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Keith Morgan. He also recognized City Manager Curtis Holt, who will be retiring in February after 23 years of service, along with all the city staff, for their dedication to the city.
Public Safety Remains a Main Priority
Safety remains the city’s top priority, Vanderwood said. Like most cities, Wyoming saw a sharp increase in crime in 2020 but has seen a reduction in violent crime over the past two years due to the leadership of Chief Kim Koster and her team, Vanderwood said.
The Wyoming Police Department hired 10 additional police officers and has been able to increase crime analysis efforts to help in preventing and solving crime. The team continues to work in removing illegal guns off the street and to help with the opioid and mental health crisis, he said.
The fire department responded to more than 7,000 calls in 2022, Vanderwood noted. To help the increase in call volume, the city has added quick response, a training captain, radio upgrades, and restructured the commend service, he said.
Vanderwood also noted that Wyoming is a growing community, with more than 2,000 building permits, adding about $108 million in construction value. The city has seen about 1,300 new housing units constructed in the past few years. To help with city development, planning, economic development and inspections were placed under one department with Nicole Hofert now serving as the director of community and economic development.
Looking to Meet the Needs of a Growing City
To continue to meet up with the growth of the city, residents will be asked in May to approved a dedicated 1.5 mill that will be used for police, fire, and first responders, Vanderwood said. The millage proposal has a five-year capped which he said would give the city time to look for other ways to fund the staffing needs.
“The reality is clear, we do not have the longterm resources to support our current staffing levels in the police or fire department and our current staffing levels are not adequate to address the current needs of the city,” Vanderwood said, adding that the city has had to rely on surrounding communities for emergency assistance.
“Our city continues to grow but our police department has shrunk nearly 45 people since 2000,” he said.
The millage, which would generate about $3.9 million annually, would allow the city to hire additional police and fire which in turn would increase public safety by decreasing response times, enhancing crime prevention efforts and traffic safety, Vanderwood said, adding that the additional funding would allow fire staff to operate out of all four of the city’s fire stations. Currently, only two stations are staffed.
The city will host three public meetings about the millage, the first on March 9 at the KDL Wyoming Branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW. More information about the millage can be found at wyomingmi.gov/future.
Other 2022 Highlights
The Parks and Recreation Department has new leadership with Krashawn Martin taking the helm. This department runs more than 250 sports and activity programs, along with 12 after school TEAM 21 sites and special events that include the summer concert series, the spring carnival, Memorial Day events, the Trunk or Treat Trail and several other programs. Along with that, the department lead the improvements at Jackson and Gezon parks, which included new playground equipment and splash pads.
Vanderwood said the City of Wyoming’s infra structure continues to grow with the city adding its third main for water service along with a new $8 million ultraviolet disinfection facility, which is a cost effective, safer way to clean water.
Looking Ahead
In economic development, residents will see the start of the City Center project this spring with the construction of a new pedestrian bridge on 28th Street and 3.1 miles of new trails that will connect to existing trails within the city. Vanderwood noted that the project was made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The city received $6 million from the county’s ARPA Funds distribution and has put $10 million of its own ARPA Fund monies toward the project.
Also breaking ground in the spring will be the public market at the former Site 36 location, Vanderwood said. The city kept the northern portion of the site with Franklin Partners purchasing about 74 acres with plans for development of the site.
Also in 2023, the city will be unveiling its branding project that involved many focus groups and community events, Vanderwood said.
“At the outset, I said we are in a season of change,” Vanderwood said. “You have the opportunity to work with us to shape the future of this city. I encourage you all to stay connect, serve on boards and commission and participate in elections.
“As I begin my time as mayor, I look forward to working with city staff, residents, community members, surrounding municipalities and organizations. I am committed to making Wyoming a better place to live, work and play.”
For the complete State of the City address, visit click here.
Digital rendering of residents of Veridian at County Farm near the Honey Locust Farm Shop in the neighborhood. (Courtesy, THRIVE Collaborative)
LANSING – A new way of exploring the universe has been under our noses for years.
Scientists are only now discovering this by looking at the sky from a different perspective. A recent study shows how we can use existing technology to better understand distant objects with strange, previously unseen behavior.
It’s a two-for-one: Technology that detects heat in the sky can also find supernovae and other cosmic explosions.
“There are many explosive events occurring in the cosmos,” said Brian Metzger, an astrophysical theorist at Columbia University, who contributed to the study in the Astrophysical Journal. “These events appear bright but then fade away quickly.”
These blasts of material from star collisions and explosions happen so fast that they’re hard to study, he said. That makes them a mystery to astronomers.
The behavior of these objects – called transients – is largely unknown. They last only days to weeks. That makes them hard to find.
Telescopes would need to look at the whole sky constantly to observe more transients, Metzger said.
Think of finding transients like a kid looking through an “I Spy” book. Radio telescope surveys search the sky, sorting through stars, galaxies, dust, planets, and other celestial objects.
All of that is to find one specific type of object.
But scanning the sky isn’t as easy as finding a marble on a page of random objects.
Instead, it’s akin to being put into a library of “I Spy” books and told to find one object, in one specific book, on one specific page. The only problem? You aren’t told where it is.
The sky is huge, and according to Nathan Whitehorn, a Michigan State University astrophysicist, it’s crucial to know what you’re looking for and where you can find it.
The good news is that there already is technology that examines the whole sky – it’s just being used for something else.
Cosmic microwave background surveys use telescopes and other scientific instruments to scan the sky for heat. They usually focus on leftover heat from the Big Bang, the explosion theorized to bring the whole universe into existence in one quick burst.
But if scientists know where to look, they can use this technology to uncover more transient data.
“One of the things we realized a few years ago was that [these] telescopes can detect more [than just] cosmic microwave background,” Whitehorn said.
That’s where the new study comes in.
Astronomers took what little data there is about these mystery explosions and created a simulation.
Through their results, they were able to predict where transients might be, how long they’ll last and how many we can expect to find.
Until now, these surveys haven’t been used for finding transients, Whitehorn said.
The information from the study gives an idea of what transient data the surveys could gather if they looked at more than just the distributed heat leftover from the Big Bang.
“Although these surveys are designed for cosmic microwave background science, we can use them to get this transient science return for free,” the study’s lead author, Tarraneh Eftekhari, wrote in an email.
Eftekhari, a radio astronomer at Northwestern, emphasized that using these surveys can give unexpected free data.
As surveys monitor large parts of the sky at a time, they’re more likely to observe short-lived events. And based on the simulation by Eftekhari and her team, there will be many events to observe.
Metzger said using cosmic microwave background surveys differently helps an understanding of a part of the universe we don’t know much about, Metzger said.
Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, with Dataspeed’s Autonomous Service Vehicle. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, together with Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines®, Stantec GenerationAV and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, has announced the third round of companies that will receive a total of $171,000 in grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE).
One of the first airport-based initiatives in the nation, FLITE provides funding to encourage the design, development and pilot testing of new products and services in a live airport environment. FLITE has completed two rounds of funding and will launch a third round in spring 2023. The five companies that will receive grant funding through this next round include:
Cyberworks Robotics: Retrofitting autonomous navigation technology for OEM products.
Deaf AI: Training machines with artificial intelligence to use sign language to improve the experience of communicating with those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Renu Robotics: Revolutionizing the way aviation facilities conduct vegetation management with autonomous lawnmowers.
Solartonic: Enhancing security resilience with autonomous smart solar-powered lighting and camera systems with reduced operating costs.
UV Angel: Using first-of-its-kind software to reduce bacteria, viruses and molds on frequently touched surfaces and in the air.
“After the successful completion of two rounds of funding, FLITE has proven to be a key asset to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and the state of Michigan’s local entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “It has become a leading platform in transforming the aviation industry through the introduction of new technologies that advance our ability to provide a world-class experience to all passengers and guests.”
West Michigan Aviation Academy
A new partnership for FLITE includes the West Michigan Aviation Academy, a tuition-free public charter high school that provides a unique educational opportunity for students to focus on high-growth employment fields in the aviation industry during their high school education.
“The West Michigan Aviation Academy was very excited about the possibility to bring real-world innovation to the classroom with the partnership with FLITE,” said George Pavey, dean of aviation for West Michigan Aviation Academy. “Many of these cutting-edge projects connected with the FLITE program have provided countless opportunities for our students to experience learning beyond the academic setting. To see and experience the future of aviation and engineering further enhances our ability to develop the next generation of industry professionals.”
As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with a focus on growing the local economy, MEDC provided grant funding to FLITE through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME).
“For Michigan, innovation is in our DNA. With the announcement of FLITE’s round three of funding, we are positioning the state to be a global leader in high-tech and multi-modal mobility innovation,” said Charlie Tyson, technology activation director with OFME. “Programs like FLITE at the Ford International Airport not only support Michigan-based entrepreneurs, but also global tech companies as they seek to grow here in Michigan.”
Cyberworks Robotics
Based in Ontario, Canada, Cyberworks Robotics is a global leading provider of specialized autonomous self-driving systems for airport wheelchairs, autonomous industrial carpet cleaners, autonomous floor scrubbers and autonomous tow-tuggers. Specifically designed for airport operations, its technology is designed to operate in crowded large-scale environments to safely mitigate labor shortages and reduce operating costs.
WHILL’s autonomous wheelchair showcased at FLITE’s round one Demo Day event. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)
“Being based out of Canada, FLITE provides access to test and grow in the U.S. market,” said Vivek Burhanpurkar, CEO of Cyberworks Robotics. “We’re excited about the opportunity to connect with the FLITE partners and advisory committee as resources for our technology and business development.”
Deaf AI
Based in Toronto, Canada, Deaf AI is an artificial intelligence venture that focuses on improving communication for those who use American Sign Language due to hard of hearing or hearing loss. Its technology converts flight and boarding announcements into sign language at airport terminals.
“Throughout my communications with different airport authorities, a few of them referred us to the FLITE program as a starting point after noticing that Deaf AI is an early-stage venture,” said Mehdi Masoumi, founder and CEO of Deaf AI. “The aviation industry has a significant gap in pilot studies and soft landings for innovation, making it difficult for early-stage startups to present their innovations to airport authorities. FLITE singularly built a bridge to address this gap by providing resources for early-stage startups.
“For Deaf AI, FLITE is a window of opportunity to test its innovation and reach out to other airports, including airports on the advisory boards of the FLITE program.”
Renu Robotics
Based in San Antonio, Texas, Renu Robotics the industry leader in autonomous vegetation management systems, was part of FLITE’s second cohort and will be returning for round three to conduct additional pilot testing of their product.
Renu Robotics’ autonomous lawn mower at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)
“Round three allows us to further explore the Renubot’s mowing capabilities in areas of the airport where larger mowers cannot easily access, as well as a cost-savings comparison,” said Tim Matus, CEO of Renu Robotics. “We’re also continuing to look into FAA requirements for operating on airport grounds and how those regulations are applicable.”
Solartonic
Based in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Solartonic provides off-grid solar-powered smart poles that are safe, resilient and sustainable. Their smart solahub™ platform integrates cloud-controlled devices with framework products for LED lights, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi networks, IoT sensors and digital signage through remote monitoring and control.
“We are excited to participate in FLITE with the Ford International Airport,” said Harry Giles, co-founder and CEO of Solartonic. “FLITE provides the ideal opportunity for us to demonstrate the value of our solutions to enhance airport perimeter security, passenger experience and airport operations. In partnership with Jacobsen|Daniels, we intend to apply this to airports across the country.”
UV Angel
Based in Grand Haven, Michigan, UV Angel is a leading disinfection technology company that uses UV Light technology, advanced optical engineering and a first-of-its-kind digital software platform, to disinfect surfaces by neutralizing bacteria, viruses and molds.
“We look forward to placing our UV Angel Clean Air™ Technology in the Ford International Airport,” said Tom Byrne, CEO of UV Angel. “The aviation industry has a critical need to protect personnel and travelers, and the FLITE program will provide invaluable insight and feedback to further our mission to make indoor spaces cleaner, safer and healthier for everyone.”
The Ford International Airport has identified six core focus areas for new technology advancements through FLITE:
Automation and Analytics: Improving operational efficiency and optimization of the workforce and other resources through automation and analysis of data.
Safety and Security: Strengthening passenger and worker safety and security throughout the airport campus.
Enhanced Guest Experience: Improving the pre-boarding experience.
Sustainability: Switching fossil fuel vehicles and infrastructure to electric and other decarbonization projects.
Door-to-Door Experience: Improving the experience and efficiency of getting to and from the airport.
Advancing Aviation: Exploring the enabling infrastructure and implications of emerging commercial aviation use cases.
Business cards features Kent County’s new branding. (Courtesy, Kent County)
Kent County has revealed a new brand, including a primary logo, sub-brand logos for several departments and offices, and a tagline—Your Partner, Your Place—that will serve as a short-hand vision statement for Michigan’s second fastest growing County.
“We set out to align the Kent County brand with the County’s vision, mission and the work we do in and for the communities we serve,” said Kent County Administrator Al Vanderberg. “A brand is really a communications tool. With this new brand, we aim to help residents better understand what County services are available to them and, more importantly, help them take full advantage of the services they pay for with their tax dollars. With one of the fastest growing economies in the United States, nearly eight percent population growth in under 10 years, and the youngest, most diverse and most highly educated population in its history, we wanted to develop a brand as dynamic as the community it represents.”
A Window Into County Life
The new logo features a rectangular frame that reflects the County’s shape and serves as a window into life within the County—a place where people live, work, and visit and the entity that serves those people. The organic wave element is representative of the county’s rivers, streams, rolling agricultural land and green spaces that are so important to the region.
The updated brand also features a fresh, vibrant color palette to allow greater versatility in designing signage, collateral and other branded materials.
While the primary logo will be used organization-wide, several departments and offices with a high level of public engagement—including the Health Department, Animal Shelter, Community Action, Veteran’s Services, Prosecutor’s Office and others—will use unique logos that will serve as important tools to help increase awareness of the vital services they provide. The organization will continue to use the County seal on official documents.
“We’re excited to provide residents a clearer picture of the breadth of services we offer,” said Vanderberg. “This brand is foundational to that understanding.”
Your Partner, Your Place
The new tagline—Your Partner, Your Place—reflects what the branding team learned in the research and serves as an aspirational statement about what Kent County strives to be.
Advertising featuring the country’s new branding. (Courtesy, Kent County)
“First and foremost, people think of—and love—Kent County as a place. It’s home. It’s a place for economic opportunity. And it’s a great place to visit and explore,” said Vanderberg. “But research also told us that when people think of Kent County government, they think of vital services, a responsive staff and a ready partner that both leads and collaborates on transformational change.”
The brand was approved by the Kent County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 27, 2022, following a comprehensive brand development process led by Well Design Studio and Truscott Rossman in collaboration with the County Administration communications team. The process included 17 county department, office and agency meetings; a community survey that drew nearly 4,700 responses; multiple meetings with an internal branding committee and members of the Board of Commissioners; and resident focus group sessions in five communities throughout the County.
“We’re very proud of the process,” said Vanderberg. “It was thorough, thoughtful, professional, and inclusive of staff, elected officials and the community.”
The branding project was initiated in 2019 but was put on hold in early 2020 to allow the County to focus on its pandemic response. It restarted in May 2021. With this launch, branded assets will be rolled out gradually with respect for budget to ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
From the Sookie Slackhouse series.From the Aurora Teagarden series. From the Midnight, Texas series
You might not know the name Charlaine Harris but you have probably ran across one of the several made for TV series that were based off her books.
NBC’s short-lived “Midnight, Texas,” based off Harris’ “Midnight, Texas” series, followed the mysterious people of Midnight, Texas, as psychic Manfred Bernardo is busy solving the mysteries.
Or how about Hallmark Movies and Mysteries’ “Aurora Teagarden Movies,” which are based on Harris’ Aurora Teagarden series. The story follows librarian Aurora Teagarden as she solves murders in her town of Lawrenceton, in the state of Washington.
Finally, there is HBO’s “True Blood,” which ran for five years from 2009-2014 and was based off of Harris’ Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Series. The mystery series features small-town waitress-turned-paranormal sleuth Sookie Stackhouse as she works with a variety of paranormal characters from vampires to werewolves in solving a series of murders.
Harris’ books are just some of the many you can find on the Kent District Library’s Books to Film selection for the KDL Let It Snow Adult Reading Club.
Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes.
You are likely to be retired much longer than you think.
For how long do you think you will live? Do you believe you’ll live into your late 70s? Are you confident you’ll follow in the path of your parents, who were alive and well into their mid to late 80s?
The average joint life expectancy (men and women together) is approximately 90 years for over 49% of the population. A full 20% of Americans live to age 95!
Depending on your unique perspective, that’s either good or bad. It’s good because many people want to live for as long as possible, provided they are in decent physical and mental health. However, a long life can be bad news when it puts you at risk of outliving your money in retirement.
Something else to consider is that these numbers are AVERAGES. More people are hitting triple digits, and you could very well be one of them. There are tons of exceptions to the rule, especially if you are the beneficiary of excellent genes, have made an effort to stay fit and healthy, and have managed stress properly.
Longevity is a possibility. This is why creating a portfolio to help you maintain your current standard of living in 30-plus years of retirement is challenging. Having less money in retirement is a concern for retirees and pre-retirees. Nearly all seniors know someone who has beaten the odds and lived longer than they planned.
Many retirees and pre-retirees had had someone in their own families who went through hardship and deprivation because they ran out of many at a time when they needed it the most.
The logical solution to not having enough money for retirement is to start earlier and save more. That’s not always easy to do, however. Many people are barely making ends meet and don’t have much discretionary money to create retirement income. You may fall into that category and worry that you don’t have any money to build a retirement account.
How do you find money to finance a retirement plan?
Developing a saving and income-planning mindset is valuable at any age.
Understandably, you might have a tight budget due to where you are in your career track. Or, you might have family, medical, or debt issues that make saving a tough proposition.
Fortunately, there are some ways you can free up cash or find the money you never knew you had to fund a retirement plan. Here are three things you can do right now to free up money for retirement.
1. Debt restructuring. Look at all your debt, including student loans and consumer debt. Perhaps you can negotiate lower rates or pay the debt off more slowly.
2. IRA or 401(k) Ask your financial expert and tax advisor to see if you might qualify to pull money out of your qualified plan without a penalty. If you qualify, you can use that cash to purchase investments that give you higher interest rates. This option is available under rule 72(t) for certain individuals who are younger than 59½.
3. Live a simpler lifestyle. Making your car, major appliances, and other big-ticket items last longer can add up to thousands of dollars you can use to fund your post-career life.
No matter your current financial situation, you can and should set aside money for a time when you will no longer get a paycheck. Starting early and being consistent, along with small lifestyle changes, will help you avoid common mistakes and achieve a better retirement lifestyle.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
The City of Kentwood is inviting local organizations and community members of all abilities to its first-ever Adaptive Recreation Expo on Thursday, Jan. 26.
The free event will take place 4:30 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 will feature a variety of local programs and resources for people of all abilities and provide opportunities for community members and vendors alike.
During the event, individuals with disabilities and their families can learn more about a variety of local programs and resources, including recreation opportunities and adaptive equipment demonstrations.
Kentwood Parks and Recreation Adaptive Kayaking. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Students and community members interested in adaptive recreation can connect with local agencies and learn about volunteer, internship and employment opportunities.
Vendors will have an opportunity to connect directly with potential new clients and volunteers as well as other organizations.
“Kentwood is incredibly proud to be part of the adaptive recreation community and serve individuals with disabilities through our programs,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Through this event, we hope to build connections and raise awareness about other local resources and programs West Michigan offers for individuals with disabilities and their loved ones.”
Organizations participating in the event include Kentwood Parks and Recreation, Hanger Clinic, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Hunt 2 Heal and many others.
Kentwood Parks and Recreation Adaptive Rock Climbing. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Vendor applications are still being accepted. 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 Airway Mobility and Rehab Equipment, and silver sponsors are Creative Mobility Group, Hanger Clinic and Life Beyond Barriers.
The Kent County Health Department has rung in the New Year with a partnership with the Grand Rapids Red Project to provide free access to life-saving Narcan in a vending machine at its main clinic in Grand Rapids.
The Grand Rapids Red Project is a nonprofit that provides health resources to prevent the spread of disease and save lives. They have partnered with the Kent County Health Department and Cherry Health to provide Narcan vending machines in four locations around Kent County.
What is Narcan and how does it work?
Naloxone, sold and marketed under the brand name Narcan, is a life-saving medication that reverses or reduces the effects of opioids. When a drug overdose occurs, Narcan can be given to reverse the effects of decreased breathing and help the patient regain consciousness. For a more scientific explanation from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Narcan is an opioid receptor antagonist which means it binds to opioid receptors and reverses or blocks the effects of other opioids.
Why is Narcan needed?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 92,000 people in the United States died from a drug-involved overdose in 2020. The State of Michigan reported in 2018, there were 2,809 deaths from drug overdoses in Michigan alone.
In Kent County, Rachel Jantz from the Kent County Opioid Task Force, said there is an increased need for Narcan due to the synthetic opioid Fentanyl becoming more pervasive in the community.
The opioid epidemic is one of the largest public health crises in United States history and Narcan is an available resource to help mitigate drug overdose deaths.
How do you administer Narcan?
The vending machines available in Kent County are stocked with intranasal Narcan, a spray that can only be applied into the nose to produce its desired effect. The Nasal Spray contains only 1 dose of medicine and cannot be reused. The steps of Narcan administration are as follows and cited by the official Narcan website:
Narcan vending machine located at Kent County Health Department, 700 Fuller Ave NE (WKTV/Maggie Carey)
Step 1: Lay the person on their back and support their neck.
Step 2: Remove Narcan Nasal Spray from the box. Peel back the tab with the circle to open the Narcan Nasal Spray.
Step 3: Hold the Narcan Nasal Spray with your thumb on the bottom of the red plunger and your first and middle fingers on either side of the nozzle.
Step 4: Tilt the person’s head back and provide support under the neck with your hand. Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril until your fingers on either side of the nozzle are against the bottom of the person’s nose.
Step 5: Press the red plunger firmly to give the dose of Narcan Nasal Spray. Remove from the nostril after giving the dose.
Step 6: Call 911 for emergency medical help.
Where can Narcan be found?
Narcan is now available for free to residents of Kent County at four locations thanks to the Grand Rapids Red Project and its partnership with the Kent County Health Department and Cherry Health. These machines have 24-hour access and to use them, just type in the slot that has an available pack and the vending machine will distribute the pack cost-free.
The United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, is the second oldest U.S. service academy. (Courtesy, U.S. Library of Congress)
A Kentwood resident is one of six people who were nominated by Senator Debbie Stabenow for admission into four of the five United States service academies.
Addison Turk is a senior at West Michigan Aviation Academy. She is currently on the school’s girls varsity basketball team. Addison is seeking to entering the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD.
The United States Naval Academy is the second oldest of the five U.S. service academies, established Oct. 10, 1845. The Naval Academy educates midshipmen for service in the office corps of the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps. Notable graduates include 39th President Jimmy Carter, business magnate Henry Ross Perot, former Senator John McCain, and several NASA astronauts including Wendy B. Lawrence and Sunita Lyn Williams.
“Michigan is fortunate to have so many exceptional students who want to serve our country through military service,” Stabenow said in a released statement. “Having demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence in and out of the classroom, I am confident they will represented Michigan and our country well.”
Students seeking appointment to a service academy must first obtain the nomination of their U.S. Senator, their U.S. Representative, or the current U.S. Vice President. Students nominated by Stabenow’s office went though a highly competitive application process that included interviews by veteran, military and community leaders. Now that the students have been nominated, they must wait acceptance for admission by the academy to which they have applied.
All of Stabenow’s nominations came from the West Michigan area. The other nominations are:
Anna Dinsmore, from Kalamazoo, seeking to enter into the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO
William Gryzen, from Hudsonville, seeking to enter the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO
Bradley Lowe, from North Muskegon, seeking to enter the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY
Nathan Onderlinde, from Dorr, seeking to enter the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY
Chase Williams, from Allegan, seeking to enter the United Site Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The search for a missing Wyoming man came to a sad end over the weekend as his body was discovered in a swamp area in Byron Township.
Raymond Tarasiewicz, 68, was reported missing by his family on Nov. 21, 2022. He was last seen at his home around 7:30 a.m. Nov. 21, 2022. According to a Facebook post in Wyoming Michigan Informed, he was seen on his driveway on Steff Court. According to family members, Tarasiewicz suffered from early signs of dementia.
On Friday, Jan. 20, a family searching for their missing dog found the body in a semi-rural area of Kent County near the intersection of Ivanrest Avenue and M-6, according to a release from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety. According to reports, the family saw the dog in the area and went to search. The dog was later found a few miles away from that area.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office was called to the location at approximately 1:45 p.m. and worked with Wyoming investigators to identify the remains as those of Tarasiewicz. According to police, there was no obvious indications of foul play or self-harm. The circumstances surrounding Tarasiewicz’s death remain under investigation and an autopsy will be conducted by the Kent County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety expressed its condolences to the family and there has been an outpouring from the community for the family on social media.
Shooting in Buchanan Avenue area
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a shooting in the 3200 block of Buchanan Avenue on Jan. 21 at 4:07 a.m.
A duplex residence was struck by numerous rounds of fired by unknown individuals. A 50-year-old female who was sleeping in the residence was struck in the arm by one round. She was transported to the hospital for treatment and is in stable condition at this time. Both residences in the duplex and a vehicle in the driveway were struck by gunfire. Other individuals were present in the homes, but no one else was injured.
A silver sports car was seen leaving the area shortly after the shooting and is being sought by investigators.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-866-774-2345. Tips can also be left at Silent Observer’s website.
Artificial Intelligence such as ChatGPT are changing the way school assignments can be done. (Pxhere.com)
LANSING – ChatGPT has been around since November 2022 and has taken the internet by storm but is raising questions in Michigan classrooms.
The free Artificial Intelligence software can answer any prompt you can think of – from solving math equations to writing essays.
And that’s led some school districts, most prominently the New York City school system, to ban use of ChatGPT on its networks and school equipment.
Some Michigan education experts say they’re worried, too, about students’ possible misuse of the software to cheat.
Wendy Zdeb, the executive director of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, said using ChatGPT would go against districts’ academic dishonesty policies.
“Many school districts have used firewalls and active means of blocking access to the software on school devices,” Zdeb said.
She said that such measures would not require a new policy, just an adaptation of the protocols in place.
Being aware of what ChatGPT can do
Teachers are also aware of the software and its potential for use and misuse.
Crystal VanWalsum, an English teacher at Lansing’s Waverly High School, has used in-class essays to avoid the use of ChatGPT and similar AI software.
“One way to avoid a problem like plagiarizing from the internet is to have students write essays in class,” said VanWalsum.
For example, she assigned an in-class essay on King Arthur and put the essay prompt into ChatGPT ahead of time to see what the software would come up with.
“The response included details that were not part of the story that we read in class. If it had been an outside-of-class essay, then somebody may have turned in something that included details that would not have been relevant to what we had read in class. It wouldn’t have worked anyways,” she said.
She said she can tell if a student has used software like ChatGPT.
“Things that have been AI-generated completely lack any kind of original voice. They’re very flat,” she said. “A lot of the sentence structure is the same throughout the entire thing. There’s not much variation in sentence structure at all. As you read, it doesn’t sound like the student who turned it in.”
Making its way into West Michigan
Blake Mazurek, an eighth-grade U.S. history teacher at Grandville Middle School, said his son introduced him to ChatGPT over the Thanksgiving holiday.
“Somehow we got on the topic of technology and he mentioned (ChatGPT) and was telling me what he knew at the time,” Mazurek said.
That conversation led him to do some research about ChatGPT, and it piqued his interest.
When asked if they knew anything about it, his eighth-grade current events students were silent.
“I talked to my current event kids and nobody knew about it,” he said.
He said that few of his colleagues have heard about the new software.
Mind-blowing’ in what AI can do
John VanWagoner, the superintendent of Traverse City Area Public Schools, was introduced to the software a few months ago during a meeting of the Future of Learning Council, an organization of 40 Michigan school districts and learning organizations.
He said that the council brought up ChatGPT and showed what it could do.
“It was mind-blowing. It’s a game changer as far as the ability to process data and knowledge into writing,” said VanWagoner.
After the initial introduction, VanWagoner showed ChatGPT to his staff, and they came up with various tasks and prompts for the AI software to solve.
“It’s pretty amazing what the AI capability has to be to do that work,” he said.
School officials in Michigan have been aware of ChatGPT and say its use in the classroom has a positive effect.
Teaching students how to use the technology at hand
Phil Jankowski, the superintendent of Anchor Bay Schools in St. Clair County, said he is not concerned about students’ use of the software to plagiarize.
He said that anti-plagiarism software the district uses can detect if ChatGPT was used to create an essay.
“Between work in the classroom and the use of those applications, we believe we can counter much of it,” he said.
He said he tried out the software and found that it’s not that great at writing essays.
ChatGPT “is not especially good yet, but it does open a window into what the future will look like,” Jankowski said.
He said he is optimistic about the future of AI in the classroom.
“Artificial intelligence such as ChatGPT are things students will have to use and will be faced with in the future. There is a strong argument that we need to teach students how best to use the technology as it is on the forefront of the AI horizon,” he said.
“I’ll be honest, when someone suggested ‘The Silent Patient’ to me, I thought it sounded pretty routine and so I passed,” said WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma. “Then my daughter, a registered nurse, mentioned how her co-workers told her she needed to read the book.
“She got it. Read it in two days and then gave it to me. I couldn’t put it down and then, it was the twist that I never expected.”
“The Silent Patient,” by Alex Michaelides, is just one of many possible options under the KDL Let It Snow Mystery and Thriller book selections which also includes “Run Rose Run,” by James Patterson and Dolly Parton, “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn and Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None.”
Based on a Greek myth, “The Silent Patient” centers around the story of famous painter Alicia Berenson who has killed her husband and stops speaking and Theo, a therapist determined to unlock her secrets.
Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Tommy Brann takes the oath of office from Wyoming City Clerk Kelli Vandenberg as his wife,Sue, holds the Bible. (WKTV)
Acknowledging it was a tough decision, the Wyoming City Council appointed former state House Representative Tommy Brann to fill a vacant council seat.
The seat was vacated by John Fitzgerald, who was elected in the fall to serve as the 83rd District State House Representative. Fitzgerald had two years left of a four-year term with the seat up for election in 2024.
At a special meeting on Jan. 16, each candidate had a 30-minute interview where council members asked a series of questions and candidates asked questions and gave a final statement as to why they should be selected for the open council seat. After a short discussion, each council member voted for the candidate they wanted to appoint. Brann received four of the six votes. De La Vega and Kilgo each received one vote.
The council then had a motion to appointed Brann to the vacant seat, which passed unanimously. Brann took the oath office after the vote.
Focusing on the needs of the city
“As I said when we got started, I knew this was going to be a challenge,” said Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderoowd. “I knew two weeks ago that it was going to be a challenge with great, great applicants.
“We are looking at different strength sets and different skill sets and we have to decide which is best for the city right now because we can only appoint one.”
Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood with recently appointed Council member Tommy Brann.(WKTV)
Looking at what the needs are of the city, Vanderwood said council needed to appoint the person who brought the “most to the table to serve our greatest needs.”
Several council members pointed to Brann’s long history with the city. He has lived in Wyoming for 51 years and is the longtime owner of Brann’s Steakhouse and Grille, 4157 Division Ave. S.
Brann termed out of the state’s House of Representative, serving for eight years. In the fall, he ran for a seat in the state Senate, which Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks won.
Several council members noted that Brann is a strong advocate for public safety and faced with a May millage to help fund fire and police, Brann could be an asset in helping to expand the needs.
“I’m a small business man,” Brann said as he talked about the upcoming milage. “Do I want to pay more taxes? Of course not.
“Do I want the safety of my employees when they go out to their cars at 10 or 11 o’clock at night? Of course.”
A desire to serve
Brann made it clear that for him to be on the council, he wanted to be able to impact residents lives. He pointed to the 19 bills he was able to get passed while serving in the state House of Representatives. He said he is not afraid of being the dissenting vote and did not always side with his Republican peers in the state, which he demonstrated by supporting bills for the smoking age to become 21 and civil rights for LGBTQ and others.
“As a restaurant owner I am use to serving people…I serve my customers and I served my employees and it is just in my nature,” Brann said. “I want to continue to serve people. I believe as a city council member, it is just important as being a state rep. Actually it can be a little more important because you are one-on-one with people…”
From a state level, Brann said he has seen how cities like Wyoming that are financial responsibility loose out on state revenue sharing. On the state level, he has worked on the appropriations committee and helped solved financial needs.
A small business is similar to running a city in that you are dealing with people, payroll, paying taxes and making financial decisions to keep that city running, Brann said, adding he would use those skills to help connect residents, especially those in the Godfrey-Lee area, so that they feel welcome and comfortable to share their concerns and ideas.
“I think Wyoming is really underrated,” Brann said. “What I love about Wyoming is that we have starter homes and we have homes for your whole life. So you can start in Wyoming in a starter home and as your family gets bigger you can get a bigger house in Wyoming.”
As more and more seniors look for ways to lower their taxes in retirement, Qualified Longevity Annuity Contractsor QLACs are stepping into the spotlight.
Many seniors in the early phases of their retirement don’t need to tap into their traditional retirement accounts. (IRAs/401ks). Unfortunately, they are forced to do so because of IRS Requirement Minimum Distributions (RMD) rules.
Note: The RMD age recently changed from 70&1/2 to 72. When you reach your RMD age, you must take money out of your qualified plan each year. Be sure to clarify with your CPA or tax planner to which group you belong.
If you are in a similar situation and don’t need to take distributions, you may want to consider setting up a QLAC. The “qualified” part of the QLAC refers to the fact that this kind of annuity is purchased with “qualified” funds as defined by the IRS.
A QLAC uses a portion of a person’s RMD distributions to grow deferred until a certain age (85 maximum) QLACs are a type of longevity annuity.
A QLAC, which has the insurer taking on market and interest rate risk, is set up by transferring money from an existing IRA or 401(k) account to an insurance company annuity. A QLAC contract pays you a steady stream of income later in life.
The longevity annuity “chassis” of a QLAC has been around for years. But what has changed is how the IRS treats longevity annuities within tax-deferred accounts. Current rules allow individuals to spend 25% of their retirement savings account or $135,000 (whichever is less) to purchase a QLAC.
In 2014, the Treasury Department relaxed RMD rules a bit to encourage Americans to prepare for retirement. These new rules let you buy a QLAC with your IRA and not include the value of the QLAC when you calculate your RMD.
How does a Qualified Longevity Annuity Work?
A Qualified Longevity Annuity is an annuity into which you pay a lump sum of money. At a future date specified on your contract, you begin receiving guaranteed monthly income for as long as you live.
A longevity annuity appeals to many because the stock market and interest rate risk transfers to the insurance company. The insurance company tells you exactly how much Income you will get in the future when you purchase the annuity. This future income amount is guaranteed.
With a QLAC, you get tax-advantaged income security that starts in your old age for an attractive price.
By owning a QLAC, you may be able to increase the amount withdrawn from your savings in the early retirement phase by as much as 30% because the annuity will give you predictable, guaranteed Income later.
Many retirees purchase QLACs because of their tax advantages. However, they have other benefits, too. QLACs require only one upfront payment and don’t have annual fees. They are one of the easier-to-understand, straightforward, and transparent financial products.
How can a QLAC help reduce taxes?
A QLAC can help you retain more of your money in retirement by reducing your tax burden. Let’s say you had a traditional IRA and invested the maximum allowable $135,000 into a QLAC with a payment start date of age 80. If you had not purchased a QLAC, your $135,000 would grow in value. When you reached your RMD age, you would have to withdraw your first RMD, which is fully taxable as income. Having a QLAC, you are permitted to omit that $135,000 from your RMD calculations. The tax savings from not having to take your RMDs for nearly ten years could add up to huge savings. To understand how this might help your unique situation, you will need to consult a tax expert who understands the inner workings of QLAC products.
What are some pros and cons of QLACs?
QLACs, as mentioned before, allow you to defer mandatory distributions up to age 85, which could add up to significant tax savings. Also, you can retain tax advantages because you purchase a QLAC with qualified funds.
A QLAC can provide an increase in your financial security and well-being. You will have the kind of contractually guaranteed, predictable stream of income that you only get with annuity products.
Properly designed QLACs can also help you cover long-term care expenses and provide protection for your spouse so that if you die before they do, they will continue to receive Income.
Converting as little as 15% of your 401(k) balance to a QLAC when you retire can boost your retirement readiness in a meaningful way.
The downsides of QLACs
QLACs have many positive benefits, but they are not for everyone. If you enjoy a lot of hands-on control over your money, having a QLAC might not work well for you. That’s because you relinquish short-term control over your money to get guaranteed lifetime income with an annuity.
Like many other financial products, QLACs require a degree of trust in the company providing the product. After all, payouts for annuities are contingent upon the claims-paying ability of the annuity company who issues them. You must do your research and only select companies with strong ratings and positive client feedback.
You should only purchase a QLAC after consulting a safe money and income specialist. Even if you currently have a financial advisor, he or she may not understand the nuances of a QLAC, especially if you choose to use a QLAC in more complicated financial planning strategies, such as “laddering.” If your current advisor cannot explain QLACs to you, seek advice from a qualified expert.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
