The need for homes has become a pressing issue in West Michigan, especially affordable homes.
A need that the Wyoming Community Foundation recognized in its 2022 grant awards, giving two local organizations about a third of its annual grant moneys. ICCF Community Homes, a nonprofit community developer that serves the Grand Rapids area including Wyoming, received $1,500, and The Source, a nonprofit based in the City of Wyoming and works with about 25 employers to help employees overcome barriers to work, received the largest grant, $5,000.
“In 2008, we had the great recession and we stopped building homes for about 10 years,” said Chris Hall, who works with ICCF Community Homes and is also a Wyoming Community Foundation board member. Hall noted that he excused himself on the discussion for the grant for ICCF Community Homes. “At the same time, the area is on all these lists, Great Place to Raise a Family, Hottest Zip Code…evidence of the fact that this is a great place to be and [people] want to be here.
“Over the last 10 years, people have been coming and staying, but we haven’t been building and now we are at a basic point of supply is low and demand is high.”
The housing need
The kitchen and dining room of ICCF Community Homes’ homeless family housing unit suitable for a small family. (Supplied)
According to a Grand Rapids Chamber housing study for Kent Country, it is estimated that the county needs about 22,139 new housing units to keep up with demand. The same study also showed that 63,000 or 27% of homeowners are cost-overburnened with more that 30% of household income dedicated to housing costs.
Because of the demand, it has raised housing prices, changing the face of the homeless to working class people, Hall said.
“It’s hard to thrive if you don’t know where you are going to sleep at night or next week or are they going to let me have my kids with me?” he said. “How are you going to thrive as an employee when that type of thing is going on?”
The Wyoming Community Foundation grant for ICCF Community Homes will be used to help replace a roof on a home on 30th Street in Wyoming. By being able to partner with the Foundation for the roof, it helps to keep rents low giving access to housing to more people, Hall said.
Rent assistance
“There use to be a lot of funding in the state for rent assistance but a lot of that funding has disappeared so this grant is going to help us with Wyoming residents,” said Sarah Westoby, a resource navigator for The Source. Westoby said most of the past rent assistance programs were COVID specific and have since ended. The Source recognizes that people are going to continue to have housing instabilities.
The Source works with a number of different organizations to help with food, child care, housing and other needs. Sometimes there are gaps in what can be provided and the Wyoming Community Foundation grant will help with those gaps, especially in rent, Westoby said.
Making Wyoming a better place
Every year, the Wyoming Community Foundation awards around $15,000 to about eight different organizations serving the population of the City of Wyoming.
“It’s not a whole lot of money but it is enough to make a difference,” Hall said, adding that the goal is to help make the Wyoming community a better place to live.
The other Wyoming Community Foundation grant recipients are:
Affinity Mentoring received $1,500 to continue to support the Mentoring Center sites at Godfrey Early Childhood Center, Godfrey Elementary and the Godfrey-Lee Middle School campus.
Hope Gardens received $2,700 to install garden infrastructure at four Godwin Heights and Wyoming Public Schools and expand hand-ons garden programming into daytime STEM lessons at three Wyoming schools.
Remembrance Ranch received $1,800 to provide teens with the backpacking equipment needed for participation at camps.
Senior Sing Along received $1,000 to provide music-based programming to seniors in Wyoming care facilities.
Strategic Workforce Solutions received $1,000 to offer MiCareerQuest to local students so they can explore careers in five high-demand industries: advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, construction, health sciences, and technology information.
YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids received $1,000 for an after school program for youth from low-income and at-risk background and scholarships for a statewide youth in government conference.
The Kentwood Police is asking anyone with information on a Jan. 13 shooting in the 4600 block of Breton Avenue to contact the department or Silent Observer.
The Kentwood Police was dispatched to an apartment in the 4600 block of Breton Avenue for a subject who had been shot in the leg. Officers arrived on the scene and provided medical treatment for the victim along with the Kentwood Fire Department. The victim was transported to the hospital and the injury is not believed to be life threatening. The suspect is known to the victim and is not in custody.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-771-2345 or online at SilentObserver.org.
The Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) announced its new leaders to the ACI-NA Board of Directors, including the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority’s President and CEO Tory Richardson.
“I look forward to serving the aviation industry and its communities in this new position with ACI-NA,” Richardson said. “ACI-NA plays a significant role in bettering airports and aviation services across the U.S., Canada and beyond. I’m thrilled to work alongside fellow ACI-NA board members on new advancements that promote a healthy and thriving industry for years to come.”
ACI-NA is a trade association representing commercial service airports in the United States and Canada. They continue to present the unique views and recommendations of airport management to federal, state, provincial and local governments, industry, the media and the general public. These views and recommendations include:
Promoting cooperation with all elements of the commercial civil aviation industry;
Encouraging the exchange of ideas, information and experiences on common airport issues;
Identifying, interpreting and disseminating information to members on current industry trends and practices; and
Creating forums of common interest, building professional relationships and interpreting key airport policy and business issues to members.
“These newly elected leaders of our organization bring broad industry expertise and a deep understanding of the unique challenges we face,” said ACI-NA president and CEO Kevin M. Burke. “With Richardson’s support, ACI-NA remains as committed as ever to our mission to advocate policies and provide services that strengthen the ability of airports to serve their passengers, customers and communities, just as we have for the last 75 years.”
Richardson joined the Ford International Airport Authority in 2019 bringing with him a broad range of leadership and management expertise in the aviation industry. Successful in guiding airports through significant change and boosting regions’ economic vitality, Richardson is leading the Ford International Airport Authority’s capital expansion program, Elevate, among other development efforts.
Richardson will be working alongside several other industry leaders, including Justin Erbacci, CEO of Los Angeles World Airports, Alexis Higgins, CEO of the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust, Myron Keehn, president and CEO of the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority, Ricky Smith, executive director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration, Tamara Vrooman, president and CEO of the Vancouver Airport Authority, Patrick Wilson, president of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, Lesa Seibert, commissioner for the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, and Brian Reed, aviation development director for Burns & McDonnell.
Along with its newly elected Board of Directors, ACI-NA has selected new leaders for the U.S. Policy Council, the Canadian Policy Council and the World Business Partners and Associates Board of Directors. Visit the ACI-NA website for the organization’s full leadership roster.
First chronicled in Europe during the 15th century, tarot cards are an important tool for divination. If you want cartomantic insights into your past, future and present selves, you can choose from a deck of options within a 5-minute walk of ArtRat Gallery: The 12th House (8 Jefferson Ave. SE); DreamPirate Gallery (136 Division Ave. S); and The Mortals Cafe (111 Division Ave. S).
Card readers use numerology, archetypes, Zodiac signs and elements to create connections among the cards. (Courtesy, ArtRat)
How does tarot work — and what do the cards have to say about opportunities and challenges for Grand Rapids’ Heartside neighborhood in the year ahead? ArtRat went to the source for some divine guidance.
A beautiful broom stands by the open door of The 12th House, its handle a gnarled branch. Inside are tables of crystals, handmade jewelry and whimsical clothing, shelves of colorful cards and books about candle magic, sustainability, and the histories of Hindu deities and Irish faeries.
Behind the register, Carmen Kempen, the store’s in-house tarot reader, is shaping wire around a sparkling hunk of white quartz to create a necklace. She introduces herself as the Maiden of the Vale, who serves the valley of the Grand River.
A space for insight
Carmen Kempen does a reading at The 12th House. (Courtesy, ArtRat)
Carmen opened a moving wall to reveal an intimate space: a large round table adorned with candles, crystals — and rubber ducks. She apologized for the clutter, but pointed out she is a chaos witch,after all.
Card readers use numerology, archetypes, Zodiac signs and elements to create connections among the cards, then follow their intuition to channel hidden knowledge. Carmen’s deck mirrors her values, featuring diverse human subjects, including people of color and gender-nonconforming individuals. “We see ourselves in the cards we read,” she remarked.
“Tarot for me is all about healing,” Carmen told ArtRat. “It’s reaching into the deep, dark places to pull forward things in a gentle manner, in a safe space.”
Cards on the table
The 12th House shelves feature colorful cards and books about candle magic, sustainability, and the histories of Hindu deities and Irish faeries. (Courtesy, ArtRat)
So what did the Maiden of the Vale see on behalf of Heartside?
Five cards fall from her hands — the nine of wands, seven of wands, four of pentacles, queen of pentacles and knight of pentacles — and we sit in silence as Carmen examines them.
She says Heartside is full of promise that can only be realized by aligning the initiatives of different individuals and groups involved with the neighborhood.
“These cards are showing us a deep, energetic passion for the work being done,” she says, “but there needs to be more communication between all the branches and more stability within the roots. Otherwise, the whole thing will fall over.
“Heartside can be at its absolute best, but only if we strengthen our connections to each other.” Carmen continues. “There’s something big coming, and together we can embrace it.
“The air is changing, the witches are waking up, and we’ll be right here when you’re ready.”
The 12th House is open 11am-7pm Tuesday through Friday, 11am-8pm Saturday, and 11am-4pm Sunday. Contact the Maiden of the Vale to schedule a tarot reading.
DreamPirate Gallery offers tarot, read by Kylie Hailstone, as well as a slew of other metaphysical services all by appointment.
The Mortals Cafe is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Resident cartomancer Katrina Peshka offers sessions every Friday from 3-6 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.
Wyoming City Council will be interviewing four candidates Monday night to fill a vacant council seat. (WKTV)
The Wyoming City Council will be interviewing four candidates for the open council seat vacated by John Fitzgerald.
In November, Fitzgerald was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, serving primarily the City of Wyoming.
When taking his seat in December, Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood said one of the first jobs the council had was to fill the vacant seat. The person selected to fill the council member-at-large seat would serve out the remainder of the term which ends in 2024.
Starting at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, the council will be interviewing the four candidates. Interviews will last 30 minutes with a 10 minute break/transition period. WKTV will be airing the interviews starting at 3:30 p.m. on Channel 26 with the regular council meeting to follow at 7 p.m.
According to City Clerk Kelli Vandenberg, the city received 19 applicants to fill the vacancy. The Council narrowed those applicants to four candidates. All the candidates have served the city in various capacities.
The candidates are (They are listed in order of interviews.):
3:30 p.m. Andrea Boot was the city’s treasurer. She retired from that position this past summer. She also has served as a city election worker.
4:10 p.m. Gabriella De La Vega is the president of the Mexican Heritage Association of West Michigan . She is a language coordinator for Trinity Health. She has served the city on its Parks and Recreation Commission and the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance.
4:40 p.m. Tommy Brann is a longtime business owner of Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 4157 Division Ave. S. Brann recently completed serving eight years in the Michigan House of Representatives, he was termed out, and in November, ran for a Michigan senate seat that was won by Senator Winnie Brinks.
5:20 p.m. Robert Kilgo is the assistant to the president of Grace Christian University and serves as a mentor to at-risk students in Wyoming. In November, Kilgo along with Rob Arnoys and Renee Hill ran for two council seats. Arnoys and Hill were elected to the seats.
According to the Council agenda, once the interviews are complete, the council will discuss and then appoint a candidate to the position who will take oath of office that night.
The last time the council had to fill a vacant seat was in 2018 when Bill Ver Hulst resigned from his First Ward seat. Sheldon DeKyrger was appointed to fill the term and then elected to the seat in the fall of 2018. He ran unopposed this past fall for the same seat.
The Wyoming City Council meets the first and third Mondays of the month at 7 p.m. in the council chambers located at Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW. For more on the City of Wyoming, visit the city’s website, wyomingmi.gov.
Photos of the first suspect. (Courtesy, Wyoming Department of Public Safety)
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is seeking help of the public to identify the suspects of a Dec. 18 robbery at the Citgo gas station at 4405 S. Division Ave.
The station was robbed by two individuals, according to investigators. A firearm was used in the robbery. There were no injuries. The two suspects fled on foot from the scene after obtaining beer form the store. A K-9 track was attempted but the suspects were not located at that time.
Photos of the second suspect. (Courtesy of the Department of Public Safety.)
One suspect is described as Hispanic male about 5-foot tall, late teens to early twenties, and wearing a blue hat and black coat. The second suspect is described as Hispanic male around 5-foot, 2 inches tall, late teens to early twenties, and wearing a black sweatshirt with a Santa on it and a black hat.
Anyone with information regarding the suspects on the Dec. 18 robbery are asked to contact the Wyoming Police Investigative Division, Detective Gray at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-866-77f4-2345.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The East Kentwood team earned its first state championship for We the People since 2010. (Courtesy, Sophie Gemmen, team member and EKHS yearbook member)
This past weekend, East Kentwood High School added another state championship to its list of awards as the school’s We the People team brought home the top honor.
On Jan. 6, the Michigan Center for Civic Education hosted the We the Students: Michigan’s We the Program State Showcase. By a narrow lead, East Kentwood, lead by high school teacher and We the Pepple head coach Justin Robbins, beat out East Grand Rapids, and earned the honor of representing Michigan in the national Center for Civic Education’s We the People competition, which is set for April 22-24 in Washington DC.
We the People is an educational process which aims to enable students to learn about and address a range of governance-related issues, culminating in competitions to present at simulated congressional hearings.
This will be East Kentwood’s third consecutive trip to the national competition and its first as the State Champion from Michigan since 2010.
Along with the overall state championship title, there units in the group also won state championships in their content.
Bianca Bancifra, Maggie Fisher, Keaton Nguyen, and Sara Shapin, who are Unit 1, won for their knowledge of high law, colonial charters, and rights in common law.
Amira Hamilton, Dewaynia English, Connor Shaw, and Sophie Gemmen, who are Unit 2, won for their knowledge on the Articles of Confederation and the impact of slavary on the Constitution.
Lucy Fornetti, Mary Johnakech, and Owen Lawrence, who are Unit 6, won for their knowledge of privileges and immunities of citizens, immigration, and civic responsibilities in a republic.
The team also includes Dependra Bhattarai, Mollie Croskey, Rishta Tamang, Collin Terry, Drew Dame, Rebecca Moore, Mike Nguyen, Elleana Strehl, Ebise Tarekegn, and McKenna VanOveren.
Volunteer coaches are Ahjah Bailey-O’Conner, Tyler Buck, Ava Chatlosh, Eric Dubois, Branden Graf, Ken Orzanich, Justin Robbins, Mike Traywick, and Avalon Wieczorek.
Caledonia Community Schools(CCS) announce today that the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) has recognized seven of the eight eligible CCS schools in its district to receive the designation as a Reward School.
Annually MDE ranks schools academically; those that are in the top 5 percent of the state are categorized as “Reward.” Reward schools are determined based on the Top-to-Bottom ranking methodology, which includes data from achievement, improvement, and achievement gaps in standardized scores.
“Caledonia Community Schools is so proud of all our faculty and staff who work so hard to provide excellent learning environments for ALL students,” said Dr. Dedrick Martin, Superintendent of Caledonia Community Schools. “These accomplishments are the result of a focus on instructional quality and the strong partnership CCS has created between our families, students, staff, and community. Our staff works tirelessly to support and prepare ALL students to achieve their best while empowering them with 21st century skills to compete in a global environment.
“CCS is constantly reevaluating to improve district processes. Newly focused team organizational goals enable our building leaders to better support one another and have ongoing critical conversations,” said Dr. Camela Diaz, CCS Director of Secondary Education. “We still have areas to improve on, but our school leadership teams are focused on working with their attendance, behavior, and course proficiency data, to develop plans for growth that effectively close the achievement gap for all students.”
At a time when most schools around the state and the country are reporting a decline in student performance due to disruptions caused by the pandemic, the data in Caledonia tells a different story. Our district has also made it a priority to reinvest in curriculum materials, resources, and supports over the past 5 years and the academic performance proficiency results show we are stronger today than ever before.
As a district, we are pleased with this recognition, but even more excited that our students are growing as learners. We look forward to seeing how much more our students will excel in the coming years as our staff continues to collaborate with one another to Cultivate Agile Learners.
the Community Transition Services help seniors return to their community and home. (Pxhere.com)
Many of us take the time spent with family during the holiday season as a given. Houses full of laughter, home-cooked meals, family games, stories, and general merriment. The traditions we have may change over the years, but the setting is often the same…home.
However, as we get older, it could become harder to stay living at home. The independence we once had may wane, and, in some cases, older adults could find themselves in a long-term facility setting. For four years, Darlene, 61, was in a facility due to a cancer diagnosis and ongoing health-related issues. For some, a facility is a great fit for their care needs, but Darlene dreamed of returning home, though she never thought it would happen. After small improvements in her health, she stated, “I put my heart and soul into getting well!”
Once she built up her strength, Darlene faced an overwhelming task, how to return to the community while still meeting her care needs. This is where the Community Transition Services (CTS) program through the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan came in. Melissa, the social worker at Darlene’s facility, connected her to the program, which assists those wanting to return to the community by securing housing, setting up groceries and other household goods, and coordinating referrals for in-home services such as MI Choice Waiver, Care Management, and others.
With the help of the CTS program, Darlene is now home for the holidays in HER new apartment near her son and his family! She summed up her experience with the CTS team by saying, “It was a seamless transition! I felt comfortable putting all the loose ends in their hands!” Darlene is now enjoying her first holiday season at home with her family in five years.
The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) serves a nine-county region that includes Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties. In addition to the nine counties above, the Community Transitions Services program is also newly available in Oceana, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties. (Please note this is specific to the CTS program only and does not include other AAAWM programs). For someone to qualify for the CTS program, they must:
Reside in a facility
Currently on, or eligible for, Medicaid
Desire to return home or secure other housing (i.e., apartment or assisted living)
Has a barrier to discharging safely from a facility in one of the twelve CTS counties
To learn more and request an assessment, you can call the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at 888-456-5664. As a local contact agency, AAAWM can also meet with those residing in a facility who indicate an interest in learning about community resources. Darlene practices staying in a state of gratitude in her new home near her son and grandchildren, “I’m so thankful for everyone who participated in helping me find a home near family. I remember the day my son came and got me…I cried the whole way! Thank you, everyone!” We are so thrilled that the Community Transition Services program was able to assist Darlene in her transition and that she is home for the holidays!
Investigators from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety are asking the public to help located a vehicle that was in the area during a Nov. 1 shooting at Indian Mounds Drive.
The Wyoming Department of Safety was called to the 2200 block of Indian Mounds Drive SW on Nov. 1 for the shooting. An 18-year-old male, Kane Coronado, on a bicycle was struck by the gunfire resulting in a fatal injury. Coronado died at the scene.
Investigators are asking for the community’s help in locating a vehicle that was in the area around the time of the shooting. The vehicle is described as a gray or silver four-door Chevrolet Cavalier 2000-2005 model year. Investigators are asking anyone with information about this vehicle to contact Wyoming Police, 616-530-7300, or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-888-774-2345.
A range of activities, including counseling, journaling, massage therapy and more, can be offered to hospice patients and their loved ones to help put the mind at ease. Pictured are Joan Blessings, a licensed massage therapist and member of Emmanuel Hospice’s complementary therapy team, with patient Virginia “Ginny” Gengle. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
The brain, teeming with some 86 billion neurons, all of which are in use and communicating with other neurons to form circuits and share information along myriad pathways.
That is exactly why healthcare providers like Emmanuel Hospice pay special attention not only to a patient’s physical needs, but to the mind – a growing trend among medical professionals in general, who are embracing this holistic approach more than ever before.
“The traditional medical mindset has been to focus in on what is going on with the body,” notes Lauren Enos, a social worker at Emmanuel Hospice who has been a healthcare worker 16 years. “What we’re learning, though, is that things occurring medically can be the result of external stressors and events. When we pay attention to that as well, we gain a more accurate picture of causes and circumstances surrounding what a patient is going through.”
Because providing comfort is a primary goal of hospice programs, it’s important to know a patient’s history so that they can receive the best care possible.
“A person’s life is steeped in history, culture and habit,” Enos says. “They’re a product of the people who came before them, and it can inform their qualities and characteristics – anything from education to spending habits to relationships.”
Learning about how a person thinks and acts – especially in a singular situation like dying – can help caregivers approach that patient and their friends and family in more sensitive ways.
“Each patient could be someone who perhaps is carrying five generations of history with any particular issue,” Enos says. “It’s important we know as much as we can.”
As a social worker, Enos says it’s especially important to be an active listener. The rewards will manifest themselves in the patient’s story, which will provide cues as to what they’re thinking and why they react the way they do. They will also serve as a springboard for developing strategies to effectively navigate end-of-life needs.
“We want to decrease the patient’s tension, and maybe that’s achievable in having someone play music for them and sing hymns,” Enos says. “Maybe it’s through massage therapy or acupuncture or just practicing deep breathing.”
At Emmanuel Hospice, a full slate of complementary therapies is available to patients and their families, including journaling, which can take multiple forms. While some patients make daily diary-like entries, others might simply write a letter or two that helps them internalize feelings that are tough to verbally express.
Another program offered is Art Legacy, which gives patients the opportunity to create and leave behind legacy artwork for their loved ones. Patients can use anything from crayon to watercolor paint, fabrics and more for self-expression.
“All of these activities allow the mind to relax and let creative energy flow,” Enos says. “It can bring emotions to the front.
“Supporting our patients’ minds culminates in some very powerful moments. It begins with having a respect for the entire person and all the systems they might be in – home environment, community, school, family origins. It’s a privilege to be part of a team which honors that process.”
Annuities are financial products that provide a guaranteed income stream in exchange for a lump sum payment or series of payments. There are several different types of annuities, including fixed, variable, and indexed, each with its own features and benefits.
Here is an overview of how annuities work:
An individual enters into a contract with an insurance company to purchase an annuity.
The individual makes a lump sum payment or a series of payments to the insurance company.
The insurance company invests the payments and earns a return on the investment.
The individual can choose to receive the income from the annuity in a number of ways, such as:
A fixed amount each month, quarter, or year
A variable amount that depends on the performance of the underlying investments
A combination of the two
The income payments from the annuity are guaranteed for a specified period of time or for the remainder of the individual’s life.
One common type of annuity is a fixed annuity, which provides a guaranteed rate of return and a guaranteed income stream for a specified period of time. The income stream can be received all at once in a lump sum, or it can be received in installments over a period of time.
Before making a purchase, it is important to carefully review the terms of the annuity contract, including the fees, surrender charges, and any restrictions on withdrawing funds.
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
Angeline Boulley’s debut novel, “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” skyrocketed to the top upon release earning several awards including a Printz Medal Winner, William C. Morris Award, American Indian Youth Literature Award Best Young Adult Honor, and was a Reese Witherspoon x Hllo Sunshine Book Club YA Pick.
Set in Sault Ste. Marie, the story follows Daunis Fontaine, a half-native, half-white young adult who witnesses her best friend’s murder by the hand of her friend’s boyfriend. She decides to protect her family and her culture by becoming involved an FBI investigation revolving around a new drug that mixes meth with Ojibwa herbs.
Boulley, who is enrolled member of the Sault St. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, was born in Sault Ste. Marie. She is a graduate of Central Michigan University and has worked in Indian education at the tribal, state and national levels including becoming the director fo the Office of Indian Education at the U.S. Department of Education.
Boulley’s book is just one of the many recommendations on the KDL Let It Snow Local Indie/Michigan Authors. Other books on the list are Jenison author Tobin T. Buhk’s “Cold Case Michigan,” a look at several unsolved Michigan murders, and Shona Buchana’s “Black Indian,” a memoir of being African American with American Indian roots and how her family dealt with not just society’s ostracization but the consequences of this dual inheritance.
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.
Traffic has resumed to normal along Stauffer for today and the rest of the weekend, but come Monday the northbound lane will be closed again for pavement replacement.
Stauffer Avenue, between Bowen Avenue and Innwood Drive, was closed this morning due to a water main repair.
On Monday, Jan. 9, the northbound lane of Stauffer between Innwood Drive and Bowen Avenue, will be closed from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for pavement replacement. Drivers are asked to seek an alternative route during this time.
For more information or questions, please contact the Kentwood Department of Public Works at 616-554-0734.
LANSING – My favorite summertime activity has always been biking or walking to the best ice cream shop in Lowell: Ball’s Softee Creme.
Ball’s Softee Creme sign in Lowell. (Courtesy, Mackenzie DeRaad)
Situated at the end of town by the Flat River, Ball’s Softee Creme is the perfect place to grab an ice cream cone with friends during the summer months.
You can get anything your heart desires at Ball’s — the best pulled pork sandwich ever, a glacier, which is half slushie-half vanilla ice cream, the largest plate of bean and chili cheese nachos you can imagine and a simple chocolate-vanilla ice cream twist in a cake cone.
Ball’s Softee Creme is the oldest ice cream shop in Lowell, celebrating its 51st year of operation in 2022. Many generations have enjoyed its sweet treats.
Now, I mentioned global warming in the title of this commentary.
Ball’s Softee Creme has nothing to do with global warming, of course, but it is benefitting from it.
The last eight years were the hottest ever recorded, according to a World Meteorological Organization report.
The small, family-owned shop is open only in the warm season, and because of global warming, that season is rapidly lengthening.
In 2022, Ball’s opened for business on April 2 to celebrate another year. In 2020, it opened on March 11 and stayed open into September.
March 11 is more than two months earlier than its opening day in the first years of operation, which hovered around Memorial Day.
Believe me, I love this little ice cream shop, so I can’t complain that it’s opening its windows earlier and keeping them open later in the year.
But I can’t stop thinking about climate change.
Lowell sits at the intersection of the Flat River and Grand River, so it’s no surprise that much of the community is a floodplain.
2013 brought one of the largest floods Lowell has ever seen, caused by days of constant, heavy rain.
Lowell isn’t the only place experiencing heavier rains though.
Aerial view of 2013 flood in Lowell. (Coiurtesy, NOAA)
A study by researchers at Northwestern University compared rainfall from two periods — 1951 to 1980, and 1991 to 2020 — and found that climate change is causing rains to be heavier in the United States.
The central and eastern parts of the lower 48 states are experiencing the most extreme rainfalls, and Lowell is at the center of it all.
Lowell wasn’t spared then, and record-breaking floods are still occurring each year. 2018 brought the fourth-largest flood Lowell has ever experienced, just shy of the 2013 flood level.
I remember my mom packing my brother and me up into the car to drive as far as we could into town to check out the damage. We sat in silence as we passed through downtown and parked by the city hall.
We saw our friends, our neighbors, our community members kayaking and canoeing down the streets because they couldn’t drive anywhere.
A local company, Timpson Trucking, donated sand from its sand mine to help residents fill sandbags.
There were sandbags stacked around homes and businesses, cars trapped under the murky water and paramedics, cops and firefighters on call.
Ball’s Softee Creme even had sandbags up to protect its shop about half a mile from the rising river.
It was like doomsday on Main Street.
Catastrophic.
So there I sat on that mild April day, wondering how my community would recover from this.
And now I sit, eating my melty chocolate cheesecake flurry, wondering how my community is going to recover from global warming.
Roll out the red carpet, as a staple of the Grand Rapids film scene is set to return. Since its founding in 2005, the Chiaroscuro International Film Series has sought to promote its mission of “connecting world cultures, promoting greater understanding of diverse peoples, and celebrating the universal human spirit through exceptional international cinema.”
During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Chiaroscuro operated a virtual “Greatest Hits” season in 2021, while the 2022 season was cancelled outright out of an abundance of caution. The upcoming 2023 season – the festival’s 18th overall – marks the first full, in-person season in three years.
“I believe I speak on behalf of the entire organizing board when I say we are immensely excited for the Chiaroscuro International Film Series to be returning,” said Chiaroscuro Board President Spencer Everhart.
What is the Chiaroscuro International Film Series?
Per Chiaroscuro’s official website, the organization’s purpose “fosters a deeper understanding of world cultures through the medium of film. Chiaroscuro enriches the West Michigan cultural landscape by presenting films in a setting that encourages discussion and enjoyment through a shared social experience.”
The series’ dates of operation run every other Sunday from January through March, with films beginning at 2:00 pm. Each international film is selected based on its availability, level of critical reception, specific country of origin, and runtime, among other factors.
“With theatrical film distribution as competitive as it is, important movies from around the world don’t always get a chance to be shown in Grand Rapids, so we definitely view Chiaroscuro as providing the region with a connection to films and filmmakers that are not necessarily always represented on our local big screens,” Everhart said.
Following the film, a moderator leads a discussion between two panelists. One panelist brings the perspective of a film scholar, while another offers insights into the given country’s history and culture. Chiaroscuro also invites audience members to ask questions.
Food and refreshments related to the film’s country of origin are available following each week’s discussion.
“The collective experience of watching a film in a theater is part of what makes Chiaroscuro special, but it’s the post-screening discussion panel and audience Q&A – followed by a reception featuring food related to the movie’s country of origin – that makes it a unique cinematic experience that is only possible when we gather together,” Spencer said.
Run by a group of volunteers consisting of local artists, educators, and others, admission to the series is free and open to the public. Support from those local volunteers, along with contributions from universities and businesses, enables the series to remain free.
From 2011 to 2020, Chiaroscuro operated out of Grand Rapids’ Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA) auditorium. However, during Chiaroscuro’s Covid-induced shutdown, the UICA moved to a new location that no longer accommodates a theater space. It was recently announced that UICA would be closing at the end of Feb. 11. Therefore, in 2023, Chiaroscuro will relocate to the Wealthy Theatre at 1130 Wealthy St. SW. There is a potential for a larger turnout at the Wealthy Theatre, as it nearly doubles the seating capacity of UICA.
“While we are sad to no longer be hosting these events at our old home, the UICA, we are proud to be partnering with the historic Wealthy Theatre to continue Chiaroscuro into a new era” Spencer said. “It’s a beautiful venue run by passionate folks who have an interest in our mission of sharing global film culture with West Michigan.”
The 2023 Season
Each year’s films are all tied together with one unifying theme, and 2023’s theme is Absence/Presence. Chiaroscuro intends for that theme to reflect the shared human experience of moving on and coming together after a global pandemic.
The 2023 season begins on January 8 and runs every other Sunday through March 5. Per board member Kerri VanderHoff, the film schedule is as follows:
January 8
Waru (Gardiner et al, 2017) New Zealand
Following the death of a child, eight Māori women risk everything for the greater good of their community.
January 22
Quo Vadis, Aida? (Zbanic, 2020) Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ma Aida is a UN translator. When the Serbian army takes over her town, her family shelters in the UN camp.
February 5
Asako I and II (Hamaguchi, 2018) Japan
Asako loves Baku, a free spirit who suddenly disappears. Later, Asako meets Ryohei, who looks just like Baku.
February 19
Le Havre (Kaurismäki, 2011) Finland/France
When a young African refugee arrives in the city of Le Havre, an aging shoe shiner welcomes him into his home.
Transit
March 5
Transit (Petzold, 2018) Germany
A man escaping occupied France falls in love with the wife of a dead author, whose identity he has assumed.
“We hope the return of Chiaroscuro brings back our usual attendees from the past, but we also hope it draws in new audiences who are invigorated by the possibility of seeing international cinema in a context that enhances our understanding and appreciation for filmmaking from around the world,” Spencer said.
For more information about specific showings and panelists, follow Chiaroscuro on their social platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) and check their official website for updates.
The cast of the North American “SIX” Aragon Tour. (Photo credit: Joan Marcus)
The marketing of “SIX: The Musical,” is catchy, which makes sense because it’s a tragic story on first blush, but an empowering one as well.
It’s the story of six women, who are all fascinating, and their marriages to King Henry VIII during the Tudor era of England’s history.
The playbill simply says: “Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.”
The musical is a new take on history, and it’s a smash, says Jennifer Pascua, marketing director at Broadway Grand Rapids, which is bringing eight performances to DeVos Performance Hall, Jan. 10-15.
“People are ecstatic about it,” said Pascua, who expects the few remaining seats to be sold out relatively soon. “At the close of the run of the show you’re going to see just how many people were excited that this is coming to West Michigan.”
The Tony Award-winning show – which won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) – offers plenty of historical elements, Pascua said.
But the plot is modernized, and the queens are presented as performers at a pop concert. They contemplate the group’s leader over who has suffered the most while married to the king.
“Within the lyrics there are updates to make it more relatable to the 21st century,” Pascua said.
“What’s nice, in the playbill, it will give you a little history of all the wives, and it’s going to show you who their pop icons are, so it gives you a vibe to the type of songs each of the wives are singing.”
In a recent interview with The Omaha World-Herald, Storm Lever, who plays Queen Anne Boleyn in the show, said you don’t need to be an historian to enjoy this show.
Storm Lever as Anne Boleyn (center) in the North American “SIX” Aragon Tour. (Photo credit: Joan Marcus)
“The history is really accessible,” she said in the interview with Courtney Brummer-Clark. “Whether you are a history buff or if you don’t know anything about these queens, they take the time to tell each of their stories and give you the context of what was going on throughout their lives. But they do it with a cheeky, 2022 sensibility. They have a modern edge to the way that they talk, they have a modern sense of humor, but they are still talking about history that happened centuries ago.”
West Michigan audiences will find the “show full of empowerment,” said Pascua, who saw the show last year in New Orleans.
“It is a cross between the British pop stars you see, and influence from this day and age pop stars, and they…each have a story, and throughout the show you will hear the six stories of the six wives.”
“I cannot wait to see the reaction of West Michigan!:
It’s almost better, she added, if you don’t know too much going in.
“Then you’ll be a little more blown away,” she added. “It is non-stop energetic, and I’m excited to see how everyone reacts to it.”
Everyone will be entertained, too. It’s only an hour and 20 minutes long with no intermission.
“If you’re going to the show as a date night, you’re still going to appreciate it,” Pascua said.
“All of these women have incredible stories of resilience, and these queens, wow…21st century girl power is how we are describing the vibe that you’re going to get into as you walk into DeVos Performance Hall.”
Rush Tickets
Although tickets are limited, Broadway Grand Rapids has announced $30 Student/Educator Rush tickets for all performances of “SIX.” A valid school ID is required, and the limit is two tickets per person. All tickets are subject to availability. Please be advised availability is extremely limited and seats may not be together. Tickets may be purchased in-person one hour prior to the performance at the DeVos Performance Hall Box Office at 303 Monroe Ave NW in Grand Rapids.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He is also on YouTube. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
KCHD is offering free radon test kits to residents while supplies last. (Courtesy, KCHD)
Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas that can silently seep up from the soil and enter a building, or home, through its foundation. You cannot smell or see radon and testing is the only way to know the level of exposure in homes or any building. The age of the home/building, type of foundation, and type of soil around the area can impact the level of radon exposure.
That is why in recognition of January being Radon Action Month, the Kent County Health Department, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Great Lakes and Energy, will be giving away free test kits (while supplies last) at the Health Department’s main clinic, 700 Fuller NE.
Radon has a large impact on indoor air quality and it is often referred to as a ‘silent killer.’ The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
“Every home has some level of radon so it’s not a matter of if its present, it’s a matter of what are the concentrations, what are the levels, and are they high enough that we should do something about it,” said Aaron Berndt, the indoor radon specialist for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, during a discussion about radon in the home. He added that homes that test at a level of four or above should begin the process of mitigation.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, along with the Kent County Health Department (KCHD), found that 1 out of 15 homes in Michigan have elevated levels of radon. The EPA and the United States Geological Survey developed a risk zone map and Kent County is labeled as a moderate to high-risk zone.
So how can it be detected?
Radon is simple to detect and fairly inexpensive to remove from properties through mitigation techniques. But due to radon’s ability to be undetectable by sight or smell, it is easily ignored by homeowners and therefore leads to a lack of testing even though it is recommended to test every two to three years. January is Radon Action Month and organizations have resources available for residents to help test for radon and mitigate radon exposure.
The free test kits will be available (while supplies last) at KCHD, 700 Fuller NE, Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. One test kit per home is allowed for residents.
Courtesy, CDC
The test kits will include instructions for use, but, according to officials, are very user-friendly. Just hang the filter inside your home for a few days and mail it in a self-addressed, pre-stamped envelope for testing. If radon is found, residents will be informed and have the choice to contact the Health Department to begin the mitigation process.
For additional help or information on the at-home test kits or results, reach out to the KCHD Environmental Health Division at 616-632-6900. The EPA also offers a support line for help with radon questions or concerns at 1-800-55RADON (557-2366) *.
A two-car crash near 60th St. and Wing Ave. on Thursday in Kentwood has placed a 4-year-old child in critical condition and a 5-year-old in fair condition.
At approximately 8:07 a.m. on Jan. 4, the Kentwood Police Department responded to the crash and located one vehicle occupied by an adult female and two minor children.
One of the minor children was pinned in the vehicle. The Kentwood Fire Department was able to extricate the child from the vehicle and both children were transported to a local hospital.
It does not appear that alcohol or drugs were a factor in this crash. The Kentwood Police Department continues to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Police Department Traffic Bureau at 616-656-6561. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
Items in the Swap Shop inventory constantly change. (Courtesy, Kent County)
Have you ever looked in a closet or storage area and found old household products you no longer use?
For many, that answer is likely yes. We may keep these old, unusable household products around simply because we do not know how to dispose of them. That’s where the “Swap Shop” operated by the Kent County Department of Public Works (KCDPW) comes in.
Since opening in January 2022, the Swap Shop has offered a collection of gently used household products. Residents may drop off products they no longer need at the KCDPW’s satellite sites that utilize Kent County’s SafeChem free disposal program. Resource recovery specialists inspect the items and transport them to the Swap Shop, where they are available to the public for free.
The Swap Shop asks residents who take products to sign a reuse waiver and return unused products to a SafeChem satellite site. This combination of easy disposal and free pickup and collection likely made the Swap Shop a hit in the local community.
What is the Swap Shop?
Located at 1045 Wealthy St. SW, the Swap Shop holds an ever-changing inventory of household cleaners, automotive supplies, and lawn products available to anyone who may need them.
“Instead of sending gently used products for disposal, we reclaim them and add them to our Swap Shop inventory,” said Jonathan Neracher, a resource revery specialist at the department, as he outlined the central mission of the Swap Shop. “The Swap Shop is a community resource where people who may not be able to buy these products, or are really committed to reusing them, can pick up and use them in their households. The bottom line: we’d rather see these products be used than end up anywhere else.”
Neracher added that the Kent County Department of Public Works team is aware of the cost saving opportunity that something like the SwapShop would provide as well as being huge fans of reusing items that are still in good condition.
What type of products are available at the Swap Shop?
Though the Swap Shop inventory constantly changes, the most common products include:
• Automotive supplies (brake fluid, oil, car wash supplies)
• Lawn and garden care products (weed killer, pool supplies, and insect repellent)
• Personal care products (soaps, nail polish, shampoo)
Each month, the Swap Shop adds nearly 1,000 pounds of product to its inventory, recently including more than 160 full or almost full propane cylinders.
Impact on the community
Neracher attributes the Swap Shop’s success and extensive inventory to one factor: the fact that it is free.
“I have yet to meet a resident who didn’t like the idea of free stuff,” he said. “Some of our customers are retirees looking for a productive low cost project to work on, others are new homeowners that need to put some TLC into their new home. We’ve had teachers looking for supplies for class projects and artists looking to create using waste.”
The accessibility of free household products at the Swap Shop allows residents to avoid a costly trip to the store for the same or similar items. They can also try out different products without needing to pay for them. If the consumer does not need the product they try, they can simply return it to the Swap Shop.
Why the Swap Shop matters in today’s world
Recycling and reusing have become more critical than ever due to the rising environmental impacts of human activities.
“The SwapShop, SafeChem Program and Sustainable Business Park shows the county’s dedication to reducing waste and providing a more sustainable framework for the world we want to live in,” Neracher said. “When you Swap at the Swap Shop you [are] not only saving money for the county and yourself, but that is one less bag of fertilizer that needs to be produced, one less bottle [of] drain cleaner being taken off the shelves, one less propane tank going into circulation, one less quart of motor oil being refined.”
With global inflation rates impacting nearly all consumer goods, the Swap Shop’s model of free products makes it a rare commodity in today’s market. That model of “free” will keep the Swap Shop as an integral part of the Grand Rapids community for years to come.
In the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, there are two SafeChem satellite sites. The City of Wyoming Clean Water Plant, 2350 Ivanrest SW, Grandville, and the City of Kentwood Public Works Facility, 5068 Breton Rd. SE. For more information about the KCDPW’s SafeChem satellite sites and a list of products they accept, click here.
The City of Kentwood’s Winter Concert Series will return with free concerts at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
The series features three West Michigan performers on the third Thursday of each month from January through March. Artists will play a range of genres and each concert will feature a food truck outside offering a variety of cuisines for purchase.
“We’re pleased to welcome three great West Michigan artists to perform in this year’s winter concert series,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “This series offers an opportunity to stay connected with the community throughout the cold months, enjoying fantastic company and performances.”
The lineup of performers and food trucks is as follows:
The Kevin Brewster Trio will perform a variety of jazz music with an emphasis on hard bop, bebop, contemporary and R&B genres. (Courtesy, Kevin Brewster)
Dylan (pictured below) will present a mix of original music and covers. She’ll perform a variety of folk, pop and rock styles and top 40 hits.
(Courtesy, Melissa Dylan)
Lighting Matches (pictured below) will perform original alternative-rock tunes featuring thought-provoking lyrics and dynamic harmonies.
(Courtesy, Lighting Matches)
The concerts will take place in the library’s Community Room from 6:30-8 p.m. Guests are welcome to bring their own beer, wine or nonalcoholic beverages to enjoy at the show. More information is available at kentwood.us/WinterConcerts.
Shay Gallagher is the City of Kentwood’s new deputy city administrator.
In this role that began on Dec. 27, Gallagher will oversee a variety of City operations with the mayor to support the City’s mission and vision. He will be responsible for providing policy and procedure guidance, strategic planning, program evaluation and communications strategies to ensure City goals and objectives are met and services are provided in an effective and efficient manner.
Gallagher will foster cooperative working relationships with all City staff, the City Commission, intergovernmental and regulatory agencies and community organizations to develop and implement programs that provide high-quality services, support strong neighborhoods and promote a sustainable economy.
He will facilitate implementation of the City’s parks, trails and recreation millage investment plan and lead other special projects. He also will represent the City on multi-jurisdictional committees and boards.
“We are pleased to welcome Shay to the City of Kentwood,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “Shay brings a strong background in public administration that will be a great benefit to our team and community. I look forward to his partnership in furthering the City’s efforts to foster a thriving community for all.”
Seven years of municipal leadership experience
Gallagher brings seven years of municipal leadership experience to the position, including most recently as village manager of Sparta. In this role, he oversaw the day-to-day operations of all village services, including police, public works and streets, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, airport, finance and administration.
As village manager, Gallagher also oversaw a $12 million annual budget with more than 20 full-time employees in six departments and two bargaining units and implemented a comprehensive capital improvement plan.
Gallagher was resourceful in securing grants and other funding for various village projects. He acquired $363,375 in grant funding from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for revitalization and placemaking. He also assisted in securing an $850,000 grant from the Federal Aviation Administration and Michigan Department of Transportation Aeronautics for a new airport runway lighting system, among other accomplishments.
Prior to Sparta, Gallagher served as deputy city manager of Coopersville, deputy supervisor of Algoma Township and village manager of Lakeview. In these roles, he assisted with budget preparation and presentation, operational oversight, implementation of board/council vision and policies, leadership to various department directors and staff and management of special projects.
“I’m honored to serve the City of Kentwood as deputy city administrator,” Gallagher said. “I look forward to collaborating with all departments, commissioners and community partners to implement commission and community priorities.
“I hope to hit the ground running with Kentwood’s upcoming parks improvement and placemaking opportunities as well as supporting many other department initiatives citywide.”
Gallagher is active in the Grand Valley Metro Council, International City-County Management Association, Michigan Infrastructure Council, Michigan Municipal Executives and West Michigan Municipal Executives.
He has a bachelor’s degree in political science and government and a master’s degree in public administration from Grand Valley State University.
This morning, Jan. 3, 21 county commissioners were sworn in, of which eight were new commissioners. (Courtesy, Kent County)
The Kent County Board of Commissioners were sworn and had its organization meeting this morning with two Wyoming and Kentwood county representatives elected to leadership positions.
Due to redistricting, the board was enlarged from 19 to 21. This included the new District 20, which covers the northern portion of the City of Wyoming, mostly the Godfrey-Lee School district, and a southern portion of the City of Grand Rapids. The district has a large Hispanic population and was created to help provide a voice to that community. Ivan Diaz was elected to serve that district. Diaz was selected to serve on two county committees, the Community Corrections Advisory Board and the Kent County Community Action Governing Board.
The other new district, District 21, is comprised of Cascade, Caledonia, and Bowne townships. Walter Bujak was elected to serve that district.
District 10 Commissioner Emily Brieve, whose district includes a southern portion of the City of Kentwood, was sworn in as vice chair. (Courtesy, Kent County)
District 10 County Commissioner Emily Brieve, whose area, due to redistricting, now includes a southern portion of the City of Kentwood, was elected as vice-chair of the board for a second term and will serve as chair of the Finance and Physical Resources Committee. Brieve has been on the board since 2015 and works for family’s business, FastoolNow.com. District 6 Commissioner Stan Stek, whose district is mostly the City of Walker, was elected as chair for a second term. Stek has been on the board since 2014 and is an attorney at Miller Canfield. Serving as vice-chair of the Finance and Physical Resources Committee is District 18 Commissioner Stephen Wooden, whose was elected minority vice-chair for the board.
District 8 Commissioner Dan Burrill, who served as a City of Wyoming Council Member and whose area is a large portion of the City of Wyoming, was selected to be serve as the chair of the Legislative and Human Resources Committee. Burrill has been on the board since 2021 and is an associate broker at Five Star Real Estate, small business owner, and a licensed builder. Burrill also was selected to serve on the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board.
Other appointments for commissioners were:
District 7 Commissioner Stan Ponstein, whose district is mostly the City of Grandville with a portion of the City of Wyoming, was selected to serve on the Lakeshore Regional Entity Substance Abuse Oversight Policy Board.
District 9 Commissioner Matt Kallman, whose district is Byron Center and a southern portion of the City of Wyoming, was selected to serve on the Senior Millage Review Committee and as the chair of ACSET Governing Board.
District 12 Commissioner Monica Sparks, whose district covers a portion of the City of Kentwood and a portion of the City of Wyoming, was selected to serve on the Area Agency on Aging Western Michigan Advisory Council and the Ready at Five Proposal Review Committee.
District 13 Commissioner Michelle McCloud, whose district is mostly the City of Kenwood, was selected to serve on the Public Works Board and the Senior Millage Review Committee.
The County Board of Commissioners meetings are usually the second and fourth Thursday of each month at the County Administration Building, Third Floor, 300 Monore Ave. NW. For more about the board, visit accesskent.org.
Grab your warmest blanket, settle in with a good book and sign up for Kent District Library’s winter reading program, Let It Snow.
Adults and teens (11+) who participate 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.
“There’s no better time to cozy up with a good book than in the winter,” said Hennie Vaandrager, Programming Manager at KDL. “Let It Snow offers you a chance to read in various genres, and you might just discover a new favorite book.”
In 2022, more than 3,600 people completed Let It Snow.
For more information or to sign up, visit kdl.org/snow. Track your reading progress online using Beanstack or complete and turn in a paper form, available at any KDL branch.
ArtRat Gallery is enjoying a long winter’s nap until Jan. 5, but our Heartside neighborhood is staying lit to welcome 2023 this Saturday night.
Whether you’re looking for a formal dinner, a costume party, a basement punk concert or a good old-fashioned bar crawl, check out a dozen New Year’s Eve events within a 5-minute walk of ArtRat Gallery (46 Division Ave. South).
The Apartment Lounge’s first party of 2023 “is going to be a big deal,” manager Jason Martin told ArtRat. “My favorite part is seeing how much fun everyone is enjoying the performances.” For $10 cover, you can be a part of the festivities at Grand Rapids’ oldest LGBTQ-friendly bar. The event will be hosted by drag doyenne Jasinya Maria Sanchez, and the cover includes party favors and a champagne toast. Jason tells us there’s only one more booth available (which includes charcuterie and a bottle of bubbles), so reserve your front-row seats before it’s too late.
The Beacon Corner Bar has two reasons to celebrate, one is New Year’s Eve and the other is marking its first anniversary. (Courtesy, Beacon Corner Bar)
Grand Rapids’ new home for Long Island-inspired “sea and land fare” has two reasons to party: It’s celebrating both the new year and its own one-year anniversary with a three-course coastal dining experience that features live music by Mark Levengood. ($65)
Want to ring in 2023 from a rooftop? The Hilton invites you to head up to Knoop Rooftop Beer Garden, “Grand Rapids’ only rooftop lounge NYE experience.” There will be charcuterie and New York Sours, not to mention an amazing view. Tickets are available here. ($100)
“This year has gone by so fast, and we are looking forward to celebrating the beginning of 2023 with you!” The chefs at Divani have created a $75, three-course menu (with gluten-free options) to ring in the new year. Reserve your table here.
Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh! (That’s “Happy New Year!” in Irish Gaelic.) Raise a pint at Dublin Hall’s Glitter and Gold Party, with music by DJ Tony Banks. The event will include party favors, a late-night buffet and a champagne toast. Doors open at 9 p.m.; tickets are $40 pre-sale or $50 at the door.
Co-owner and sommelier Shatawn Brigham told ArtRat that GRNoir will offer “six to eight” varieties of bubbly for your New Year’s delectation, as well as livejazz from saxophonist Alain Sullivan and his quartet.
House of Wine kicks of the New Year with a champagne tasting. (Courtesy, House of Wine)
Do you get a kick from champagne? House of Wine invites you to “treat yourself” by making a NYE reservation for drinks and small plates. They’ll be hosting an exclusive champagne tasting to help kickstart your New Year’s Eve celebration. (Book online here.)
Heartside’s new queer-owned salon is proud of its creative and inclusive environment. On NYE, you can explore the space with an evening of glitter, local art vendors and pole performances. Stylists will be offering discounts on glitter-y makeup and hair applications from 6-8 p.m. so you can leave “ready for the countdown at your local gathering place!” Pole performances will run from 8:30-9:30 p.m. (Get your $10 tickets here!)
ArtRat’s neighbors at Rockwell Republic are looking back to the 1980s this New Year’s Eve: Sport your biggest hair and brightest windbreaker, and enter to win a $200 cash prize at the gastropub’s ‘80s-themed costume party. Book ahead for a complimentary champagne toast; the festivities begin at 8:30 p.m.
Head on down to South Division’s venerable LGBTQ+ nightclub, and celebrate the 2023 New Year with a snack buffet, party favors and a house diva performance, as well as a champagne toast at midnight. Legendary Rumors DJ Monica Parker will be spinning tracks alongside DJ Timmy T. Doors open at 8 p.m., admission $25.
If you’re more the party-crashing type, there’s still a place for you (that isn’t your parents’ garage) this Saturday night. The all-ages, alcohol-free music venue is hosting its New Year’s Eve Trash Bash: a “big family reunion” featuring Chain Ripper, The Mollusks, The Sissy Boys, Dregs, American Cheese and Fetus Deletus! Come check out these Michigan punk/metal/hardcore bands from 7 p.m. till midnight. (The gnarliest NYE celebration in town costs just $10 a ticket!)
And if you prefer a lower-key start to 2023, stock up at Grand Vin (15 Ionia Ave. SW). Owner Kimberly Grimm told ArtRat, “We won’t have an event at the shop on NYE, but we do have more than 60 different types of sparkling wine available at every price point to help customers celebrate at home!” Stop in from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. on Saturday so house sommelier Thom Grimm can help you put the right fizz on your New Year’s Eve.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Christmas trees that are being recycled should have all the ornaments, lights and other decorations removed. (Pxhere.com)
Residents of the City of Wyoming may recycle their natural Christmas Tree at the Yard Waste Drop-Off Site, 2600 Burlingame Ave. SW.
The site will be open during its regular hours, Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and addition on the following Saturdays: Dec. 31 and and Jan. 7 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Trees should be clean of ornaments, lights and tinsel before dropped off to the site. Residents should have their IDs or be able to show proof of residency.
The Yard Waste Drop-Off site will resume regular winter hours through March 29, which are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For information about the site, visit the “All About Leaves” under the Public Works tab at wyomingmi.gov.
According to those at the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, students have until March 1 to apply for scholarships available through its organization. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Community Foundation)
If you are a high school graduate interested in pursuing welding as a career, there is a scholarship for that. Perhaps you are interested in nursing or education or maybe you are interested in a post-graduate degree in business or law. There are scholarships for that.
The Grand Rapids Community Foundation is currently accepting applications for more than $1 million in scholarships to support students pursuing post-secondary education and training. By completing one application, students will be considered for hundreds of scholarship opportunities from more than 80 scholarship funds. Students pursuing bachelor and graduate degrees or technical training certificates are eligible to apply.
Some of the scholarships are specific to studies, high schools or colleges. For example, the Pullen/Lambers Memorial Scholarship is available to graduating seniors from Wyoming High School who attend a credited U.S. college/university with a preference given to education or entrepreneurial studies.
If you are senior or graduate from Godfrey Lee, Godwin Heights, Wyoming, Kelloggsville, Kentwood, Grandville or Grand Rapids, you could apply for the Hackett Family Scholarship. Students at Grand Rapids University Prep Academy can apply for the Founders’ Scholarship and South Christian students planing to major in healthcare, education or business may apply for the Roger and Jacquelyn Vander Laan Family Scholarship.
There is also scholarships like the Llewellyn L. Cayvan String Instrument Scholarship for undergraduate or graduate students studying violin, viola, violoncello, or the bass viol. There is not financial or residency requirements.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation noted in a press release that it is committed to providing opportunities for first generation students with financial need to further their education. Scholarships are available for students with a wide variety of backgrounds, GPA’s and levels of education from public and private institutions. Last year, the Community Foundation awarded $1.45 million in scholarships to 630 students.
Contributions from community members make the scholarship funds possible. Many donors have chosen to set up a fund to honor a family member or to provide opportunities for students to attend college or pursue a specific profession. Award decisions are made by more than 100 volunteer community members with applicable experience who serve on scholarship advisory committees.
The general scholarship application for the 2023-2024 academic year opened Dec. 1 and will remain open until March 1, 2023. Interested students can find more information and apply at GRFoundation.org/Scholarships.
The City of Kentwood is offering tree and string light recycling services to residents this holiday season at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
From Dec. 27 through Jan. 31, residents may bring trees between 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The drop-off site is closed Dec. 30 and Jan. 2 for the New Year’s holiday and Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, when City offices will be closed.
Remove all decorations, lights, wires in advance
All decorations, lights, wires and other non-natural materials must be removed from the trees in advance. A drop-off box for recycling string lights is located near the front doors of the Public Works building now through Jan. 31.
Proof of residency required
The tree recycle site is available to Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required. The string light and tree recycling services provide residents with a convenient, environmentally friendly way to clean up holiday decor.
“This is a special time of year for many, and cleanup is not often top of mind until the flurry of gatherings and parties passes,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director. “We’re glad to offer these services to give residents a convenient and environmentally friendly way to dispose of trees and string lights after the holiday season has come to an end.”
For more information about the Department of Public Works and its other seasonal services, visit kentwood.us/DPW.
The City of Wyoming snowplow team works to make sure streets are cleared within a 24-hour period after a snow event. It is the same for the City of Kenwood. (City of Wyoming)
As the blizzard of 2022 makes it way across the midwest, both the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood are making preparations and gearing up to plow the roads.
Both the cities have issued blizzard alerts on their respective Facebook pages. Residents are encouraged to prep their vehicles with emergency items in case they get stranded.
In the case of a power outage, contact Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050 or visit ConsumersEnergy.com for outage updates. For emergencies, such as a downed power line or tree blocking a roadway, call 911.
Snowplow vehicles will be out over the weekend. During a storm in both cities, crews work around-the-clock with trucks on the road 24-hours a day. Crews from both cities try to make sure that all roads are cleared within 24 hours after the snow event has ended. Both the City of Kentwood and the City of Wyoming prioritize plowing from highest-volume streets to lowest-volume streets.
City of Kentwood
Major streets, such as 44th Street, 52nd Street, Kalamazoo Avenue and Eastern Avenue are plowed first.
Collector streets, which are many of the main streets of the subdivisions, are plowed next. Some examples of collector streets are Baileys Grove Drive, Stauffer Avenue and Gentian Avenue.
Once the collection streets are clear and safe, local streets, which are streets within subdivisions, are plowed next.
Cul-de-sacs/stub streets are plowed last with smaller trucks. For the cul-de-sacs, the snow is placed in areas that are suitable for snow storage, so it is recommended that all items in the a cul-de-sac, such as soccer goals and portable basketball hoops, be removed.
If a resident needs to report a snow removal issue, visit kentwood.us/psr. For more information on winter maintenance and resources, including snow removal efforts, street parking rules and tips for avoiding frozen water pipes and meters, visit kentwood.us/WinterMaintenance.
City of Wyoming
The City of Wyoming has about 250 miles or 600 lane-miles of streets.
The city’s first priority are the major streets, such as 28th Street, 44th Street, Burlingame Avenue, Byron Center Avenue and Clyde Park Avenue, which carry the most traffic and have the highest speed limits.
Second is the collector streets, which disperse throughout the residential neighbors. The goal is that residents are within a reasonable distance from either a first or secondary priority street that is plowed.
The last to be plowed is the culs-de-sac and the remaining residential streets. The streets are plowed when the snow depth reaches four inches, either from a storm event or snow accumulation.
For snow removal concerns and other related issues, visit the All About Snow section on the Public Works page at wyomingmi.gov.
Clearing of Sidewalks
In the City of Kentwood, it is the property owners responsible for clearing two or more inches of snow, ice and other obstructions from sidewalks in front of their homes and businesses. The City of Kentwood does plow some of its sidewalks. For a map of those sidewalks, click here.
In the City of Wyoming, sidewalks are plowed by a third party contractor at night when there is two or more inches of new snow accumulation. Residents are asked to keep the sidewalks free of obstructions such as garbage cans and parked vehicles.
Fire Hydrant Maintenance
In both cities, it is the resident’s responsibility to keep the fire hydrant clear if it is located on your property. Residents should clear a path from the street to the fire hydrant and three feet around the hydrant.
Parking Rules
Both cities have winter parking rules.
In the City of Wyoming, it is odd-even parking. If the day is an even number, 2, 4, 6, 8, then residents may park on the side of the street with even number addresses. If it is an odd number day, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, then park on the side with odd number addresses.
Wyoming residents are encouraged to move their vehicles between 7 p.m. and midnight (12 a.m.) to assure that plows can get down and clean both sides of the street.
In the City of Kentwood, parking is not allowed on any public street between 1 and 8 a.m. and when street parking could make it difficult or prevent snow removal.
Communications Director, Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan
Raise your hand if you’re comfortable navigating a conversation about mental health. Now raise your hand if you’re not sure where to start.
At the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, we believe it starts with knowledge, which creates confidence. We empower individuals through our be nice. action plan and programs for schools, businesses, teams and faith organizations.
“This plan works because it’s simple,” said Christy Buck, Founder of be nice. and Executive Director of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan. “It’s four steps that give you the knowledge to recognize depression, guide you through tough conversations, and empower you with the information and resources you need to start navigating appropriate treatment options. be nice. is simple, powerful and life-saving.”
be nice. program is two-fold
On a macro level, the logo itself is a call to kindness, civility and inclusion. It’s recognizing that how we treat one another has an effect on how a person thinks, acts and feels – their mental health. On a micro level, be nice. is an action plan to equip individuals with the knowledge to recognize, understand, accept and take action when it comes to mental health through four simple steps – to notice, invite, challenge and empower.
1. notice
Begin by noticing what’s good and right about the people around you so you can notice when something is different. The plan starts with the knowledge to recognize, or notice, the signs and symptoms of a mental health concern or illness.
Behavioral
Quitting favorite sport/hobby
Avoiding social interaction
Sudden/unlikely drug or alcohol use
Cry frequently for no reason
Neglect responsibilities, loss of motivation
Can’t sleep or sleep constantly
Physical
Lack of hygiene, personal appearance
Fatigue, lack of energy
Overeating or loss of appetite
Weight loss or gain
Headaches
Unexplained aches or pains
Psychological
Acting out, aggressive, quick to anger
Heightened sadness, guilt, indecisiveness
Lack of emotional responsiveness
Frequent self-criticism
Hopelessness, loneliness
Thoughts of death or suicide
2. invite
When you notice changes lasting two weeks or longer, it’s time to invite yourself to reach out. Many times we notice something is different about the way someone is thinking, acting or feeling, but we don’t address it. Oftentimes, we stay quiet because we don’t want to hurt a person’s feelings, get a negative reaction, or be wrong – with be nice., we keep it simple.
“I’ve noticed ________ and I’m worried about you. Is everything okay? Is there anything I can do to help?” This conversation starter shows that you care and you’re asking from a place of concern. You’re not attacking their actions or character, you’re simply checking in.
3. challenge
The No. 1 reason someone doesn’t speak up when they’re struggling is because of the stigma or shame they feel. They’re worried about how others will perceive them. You can be someone who challenges the stigma surrounding mental health, illness and treatment. You can challenge stigma with your words and empathy! The third step is also about challenging an individual to seek help and utilize resources. Here in West Michigan, we are fortunate to have many local options for help and treatment. We live in a digital age, and there’s a variety of mental health supports available for a wide range of needs.
Nationwide, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline [988] is available 24/7 for anyone struggling with their mental or emotional health who needs a listening ear, immediate coping exercises, or assistance navigating further help.
4. empower
Ultimately, the be nice. action plan is meant to empower individuals with knowledge and resources. The MHF is an organization that educates individuals of all ages and demographics in this life-saving action plan. Having the correct knowledge surrounding mental health gives us the confidence to take action when we notice changes and the empathy to decrease stigma.
Being aware of our protective factors and positive coping mechanisms are great ways to help keep our mental health in check, and further, knowing what resources are available in our schools, teams, workplaces and communities empowers us to be resilient.
988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline)
If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to, call 988 to speak with a professional who can help.
To learn more about each step of the be nice. action plan, visit benice.org.
‘Tis the season to watch out for holiday scammers. With the holidays fast approaching beware of any deals that appear too good to be true. Scams create the illusion of being trustworthy on the outside yet are a façade fooling consumers into sharing personal information and sending money.
Scammers are looking for all kinds of way to trick you out of your money. (WKTV/Tessa Schultz)
Scams can come in many shapes and sizes, yet they aren’t the gift you’d like this holiday season. Scams can appear blatantly obvious or they can be concealed from what seem to be reputable sources.
Some of the biggest online shops have had scammers impersonating the organization. Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, and your local department stores all have scammers lurking around impersonating trustworthy transactions and tricking consumers.
Scam Data
Federal Trade Commission data reports that in 2021 online shopping scams contained $3.92 million in total reported losses with the median loss for consumers was $500 dollars.
Shoppers that have fallen victim to questionable purchases are not always compensated for their financial losses. According to the FTC, 25% of 2021 consumers reported a loss to fraud.
Types of Scams
Some of the most common scams are internet auction fraud, phishing, order confirmation scams, and technical support scams.
Internet auction fraud occurs when a seller misrepresents merchandise online. In many cases, items are left undelivered, with the buyer at a loss for their money. Scammers may advertise items with outrageous deals and discounts swindling shoppers into franticly buying nonexistent listings. Eventually, shoppers are met with remorse when their item never arrives on their doorstep.
Phishing is a scam where fake emails, text messages, and websites are used to commit identity theft or steal personal information. The criminal may ask personal questions fishing around and urging you to share your bank account numbers, debit card pin, or other personal information. Typically a scammer’s contact information mimics the names of larger brands hustling shoppers into trusting and handing out their personal information.
Order confirmation scams provide unwarranted emails, texts, and phone calls claiming that you need to confirm or deny unauthorized purchases. Amazon recently published a memo warning customers of scammers mimicking counterfeit transactions and seeking personal information. Panic-stricken shoppers may rush in order to cancel fake purchases when in reality they are being conned.
A technical support scam is a type of fraud where a scammer insists that you need to buy tech support for your devices.
Data breaches can occur to those who download software on their devices. Sensitive information can be stolen, hacked into, and leaked.
Malware is online software containing viruses and spyware. Malware is often undetectable and is a large threat to your online security.
Tips to Avoid Scams
Always use direct websites when seeking customer service and tech support.
Do not react to scams based on the principle of urgency. Many scammers want you to feel the need to “act now.”
In no case should you provide payment, or bank account information, install software, or purchase gift cards when prompted to respond in an urgent nature.
Be cautious when providing any personal information including account numbers and passwords when completing purchases online or on the telephone. Contacting customer service with any questions regarding transactions may ensure safe shopping.
Santa and his reindeer want you to steer clear of holiday scams this year, be sure to travel with ease online to protect your wallet this season.
Santa and his elf helper waiting to greet children at the Nitzel’s home. (Photo courtesy the Nitzels)
It looks like a scene out of a Hallmark movie: colorful holiday lights with Santa and his elf helper sitting on a wooden bench waiting to greet the children.
But it is not a Hallmark movie, it is right here in the City of Wyoming, 3717 Illinois Ave. SW. This is the home of Mark and Barb Nitzel, longtime Wyoming residents who have been spreading a little Christmas magic for the past several years.
“I do this, getting out there, to make people feel good,” said Mark Nitzel, who will be out again this Friday as Santa from 6:30-8:30 p.m. “Snowstorm or not, I’ll be out there. I was out there during the last snowstorm.”
An award winning display
Nitzel has always enjoyed the magic of Christmas and the holidays, especially the lights.
Mark Nitzel in front of his Christmas tree. (WKTV)
“The lights started with me putting up a few and then adding to it,” Nitzel said. The display gradually evolved to take over his front yard and his neighbor’s fence. Dubbed “Clark Griswold,” Nitzel’s passion soon spread, making it a neighborhood affair.
“Next door, he started adding lights,” Nitzel said. “We found a sleigh and put it on his roof. The people across the street moved in a few years ago and they too have been adding lights.
“It was really kind of cool to see it grow.”
The light display even snagged Nitzel an award “The Christmas Light Pajama Run Award” in 2018.
“I just heard someone on the porch and went out to see who it was,” Nitzel said. “I asked what they were up to and they shouted ‘Merry Christmas,’ pointed to the porch and ran to their car and jumped in. They were all wearing those old-fashioned pajamas with the buttons on the back.”
Then came the jolly elf himself
Of course with his warm and welcoming personality and love for the season, it was only a matter of time before Nitzel would be asked to play Santa. That person was his daughter, Samatha Roman who own’s Old Souls Studio, 1111 Godfrey Ave. SW.
“She asked if I could be Santa at her studio for photos,” Nitzel said, adding with a laugh, “the next thing I know, I am outside greeting people as they drive by (my home).”
Nitzel is not one for recognition. It has been his “elf helper” Barb who has been promoting the light display and visits with Santa.
“I can’t be Mrs. Claus, she is too sweet,” Barb Nitzel said with a laugh. “(Mark) retired in 2020 and he does it because he loves it. There is nothing like seeing the kids’ faces. The joy and the happiness just brings tears to your eyes.”
“Happy Christmas to all”
Nitzel, who also volunteers at Family Food Network of Wyoming, said he just enjoys seeing people get a little cheer from the lights and visiting with Santa.
Santa with some guests. He will return this Friday from 6:30 – 8:30 at 3717 Illinois Ave. SW. (Photo courtesy the Nitzels)
“Last weekend, there was a lady who drove by a couple of times and then finally stopped to ask how much it would be for a picture with Santa,” Nitzel said. “I told her it was free.
“She got out of her car and we took the picture and she sat and talked with us for a little bit, telling us that she thought she was going to lose her job. By the time she left, she had captured a little bit of that Christmas cheer back. That’s what it’s all about.”
Nitzel said he recognizes that not everyone can afford to go to the mall to see Santa and for some children, the mall can be overwhelming. But at 3717 Illinois Ave. SW, everyone is welcome to visit with Santa and enjoy the holiday lights.
“It’s about giving back to the community,” Nitzel said. “It becomes a social event for everybody, talking and wishing each other ‘Merry Christmas,’ which makes it kind of nice to see.”
Vintage + More is located at 3101 Broadmoor Ave SE. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
Kate Kemperman, granddaughter of New York Yankees baseball player and Grand Rapids native Wally Pipp, recently gained ownership of Vintage + More, LLC in Kentwood.
Though Kate Kemperman’s ownership of Vintage + More is new, Kemperman’s family has deep roots in West Michigan.
Walter Clement Pipp (Wally) was born on February 17, 1893 in Chicago, but at only 2 years old, moved to Grand Rapids with his family in 1895.
Wally Pipp led the American League with 12 home runs in 1916 and nine in 1917 while with the New York Yankees. (Courtesy, Kate Kemperman)
A student at Catholic Central High School, Pipp played baseball for several Grand Rapids leagues because “they didn’t have a baseball team at Catholic Central when my grandfather was there,” Kemperman explained.
Pipp played a few games with the Detroit Tigers in 1913, but his rights were sold to the Yankees in 1915 where Pipp became New York’s starting first baseman.
Pipp led American League in homers for two years
Leading the American League in home runs in 1916 and 1917 (12 and 9, respectively), Pipp was one of the AL’s top power hitters throughout his career, driving in over 100 runs in each of the following years: 1921, 1923 and 1924.
Pipp played in three World Series and helped lead the Yankees to victory against the New York Giants in the 1923 World Series beside Babe Ruth (also Pipp’s roommate and friend), Bob Meusel, Joe Dugan, and Waite Hoyt.
Vintage + More Store owner Kate Kemperman and Wally Pipp’s granddaughter. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
Though her grandfather passed away in 1965 when Kemperman was three years old, she loved hearing stories about Pipp from her father and other people who knew him.
“My grandpa had a presence to him,” Kemperman said.
15 years in the Major Leagues
After playing 15 years in the Major Leagues, Pipp retired at age 35 with a .281 career batting average, 90 home runs, and 1,004 RBIs.
He was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Catholic Central High School a few years ago – the first person to hold that honor without having played for a Catholic Central team – and is a 1972 inductee into the Grand Rapids Hall of Fame.
Enter Lou Gehrig
During a game in 1925, Yankees legend Lou Gehrig filled in for Pipp who was out of the lineup with a headache. Gehrig would then run a streak of 2,130 consecutive games, a record that would last for 56 years, until Baltimore Orioles Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. broke it. Ripken Jr. still holds the record of 2,632 consecutive games played.
Vintage + More store owner Kate Kemperman talks with a customer. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
Generational residence
Kemperman was raised in Grand Rapids, following in her grandfather’s footsteps by attending Catholic Central with her five siblings, and chose to raise her own family in the same area, purchasing a house in her childhood neighborhood with her husband Mark where they raised their two daughters.
A vendor at Vintage + More for the past three years, Kemperman took over the store when previous owner Shelley Cappiello retired.
“It was the perfect opportunity because I was kind of thinking about it, and so was Shelley,” Kemperman said.
Offering an eclectic mix of farmhouse style furniture, home decor, jewelry, clothes and more, Vintage + More was exactly what Kemperman was looking for as she began a new phase in life.
After 35 years of owning her own catering business, Katie’s Cuisine, Kemperman said that “I began thinking the last year or so that maybe I want to do something a little different.”
With costs rising due to inflation, “people are looking at recession,” Kemperman explained. “And I thought this would be a great shop for recession. The prices are so good, and people are looking to buy local, buy secondhand, or little things that are handmade.”
Something for everyone, plus a store greeter
Vintage + More customers are often greeted at the door by Natalie, Kemperman’s 15-year-old dachshund. Natalie wanders the store freely and is quite amenable to attention, though she often chooses to stay by Kemperman’s side.
Kate Kemperman’s 15-year-old dachshund, Natalie, often greets customers at Vintage + More. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
“She’s pretty attached,” Kemperman said about Natalie. “I’ve had her for a long time. She does great here and the customers love her.”
Visitors to Vintage + More also will find a “shop within a shop.” Kate’s Eclectic Fashions, Kemperman’s previous foray into becoming a vendor at the store, is still going strong. Consisting of 27 consigners, the clothing and accessories portion of Vintage + More can be found at the front of the store.
The rest of the shop is comprised of 26 vendors, and Kemperman ensures that each vendor has their own unique style or content to offer.
“We try not to compete with each other,” Kemperman said. “Vendors have their own little niche — which makes shopping all the better.”
Giving back
Though Kemperman lost her husband in 2014 after a short battle with cancer, her future remains in West Michigan as she looks to give back as much as she has received.
Vintage + More offers an eclectic mix of farmhouse style furniture, home decor, jewelry, clothes and much more. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
As Kemperman takes the reins of Vintage + More, she has already begun serving her community by offering more than just a shopping venue.
Raising money for local causes is high on Kemperman’s to-do list. Snuffle mats for dogs can be found near the front of Vintage + More, with all proceeds going to the Kent County Animal Shelter, and Kemperman is currently looking for another cause to support with the store as well.
All about the people
Kemperman’s favorite part of owning Vintage + More is the people.
“I love hearing stories from the people,” Kemperman said. “I love hearing about why they’re buying something. I love to help them as they look for certain items.”
Special events also are being integrated into the shop’s calendar, offering customers even more opportunities to shop and mingle with other community members. Upcoming events can be found on the Vintage + More Facebook and Instagram social media pages.
“It’s a welcoming store,” Kemperman continued. “There’s always a cup of coffee waiting for you if you want it. The vendors are friendly, and they put their heart into everything they make.”
Vintage + More is currently open to taking a few new vendors for furniture and home goods, and entrepreneurs of all ages are welcome to join the store’s waiting list if space is not immediately available.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
However, the council will shortly be down to six again as current council member-at-large John Fitzgerald will be stepping down at the end of the year to assume his roll as the 83rd District state house representative in January.
The council will appointment a Wyoming resident to fill the vacant seat. The term ends in 2024 when the seat is up for election. Applicants for Fitzgerald’s council seat must have lived in the city for two years. Those interested in applying to fill the seat may pick up an application from the clerk’s office, which is located at city hall, 1155 28th St. SW. Applications for filling the seat will be accepted through Dec. 21. Council will review all applications and interview candidates before making an appointment in January.
Fitzgerald along with State Representative Tommy Brann, who is terming out of his seat this year, were recognized for their service to the city and its residents. It was also noted that Brann was recently named House Representative of the Year by the Michigan Information and Resource, Inc. (MIRS)
Wyoming Council member John Fitzgerald (right)State Rep. Tommy Brann (right)
The fall 2022 Alpha Wolf recipients. From left, sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo, junior Gage Behrenbrinker, freshman Zander Creamer, junior Dominik (Buster) Cross, sophomore Tarren Calvert, senior Bryce Bosovich, and freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra. Not pictured is Jesus Valadez Cano. (Courtesy, John Doyle)
Along with the addition of the freshman and sophomore classes, the school welcomed 170 students from other schools, of which 47 students were from different countries, and 28 new staff members.
To represent the high school body, 1,300 paper chains were strung together across the gym’s ceiling.
“Every paper chain represents you. It represents our staff,” said teacher John Doyle, who helps to organize the Alpha Wolf program. “There are over 1,300 chains and they are all connected because that is what we are about.”
A11 Moment Ahead
Guess speaker Mark Kuiper, from the Wyoming High School staff, focused on the second part of the Alpha Wolf theme, “What is your A11 Moment Ahead?”
“An Alpha Wolf Moment Ahead is when you chose not to judge someone based on the color of their skin or that they talk different than you and they may share a different view of the world.” Kuiper said. “Instead you get to know them, know their story…An AW Moment Ahead of kindness, compassion, and graciousness usually appear in the usual, in the mundane, ordinary day-to-day, hour-by-hour routine of our lives. We need to look past our own face. We need to look up.
“Because the moment you look up, you begin to see the signs and when you decide to chose kindness over indifference, when you decide to chose compassion over apathy, when you chose grace over holding a grudge…you are seeing AW 11 Moments ahead become a lifetime and it will change a life.”
Zander Creamer walks up to receive his award. (WKTV)Zander Creamer is congratulated by his family. (WKTV)
Freshmen
Zander Creamer
According to many, the best word that encompasses freshman Zander Creamer is leader.
“This young man is getting it done at Wyoming High School,” according to staff. “Whether in the classroom, in the hallway, in the cafeteria or participating in extra-curricular activities he radiates Alpha Wolf 11 to all who cross his path.”
It did not take long for Creamer to settle in at the high school and as he did, he helped others make the transition to their new chapter in life.
“He is really a sweet kid who constantly has a smile on his face to try and to make people feel welcome and to lift them up when they are feeling down,” students and staff said.
No matter the setting, Creamer makes the effort to get to know the people around him and let them know they feel valued and appreciated through his contagious smile and kind words.
He figures out math problems on his own time. He enjoys robotics, riding his bike, and eating Mexican food as well as spicy, sweet and sour. He has a love for soccer and enjoys watching the Olympics, especially baseball.
Freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra sits in the audience. (WKTV)Omar Resendiz-Parra accepts his award with his family. (WKTV)
Omar Resendiz-Parra
From that description, it did not take long for students to recognize that freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra was the next Alpha Wolf.
“I have never heard him say an unkind word or be remotely critical about anyone,” said one of his teachers. “He has never said anything out of frustration or irritation. In fact, he has challenged himself to be a better version of a kind and gracious person that he already is.”
During parent teacher conferences, Resendiz-Parra helped his father understand by translating everything. He does everything with a kind heart, according to another staff member, and he is willing to help anyone on a daily basis.
Students and staff all agreed that Resendiz-Parra leads by example.
Sophomores
Tarren Calvert
Sophomore Tarren Calvert shakes hands with family members. (WKTV)
Unusually the first thing sophomore Tarren Calvert will ask someone when he sees them is how his/her day is going.
Calvert simply does good deeds whether anyone is looking or not and people are looking. They have noticed how he goes out of his way to help others, especially helping classmates with homework and other tasks.
“It does not take long for everyone who meets this Alpha Wolf to feel the positive energy he gives with everyone he meets,” according to students and staff, adding that this junior varsity basketball star is positive, respectful and selfless.
Sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo walks up to accept her award. (WKTV)Berlinda Pablo-Pablo stands with her family for a photo. (WKTV)
Berlinda Pablo-Pablo
All it took was the statement “She is a flute player and participates in the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Mosaic Scholarship program” for many to quickly guess that sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo was the next sophomore Alpha Wolf.
“Those who have interacted with this student have said this Alpha Wolf 11 left them with a lasting impression,” according to staff. “She is hardworking, strives for excellence and is the embodiment of joy.”
According to her peers, Pablo-Pablo is “a great friend with a sweet and tender heart, a kind shoulder with a big smile, constantly friendly, and never rude to anyone, and she is supportive and ready and able to cheer up a person and make them laugh.”
Juniors
Gage Behrenbrinker
Junior Gage Behrenbrinker walks up to accept his award as his family watches. (WKTV)
A member of the variety football and basketball, junior Gage Behrenbrinker is definitely a servant leader.
Just some of the words/sayings staff and students said about Behrenbrinker were:
Very cool
Always happy
Likes helping classmates and is always helping at school
Works to improves everyone they are around
Always a positive attitude
Makes everyone’s day better
Polite
Respectful
Inspiring
A great role model
A great leader
Someone we all look up to
Because of these many attributes, Behrenbrinker, according to many, is the perfect example of an Alpha Wolf.
Junior Dominkik (Buster) Cross is congratulated by family members. (WKTV)Dominik (Buster) Cross poses with his family for a picture. (WKTV)
Domink (Buster) Cross
Always there for his friends and family, junior Dominik (Buster) Cross uses his voice to encourage the absolute best out of everyone.
According to staff, Cross is bold, honest, and optimistic and there is never a day that he does not put his best foot forward.
He leads by example, has a smile that lights up the room, and always shows grace especially in the face of challenges, which is why the students and staff chose him to as an Alpha Wolf.
Senior Bryce Bosovich is congratulated by family members and staff. (WKTV)Bryce Bosovich stands with his family. (WKTV)
Seniors
Bryce Bosovich
“I have never had the opportunity to have this scholar in class at the junior or high school, but every time I have had conversations with him it has been super respectful, polite, and mature and sometimes sports related,” said teacher Shawn Veenstra who was one of several Alpha Wolf presenters.
For Bryce Bosovich, it was noted it was difficult to compact all the Alpha Wolf characteristics that he has in a short narrative, but the presenters were certainly willing to try.
Comments from students included:
“He is my best friend and has always helped me when I am going through something.”
“He never fails to put a smile on my face.”
“He is always super nice to everyone in class and is always kind to people he sees. He has just an awesome personality and if I say so myself this guy has a bright future on his shoulders as well.”
According to staff, Bosovich’s laugh is instantly familiar. He is thoughtful, respectful, selfless, and always positive.
Jesus Valadez Cano
Jesus Valadez Cano moved to the United States from Mexico a few years ago and in that short time has established himself as a person of integrity, humility and someone who cares about others and their successes.
“When others in class may not understand something or have different ideas Jesus (Valadez Cano) is considerate and works with them in a positive way,” according to staff. “There is no pretense and no arrogance from this student. He simply lifts others up. He has only one mode: positive.”
Known for working with Spanish students to make sure they understand their school, about every student in the school loves working with Valadez Cano because he is such a great listener, values the opinions of others and openly shares his own ideas.
