Japanese “Good Luck” flags are decorated with messages from family members, friends, and community members that wish victory, safety, and good luck for the soldier. (Supplied)
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) and OBON Society are in the process of returning another Yosegaki Hinomaru or Japanese “Good Luck” flag (circa 1939-1945) from the Museum’s Collections to its rightful family. OBON Society provides reconciliation between American and Japanese families through the return of personal items acquired during World War II.
Japanese “Good Luck” flags are decorated with messages from family members, friends and community members that wish victory, safety and good luck for the soldier. Through extensive research, the GRPM was able to connect with OBON Society to share high-resolution images of the flag for translation. Volunteer Japanese scholars interpret the messages, which can reveal the soldier’s origins, name and location of death. The information obtained from this particular flag in the Museum’s Collections allowed OBON Society to locate the deceased soldier’s niece, who is still living in Japan.
“We are creating a space for people who fought, suffered and grieved because of the war to enter in conversation and have the opportunity for healing and reconciliation,” said a spokesperson from OBON Society. “When news of our work travels around the world, we have witnessed the profound effect it can have on humanity.”
A Grand Rapids Public Museum staff member prepares the Japanese Good Luck flag for return to its family. (Supplied)
The flag is currently in the process of being returned to the soldier’s niece in Japan through OBON Society. The GRPM currently has possession of two more Japanese “Good Luck Flags,” which are logged in the Museum’s Collections database, accessible at grpmcollections.org. The GRPM has provided details about the remaining flags to OBON society, who will continue to search for the family members.
“The GRPM is honored to take care of these important heirlooms,” said Alex Forist, Chief Curator at the GRPM. “It is our hope they will be returned to families in Japan who may not have any other tangible connection to their loved ones who were killed in combat.”
Memorial Day is a national holiday that honors fallen soldiers. (pxhere.com)
While for many it is the “official start of summer,” Memorial Day is designed to honor those who have fallen while serving during a war.
It originally was designated for those who had fallen during the Civil War and was observed only on May 30. However the custom grew and by the 19th Century, many communities across the country had Memorial Day celebrations. In 1971, the federal government declared “Memorial Day” a national holiday to be celebrated the last Monday of the month of May. There was a splitting of ceremonies, with some municipalities choosing to celebrate on the last Monday of May while others deciding to keep with the traditional May 30 for Memorial Day activities.
Due to leap years and calendar configurations, every once in awhile, Memorial Day lands on May 30, which is what has happened for 2022. So there will be several Memorial Day events honoring fallen heroes throughout West Michigan.
Since it is a national holiday, government offices such as Kent County, the City of Kentwood, and the City of Wyoming, will be closed.
Kentwood Memorial Day Parade
Wreaths are laid during the Kentwood Memorial Day ceremony.
The D.W. Cassard Post, along with the Amvets Post, will host a parade in Kentwood at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 30. The parade kicks off from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), near the corner of 48th Street and Eastern Avenue. From there, it will head west down 48th Street to Kentwood’s Veteran’s Memorial Park, located in front of the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. At the park, there will be a ceremony including the laying of the five wreaths, one for each of the branches of military service: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
WKTV will be taping the Kentwood parade and service which is scheduled to air at 12:30 and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and on wktv.org.
Wyoming Memorial Day Program
The City of Wyoming will be hosting its annual Memorial Day program Monday, May 30, from 7 – 8 p.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Garden, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW. (This is located in front of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety building.)
The City of Wyoming will host its Memorial Day program at Veteran’s Memorial Garden. (Photo by Harriet Sturim)
Mayor Jack Poll will emcee and the Lee High School band is scheduled to perform. This year’s guest speaker will be Sean Moriarty. Moriarty is currently a student at Grand Valley State University pursing a degree in Applied Food and Nutrition from the College of Health Professions.
Moriarty enrolled at GVSU after serving eight years of active duty with the United States Coast Guard, where he was a medical corpsman. He sailed onboard the CGC Campbell in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, performing anti-terrorism duties with the Naval Support Activity in Manama, Bahrain, and providing clinical and emergency services at U.S. Coast Guard Base Boston in Massachusetts.
After coming to Michigan, Moriarty enlisted with the Air National Guard as a public affairs specialist where he currently serves in Battle Creek. He is accompanied by his wife, Justine, who is also currently enlisted with the U.S. Coast Guard in Grand Haven.
WKTV will be taping the Memorial Day program, which will air at 8:30 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and on wktv.org.
Other Memorial Day programs
The United States Air Force Band from Washington, D.C. has produced two solemn videos to honor the nation’s fallen heroes this Memorial Day. The first video features the Ceremonial Brass, one of the Band’s six ensembles, performing “Goin’ Home,” with narration by General Charles Q. Brown, Jr., Chief of Staff of the Air Force. WKTV will air the “Goin’ Home” video at several times on Memorial Day. Those times are 9:28 a.m., 10:30 a.m, 12:27 p.m., 3:57 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 10:28 p.m.
The second video features stunning aerial visuals of the bugler, Technical Sgt. Jason Covey, as he solemnly performs “Taps” at Culpeper National Cemetery in Culpeper, Virginia. The unique perspective provided by the drone reveals the scope of sacrifice made by our military members over countless generations. The “Taps” video will air 9:55 a.m., 11:03 a.m., 1 p.m., 7:43 p.m., 9:11 p.m., and 12:08 a.m.
Both programs may be seen on the Comcast Channel 25 or on wktv.org.
The City of Kentwood has announced its tentative road construction and maintenance schedule for the summer.
The $3.02 million reconstruction, resurfacing and maintenance program – approved by the City Commission – includes improvements to approximately 30 miles of major and local roads. Work is expected to begin in June and be completed by the end of October.
Planned street reconstruction, resurfacing and maintenance projects include:
Full reconstruction of Burton Street from East Paris Avenue to Patterson Avenue.
Full reconstruction of Jefferson Avenue from 44th Street to Montebello Street.
Other preventative street maintenance work throughout Kentwood, including routine street marking, crack sealing and patching.
Message boards on major streets will give drivers advance notice of when closures will begin.
“We’re grateful for the support of residents and local businesses as we work to improve and maintain this critical infrastructure,” Kentwood City Engineer Brad Boomstra said. “Quality roads are essential for public safety. Recognizing the disruption road construction can cause, crews will work hard to minimize impact on our community.”
The full reconstruction project on Burton Street will begin in July and include narrowing the existing roadway pavement for the construction of a new non-motorized trail on the north side of the street. In addition, the street will receive new concrete curb and gutter, new concrete driveway approaches and new asphalt pavement surface on the roadway.
City of Kentwood Summer Street Resurfacing and Rehabilitation Map.
For a majority of the project, Burton Street through traffic will be maintained in both directions. Eventually, eastbound traffic will be detoured from East Paris Avenue to Sparks Drive to Forest Hill Avenue and from East Paris Avenue to 28th Street to Patterson Avenue.
The Jefferson Avenue project will begin in June and include new concrete curb and gutter, new concrete sidewalks and driveway approaches, new asphalt pavement surface on the roadway, repairs to the storm sewer system and new watermain installation. During construction, Jefferson will remain open to residents and their visitors. While through traffic will be maintained with one lane, drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes to avoid traffic delays.
Property owners affected by the Burton, Jefferson and East Paris projects were informed by letter. Mail deliveries and trash pickups will not be disrupted.
Patching and crack sealing work will take place on several neighborhood streets in June to prepare them for cape sealing in August. Cape sealing is designed to create a smooth surface with increased durability. Cape seal projects take two non-consecutive days, with the cape seal treatment requiring up to a few hours to dry before being ready for traffic.
Homeowners in the neighborhoods where these projects will take place will be informed by letter. Residents are asked to drive slowly during the road work and follow the crew’s instructions for the best access to their homes. On-street parking will not be allowed during cape sealing.
Resurfacing of East Paris Avenue from 28th Street to 36th Street began in May. The Michigan Department of Transportation project includes new pavement. While there are intermittent lane closures, northbound traffic is being maintained throughout the project. Drivers traveling south are encouraged to seek an alternate route or follow the posted detour from 28th Street to Patterson Avenue to 36th Street. The work is scheduled to be completed in October.
The street reconstruction, resurfacing and maintenance projects are funded through the Michigan Transportation Fund, which is supported by taxes on the sale of gasoline and diesel fuel as well as fees collected by the Secretary of State for vehicle registrations.
The City’s road maintenance decisions are made based on ratings from the annual Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating system, or PASER, as well as other data. PASER provides a basis for comparing the quality of roadway segments and uses a 1-10 rating system for road pavement conditions based on visual inspections.
Kentwood maintains one of the highest-rated major street networks in Kent County, according to data compiled by the Grand Valley Metro Council that is based on PASER ratings.
Last year, the city invested in improvements to 30 miles of major and local roads. Major streets included in the 2021 reconstruction, resurfacing and maintenance program were:
Andover, Lyles, Heyboer, Blaine, Brinks and 51st streets.
32nd Street from Breton Avenue to Shaffer Avenue.
For more information, including amap of street resurfacing and repairs, visit kentwood.us/construction. Drivers can subscribe to be notified when construction updates are added to the City’s website and also receive updates via Facebook and Twitter.
A view of a previous City of Kentwood Food Truck Festival. (WKTYV/2018)
The City of Kentwood and GR8 Food Trucks will once again kick off the summer season with the annual Food Truck Festival.
The Kick-Off to Summer Food Truck Festival is set for Saturday, June 4 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. in the parking lot of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard. L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The popular community event offers free admission and will feature 30 food trucks, live music and beer. There will also be community booths for attendees to explore. Another food truck festival will celebrate the end of the summer season on Sept. 17.
This year’s trucks offer a wide variety of cuisines, from pizza and burgers to traditional Hispanic and Filipino recipes. Whether you’re looking to snack on a soft pretzel, enjoy a barbecue dinner or satisfy your sweet tooth with a frozen treat, the festival has options for every appetite.
“We’re excited to welcome the community back to this popular event, now featuring more food trucks than ever before,” said Kentwood Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo. “GR8 Food Trucks and our local vendors and musicians have been phenomenal partners and we encourage everyone to come out and enjoy this fun-for-all-ages event.”
Saladino Smoke will be one of 30 trucks at the June 4 event. (supplied)
Live music will start at 11 a.m. with Downtown Authority, followed by DJ Snax, Molly and the Azz-Izz Band. A beer tent featuring local craft beer favorites will be open 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
“Food trucks are the ultimate way to support local small business owners in a fun and relaxing outdoor environment,” said GR8 Food Trucks President Alan Tomlinson. “Kentwood’s Food Truck Festival gives residents an opportunity to build community while enjoying great food.”
This year’s diamond sponsors are Macatawa Bank and NN Mobile Solutions. While entry to the festival is free, cost for food and beverages varies by vendor.
Volunteers are needed for the event. Find more information about the Kick-Off to Summer Food Truck Festival and sign up to volunteer at kentwood.us/SummerFoodTruckFestival.
Now all fire and police departments in Kent County will be on the same countywide digital radio system for emergencies. (pxhere.com)
The Kent County Dispatch Authority, Kent County Sheriff’s Office and Kent County Fire Chiefs Association announced the final users of the new countywide digital radio system for police, fire and emergency response personnel have transitioned to the system.
The final users are comprised of 28 fire departments across Kent County that utilize fire paging to alert emergency responders. Many of the county’s fire departments serve rural areas, where pagers provide clearer and more reliable communications. The Kent County Dispatch Authority, or KCDA, which led the radio system project, purchased the fire pagers in 2018 through a voter-approved surcharge. The pagers were used on the old system before they recently were reprogrammed by the Kent County Sheriff’s Office to the new system. The new radio system enables first responders to better communicate between agencies, ultimately saving lives, property and time.
“While the radio system has been operational for more than a year and we have already transitioned nearly 5,000 radios, transitioning the fire pagers was the final step in ensuring all of our public safety agencies in Kent County have clear and reliable communications,” said Kent County Dispatch Authority Chairman Mark Herald.
The $25.7 million radio system – funded by the 2016 voter-approved surcharge – went live in December 2020, with the Grand Rapids Police and Fire departments and Kent County Sheriff’s Office transitioning to the system in early 2021.
The 800-megahertz, or MHz, radio system replaces an outdated analog system and joins the statewide radio system operated by the Michigan Public Safety Communication System that allows coordination between local, state and federal agencies. The Kent County system is comprised of 12 transmission sites and two 911 dispatch centers: Kent County and Grand Rapids. It was the result of nearly four years of planning, site acquisition, construction, equipment installation and testing.
“The Kent County Sheriff’s Office worked closely with these 28 fire departments to provide technical support and other assistance to ensure a smooth transition,” Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said. “Adding these agencies to the new radio system enhances the safety of our residents and first responders.”
The KCDA is a multi-jurisdictional and multi-disciplinary board created by Kent County and the cities of Grand Rapids, Grandville, Walker and Wyoming to enhance 911 communication services in the county.
“These pagers are critical to alerting firefighters of calls for service and ensuring response activities are coordinated between agencies,” said Kent County Fire Chiefs Association President Sam Peterson. “We are grateful to the Kent County Dispatch Authority and Kent County Sheriff’s Office for their partnership in this important project.”
After overcoming some obstacles this season, the East Kentwood varsity dance team rose to the top with many awards and honors.
Soon before their national championships in February in Orlando, the students learned their flight was overbooked and it was time for Plan B. With no other options, the team drove 18 hours to Florida to make it just in time for the semifinals and compete with the nation’s best teams in the 2022 Dance Team Union National Championship.
Both the jazz and hip hop teams reached the finals, and earned 15th and fourth place, respectively.
Coach Kat Albertson (far left) and her East Kentwood varsity dance team proudly show off their two trophies at the 2022 Dance Team Union National Championship in February in Orlando. (courtesy)
“It was a great feeling to be recognized among the best teams in the country,” said EK coach Kat Albertson, who coached the Falcons for four years and is now pursuing coaching at the collegiate level. “Luckily, this was the most hard-working and determined group of student-athletes I’ve ever had the privilege of coaching. They were all so eager to prove to themselves, and to their school, that not only is the dance team at East Kentwood one of the best in Michigan, but also that dance team is a sport.
“We had incredible success this past year due to the team’s hard work, dedication and the positive team culture we built together. We were undefeated in hip hop this year, won the grand champion award at every local competition (registered the highest scoring dance in the entire competition), and won two regional championships for the first time in program history.”
Albertson said her team captain, junior Saniya Harvey, is an “exceptional dancer and leader.”
Check out the dance team’s performance at the national championship by clicking here.
“We lost five incredible seniors in 2021 and only had five returning members for the new year,” continued Albertson, whose assistant coach was EK dance alum Brooklyn Smithers, a freshman at GVSU. “We were uncertain if we’d be able to have ample time to create a family-like bond with so many new members, get our technique where it needed to be, and to reach the level of excellence that our past teams had been able to do.
“It’s taken a really long time for us to get the recognition that we deserve, and I think that has truly been the most fulfilling thing that we’ve seen come out of this year.”
Currently there is a need for foster families in West Michigan. (pxhere.com)
According to Michigan Health and Human Services, there are about 13,000 children in foster care with at least another 300 who are still in need of an adoptive family.
The need for more foster homes always exists, according to representatives of the local child welfare nonprofit D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s. Because the need is great, this May, which is National Foster Care Awareness Month, D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s along with others organizations that are part of the Foster Kent Kids are hosting educational workshops to help residents learn more about how they can help fight a crisis-level need for fostering.
“We are at a critical juncture in Grand Rapids for youth in need of stable foster home environments,” said D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s President and CEO Mary Muliett. “Simply put, we are in a crisis. We are in desperate need for foster homes, and we home the community will take the opportunity during Foster Awareness Month to explore this life-saving gesture.”
The main need? Providing temporary shelter for teens who are caught up in the middle of the placement process. For some teens, they wait at the agency all day until placement specialists can find a temporary shelter.
As a way to increase general awareness of the need, Foster Kent Kids workshops are designed to help potential foster families learn more about fostering.
This Sunday, May 22, Foster Kent Kids will host the program “Stand for Teens” at the Wyoming High School cafeteria, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. The program is from 4 – 6 p.m. and will include panelists such as a foster care youth, adoptive parents and school administration. Through their discussion, the panel will share the lessons, challenges, and rewards of their foster experiences.
On Wednesday, May 25, will be the Zoom program “The Realities of Foster Care.” This one-hour session, which starts at noon, will be led by Rachael Aday, a foster parent recruitment and licensing specialist in Kent County. Aday is known for her passion for providing support and advocacy to relative and community foster homes. She will interview foster parents Josh and Lea Sparks to share their experience in fostering. To register for the zoom program click here.
Both of these programs are free. To register for an event or to learn more about how to foster, individuals can visit www.fosterkentkids.care.
Also to encourage adults to consider fostering, D.A. Blodgett is offering a $245 monthly stipend for each bed made available to a child awaiting a more stable placement. In additional to the monthly stipend, the organization will offer $100 per day when a child is in a home. Along with the payment will be personalized training and support from the organization.
At this time, the organization is seeking volunteers to step up and provide placement for youth ages 12 and older for a few weeks while their next placement is being identified.
D.A. Blodgett also offers a free monthly foster care information meeting, held from 6-7:30pm the second Monday of the month at D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s, 804 Leonard Street N.E., Grand Rapids.
West Michigan foodies looking for an authentic taste of Mexico can enjoy the “Olé to Molé” festival on Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22.
A variety of local restaurants will offer their own twist on a sauce sometimes called “Mexico’s national dish.” Participants can sample each restaurant’s offering by visiting one, a few, or all of the locations between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day, then vote for their favorite using a provided QR code. Pricing and availability of samples varies by location.
Molé is a sauce traditional to Mexican cuisine that typically includes a variety of chili peppers, nuts, and spices. It is often served as an accompaniment or marinade for chicken or other meats.
The nine restaurants participating in the multi-site event are all located along the South Division corridor between Hall Street and 28thStreet. They include:
Agave Sports Lounge, 2053 Division Ave South
El Globo, 2019 Division Ave South
Las Rocas, 2106 Division Ave South
La Vencedora, 1961 Division Ave South
Los Dos Amigos, 1642 Division Ave South
Mi Tierra, 2300 Division Ave South
Restaurante Cancún, 2140 Division Ave South
Tacos Yanga, 1338 Division Ave South
Tres Mangos, 2023 Division Ave South
Parking is available in the City of Grand Rapids Burton Heights lot, located just behind El Globo and Tres Mangos on the west side of Division Avenue, south of Burton. Easy transportation for the event up and down Division Avenue is available on The Rapid’s Silver Line or Route 1.
Funding for the festival comes from the Burton Heights Business Association, the Grand Rapids Office of Special Events, and the Grand Rapids Office of Equity & Inclusion.
Questions about the event may be directed to Angelica Velásquez, president of the Burton Heights Business Association, atlacasadelacobija@gmail.com or 616.617.4400. Media inquiries may be directed to Jon Shaner at The Salvation Army Kroc Center, jon.shaner@usc.salvationarmy.org or 616.401.9835.
Shortly after his organization received a significant $2 million donation from Meijer on Tuesday, Kenneth Estelle called it a beyond-expectations commitment.
“The amount of the gift is amazing,” said Estelle, president and CEO of Feeding America West Michigan. “We are not an organization that typically gets a million dollar donation or gift, so having a $2 million gift from Meijer was more than amazing.
Feeding America West Michigan President and CEO Kenneth Estelle speaks at his organization’s advancement campaign event at its new facility Tuesday in Kentwood. (WKTV)
“It really showed that we have a significant partner that believes in what we’re doing and is willing to put some significant money where the belief is.”
The $6 million advancement campaign, Nourish Tomorrow, was developed to move the food bank’s headquarters and distribution center from Comstock Park to 3070 Shaffer Avenue, SE in Kentwood.
Challenges worsened by the pandemic, and a continuing effort to provide more equitable service in all its 40 counties, pushed the food bank’s current Comstock Park facility to operate beyond its capacity.
Ultimately, this facility will enable the food bank to nearly double its food distribution to nourish more Michigan residents.
“Meijer has supported our work for more than 30 years,” Estelle said. “They provide millions of pounds of food, donate semi-trucks and give generous financial gifts like this one.”
The campaign has raised $4.7 million over the last several months — 78 percent of its goal. To date, nearly 100 local donors, businesses and area foundations have supported the campaign, including the large gift from Meijer.
Meijer President and CEO Rick Keyes speaks at a Feeding America West Michigan event Tuesday. (WKTV)
“We’ve been partners with Feeding America West Michigan for over 30 years, and you just see the impact and the need that’s in our community,” said Rick Keyes, president and CEO of Meijer. “The impact that they’re able to make is really incredible, so we look for partners like them. Hunger relief is at the core of some of the work we do in the community.”
Serving local families in need since 1981, Feeding America West Michigan reclaims millions of meals worth of safe, surplus food from various sources. With the help of countless volunteers, the food bank sorts, stores and distributes this food through a network of more than 700 partners to fill hundreds of thousands of neighbors’ plates instead of landfills.
The food bank’s service area consists of 40 of Michigan’s 83 counties from the Indiana border north through the Upper Peninsula. For more information, visit FeedWM.org or call 616-784-3250.
The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) is an essential senior resource for a nine-county region that includes Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties. We work to connect seniors, family caregivers, and adults with disabilities to resources that help them to live independently. This includes programs for long term care services and supports to help make this independence possible.
MI Choice Medicaid Waiver is one of these programs. It provides person-centered care that empowers individuals to age-in-place in their own home rather than in a facility. Ongoing services through the program include personal care, housekeeping, meals, respite, and transportation. In an initial assessment, a supports coordinator is able to truly get to know an individual, coordinate their services, and connect them to partner agencies and community resources. Supports coordinators do more than oversee an individual’s care, they become their advocate, making sure their needs are met. Sometimes, just having someone in their corner cheering them on can be a driving force for a person’s confidence in maintaining their independence at home.
Recently, the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan received a NCQA Accreditation of Case Management for Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) for the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver program. This three-year accreditation is from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), a nonprofit organization that issues accreditation, certifications, and recognition programs based upon measurement, transparency, and accountability to highlight top performers and drive improvement. Earning NCQA’s Accreditation of Case Management for LTSS demonstrates that an organization is dedicated to coordinating the delivery of care in a person-centered and integrated manner to help individuals function optimally in their preferred setting.
When asked about this accreditation for the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, AAAWM Care Management Services Director Suzanne Filby-Clark explained, “We’re proud of our agency and staff as the preparation for this accreditation lasted approximately 12 months. The agency performed gap analysis to determine tasks, work groups were formed to seek clinical input, policies and procedures were written to align with the requirements, and all of the necessary documentation was notated and organized for submission. This NCQA accreditation shows our partners, participants, and community members prioritize and provide high quality care and services.”
The NCQA accreditation reinforces the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s commitment to improve the health outcomes of our patient population and ensure delivery of person-centered care. To learn more about the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver program and other resources for aging in place, reach out to the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s Information and Assistance team at (616) 456-5664.
About the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan helps older adults and individuals with disabilities remain independent and provides support and education to caregivers in Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties. You can visit www.aaawm.org to learn about our programs and services and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AreaAgencyonAging
About NCQA
NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA’s Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. NCQA’s website (ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make more-informed health care choices. NCQA can be found online at ncqa.org, on Twitter @ncqa, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NCQA.org and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/ncqa.
Gold Star father, John Burri, of Wyoming, poses in front of the Blue Star and Gold Star memorials. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
More than 100 people gathered at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids this past Saturday for the Dedication Ceremony of Blue Star and Gold Star Memorial Markers to honor servicemen and women along with families that have lost loved ones who served.
In addition to hosting the event, the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids and the Kent Garden Club worked together on the project. U.S. Army and Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids Member Council President Corporal Robert Troost and former Kent Garden Club President Kathy Wolverton played vital roles in bringing it all together. The two star memorials, one blue and one gold, were placed in a new memorial garden space to give veterans and visitors a place to reflect and meditate.
“I thought the display was a beautiful gathering of people coming together to not only honor those who have served but to dedicate this special place,” said Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. “You know this home, the veterans home, has a rich history here in our city and to see this addition is just really special.”
The Blue Star and Gold Star Memorials at the Grand Rapids’ Home for Veterans (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss next to the new memorials. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Kent Garden Club member and program co-chair Joan Tolley
Veterans and the community came out for the dedication. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Community members came out to celebrate the new Blue Star and Gold Star memorials. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Union High School JROTC Color Guard retiring colors. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Mayor Bliss delivered remarks from a stage in front of veterans and Gold Star families. She was joined by representatives for Congressman Peter Meijer and State Senator Winnie Brinks, Kent Garden Club organizers and retired military officers. Congressman Peter Meijer detonated an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol building on September 11, 2021. District Director of Senator Winnie Brinks office Kate Kooyman revealed that the Grand Rapids Veterans Home will receive nearly $6.5 million for operating costs and $200,000 for upgraded security as a part of a budget passed by the Senate for the first phase of the upcoming fiscal year.
The ceremony also included Soloist Brandon Harris and the Northview High School Band giving a rendition of the national anthem, in addition to playing taps, and the Union High School JROTC Color Guard presenting and retiring colors.
Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce member Kristin Ruther serves as the first vice president of the Kent Garden Club. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
“I say congratulations to the Blue Star and Gold Star garden club, to all the family members, to all the leadership,” said (retired) Major General Gregory Vadnais. “Thank you for what you do, it’s important work. It keeps it in the conscious of American communities, that’s what we need to do.”
Gold Star father and Wyoming resident John Burri, who lost his son Eric Todd Burri on June 7, 2005, while serving in Iraq, couldn’t help but be brought to tears during the ceremony. Burri shared that as a parent, Gold Star families, which are families who have lost an immediate family member while in active service, are always worried about our heroes being forgotten, adding that the dedication of the Gold Star reaffirms that they will not be. Blue Star represents those families with active members in service.
Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids provides long-term skilled nursing care for veterans and eligible family members. The Kent Garden Club is an organization that focuses on gardening education. To learn more about both organizations visit www.michigan.gov/mvh and kentgardenclub.org.
A family learns about some of the work the Kentwood Department of Publics handles at a past open house. (Supplied)
Community members are invited to learn more about how local public works departments serve residents at the Kentwood Department of Public Works’ Community Open House on Wednesday, May 18.
The event will be hosted in partnership with the Kent County Road Commission in recognition of National Public Works Week, which is May 15-21. The open house will take place on Wednesday, May 18 4-7 p.m. at the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility at 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
Community members of all ages will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the DPW facility and learn more about the department. They will be able to meet the public works team, learn more about services provided and explore vehicles and other equipment used by the department.
“From snow plowing and streets to police cruisers and parks maintenance, public works supports many areas of everyday life,” Public Works Director Chad Griffin said. “This event gives us an opportunity to demonstrate that work and connect with residents to share more about our role in the community and the equipment we use.”
The event will feature giveaways, hands-on activities, live maintenance, repair demonstrations and more. Complimentary food and refreshments will be provided. Free silver maple, river birch and blue spruce tree seedlings will also be available for attendees to take home.
Additionally, semifinalists and finalists of the Work Zone Safety Poster competition will be honored at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by Kent County Road Commission and public works agencies throughout Kent County, the poster contest invited third-grade students from across the county to design a caution sign focused on safety tips for driving through a work zone. A gallery of entries will be displayed during the event.
The Kent County Road Commission will also have team members and equipment on site to share more about the work they do.
“Our crew members are excited to discuss different aspects of their work with the community and highlight how we can work together to maintain safer roads for everyone,” said Steven Warren, managing director of the Kent County Road Commission. ” We are dedicated to improving public infrastructure, and this event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase how we serve our communities.”
The Kentwood Department of Public Works has five divisions that work together to maintain the City’s infrastructure, which includes more than 150 miles of pipes underground and more than 155 miles of streets above ground, as well as City parks and grounds, buildings and fleet of vehicles. The five divisions are building maintenance, fleet services, grounds maintenance, streets maintenance and utilities (water and wastewater) services. To learn more about Kentwood DPW, visit kentwood.us/DPW.
Prior to the open house, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley will provide a proclamation for National Public Works Week during the May 17 City Commission meeting.
Jim Payne and Char Kruzich’s College Avenue home will be part of this year’s Heritage Hill Tour. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
The annual Heritage Hill Weekend Tour of Homes is excited to welcome visitors May 21-22 after a two-year hiatus.
One of the country’s oldest urban historic districts, Heritage Hill has been heralded by “This Old House” as one of the country’s “Best Old House Neighborhoods.” The Heritage Hill Association encourages guests to explore seven homes of families who have courteously opened their doors, as well as two public buildings recently restored by Grand Rapids Community College.
More than 1,300 homes dating from 1843 compile Heritage Hill, and represent nearly every style of American architecture, from Greek Revival to Prairie. Since 1969, a varying line-up of seven to eight private homes and two to three historic buildings have been opened to the public each year with guides who share each building’s unique story and special features.
“This tour is a great opportunity to take a walk back in time,” Jim Payne, owner of Heritage Hill home located at 27 College Avenue NE, told WKTV. “Visitors get to experience different types of architecture and art and reflect on another era.”
The wood in the home is reflective of the original molding and floors. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Jim Payne and Char Kruzich opened the doors of their Heritage Hill home to this WKTV writer, willingly giving a tour of their well-loved and rehabilitated house. Built in 1882 and sporting the American Craftsman Style, 27 College Ave. is on the must-see list of homes on the Heritage Hill Tour.
Both freelance artists themselves, Jim and Char had a hand in every renovated detail, working closely for the more than 14 years with architect Mitch Witkowski and carpenter Tim Karsen and incorporating their own unique designs and artwork into their home. A distinctive integration into the residence are two art studios on the third floor, allowing the owners to “create while living in a work of art.”
Though almost all of the interior is new, Jim and Char kept the original floors of the home and even the original newel post to the staircase leading to the upper floors. “We kept the post and modeled the rest of the room and staircase around its original design,” Jim said.
A unique piece of history was found inside the walls of their historic home during the renovation. “There was a piece of trim from 1909, signed by the carpenter, inside the wall,” said Jim. “He had taped coins from that year to the wood.”
“Our carpenter did the same,” Char said with a smile. “He signed a piece of wood and then taped current coins to it before closing up the walls.”
While the inside of the home has been drastically altered, allowing better movement from room to room and improved airflow throughout the residence, the exterior has been restored to its original architectural design. Dormers and gables provide a complex façade and emphasize the Craftsman Style’s natural materials and fine craftsmanship.
When asked about restrictions for renovating their home due to the historic nature of the residence, Jim and Char said the only boundaries the Historic Preservation Commission, (HPC), imposes on homeowners is in regard to the exterior of the homes.
“Color of paint is not restricted, but things that would alter the exterior of the home like windows, doors and railings, require HPC approval,” Jim said. “That way construction of decks and sliding glass doors, things that aren’t true to the era of the homes, are avoided.”
The exterior of the home at 27 College Ave. NE
The entrance
The dining area
The living room
Living space
Office space
Living area
An original post and molding
While there might be restrictions on outside renovations, Jim and Char said HPC has no boundaries on the interior of the home. This allows historic homeowners to preserve the exterior architecture while creating an interior that suits their personal tastes.
“They want you to be able to rehabilitate these homes,” Char said. “They want you to be able to raise families here. To live here, not just reside here.”
Jim agreed. “The Historic Preservation Commission was a great help during the remodel.”
The homeowners revealed that their neighborhood is like a second family. Moving to College Avenue in 1981, they rented a home for five years before buying their current home in 1986, giving them 40 years in their current community.
“Owners or renters, it doesn’t matter,” said Char. “We are all treated like family and are all close.”
The neighborhood even formed the North College Block Club, with families gathering socially many times a year. “Our own kitchen has seen a lot of action,” Char said as she tapped the counter next to her.
Jim and Char urge community members to come out and experience the masterpieces compiling Heritage Hill.
Advance tickets are $18 and can be found at www.heritagehillweb.org. To obtain tickets by check, send to the Heritage Hill Association, 126 College SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Tickets purchased on the days of the tour are $25.
Proceeds benefit the Heritage Hill Association’s programs that support the historic preservation of this unique neighborhood and assist with land use, planning, engaging neighbors and community resources, and crime prevention.
More information about the annual tour and the homes and businesses opening their doors can also be found at www.heritagehillweb.org or by calling 616-459-8950.
A whole food diet is important for runners as they gear up for the summer running season. (pxhere.com)
Running is back in season! Spring means warmer weather, and warmer weather means more running. Whether preparing for that early morning run, or for a marathon such as the Amway River Run or the Grand Rapids Marathon, proper nutrition is the key to success. YMCA dietitian Nicole Holmes and Dr. Elizabeth Albright of University of Michigan Health offer advice and tips for getting the most out of your sprint.
“Include protein in all meals,” Holmes said is her first recommendation. “Protein is an essential building block for muscles, helping them recover from training.” She goes on to include such foods as meat, eggs, fish, milk, yogurt, cheese, nuts, tofu, seeds and legumes as great sources of protein.
Albright notes that “there isn’t necessarily one specific eating plan” she would recommend for all athletes. In general she encourages following a whole food diet, a plan which includes decreasing the amount of processed foods eaten. Carbohydrates are highly regarded in particular, such as “whole fruit, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, brown rice, whole grain bread, cereal, and pasta.”
Nicole Holmes
“Carbohydrates provide the major source of energy when training,” Holmes agreed. Fruits and vegetables are key as well. “Fruits and vegetables are important components of every training plan because they are packed full of vitamins and minerals essential for proper recovery of trained muscles, prevention of illness, and overall health and wellbeing.”
Fluids, especially water, are also extremely important. Holmes recommends drinking five to 10 ounces of fluids every 15 to 20 minutes. When it comes to healthy, electrolyte-laden energy drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, she says the longer the run, the more important they are. Albright recommends these drinks when running for over an hour.
Stretching before runs is an essential practice. Rather than classic “static” stretches that are often practiced in school, such as holding a stretch for a period of time, Albright recommends “dynamic” stretching, or stretching with movement. “Essentially you perform gentle repetitive movements that increase range of motion, provides muscle lengthening, and gets blood flow circulating through the area.” She recommends Runner’s World’s article on the topic: https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a32616143/standing-prerun-stretches/
Dr. Elizabeth Albright
In the end, everyone needs to find their own pace and rhythm when it comes to exercise. Holmes notes that “it may take multiple training runs to figure out what nutrition combination works best.” Similarly, Albright explains that there isn’t really a best time of day for running, whether training or in a marathon: “The most important thing is to plan for what you are likely to stick to.”
Perhaps most important, Albright concludes, is to HAVE FUN! “You are running a marathon, something 99% of the world will never do. Congratulate yourself, be proud of yourself, and enjoy it!”
Everyone needs to cool off on a hot day. (Supplied)
The City of Kentwood will host its Bark for the Park event Thursday, May 19 to raise funds for new amenities at the dog park in Kellogg Woods Park.
The dog-friendly event offers free admission and takes place 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Kellogg Woods Park, 275 Kellogg Woods Park Drive SE, with financial donations being accepted throughout the event. No registration is required.
Attendees and their canine companions can explore a variety of local pet vendors and community booths, from local pet stores to pet resorts. The event will also include a pet craft station, photo booth, and dog agility course. Attendees can join a yoga session with their pup and also participate in a doggy fashion show. Individuals will also receive a doggie bag filled with dog treats and other favors to take home.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the Let’z Taco Bout It food truck, which will serve tacos and elephant ears. The Kentwood Parks and Recreation tent will have dog-safe ice cream available for purchase.
You never know who you might meet at the Bark for the Park. (Supplied)
“Kellogg Woods Park is home to the only dog park in Kentwood and a popular spot for dog owners,” said Spencer McKellar, lead recreation program coordinator. “This event gives us a chance to showcase this amenity to the community and raise money to ensure it remains a premier place for pups in the Kentwood area.
“Bring your canine companion out for an evening of tacos and treats and explore all Kellogg Woods has to offer.”
Funds raised at this year’s event will contribute to the purchase of a tiered drinking fountain with spouts for people and pets for the dog park.
About 35 vendors will be on hand tomorrow selling fruit, meat, cheeses, and other handmade items. (Supplied)
The University of Michigan Health-West Farmer’s Market is set to open for the season tomorrow, continuing to serve the community with fresh produce and products, while supporting local farms and small business owners.
When the market opens for the season, 35 vendors will be on-site at the hospital’s Wyoming campus selling local fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, baked goods, plants and more. Artisan vendors will be selling handmade items including clothing and home décor.
“We are looking forward to another great season at the market,” said the hospital’s Head of Community Outreach Michelle Rademacher. “A fun new addition we have this year are local musicians who will be performing over the lunch hour.”
Another addition to this year’s market is the return of Kids Day. After a two-year hiatus due to COVID- 19, Kids Day is back on June 16. The first 250 kids to arrive at the information table will receive a free gift. There will also be activities including a scavenger hunt, crafts, yard games, a traveling zoo and more.
On average, the University of Michigan Health-West Farmer’s Market sees nearly 1,300 people daily during the peak season. As in past years, the market will continue to accept EBT, P-EBT, Double Up Food Bucks, WIC, Senior Project Fresh coupons as well as cash and most major credit cards.
The market opens Thursday, May 12 and runs each Thursday through early October. Hours are 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information visit www.umhealthwest.org.
After years of inventing his own board games and card games, Wyoming resident Roger Munyon’s lifelong dream became reality when his card game “Trashed” was accepted for distribution by Winning Moves Games while also claiming a Toy Insider Winner award for being one of the top holiday toys in 2021.
Inspired by the classic card game “Garbage,” Munyon’s game “Trashed” features custom cards and unique twists to gameplay that brings the old-time favorite to a new level for players while still being easy to play.
“It’s a basic, simple game,” Munyon said. “Considering our current economic situation here, people are going to be really looking for a value—a game that is fun to play and easy to play that doesn’t break the bank.”
Munyon attributes the success of “Trashed” to the game’s similarity to “Garbage.” “That’s one the things that made it potentially attractive to a company, because it has a touch of the familiar,” said Munyon. After playing Garbage with a friend, Munyon found himself driving home and wondering, “How can I make this game a little bit different and a little more exciting?” The ability to steal cards from other players, as well as bonus cards, are just a few of the ideas Munyon incorporated into Trashed.
The secret to game invention, Munyon said, is expansion. “When you think about it, there are really only four or five basic games in the world. The first person to reach a finish line, or you end the game when you have more of something than somebody else, or you’re the last man standing. Every game is a takeoff on one of those ideas.”
Roger Munyon tests a new game with his “game testers.” (Supplied)
How the inventor presents those changes is what creates something unique out of an original concept.
Munyon’s love for games began as a child. “When all the kids were glued around the (television) screen, I found that the shows I liked most were the game shows. Back then, you could turn the dial on from ten in the morning until four-thirty in the afternoon and find a game show.”
At five-years-old, Munyon’s grandmother asked if he would like a copy of the board game “Beat the Clock,” a popular television game show in the 1950s, for Christmas. “She bought me my first game,” said Munyon. “As time went on, I started collecting other board games.”
Munyon’s personal collection includes several copies of board games based on popular television shows such as “Perry Mason” and “Twilight Zone.” It was not unusual for classmates and teachers to see Munyon in school with a game in hand.
It wasn’t long before Munyon began dreaming of creating his own board game. “I’d go to second-hand stores and buy old games and tear them apart and use the parts for something else,” Munyon said. The game inventor learned how to cover over game boards with craft paper and do his own designs. Munyon does most of his designs by hand: “I do very little with computers, even now.”
But Munyon admits that it is not an easy process and takes dedication and hard work. “People who like to invent things…we’re dreamers. We have this desire to communicate and show our talents to the world—and entertain the world. (But) there’s a lot of competition out there…and only so much shelf space. There are 10 new games released a day—thousands of games are competing for a spot.”
It’s a wonderful feeling when that hard work and patience is recognized, says Munyon. “It’s exciting to have professionals look at an idea of yours and say, ‘Hey, I like this. This might work.’ Then you hope the public follows along.”
Munyon says that creating anything is a gift, but that part of talent is deciding what to do with that gift and how to make it work. “I could paper my walls with rejection letters,” Munyon admits. Looking back now, the inventor sees why he received so many of those rejection letters. “You’ve got to be able to take that talent…and put your best foot forward and make it as appealing as possible. It’s taking a gift and refining it.”
“Trashed” went through its own refining process, the original name and design changing before being released.
When asked what advice he would give other “dreamers,” Munyon said, “Learn as much as you can about the business. Take advice from people in the field. Play test an idea to death until you get the bugs out. Be willing to allow changes. Keep hope alive and keep swinging.”
A testament to his own advice, Munyon’s home sports several shelves lined with approximately 50 to 100 games of his own invention.
Munyon is currently hard at work fine-tuning a card game of his own invention in the hopes of submitting it for distribution.
Licensed Massage Therapist Joan Blessings works with an Emmanuel Hospice patient. (supplied)
While gathering a curated kit of art supplies, Joan Blessings marvels at how the act of creativity can bring such physical and emotional comfort to the patients she serves through Emmanuel Hospice.
A longtime fan of arts and crafts herself, Blessings never anticipated a day she’d be incorporating her hobby into her work. As a licensed massage therapist and member of the complementary therapy team, she works to manage patient symptoms through the power of touch, essential oils and other services.
But now with Art Legacy, Emmanuel Hospice’s newest complementary service offering, she’s also able to share her passion with patients, giving them the opportunity to create and leave behind legacy artwork for their loved ones.
“Art has a way of working different parts of the brain and bringing up different memories, as well has having positive effects physically,” Blessings says. “As patients create, their breathing can get easier, their shoulders relax, they laugh and smile more – it’s amazing to see the impact it can have.”
Art Legacy is designed to encourage self-expression while assisting with symptom management, supporting memories and providing connection. The program utilizes a variety of materials and relies on the creativity of Art Legacy facilitators, like Blessings, to give patients the opportunity to create.
The Art Legacy Hand Mold provides an opportunity for a person to make a hand mold with or for their loved ones. (supplied)
As a complementary service, Art Legacy is used alongside pharmaceutical and other medical approaches to help with mood regulation and coping, as well as anxiety, restlessness or boredom.
In addition to this new art program, Emmanuel Hospice offers other complementary services such as music therapy, pet visitors, virtual reality and acupuncture, to name a few. Blessings says what sets Art Legacy apart from the other offerings is how it engages patients.
“It’s important to us to provide our patients with a variety of options that engage the senses and create unique, joyful memories,” Blessings says. “Art Legacy is one more way we are able to do that. It differs from our other complementary offerings in that most of those services are something that the patient or loved ones are receiving rather than creating.
“Art Legacy really involves our patients in hands-on, enriching activities that improve their quality of life through self-expression, symptom management and more.”
The program also provides an opportunity to make a hand mold with or for their loved ones as a meaningful and tangible artifact. The hand mold can be of the patient’s hand alone or with a loved one to commemorate a relationship.
Art Legacy is designed to encourage self-expression while assisting with symptom management, supporting memories and providing connection. (supplied)
For patients who are more isolated, Art Legacy not only provides a way to engage with something but also someone. Patients enjoy the comfort of companionship that is included with a session through an Art Legacy facilitator.
Whether it be a staff member or trained volunteer, Art Legacy facilitators offer a compassionate presence while patients create. While an interest in art is helpful, no experience is needed to serve as a facilitator.
“Art Legacy facilitators don’t have to be super artsy; they can just be there to facilitate the activity,” Blessings explains. “We’re really there to spend quality time with someone, to bring some joy to their life and to offer them some love in a different way.”
Individuals who are interested in volunteering or learning more about Emmanuel Hospice can visit EmmanuelHospice.org for more information.
The sun was out along with many spectators gathered at the Wyoming Moose Lodge to admire new and classic cars for Metro Cruise’s annual Dust Off event this past Saturday.
Car owners came in from around West Michigan putting their best vehicles out for display. The first 75 classic car participants that showed up were awarded free t-shirts. As they enjoyed the cars, guests were also treated to food, drinks and a chance to meet some of the girls from the Miss Metro Cruise competition.
Jene Billings, of Kentwood and his daughter Cathy DeLaney, of Middleville, often attend Metro Cruise events together. (WKTV)
“You can see by the participation that people are coming out in droves,” said Keith Morgan, president and CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors the annual Metro Cruise that will run Aug. 26 and 27. “I think people are looking for it. They’re ready for it. And by having Metro Cruise, it gives them another opportunity to express their interest and desire to get back out.”
The Metro Cruise is put on by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce to help bring business to the local community and give residents a chance to show off their stuff. Jene Billings, 90, from Kentwood and his daughter Cathy DeLaney, 65, from Middleville, enjoyed the sun as they displayed a new truck.
“I wanted to show my truck off and look at all of the good iron that shows up out here. That’s it, just have a good day.” said Billing said, with his daughter Cathy DeLaney adding that the he and his daughter come out to Metro Cruise every year and even have a specific spot they spend that lets the show come to them.
Alan Wright, 78, from Wyoming, is also no stranger to the Metro Cruise. He brought out his 1958 Ford Thunderbird, a car that he also had when he and his wife got married back in 1966.
“As years went by and uh… the kids got through school and got married, I wanted another classic car so I bought a (19)58 Thunderbird,” said Wright, who is one of 10 drivers who bring the Miss Metro Cruise up to the main state during Metro Cruise.
Miss Metro Cruise 2021 Dr. Joules Kelvin was out encouraging people to participate in the 2022 Miss Metro Cruise competition. (WKTV)
Miss Metro Cruise 2021 Dr. Joules Kelvin attended the annual Dust Off event, meeting with potential contestants of the competition. The preliminary competition for Miss Metro Cruise will take place on July 9. The primary narrows the contestants down to 10 finalists who will compete at Metro Cruise in August. Kelvin’s advice for newcomers was to “Just come do it.”
“Anybody can do this, it’s just a matter of relaxing and giving it a try,” said Kelvin.
This year’s Metro Cruise, Aug. 26 and 27, will also have a second event following the same format as the Rogers Plaza event, happening at Woodland Mall. The collector cars, food trucks, bands, and some other entertainment will be featured at the event according to 28th Street Metro Cruise Event Manager Brandon Simmons. Visit the Metro Cruise Facebook page for more information on upcoming events.
The weather is supposed to be perfect, sunny with a high of 64, which means the covers will be coming off and the engines will be revving for the Metro Cruise’s annual Dust Off event.
Miss Metro Cruise 2021 Dr. Joules Kelvin will be offering tips for the upcoming Miss Metro Cruise competition at the Metro Cruise Dust Off on Saturday. (WKTV)
The event runs from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Wyoming Moose Lodge #763, 2630 Burlingame Ave. SW. The annual event is the first spring opportunity for classic car owners to roll their rides back down the street and park at the Moose Lodge to be admired. The first 75 classic car participants to this year’s Metro Cruise Dust Off will receive a free t-shirt.
Those interested in coming early, the Moose Lodge will be offering a breakfast. From 11 a.m.-4 p.m., the Moose Lodge will be offering build-your-own hamburgers and hot dogs.
Also Miss Metro Cruise 2021 Dr. Joules Kelvin will be on hand for those interested in the Miss Metro Cruise competition. Potential contestants for Miss Metro Cruise will have the chance to have photos taken from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. with Dr. Joules Kelvin meeting with contestants 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Moose Lodge. The annual Miss Metro Cruise has a preliminary competition on July 9 that narrows the contestants down to 10 finalists who compete at Metro Cruise in August. To learn more about the Miss Metro Cruise competition, visit the Miss Metro Cruise Facebook page.
This year’s 28th Street Metro Cruise is set for Aug. 26 and 27 with events happening at the main stage at Rogers Plaza and a second location at Woodland Mall. The annual event features classic cars of all types. Returning this year will be the Dream Wheels red carpet event hosted by WKTV. The show features unique and rare classic cars.
Cold, rainy temperatures are part of the La Niña cycle. (pxhere.com)
Michiganders know that spring is usually late to arrive, yet we’re nearly two months past the Vernal Equinox and it has felt as though spring is still a few more weeks away. Luckily, temperatures are predicted to be much more favorable later this week, but this unusual cold spell has left many Michiganders curious as to why the frigid conditions that are typically characteristic of Michigan’s winter months have continued through March and April.
There’s a few factors that can explain why this has occurred. The first of which is the fact that we are in the midst of a La Niña year. La Niña is the cold water phase of a temperature cycle in the Tropical Pacific called the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
According to the National Ocean Service, “During normal conditions in the Pacific ocean, trade winds blow west along the equator, taking warm water from South America towards Asia. To replace that warm water, cold water rises from the depths — a process called upwelling.”
During the infrequent La Niña years of this climate cycle, those trade winds are stronger, upwelling increases, and the prevalence of this cold water in the Pacific Ocean pushes the jet stream further north, which leads to colder temperatures and increased precipitation.
This time around, it seems as though La Niña is doing her a job a little too well.
“We have had a lot of precipitation, with an active storm track the past several weeks,” said Erin Ostuno at the Grand Rapids National Weather Service. “This has resulted in March and April being cloudy and much wetter than usual. The combination of March and April had over eight inches of rain/melted snow water. This ranks 11th wettest on record. April had 5.19 inches of precipitation, the 12th wettest April on record at Grand Rapids.”
La Niña has been working too well this season, bring an unusual amount of cold weather well into May. (climate.gov)
Talk about a great deal of precipitation. To make matters more intense, the jet stream that divides the northern and southern half of North America appears to have been pushed south this winter by high pressure zones that have formulated in the early spring near Greenland during a prolonged negative phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO).
In a recent article from the Washington Post, “When the NAO is negative, the weather over the eastern U.S. tends to be colder than normal. Such a pattern was seldom seen during the core winter months, which resulted in generally above-normal temperatures.”
While we were fortunate enough to experience slightly warmer temperatures this past winter, it seems that inevitably, we would have to pay the price at some point, which we’ve been doing since late March. The tax for having such a mild winter and all that high pressure up north is the spilling of the jet stream further south, which is why we’ve seen frigid temperatures typical of January or February continue through March and April while the Pacific Southwest has experienced oddly higher temperatures.
Luckily for us, it’s not forecasted to continue this way for much longer. According to a 10-day forecast for Michigan Center from Weather.com, by the week of May 9th, we’ll see high temperatures begin to erupt into the 70s with lows persisting in the upper 50s, so it appears as though this wintry weather we’ve been experiencing will finally be behind us.
The Stray and Godwin Heights Public Schols are partnering to present the exhibit “Identity” tonight at The Stray, 4253 S. Division Ave.
The event will be from 6 to 10 p.m. and will feature work from Godwin Heights students on the theme “Identity.”
Through a Facebook post for the event, it states that “Godwin acknowledges its individual uniqueness and celebrates each other’s differences. They explore their own identity through personal reflection and art-making and learn more about each other was they view and appreciate the effort, skill, and growth of others.”
Part of the mission of The Stray is to build community collaboratives. Hunter VanKlompenberg, the music and arts manager for The Stray, said The Stray team reached out to Godwin Heights art teacher Deanne Basse about finding ways to collaborate.
“Part of our aim is to be an accessible venue to all ages and provide space for teens to display their creative gifts,” VanKlompenberg said. “With Godwin right down the road and sharing the same neighborhood, it seemed like there was a bridge to be built between us. This is our first collaborative event together and we hope to have more down the road.
“We’re excited to showcase work culminating from the semester’s projects from a mixture of graduating seniors and younger students as well.”
A memory board in the middle school’s orchestra room celebrates the contributions and impact former orchestra teacher David Sowerby had on the staff and students. (Supplied)
Caledonia Community Schoolsis honoring the district’s beloved former orchestra teacher by dedicating the middle school’s final orchestra concert, set for Tuesday, May 10, to him.
David Sowerby died on Nov. 13, 2021 after a long battle with Crohn’s Disease. Since Sowerby’s passing, students and staff at Caledonia Community Schools have rallied together to honor his memory. Sowerby is remembered as an amazing, inspirational teacher who made people laugh, and a loving husband and father.
The final Caledonia Middle School orchestra concert for this year will be at 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 10 at Duncan Lake Middle School, 9757 Duncan Lake Ave., and the theme for the concert is “Inspired by Mr. Sowerby.” The concert will include several special performances such as “Fantasia on an Original Theme,” which Caledonia High School students have been invited to perform along with the middle school orchestra.
“When David passed, I knew we needed to do something to honor his memory and contributions to our music program,” said Megan Anderson, interim Intermediate and Middle School orchestra director. “I wanted to let the students grieve his passing but also remember all the wonderful things about him. We discussed as a class what we should do and determined a musical tribute to David would be most fitting.”
“When we heard about Mr. Sowerby’s passing, we decided to do something that will keep his memory alive in our school,” said Landry Hammondand Hannah Bennet,eighth-grade orchestra students. “We were sad together, and I think we were able to manage our grief by using music as an outlet.”
A portrait of David Sowerby by Caledonia art teacher Christine Cosgrove. (Supplied)
In addition to the concert, students and staff have installed memory boards in Sowerby’s former orchestra classroom, complete with photos, memories from students, and a drawing of Sowerby by a Caledonia Community Schools art teacher Christine Cosgrove.
“At that time the students approached me about creating a portrait of Mr. Sowerby to add to their collection,” Cosgrove said. “I felt very honored to be able to offer something that I love to do to remember Mr. Sowerby and it was such a great way to honor him while also unifying the arts.“
Voters turned down an income tax for the City of Wyoming.
Wyoming voters voted down a proposed income tax for the city while renewing a $24.9 million bond proposal for Wyoming Public Schools.
About 16 percent of the city’s 55,999 registered voters came out for the special election that was yesterday. The city had two proposals on the ballot. The first was an income tax that would be up to 1 percent for city residents and up to .5 percent for non-residents such as commuters who work in the city. In the second proposal, the city was seeking to reduce the city property tax by about 58 percent, from around 12 mills to 5. Both proposals had to pass to take effect.
The first proposal of an income tax was defeated by 6,055 no votes to 2,824 yes votes. The second proposal to reduce city property tax received 5,381 yes votes to 3,474 no votes. Because the two proposals were tied together, if one failed the other automatically failed as well.
The city estimated that the proposals would have generated about $6 million in revenue for the city. City Council said it planned to put $3.3 million toward its fire department to added 27 firefighters, doubling the current staffing from 27 to 54. About $2.1 million would have been used to add 13 police officers and a crime analyst to the city’s police department with the remaining $600,000 for capital improvement needs for the city’s parks.
The approved $24.9 million bond renewal will go toward renovations at Wyoming Junior High School.
Wyoming Public Schools
A purple and white message in both English and Spanish on the Wyoming Public Schools Facebook page thanked the district’s voters for renewing a $24.9 million bond. The money is earmarked for renovations at the Wyoming Junior High School, which is the oldest building in the district. Formerly Wyoming Park High School, the oldest portion of the building dates back to 1926. There were additions in 1957, 1959, and 1979.
About 16 percent of the district’s 27,188 votes came out with 2,066 voting yes and 1,930 voting no.
The approved bond will be added to about $11 million in renovations already planned for the school, including more than $3 million in major upgrades to Dan Heintzelman Fine Arts Center. The $11 million comes from a 2017 bond issue.
Renovations and improvements to the junior high to be funded by the bond renewal include: modern learning environments; new furnitures; an integrated technology; adequate lab spaces and equipment; improved air quality replacement of failing building systems (such as roofing, plumbing, and electrical) to become energy efficient and meet modern building codes; and site improvements to traffic flow, aging parking lots, and athletic facilities.
Work on the junior high, which is locate dat 2125 Wrenwood St. SW, is scheduled to start in the summer of 2023.
Paddle Antrim warns paddlers to take precautions to protect themselves from heightened dangers of sudden, unexpected cold-water immersion while on early season paddling outings.
It has been a slow start to spring in Northern Michigan and the water remains colder than usual this time of year. While paddlers and boaters are itching to get out on the water, Paddle Antrim warns paddlers to take precautions to protect themselves from heightened dangers of sudden, unexpected cold-water immersion while on early season paddling outings.
While spring is in the air and outside temperatures are warming, lake temperatures are much cooler. When water temperatures are below 70 degrees, paddlers should wear a wetsuit or a full immersion dry suit with insulating layers. Sudden immersion in cold water can cause gasping and inhalation of water and hypothermia, resulting in unconsciousness or swimming failure as muscles become numb. Wearing a life jacket may keep your head above water and support your body should your swimming ability fail, or you become unconscious.
“We encourage people to get out and enjoy the water, but we also want to make sure people are safe at all times,” says Paddle Antrim Executive Director, Deana Jerdee. “Changing winds, stronger than usual currents, equipment failure – these are just a few unexpected elements that can cause paddlers to end up in dangerous situations. No one is ever expecting to fall in while paddling but it happens, and paddlers need to dress for being in the water, not for the air temperature.”
Cold water claims the lives of experienced and inexperienced paddlers each year. Please take the extra precautions to ensure your safety. Here are the five steps paddlers need to take before heading out on the water for any period:
Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Simply stated, life jackets save lives;
Dress for the water temperature;
Avoid boating alone and always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Have a cell phone or VHF radio accessible, in a watertight bag, should you need to call for help;
Carry essential safety gear, signaling devices and whistles; and
Start Garden’s open contest for business startups, The 100, is back for a fourth season with video proposals now being accepted through July 11.
2019 Demon Day winners who each received $20,000. (Supplied)
Considered one of the largest business competitions in the sate with 100 potential recipients drawing from $300,000 in funds, everyone with a business idea or businesses seeking to explore a new opportunity are invited to submit a video. The winners will be announced at Start Garden’s Demo Day event, Wednesday, Sep. 21.
The 100 removes barriers to entrepreneurship, based on the belief that anyone, from any neighborhood regardless of resources, deserves a chance to take a shot at launching a business idea.
Here is how it works:
People can make a 100 second video explaining their idea
Participants can upload as many ideas as they wish
In July, 100 finalists will be chosen to receive $1,000 each, no strings attached
Finalists have two months to refine their ideas with community support
100 finalists present at the 2022 Demo Day competition on Wednesday, September 21, 2022
At Demo Day, 10 winners receive another $20,000 to help their business take off
Additionally, a $5,000 award goes to a high school student or team competing in the high school category
The 100 is the most diverse and accessible business competition of its kind. While it is open to aspiring entrepreneurs throughout the community, Start Garden promoted the first competition through intense marketing in historically underrepresented minority neighborhoods. The efforts paid off with demographically diverse submissions:
650 submissions in 2021
53% of the finalists were women and 60% were from minority groups
“When we designed the Start Garden 100, our goal was to make it a genuine opportunity for anyone from any neighborhood in Michigan,” said Paul Moore, co-director at Start Garden. “Not to mention, it’s literally the easiest $1,000 an entrepreneur can get to play with an idea.”
A 2019 study reported that the 100 candidates that participated gained no advantage or disadvantage based on:
Where they live
Education level
Household income
Start Garden Co-founder Darel Ross (Supplied)
“We are proud that the data shows The 100 is a level playing field in business competitions,” said Start Garden Co-Director Darel Ross. “Access to resources is the number one thing entrepreneurs need, and the 100 achieves that at scale.”
The 2021 Demo Day competition drew more than 670 visitors even during the pandemic. The winning ideas included a wide range of products and services: food and drink, online platforms and services, and manufacturers.
“We see it each year we do the 100. Relationships are formed, new ventures launched and new wealth created as a result of this experience,” said Start Garden Co-Director Jorge Gonzalez.
There is more to the competition than the money. The lead up to the competition and Demo Day itself is designed to expand an aspiring entrepreneur’s network, which is vital to getting any new business off the ground. 44% of competitors reported making more than eight new connections to help their startup. And more than 73% said they would “absolutely” encourage other would-be entrepreneurs to take a shot at The 100.
“The Start Garden 100 Demo Day event is a game changer for emerging startups and companies looking to get visibility with the ‘who’s who’ of West Michigan,” said Jeremy Evans-Smith, 2021 winner and Founder of Full Cycle. “The experience put massive tailwinds behind our company at a critical stage of growth.”
“As an entrepreneur, it’s very seldom that you’re in a room with 100 individuals leaning into the possibilities of their dreams. The energy, passion and connections gained are invaluable,” said Kimberly Slaikeu, PhD, Founder of Luxe Artisan Preserves and 2021 winner. “Best experience ever.”
2019 Demon Day event. (Supplied)
“The experience we gained from 100 ideas has helped Wimage connect with partners all around Michigan and certain parts of the country,” said Michael Hyacinthe, founder of Wimage and 2021 winner. “We are grateful for the continued mentorship that that team provides.”
“The 100 was an awesome experience because it gave me the opportunity to pitch my business idea and access capital to take the next steps. I was lucky enough to get a check for $20,000 and the funds had a direct and immediate impact where I was able to build a product and go-to-market,” said Lee Constantine, 2021 winner and founder of Bookscore AI. “The support from the team at Start Garden and connections to other entrepreneurs in the community means everything.”
LANSING – Regardless of which candidates win the November election for Michigan’s congressional seats and which party secures control of Congress, two important changes will be visible on Capitol Hill in January with serious implications for the state’s national clout.
First, Michigan’s delegation will shrink by one seat – from 14 to 13 – due to redistricting.
That’s because Michigan’s population stagnated during the past decade while the population of other states grew. In total, seven states are each losing one seat, including neighboring Ohio, with their reallocation to states in the West and South.
That grim reality sets a messy stage for the second major change: the departure of at least three familiar faces.
U.S. House of Representatives: U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, Michigan’s longest-serving representative, will not run for another term.
Redistricting led U.S. Rep. Benda Lawrence, a liberal Democrat from Southfield, to retire rather than seek a fifth term. She’s the only African American in the Michigan delegation and a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee.
“As we have a new redistricting map, a new generation of leaders will step up,” Lawrence said in announcing her decision.
Redistricting also induced U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, the state’s longest-serving member, to withdraw from a contentious primary with fellow U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga of Zeeland. Redistricting put the two conservatives into the same district.
Upton, now in his 18th term, chaired the Energy and Commerce Committee when the GOP controlled the House.
But he faced a steep uphill battle to stay in Congress because of his vote to impeach then-President Donald Trump, who has endorsed Huizenga.
Announcing his retirement on the House floor, Upton said, “Even the best of stories has a last chapter.
“This is it for me. I’ve done the zillions of airline miles back and forth, have signed ‘Fred’ to over a million letters, cast more votes than anyone in this chamber while here and, by most accounts, have succeeded in making a difference accomplishing what I have set out to do with more unfinished work still yet to come.”
In suburban Detroit, liberal U.S. Reps. Haley Stevens of Rochester Hills and Andy Levin of Bloomfield Township are fighting each other in the Aug. 2 Democratic primary. Both chair subcommittees, Stevens in the Science, Space and Technology Committee and Levin in the Foreign Affairs Committee.
Only one will survive the primary.
Bill Ballenger, the publisher of the political newsletter “Ballenger Report” and a former state legislator and Cabinet member, said the changes will make it tougher for Michigan when it comes to federal appropriations, COVID relief and other aid from Washington.
U.S. House of Representatives: U.S. Rep. Brenda Lawrence, D-Southfield, will not seek a fifth term after redistricting.
“It’s got to hurt the state’s ability to leverage influence in the Congress in the state’s direction,” said Ballenger, who once ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. House in a Republican primary.
He said the state’s clout is already much weaker than in the 1990s and early 2000s when the delegation contained long-serving members who chaired powerful committees and subcommittees, U.S. Reps. John Dingell of Trenton, Dale Kildee of Flint and John Conyers Jr. of Detroit.
Upton and Lawrence are far from alone in stepping down. As of April 6, 48 House members had announced they aren’t running again, according to Ballotpedia.org.
The average two-year election cycle sees 71 House members leaving, the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service said in a recent report.
“Members leave for a variety of reasons,” the report said. “Those could include resignation, death or chamber action,” a reference to expulsion for misconduct. The number includes defeated incumbents and ones who opted to seek other offices.
In addition, there’s no guarantee that voters will return all the state’s other incumbents to Washington.
Incumbent Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Detroit and GOP Reps. John Moolenaar of Midland, Peter Meijer of Grand Rapids, Tim Walberg of Tipton and Lisa McClain of Romeo all face primary opponents.
Neither of the state’s Democratic senators, Debbie Stabenow of Lansing or Gary Peters of Bloomfield Township, are up for reelection this year.
Eric Freedman is professor of journalism and former associate dean of International Studies and Programs. During his 20-year newspaper career, he covered public affairs, environmental issues and legal affairs for newspapers in New York and Michigan, winning a Pulitzer Prize for coverage of a legislative corruption scandal. He teaches environmental journalism and serves as director of the Knight Center for Environmental Journalism. He also teaches public affairs reporting, international journalism, feature writing and media law and serves as director of the school’s Capital News Service
The City of Kentwood will offer its annual Community Cleanup Day on Saturday, May 7, to help residents “spring clean” their homes and yards.
Residents unload trash into the dumpsters during a past community clean-up day in the Kentwood and Wyoming area. (WKTV)
Residents can drop off yard waste, trash and general debris for disposal and electronics for recycling 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
After the cleanup event, the City’s brush and leaf drop-off sites, also located at Kentwood’s DPW facility, will remain open through May 27. Hours of operation for the drop-off sites are noon-8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-6 p.m. Sunday.
“As many residents begin spring-cleaning efforts, our Community Cleanup Day offers resources to properly dispose of or recycle items,” said Department of Public Works Director Chad Griffin. “We encourage residents who are decluttering their homes this season to take advantage of these free collection services.”
The cleanup day and drop-off services are available to Kentwood residents only. Anyone wishing to participate is asked to enter the drive off Breton Avenue, where staff will check ID for residency and direct traffic flow.
Red Creek Waste Services will be on-site for Kentwood’s Community Cleanup Day to accept general debris and trash, including mattresses, for disposal. Tires cannot be accepted.
Comprenew will be at the event to recycle electronic waste, such as mobile phones, computers and fax machines. Individuals with questions about other electronics that can be accepted are asked to call toll-free 1-833-266-7736.
The City of Kentwood will accept yard waste at the brush drop-off site, including brush, sticks, tree limbs and logs as well as leaves and grass clippings. Leaves should be loose when dropped off, not left in bags.
Items for donation and household hazardous materials will not be accepted during this year’s cleanup event. Residents looking to safely dispose of household hazardous materials may utilize the Kent County Department of Public Works’ SafeChem program, which remains available to residents at the Kentwood’s DPW facility 1:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays.
The Kentwood Police Department is inviting high school students to apply for its youth academy, set to take place July 25-28.
The academy is open to all graduating seniors and students who will be a sophomore, junior or senior in the 2022-23 school year. It is geared toward young people who are interested in a career in law enforcement and who want to experience what it’s like to be a police officer. Participants do not need to live or attend school in Kentwood.
The free program will run 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. It will provide students with hands-on experience in police training and operations. Participants will receive instruction in various aspects of policing and participate in training scenarios, including:
Building searches
Drunken driving enforcement
Handcuffing
Special Response Team
And more!
Eligible participants must possess good moral character and pass a background check. They will be interviewed before being accepted into the program and be required to attend a pre-academy informational meeting with a parent or guardian. Each participant will be provided a uniform and daily lunch.
Applications are due by May 13 and can be submitted online, by email to wierengat@kentwood.us, in person at the Police Department or by mail to Sgt. Tim Wierenga at 4742 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood, MI 49512. For any questions, contact Sgt. Wierenga at wierengat@kentwood.us or 616-656-6561.
Art will be in bloom again this summer on Grand Rapids’ south side.
The 49507 Project, launched in 2021, has lined up another summer of public art, education and listening sessions to change the narrative about the neighborhood in southeast and southwest Grand Rapids and help current residents claim it as their own.
“Seven incredibly beautiful murals were brought to life by seven different Black and Brown artists,” said Marcel “Fable” Price, executive director of The Diatribe, the nonprofit that is spearheading the project. “We did mural unveilings for those, and the community really came out and showed up.”
Last year’s murals were painted at La Casa De La Cobija, Public Thread, Boost Mobile, 40 Acres Headquarters, The South East Market, Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses and The Old Goat.
“I think we all had our eyes opened to our neighborhood in a way that we didn’t see before,” Price said. “More importantly, we showed people that projects like this are possible, and that we can make our neighborhoods look like we live here.”
The 49507 Project is being funded by a coalition of nearly a dozen businesses, foundations, neighborhood groups and city organizations. It is slated to run through 2023.
As part of the project, Petersen Research Consultants conducted a survey of community attitudes both before and after The 49507 Project began to assess whether perceptions of the neighborhood might change. According to a news release, a survey after the first year showed that residents felt the art represented how “we see things – colorful, vibrant, and a beautiful side of our culture.”
Business owners reported an improvement in perceptions of the neighborhood and saw increased foot traffic, the survey showed. Media results revealed an increase in positive news stories about the 49507 ZIP code within a year.
This summer, eight more murals are in the works and should be completed by August, Price said. They will be painted at the following locations:
Samaria J’s Salon Suite, 701 Grandville Ave SW
Load A Spud, 1721 Madison Ave SE
Farmers Insurance, 2435 Eastern Ave SE
Mr. B’s Party Store, 1216 Kalamazoo Ave SE
Aleman Auto Repair, 1801 Division Ave S.
Cisneros Tires, 800 Division Ave S.
1956 Eastern Ave.
1935 Eastern Ave.
Art is just one aspect of the 49507 project. Listening sessions for both adults and young people were held last year, and several more of those events have already taken place this spring.
Educational sessions at Ottawa Hills High School, the Southwest Community Campus and Grand Rapids Public Museum School taught young people about the history of their neighborhoods, including the history of redlining, and about their fair housing rights.
Organizers hope that the 49507 Project will have a positive reach and if all goes well may extend into the Wyoming and Kentwood communities. (Supplied)
“We encourage them to get involved civically in their neighborhoods and teach them about ways that they can create change, get involved in the community and really share their voice and opinions,” Price said.
He said one of the things they have learned from listening sessions is that young people are looking for more activities in their neighborhoods. They’d love to see an amphitheater for concerts, and just more things to do in general.
In the community listening sessions, Price said he hears elders talk about all the programming and activities available for young people in days gone by.
“Now, when it comes summertime and there’s violence, we’re so up in arms, like ‘Why is this happening?’” he said. “We’re not continuing to offer programs, solutions, outlets, and invest in the community in the way we have in different points in time.”
Anyone who would like to get involved in The 49507 Project can learn more about volunteer opportunities and events on the website at thediatribe.org/the49507project/.
Price also encourages people to spread the word about the project on social media, and visit the area often.
“Come and enjoy the art but also support the businesses,” he said. “There’s some incredible food and incredible culture in our neighborhood, so please, immerse yourself.”
Tomorrow, May 3, the residents of the City of Wyoming will be heading to the polls for two city proposals, an income tax and a reduction in city property taxes, while those in Wyoming Public Schools also are being asked to renew a $24.9 million bond proposal to renovate the Wyoming Junior High building.
The first of the two city proposals on the ballot is for an income tax that would be aup to 1 percent for city residents and up to .5 percent for non-residents such as commuters who work in the city. In the second proposal, the city is seeking to reduce the city property tax by about 58 percent, from around 12 mills to 5. Both proposals must pass to take effect.
According to city officials, the goal of the proposals is to build a more sustainable funding for the city and create equitably in sharing city expenses with those who use city services but do not live in the city while helping to reduce the cost to residents with the reduction in city property taxes.
If the two proposals pass, it would raise about an additional $6 million in funding from the city. The Wyoming City Council has said it would put $3.3 million toward its fire department, doubling the department’s current staffing from 27 to 54.
This would add about nine firefighters per shift and the city would be able to fully staff all four of its fire stations. Currently only two of the stations, Gezon and 36th Street, are fully staffed; however emergency calls are evenly distributed throughout the city, according to Fire Chief Brian Bennett. The city is broken into four fire districts with the busiest being the Division station, which is currently unmanned.
The department has the highest calls per firefighter in the area. Wyoming averages about 265 calls per firefighter with the City of Kentwood averaging around 121 while the City of Grand Rapids averages 123 calls per firefighter.
Koster said the city also has seen an increase in violent crime with calls requiring more than one officer to respond and resulting in less officers being available for traffic enforcement and neighborhood patrols.
“In 2020, when we received all the income from the parks and recreation millage, fees, and grants and then subtracted out all the expenses, we had about $30,000 left to roll into the fund balance for capital improvements,” Rebecca Rynbrandt, the city’s director of community services, said in a previous WKTV story.
According to school officials, the debt millage rate would remain the same at 5.65 mills, which is what it has been since 2016. Bond approval would not raise taxes, according to school officials.
Monies from the proposed bond millage will be combined with money set aside from the 2017 bond, which is about $11 million and includes $3 million for the Dan Heintzelman auditorium. If approved, renovations would include construction of a large two-story addition. The fine arts center would become a stand-alone building.
Voting
To check on your voting status and to see a sample ballot, visit mi.gov/vote. To vote in a city or school election, you must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of the city or school district for at least 30 days, are 18 years or old, and are not serving a sentence in jail or prison. Following voter-approved election changes in 2018, Michigan residents now have the option to register in-person with the local clerk on election day. Once registered, each voter will have the choice to vote absentee or drive to the polling location to vote in person.
Those voting absentee must return the absentee ballot by 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 3. Ballots may be mailed or dropped off at the ballot drop box behind city hall or in-person at city hall until 8 p.m.
The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters should double check their precinct location, have photo ID, and should not wear or bring any political material to the precinct.
For more information on voice, visit the City of Wyoming website.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s Board of Directors stands in front of the beam that contains their signatures. (Supplied)
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport raised a ceremonial beam this week to celebrate its $110 million expansion of Concourse A to accommodate passenger growth.
As air travel in West Michigan nears pre-pandemic levels, Ford International Airport gathered federal, state and regional business and community leaders to commemorate the project, which will create 125 new construction jobs and add 157,000 square feet of space to Michigan’s second largest airport. The expansion of Concourse A is part of the Elevate program, which has designated nearly $500 million in infrastructure investments to improve the guest experience while positioning the Airport for continued growth.
Today’s celebration comes more than two years after the Elevate program was first announced. The expansion will:
More than double the current capacity of Concourse A by adding eight new gates for a total of 15.
Widen the 66-foot concourse to 120 feet and lengthen it by 510 feet for a total of more than 900 feet.
Increase the number and variety of food and beverage options by introducing a marché, or market-style open concept area featuring regionally inspired cuisine, along with other vendor spaces.
Add an executive lounge on an elevated level overlooking Concourse A that will cater to the needs of business travelers, putting Ford International on a par with larger airports, including Chicago, Boston and Atlanta.
Grow the number of retail operations.
Provide a greater variety of seating options to accommodate guest needs, including tables, pods and soft seating options offered by West Michigan manufacturers.
Take advantage of natural lighting and the views to create a visually pleasing and energy-efficient space.
Reflect the look, feel and culture of West Michigan as the first thing guests see when they come into town and the last thing they’ll remember when they leave.
“Today has been a long time coming, and we could not be happier to gather today to celebrate this significant investment in the future of travel in West Michigan,” said Airport Authority Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. “Prior to the pandemic, Ford International Airport enjoyed double-digit passenger growth for nearly two years, necessitating we undertake this monumental transformation of what will become our signature concourse.
“As the pandemic continues to subside, our travel numbers continue to increase, putting our recovery ahead of our initial projections. Now is the time to begin the work that will position us to resume our anticipated growth trajectory for the next 20 years – and ensure we can deliver a world-class experience as West Michigan’s gateway to the world.”
The expansion will double the current capacity of Concourse A by adding eight new gates for a total of 15. (Supplied)
Construction on Concourse A is expected to take 24 months, with the first phase scheduled to open in spring 2023 and be completed by the end of that year. Concourse A will remain open during construction. The Christman Company is serving as general contractor for Concourse A while Mead & Hunt is the design project manager and HKS is the architect of record. Subcontracts are already in place with more than 30 West Michigan subcontractors who will bring their expertise and local suppliers to the project.
The expansion of Concourse A received the full support of Ford International Airport’s airline partners, including legacy carriers American Airlines, Inc., Delta Air Lines, Inc. and United Airlines, Inc., low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines and ultra-low cost carriers Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines. Upon completion, Concourse A will be home to the legacy airlines while low-cost and ultra-low cost carriers will operate out of concourse B.
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters and U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer and have been instrumental in helping Ford International Airport secure federal funds needed to launch the expansion.
“GRR is often the first and last thing people see when they visit West Michigan” said Meijer, who gave remarks via video during today’s beam raising. “The employees in management here have fully embraced their role as ambassadors for our community. While West Michigan continues to experience tremendous growth, with this new expansion at GRR it will be able to better meet the demands of a growing population.”
As it prepared to design the expansion, HKS led a visioning session with Airport stakeholders to ensure the principal concepts of community and the physical attributes of West Michigan were brought into the space. Architect Jorge Barrero likened the journey of walking the length of the new concourse to exploring West Michigan and its many offerings.
“We wanted the new space to mimic the experience of arriving in West Michigan, which is reflected in the colors and textures chosen for the expansion,” Barrero said. “From the blue of Lake Michigan and natural tans of the sand dunes to the greys and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between, your walk from the ticketing counter to your gate parallels the beautiful geography of West Michigan.
“Your travel experience will start when you arrive at Ford International Airport, which wants to be part of your journey – not simply a building.”
Plans for additional infrastructure improvements under the Elevate program are also underway, including:
The addition of a federal inspection station, or FIS, which will enable the Airport to offer nonstop international commercial passenger flights. This project was announced in August 2019, and the first phase – the addition of a new baggage claim area, restrooms and operations infrastructure – has been completed. These enhancements are being used for domestic flights until the full FIS project is complete.
The relocation of the current air traffic control tower, or ATCT, to make way for diverse terminal-area developments such as additional tenant hangars and more parking. The Airport selected a new site, which was reviewed and approved virtually by the Federal Aviation Administration in 2021 – the first-ever such virtual sighting of an ATCT.
A proposed consolidated rental car facility with an enclosed walkway from the terminal that will offer additional transportation accommodations to travelers visiting West Michigan.
The proposed addition of parking infrastructure to accommodate additional guest traffic.
A proposed upgrade to the Airport’s checked baggage inspection system, which will enhance safety while streamlining the process for staff and guests.
“We are gratified to find support at all levels – local, state and national – for our plans to enhance the infrastructure at Ford International Airport so we can better meet the needs of our business and leisure guests today – and tomorrow,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “We pride ourselves on our ability to connect West Michigan to the world – and vice versa. The investment being made today to expand Concourse A marks another evolutionary step in our history.
“We are grateful for the continued confidence and commitment of our elected officials, our team, our airline partners, our tenants and vendors and all who choose to Fly Ford.”
Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Stan Stek, who spoke the April 27 event, stressed the importance of having quality infrastructure in the county.
Visitors can add their name to the ceremonial beam May 2- 6. The beam will be located at the Amway Grand Hall near the screening. (Supplied)
“The Ford International Airport is often the first impression travelers have of our community – and the last they have while leaving,” Stek said. “We must continue to invest to have a first-class Airport that delivers a world-class experience for business and leisure guests alike.”
The Ford International Airport is offering community members an opportunity to sign a 14-foot steel beam that will become a permanent piece of the newly expanded concourse. The beam will be placed in the Amway Grand Hall near the screening checkpoint from May 2-9 for guests to sign their name.
No local taxpayer dollars will be used to finance any of the projects included in the Elevate program, which will be paid for with a combination of federal and state grants, municipal bonds issued by the Airport and user fees.
When a new housing project is proposed in a community, the first thing most people think of is how will it impact the local schools. In truth, a new development may impact a community’s utilities — especially its fire department — even more.
“Whenever there is a new development, it means more people using your streets which in turn means more potential crashes and other safety issues,” said Wyoming Fire Chief Brian Bennett.
In the past 20 years, the City of Wyoming has seen several new developments such as HOM Flats along Prairie Parkway and The Reserve at 54th Street and Wilson Avenue, which has resulted in the city’s population increasing from 69,000 to 76,000. Within the first four months of 2022, the fire department has responded to 200 more calls than in the same period of 2021. Bennett noted that from 2020 to 2021, there was an increase of 600 calls and he expects 2022 to outpace 2021 in calls.
In that same 20-year time span, the department, due to state funding cuts and the 2008 recession, has decreased by eight full-time firefighters to 27 and, due to increase training requirements, paid-on call firefighters have gone down from 40 to 6.
Through two proposals on the May 3 ballot, the city hopes to double its current fire staffing from 27 to 54. The first proposal would be an income tax of up to 1 percent for city residents and up to .5 percent for non-residents such as commuters who work in the city. In the second proposal, the city is seeking to reduce the city property tax by about 58 percent, from around 12 mills to 5. Both proposals must pass to take effect.
“Our goal is to be more efficient at what we do,” Bennett said, adding the additional staffing would put the department in about the middle of the pack for staffing and calls per firefighter.
The Wyoming Fire Department has the highest calls per firefighter in the Greater Grand Rapids, averaging about 265 calls per firefighters. The department averages about 20 calls a day. (WKTV)
Currently the department has the highest number of calls per firefighters in the Greater Grand Rapids area with 265 calls per firefighter. The City of Grand Rapids averages about 124 calls per firefighter while the City of Kentwood averages about 110 calls per firefighters.
The calls are not just for fires, but for a variety of safety issues such as tree damage, wires down, vehicle crashes, gas leaks, and medical calls.
“A lot of people think that all a fire department does is respond to fires,” Bennett said, adding that fire calls are only a small portion of what the department handles. “But over the years, the fire department’s responsibility has expanded to include just about anything that involves safety.
“Basically, we are here to assure that the people who are in our community can safely operate while they are here.”
For example, if there is a crash on the expressway, the department not only responses to the accident but also must mitigate any gas spills to assure the gas does not enter the waterways so as not to contaminate the city’s water supply.
Because of the increase in calls, the result has been the City of Wyoming relying on neighboring communities. In fact, in 2020, the city had to rely on other departments 140 times because its fire department was on another call.
“With the increased number of calls, it makes our availability less and less,” Bennett said. “The result is we have to rely on our neighbors more to cover what we can’t get to.”
Bennett noted that the reliance on other departments does mean longer response times for those waiting for assistance.
Assuring the safety of its residents and visitors also means the department is responsible to review all the site plans for any construction project within the city to assure all the safety features are included in the overall design as well as handle safety inspections for business, restaurants and hotels.
“These safety inspections are suppose to be done every year but because of staffing, we are not able to get to all of them every year,” Bennett said.
With the expected news of what will be constructed on Site 36, commercial and residential development in the City of Wyoming does not look to be slowing down. In fact, there is a movement to revitalize Division Avenue and with new businesses and housing means more demands on the fire department. Bennett noted the city is divided into four fire districts with the busiest currently being Division, which has an unman station.
Two out of the city’s fire stations are manned 24/7. If the two May 3 proposals are approved, all four stations would be manned.
Transitioning from being a saver to a spender means you will be required to not only keep close eye on your investments, spending and taxes, but for also creating your own “paycheck.” (pxhere.com)
“Transitioning from saver to spender can be a disconcerting shift for many seniors. A more systematic approach to spend-down can help.”
Transitioning from being a saver in the accumulation phase to a spender in the spend-down stage of your financial life means you will be required to not only keep a close eye on your investments, spending, and taxes but for also creating your own “paycheck.”
This paycheck might result from living off the interest or dividends from investments for some retirees. Others may prefer more predictable income sources, including annuities and Social Security. These “safe money” assets can help you achieve more peace of mind and perhaps cover your basic living expenses.
Shore up your emergency savings
It’s crucial to take a systematic approach to the problem of how best to spend your money in retirement. You should ensure you have enough money to cover unexpected expense to last at least a year. Suppose you’re worried about having to sell off investments in a bear market to cover emergencies. You might want to discuss rebalancing your portfolio with your advisor, perhaps using more liquid assets.
Include predictable income streams, using annuities and life insurance
Most planners understand, at least on a fundamental level, the power of annuities to help their clients avoid running out of money when they retire. After all, almost every financial services company offers annuity products, and they have done so for many years. Modern retirement research has produced volumes of data-based reports confirming the value of an annuity in a retirement portfolio. Life insurance and annuities may suit retirees who desire the protection of their principal, a predictable stream of lifetime income, long-term care options, or want to leave a legacy to a family member.
Despite the positive data surrounding annuities, many advisors are reluctant to offer them to their clients. This reluctance is often because they believe there will be pushback from clients who have heard negative things about the product through the media or online.
Many popular financial entertainers such as Dave Ramsey have been openly antagonistic about annuities and continue to spread myths and misconceptions to their viewers.
However, continuing changes in retirement plan structure and funding of employer plans have caused more people to dig deeper into safe money and income products to create their pension plans.
Since 1974, the traditional defined benefit (DB) plan, which provided retirees with benefits based on final salary and years of service, has disappeared from the private sector. Replacing it is the direct contribution plan in which employees and their employer regularly contribute to accounts in the employee’s name. Direct contribution plans benefit companies by lowering their expenses. But they place the burden of retirement success squarely on the shoulders of the individual. If you participate in a workplace plan, both longevity risk and performance risk have been shifted to you. Standard direct contribution plans do not guarantee your account will provide lifetime income and running out before you die is always a distinct possibility.
That’s why most retiree portfolios will benefit from strategically designed insurance and annuity products. Strategically designed life insurance is another way to create more predictable, tax-advantaged revenue streams. Properly structured, life insurance offers investments like stocks, bonds, CDs, etc. Annuities relieve the consumer of the need to set aside additional money to offset potential risk and fees for managing the account.
If fear of managing your retirement accounts paralyzes you and causes you stress, simply pass it to a risk bearer, an insurance company. Let the annuity provide you with a safe and secure income.
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.
While the big news of the day is that Grand Rapids City High Middle School ranked No. 1 in Michigan on the U.S. News & World Report’s annual high school rankings, a school in the Kentwood area landed in the top one percent of those same rankings.
West Michigan Aviation Academy, located the Gerald R. Ford International Airport at 5363 44th St. SE, was ranked 26th in Michigan. According to the U.S. News & World Report, schools are ranked on performance on state required tests, graduation and how well the schools prepare students for college. For West Michigan Aviation Academy, it was noted the school offers Advanced Placement course work and participation in AP courses was about 68 percent.
Also landing in the top one percent were East Grand Rapids High School, which was ranked No. 13; Forest Hills Northern High School, which was ranked No. 21; Byron Center High School, which was ranked No. 24; and Forest Hills Central High School, which was ranked No. 28.
Of course, the big news from the report was that City High Middle School took the top spot for Michigan schools along with ranking No. 18 in the nation. According to the U.S. News & World Report, students have the opportunity to take International Baccalaureate coursework and exams. The IB participation rate at City High Middle School is 100%. City High Middle School was the first school in the area to offer the International Baccalaureate Middle Years and Diploma Programme.
“We could not be prouder of our scholars, staff, district, and community for this achievement,” said City High Middle School Principal Ryan Huppert. “The inspiration that this accomplishment provides is worth so much to our community right now.
“These rankings reflect all the hard work that scholars and staff put forth to succeed here
. Seeing those efforts translate into such a high level of success and recognition means the world to our school.”
There is around 1,700 high schools in Michigan. Of those schools, 660 Michigan schools made the U.S. News & World Report rankings. For a Michigan high school to be ranked it much complete the three-part Michigan Merit Exam in 11th grade. It includes the SAT college entrance exam, the ACT WorkKeys assessment, as well as online assessments via the Michigan Student Test of Education Progress in science and social studies, accord to the Michigan Department of Education. For a school to receive a state ranking, it must have earned a national silver or gold award.
