On Tuesday, April 18, between 5 and 6 p.m., three suspects broke into vehicles at Planet Fitness parking lots in Alpine and Byron Townships. According to witnesses at both fitness centers, the suspects were three younger males with hooded sweatshirts pulled around the face and all three were wearing surgical masks. The suspects fled in an SUV after breaking into one vehicle along Alpine Avenue and two vehicles along 68th Street.
The common theme was the victims left their purses and other property behind in the vehicles while inside Planet Fitness. The suspects smashed out the rear passenger side windows in each vehicle. Credit cards, cash, and wedding rings were among some of the items stolen and used at area stores in an attempt to make purchases. Some property and a laptop were recovered along US-131 near 44th Street and appeared to have been thrown out of a car window.
The KCSO has investigated different rashes of vehicle break-ins that occur throughout the community during the night and daytime hours. As a reminder to the public, remove personal belongings from vehicles or at least lock them in the trunk to hide the items out of sight.
Any with information about the break-ins are asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 616-632-6125 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 to report information safely and anonymously.
Teens arrested after chase
On April 10 just after 9 p.m., deputies spotted a stolen Kia sedan in the area of 60th Street SE and Kalamazoo Avenue, in the Gaines Township area.
The vehicle fled from officers and due to traffic conditions at the time the pursuit was ended. Around 1:15 a.m. this morning, another deputy spotted the vehicle traveling along Woodfield Drive SE (Eastern Avenue and 60th Street). The vehicle again fled, however, due to traffic conditions at the time, the pursuit continued west along 60th Street. The vehicle ran over spike strips and turned south on Division Avenue.
The vehicle continued to flee along Division and drove behind and around a business. Eventually, the vehicle stopped on Regal Ave, and five teenagers were taken into custody. In the car were two 15-year-old males, two 17-year-old males, and one 16-year-old female all from the Grand Rapids area. The Kia was recently stolen out of Jenison.
This pursuit is an example of what deputies encounter on a regular basis. The Kent County Sheriff has continued to report a significant uptick in stolen cars over the past few years. Dangerous driving, stolen vehicles used in additional crimes, and the young age of the individuals involved are common factors.
This incident remains open and will be reviewed by the prosecutor’s office.
At approximately 2:50 p.m. on April 17, 2023, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety assisted by The City of Grandville Police and Fire Departments responded to the 2300 block of Indian Mounds on the report of a suspicious object, believed to be a human body, floating in The Grand River.
When officers arrived, they located a deceased subject in the water. The Kent County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team responded to assist with the underwater recovery of the body. The subject has been preliminarily identified as a 36-year-old male from the Grandville area.
The Kent County Medical Examiner’s office has performed an autopsy and ruled the subject’s death an accidental drowning. The individual was identified as 36-year-old Matthew Hinton from the Kent County Area. Wyoming Department of Public Safety Detectives are still investigating the circumstances that brought Matthew into the waters of the Grand River.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
John Shay
At its Monday night meeting, the Wyoming City Council appointed John Shay as the city’s next city manager.
“The City of Wyoming is such a vibrant community and I’m eager to get started working with the team,” Shay said in. released statement. “I am looking forward to getting to know the residents and the community and learning more about how we can work together.”
Shay, who mostly recently served as the administrator for Ottawa County, was one of four candidates who were interviewed by the council on April 13 and April 15. The other candidates were Plainfield Charter Township Assistant Township Manager/Superintendent Jen DeHaan, City of Wyoming Interim City Manager John McCarter, and Norton Shores City Administrator Mark Meyers.
During the meeting, Mayor Kent Vanderwood called it a “tough decision” between the candidates. He thanked Mayor Pro-Team Rob Postema and Second Ward Councilmember Marissa Postler, who along with Vanderwood were the city manager search subcommittee. Vanderwood, as well as other council members, gave their appreciation to staff for their help through this city manager selection process.
Shay served as Ottawa County administrator from August 2021 to January 2023. Shay also served as deputy county administrator from July 2018 to August 2021. Additional Michigan experience includes serving the City of Ludington as city manager from February 2003 to July 2018, and prior to that was the village manager of Almont from August 1998 to January 2003.
Shay currently lives in the City of Ludington with his wife, Carla. Shay has three children, Bethany, Evan and Molly.
At the meeting, First Ward Councilmember Sheldon DeKryger made the motion to appoint John Shay and Councilmember-At-Large Renee Hill supported it.
“I am delighted to offer John the city manager position,” Vanderwood said in a statement released after the meeting. “His well-rounded experience has prepared him to lead us into the future and work seamlessly with our staff and community partners. We look forward to his leadership as we face challenges and opportunities together as a City.”
The nationwide search considered 48 candidates generated by the executive recruitment firm of Baker Tilly.
The City Council hopes to have an employment agreement approved by mid-May.
For more information on the City of Wyoming, visit wyomingmi.gov. Follow the City on Facebook at facebook.com/CityofWyoming and on Twitter @WyomingCityHall. The Wyoming City Council meetings are recorded live by WKTV. The meetings can be viewed on the WKTV Community Media Facebook page and on WKTV Live.
Justin Lacey-Pierce (left) moves in during his match against Jason Jackson in the 165-pound Elite Open class final at the West Michigan Golden Gloves finals. Pierce won his division on Saturday evening. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
Highlighted by one of the premier amateur boxers in the nation, area fighters claimed titles at the 2023 West Michigan Golden Gloves finals Saturday evening at West Catholic High School.
In the final bout of the evening, Justin Lacey-Pierce, a 2017 graduate of East Kentwood High School, claimed the final championship of the program after defeating Jason Jackson of the Holland Westside Boxing Club in the 165-pound Elite Open division final.
Lacey-Pierce is one of the top amateur boxers in his weight class in the nation and turned in a strong performance in the win against Jackson.
“I was a little rusty in the first round,” Lacey-Pierce said. “I felt like I was rushing things too much. Once I settled down and got my distance down and my timing down, I started connecting with my shots. He (Jackson) is a pretty tough guy and that had a lot to do with it, too.”
State Championships on April 21 and 22
A 2021 USA National champion, Lacey-Pierce is currently ranked fourth in the nation at 156 pounds and seventh at 165. Lacey-Pierce will be going for his second state title next week at the Michigan Golden Gloves state championships Friday and Saturday at West Catholic High School.
Lacey-Pierce (39-12 as an amateur) plans on turning pro after this year’s Golden Gloves tournaments.
Junior Rios 132-pound West Michigan champ
In the 132-pound Elite Open division final, Aneudy “Junior” Rios won a decision against previously undefeated Gentle Gibson of Kalamazoo. Rios, who is on a quest for a fifth state championship, used his speed and quickness from the opening bell to take control of the match.
“It was a case of speed versus power,” Rios said. “I felt like I was in control of the fight from the beginning. I just used my speed and quickness to take the fight to him. I will fight him again in the state finals so I have to go back to the gym and work on some things.”
Mercado and Saucedo also West Michigan champions
In the 125-pound Elite Open division, Guillermo “Mo” Mercado continued his journey of winning a third state championship by winning a decision against his MGGA gym teammate Jason Wells. In a match full of action, Mercado was in control throughout.
“I just went in looking to outbox him,” Mercado said. “I moved around the ring and tried to cut him off. I had to change my style and try and outwork him. I have a few things I have to still improve on so I will go back to the drawing board.”
In the final Open Elite division bout Marcos Saucedo Jr. of Holland Westside won a decision over Bryan Caceres of MGGA in a close, action-filled bout.
Sarah Batenburg (right) fought Zamyla Thurman-Houston in the 150-pound Elite Female division at the West Michigan Golden Gloves finals. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
In the lone female bout of the evening, Sarah Batenburg, a Tri-County High School and Grand Valley State University graduate put on an exciting show along with Zamyla Thurman-Houston of Lansing Team Glass. In her first bout in several months, Batenburg shook off any rust and outpointed Thurman-Houston in an action-filled match that had the crowd heavily involved.
The West Michigan title was the fifth in her career and the second as an open-division boxer. Batenburg was boxing at 150 pounds, down from her previous weight classes of 165 and 156.
“I’m used to fighting bigger girls,” Batenburg said. “This was the first time I fought at 146 or 147 pounds. I think this was a good fight for me and gave me good experience. It was also the first time I have fought in nearly a year since boxing at the nationals last August.”
The entire card was filled with outstanding action with several bouts upping the decibel number several levels in a close to full West Catholic gymnasium.
One of those bouts came at the 139-pound Elite Novice division where Mike Guzman of MGGA outlasted Brant Bowlin of Lansing Team Glass. The highlight of the match was a flurry of action with both boxers unloading shots for what seemed like 30 seconds.
“He (Bowlin) was a tough opponent,” Guzman said. “In that second round we were just bringing it. We were both like mad dogs and it was a matter of who wanted it more.”
Guzman’s win came just after his twin brother Michael Guzman won a decision against Davone Jones of Lansing Crown Boxing Club in the 132-pound Elite Novice final.
The 203-pound Elite Novice final was another fight that had the crowd stoked the entire distance. Zachary Brayton, of Traverse City Significant Strikes, won a decision against Austin Connors of the Kalamazoo Boxing Club.
Forest Hills Eastern grad 156-pound Elite Novice champ
In the 156-pound Elite Novice final, Nasir Harris, a Forest Hills Eastern graduate, won a decision against Reynaldo Ortego of Lansing Crown Boxing. A multi-sport athlete in high school, Harris enjoyed his first title fight of his young boxing career.
“It was so exciting,” Harris said. “I never knew a feeling like this in sports before. Having everyone in the gym cheering for you and being one on one with your opponent in the ring with everyone watching you.”
Alejandro Hernandez (left) squares off against Stephen Ramirez in the 147-pound Elite Novice class at the West Michigan Golden Gloves finals. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
In the 147-pound Elite Novice final, Alejandro Hernandez of the Anahuac Boxing Club, located in southwest Grand Rapids, won a decision against Stephen Ramirez who was boxing unattached.
“I think my boxing IQ made the difference,” Hernandez said. “Winning this title is really satisfying because I have had to fight every day of the tournament.”
In the 165-pound Elite Novice final, Jaier Morgan of MGGA won a decision against his teammate Matthew Moore also of MGGA.
Also winning titles at the West Michigan Finals were Elijah Knight of the ChampsDen Boxing Club in the 132-pound junior open division, Roy Garcia of Holland Westside at the 125-pound Elite Novice and Abel Vilchis-Mendoza of the Muskegon Boxing Club in the 176-pound Elite Novice.
Residents are encouraged to line up by 1:30 p.m. as the line will close at 2 p.m. (WKTV)
There is something about when the earth tilts pushing the northern hemisphere closer to the sun that not only brings a freshness to the air that causes people to open the windows but also vacuum behind the furniture and clean out garages.
Spring cleaning has become a worldwide phenomenon and this Saturday, Wyoming residents will have the chance to get rid of their unwanted items in bulk during the city’s annual spring cleaning event set for Saturday, April 22.
“We are really excited to have this event,” said Nicole Hofert, the city’s director of community and economic development. “We have a wonderful group of volunteers who always help us every year and we are very thankful to have all of those people join us in this event.
“This really is an opportunity for Wyoming residents to clear out some of that stuff they have been thinking about all winter long. We are proud to offer it and hope we have another really great turnout.”
The event will be at Grand Rapids First Church, 2100 44th St. SW, from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Plummer’s Disposal will provide the refuse hauling.
Guidelines for the Clean-Up Day
For participating in the annual spring clean-up, here are a few things you should know:
1. People may start line up at 7:30 a.m., doors open at 8 a.m.
Participants are asked to be in the right-hand lane of eastbound 44th Street. When arriving at the event, residents will enter the parking lot through Grand Rapids First’s northeast entrance off of 44th Street and follow the relevant signage.
2. Make sure to bring ID that shows you are a resident of Wyoming
Hofert said a water bill, a credit card statement that has your name and address, your driver’s license or your vehicle registration will work for proof of residency. “Just something to show that you are a Wyoming resident,” she said.
3. Be in line by 1:30 p.m. as the event does close at 2 p.m.
Unlike in years past, household hazardous waste such as paints, aerosols and other hazardous liquids will not be accepted. People wishing to dispose of those items should visit Kent County’s reimaginetrash.org, and under the Safe Home section, there is a list of sites and instructions on how to properly dispose of those items.
What to Bring
Other items that will not be taken are propane tanks and refrigerators. A completed list of items that will be accepted and items that will not be accepted is available at wyomingmi.gov/cleanup.
The City of Wyoming will be hosting its annual Community Clean-Up event on April 22 at the Grand Rapids First parking lot. (WKTV)
“We see a lot of furniture that comes through,” Hofert said. “If you have the broken recliner or a couch that you have recently replaced, bring it in.”
Construction materials are another good thing to get rid during the cleanup, Hofert said, adding that people often have done renovation projects during the winter with some materials left over that they need to dispose of.
Some items, such as tires and mattresses, will have a modest disposal fee of $12 and $22 respectively.
Yard waste will be accepted at the Yard Waste Drop-Off site, located at 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW, will be open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. There are no limits to size of branch or shrubs accepted at the site; however, residents must unload the yard waste themselves and all containers must be removed from the facility.
Event Info
Those who come to the event will get in line, an attendant will check your ID, you will come through the site to the dumpster location. Participants will get out to the car and attendants will instruct the person where what dumpster to dump you stuff in. Once done, the participant will get back into the car and then head back out through the exit.
For more information about the Wyoming Community Clean-Up Day, visit wyomingmi.gov/cleanup or call 616-530-7226.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Emergency medical staff from Trinity Health Michigan photographed removing masks following an announcement that many local hospitals would be relaxing their mask requirements for employees, patients and visitors. (Courtesy, Trinity Health Michigan)
Starting today, many area health organizations are taking the masks off.
University of Michigan Health-West and Corewell Health have announced masks will be optional in most areas starting today with Trinity Health Michigan starting optional mask wearing on Monday, April 17.
For the facilities, the decision was made after reviewing recent COVID-19 medical data, and much considerations and conversations with leaders at other health systems. The move comes as the number of COVID-19 infections in West Michigan continues to decrease, and many community members have some level of immunity from immunization or prior infection.
University of Michigan Health-West
Patients and visitors will not be required to wear masks in UMH-West facilities except when they are seeking medical care for respiratory symptoms of COVID-19, visiting patients in precautions for COVID-19, or if a household contact has COVID-19. The discontinuation of the mask mandate applies to both inpatient areas and ambulatory centers.
There are several situations in which healthcare team members will be required to continue masking, including interacting with patients who have an immunodeficiency, who have received a transplant, residing in long-term care facilities, have an acute respiratory illness, or who request the healthcare team to wear a mask.
“After more than three years since the pandemic changed our lives in many ways, we want to thank all of our patients, their families, and our staff members for their commitment to keeping each other safe by masking every day. The decision to discontinue the mask mandate is in recognition of the low number of COVID-19 patients and the immunity level of many community members,” said Dr. Ronald Grifka, Chief Medical Officer at UMH-West.
The UMH-West leadership team encourages everyone to continue to practice good hygiene habits, including covering coughs and sneezes and handwashing. Additionally, the hospital system continues to monitor COVID-19 cases closely and will take appropriate measures as needed to protect the health and safety of its patients, visitors, and staff members.
Trinity Health Michigan
Starting on April 17, there will be optional masking for patients, visitors and colleagues at hospitals, outpatient facilities, home health, and physical offices, except for senior living communities.
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services
As of Thursday, April 13, employees and visitors are no longer required to wear a mask except in 24/7 patient care settings and specialty care units. Patients will continue to be screened/tested for COVID-19 at admission and are not required to mask unless endorsing symptoms f illness or diagnosed with COVID-19 infection.
Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation
Starting today, masking is recommended but optional for patients, visitor and clinical teams at the Grand Rapids hospital campus, West Michigan outpatient locations, and Mary Free Bed Orthotics and Prosthetic+Bionics locations. The Mary Free Bed Sub-Acute Rehabilitation program will continue to require masks for patients, visitors and staff.
Trinity Health Michigan does have a list of what health organizations are doing. To see that list, click here.
WKTV reporter Greg Chrapek interviews local boxer Junior Rios after he beat Armond Bridgeford of Grand Rapids in the semifinals Wednesday. Rios is seeking his fifth state championship.
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
A trio of multi-time state champions took care of business during semifinal night at the West Michigan Golden Gloves and are poised to take the next step to become West Michigan Golden Gloves Champions.
Guillermo “Mo” Mercado, Aneudy “Junior” Rios and Bryan Caceres all won their matches against some strong competition during semifinal action Wednesday evening at West Catholic High School. The wins send the trio, who have combined for nine state championships, on to the West Michigan Golden Gloves finals at 7 p.m. Saturday at West Catholic.
Guillermo Mercado squares off against Elmer Velasquez in the 125-pound Elite Open class at the West Michigan Golden Gloves semifinals. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
Mercado led things off in the Elite Open division at 125 pounds when he won a decision against Elmer Velasquez of Anahuac Boxing Club. In one of the most action-packed bouts of the evening, Mercado used his skills to wear Velasquez down in a bout that was full of action from both boxers.
“This is the fourth time I have fought him,” Mercado said. “I knew coming in he is a very tough fighter. I knew this was going to be one of my toughest opponents here. I had to get on him with my jab and keep the pressure up.”
Mercado, who has been boxing for over seven years, is a two-time state champion on a mission to win a third state title before turning professional., Mercado has been busy fighting in some national tournaments this season and is primed for a long run in the Golden Gloves this spring.
Mercado’s coach, Anbrocio Ledesma, liked what he saw in the fight, but knows improvement needs to continue to be made.
“Mo has fought this guy several times,” Ledesma said. “He puts a lot of pressure on and Mo had to fight a little different fight. I asked Mo to do some different things and he pulled it off. Every opponent has a different style and you have to make adjustments and Mo did that.”
Junior Rios looks for an opening during his match against Armond Bridgeford in the 132-pound Elite Open class at the West Michigan Golden Gloves semifinals. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
Rios, Mercado’s teammate who also is trained by Ledesma, is a four-time state champion and had a tough test in the next bout when he went up against Armond Bridgeford of Grand Rapids MGGA. After both boxers traded shots in the opening round, Rios began to take control of the match in the second round. By the third round Rios was in command of the fight and recorded a standing-eight count before the referee stopped the contest later in the round.
“This was the first time I fought him,” Rios said. “He is a taller fighter and in the first round it took me some time to get used to his size. Eventually I started to get inside and get off some good body shots. I was able to work the body and slow him down.”
The win moves Rios into a showdown Saturday against Gentle Gibson, an undefeated fighter from the Kalamazoo Boxing Club.
In the final match of the evening and in the Elite Open class, Bryan Caceres of Grand Rapids MGGA won a decision against Anthony Hurt of Team Glass from Lansing. Caceres, who has been boxing for nine years, is a three-time state champion looking for a fourth title before turning professional like both Mercado and Rios. Caceres has won his three previous state titles at 125 pounds and moved up to 139 pounds this year.
Bryan Caceres prepares to move in during his match against Anthony Hurt in the 139-pound. Elite Open class at the West Michigan Golden Gloves semifinals. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
“My goal is to win a fourth state title before turning pro,” Caceres said. “This was my first fight in over eight months. I’m boxing up at 139 pounds so it’s kind of tough because I’m actually a 125-pounder.”
Caceres will go after the West Michigan title Saturday evening when he faces off against Marcos Saucedo Jr. of the Holland Westside Boxing Club.
Five Elite Novice division bouts also took place Wednesday
At 147 pounds, Alejandro Hernandez of the Anahuac Boxing Club won a decision against Kardyea Williams of MGGA. Also at 147 pounds Stephen Ramirez, boxing unattached, won in the second round when the referee stopped the contest in his match against James McCullen of Crown Boxing Club of Lansing. Hernandez and Ramirez fight Saturday in the 147-pound finals of the Elite Novice division.
At 165 pounds, Jaier Morgan of MGGA won a decision against Ronald Taylor of the Muskegon Boxing Club. Also at 165 pounds, Matthew Moore of MGGA on a decision against Christopher McLaughlin of the Muskegon Boxing Club. Morgan and Moore will square off in the finals Saturday.
At 176 pounds, Isaiah Clay of Crown Boxing won when the referee stopped the contest in his bout with Paul Vaalburg of MGGA.
This Thursday and Saturday, Wyoming City officials will be interviewing four candidates for the city manager position.
About 48 municipal leaders from around the country applied for the position following the retirement of former City Manager Curtis Holt in February after 27 years of service. The City Council narrowed the number down to four for interviews.
The City Council will host those candidate interviews Thursday, April 13, from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, April 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, in the Council Chambers.
Candidates for the position include:
Jen DeHaan
Jen DeHaan, who currently serves as the assistant township manager/superintendent of Plainfield Charter Township and as the executive director of the Kent County Dispatch Authority both since 2018. DeHaan also has prior experience in Michigan serving as deputy county administrator for Grand Traverse County and as a management analyst for Kent County. DeHaan started her career as an intern for the City of Wyoming.
John McCarter
John McCarter, who currently serves as interim city manager for the City of Wyoming. McCarter has served as Wyoming’s deputy city manager since March 2021. Prior to that, he served in several roles as interim finance director, assistant finance director and budget and procurement manager for the City of Pearland, Texas. Prior Michigan experience also includes serving as a management analyst for the City of Novi.
Mark Meyers
Mark Meyers, who currently serves as the city administrator for the City of Norton Shores since May 2004. Prior to that, he served as the director of administrative services/assistant to the city administrator since beginning work in Norton Shores in 1995. Meyers also worked in Michigan as an assistant city manager for the City of Grand Haven from March 1992 to May 1995.
John Shay
John Shay, who most recently served as county administrator for Ottawa County from August 2021 to January 2023. Shay also served as deputy county administrator from July 2018 to August 2021. Additional Michigan experience includes serving the City of Ludington as city manager from February 2003 to July 2018, and prior to that was the village manager of Almont from August 1998 to January 2003.
Baker Tilly, an executive recruitment firm, is overseeing the search process. Baker Tilly has provided candidate application materials to the city manager search subcommittee comprised of Mayor Kent Vanderwood, Mayor Pro-Tem Rob Postema and 2nd Ward Councilmember Marissa Postler.
The Council hopes to fill the position based on the interviews held on April 13 and 15. Candidates’ resumes are available upon request. Interviews are open to the public.
The City Council hopes to have a new city manager selected and an employment agreement approved by the end of May 2023.
Local fighter Junior Rios (second from left) is aiming for a fifth state title this year and is carrying on the legacy of the Wyoming Pride gym that included from left: Coach Alex Fernandez, Junior, Coach Anbrocio Ledesma and Coach Dominic Marsiglia. (Courtesy, Junior Rios)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
Over the past several years, Aneudy “Junior” Rios has been one of the top amateur boxers in the Grand Rapids area. During his amateur career he has won 50 bouts and four Golden Gloves state championships.
Rios is competing in his final Golden Gloves this year, but before turning pro, he is looking to end his amateur boxing career in a big way.
Going for a fifth state title
Rios takes the next step in his quest to winning a fifth state championship in the open division at the semifinals of the West Michigan Golden Gloves scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday at Grand Rapids West Catholic High School.
“I feel like this year is my year for sure,” Rios said. “I won last year, but I feel like this year I am in better shape than I was last year. I’m at a different weight class and I feel more focused and more consistent. I’ve lost weight and I’m boxing at 132 pounds this year.”
Rios won his opening-night match April 1 and faces a challenge in the semifinals where he goes up against Armond Bridgeford of Grand Rapids MGGA in the semifinal match.
Not only does Rios have a goal of winning the state title this year, but he also wants to take it a step further at the National Golden Gloves tournament this May in Philadelphia. After that, Rios wants to earn a spot in the Olympic Trials where he will try to make the 2024 United State Olympic Boxing team.
Turning pro soon
“This is my last year of amateur boxing before turning pro,” Rios said. “My goal is the Olympics. I have one more national trial in December where I can earn a spot at the Olympic Trials.”
Rios, age 26, has come a long way in the sport of boxing since he first stepped foot in a gym 10 years ago. A four-time open division champion, Rios has fashioned an amateur record of 50-9. He also reached the semifinals of the National Golden Gloves in 2017.
Rios got his start in boxing at the former Wyoming Pride Gym that was open from 2012 to 2019.
Began boxing at 16
“I started boxing when I was 16-years old,” Rios said. “I was a street kid, and a lady, we call her Momma G, took me to the fights and introduced me to coach Alex Fernandez. I fell in love with boxing as soon as I stepped in the gym. I started going to the Wyoming Pride Gym and that was where I met my coach, Anbrocio Ledesma. Coach Ledesma has always been like a father-figure to me. I call him dad and he calls me son.”
Rios trained at Wyoming Pride until the gym closed in 2019 when the landlord needed the space for another venture.
Since then, Rios has sparred at other gyms in the area while also training at a gym coach Ledesma created in a heated garage on his property. Currently, Rios and Guillermo Mercado are both training under Ledesma.
“I’m a full-time dad, a full-time worker and a full-time boxer,” Rios said. “When I get out of work, I head over to Anbrocio’s and easily put in two to three hours a day working out. Anbrocio is a really good coach. He is great at strength and conditioning. Everything is precise and there is always a routine. I also get a lot of help from my sister, Andreina Torres, who helps watch my son (Gabriel) when I’m at the gym.”
Hard work paying off
The work Rios has been putting in over the years is paying off as Rios is one of the top amateur boxers in the state.
“Junior has put in a lot of hard work,” Ledesma said. “He also does what we ask him to do. He believes in my coaching style. Junior is very aggressive in the ring, but he also has a lot of skill, a lot of knowledge and a lot of quickness. Not only does he have very good hand speed, but he has very good footwork and that is hard to teach.
“You either have it or you don’t. He has the natural skills and he is also a hard worker who gets the most out of what he has.”
Ledesma believes Rios has what it takes to accomplish his goals.
“Junior looked pretty good in his fight last week,” Ledesma said. “As always, there is room for improvement and each opponent will test him in a little different way. Things are looking good for him as long as he keeps consistent in his training and his conditioning.
An activity area in one of the day centers operated by Care Resources. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“There is nothing like coming home, putting your key in the door, and opening it and smelling your smells and understanding where you are…and feeling comfortable. We all want that. We can help make that dream come true longer,” said Veronica Horsley-Pettigrew, Community Outreach and Marketing Supervisor at Care Resources.
A 2021 AARP Home and Community Preferences Survey showed that 77 percent of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long term, a number that AARP noted has been consistent for more than a decade.
As noted by the National Library of Medicine, culture plays a role in shaping individuals’ attitudes toward elder care. Asian cultures have emphasized family elder care at home and as a result, 50 years ago the Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly or PACE was created.
In 1994, Michigan became one of the first pilot programs and today, the state has 14 PACE programs at 21 centers and nationwide, there are 273 sites in 32 states.
“We are committed to our participants,” Horsley-Pettigrew said. “We are an aging society, and we need to take care of each other.”
Growing Interest Creates a Growing Demand
The second PACE program to launch in the state of Michigan was Care Resources, which has been helping to keep West Michigan seniors out of nursing homes since 2006.
The “Four Seasons” art was created by staff and participants. It took almost two years and was made entirely of crayons. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
A community-based program for people 55 years or older, Care Resources provides comprehensive care to the senior citizens of Kent County, as well as portions of Allegan, Barry, Ionia, and Ottawa counties, while promoting healthy, independent living and helping prevent nursing home placement.
Care Resources has grown over the years. In 2018, to meet expansion needs, the organization renovated the former John Knox Presbyterian Church, 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SW, with the express purpose of caring for the aging community of West Michigan.
“We are the glue,” said Tom Muszynski, chief operating officer of Care Resources. “Overall, we are their case managers. We always look to family first, because family generally wants to know what is going on and be a part of it, but if there is no family available, then we take that piece of it too.”
Since opening its Kalamazoo Avenue headquarters in 2019, Care Resources is looking to expand yet again, having almost doubled its service area in November 2021 due to an ever-increasing need for care of local senior citizens.
In 2022, Care Resources served 374 participants, provided 3,048 meals, distributed 702 activity bags, traveled 349,569 miles transporting participants, and totaled 36,554 home care hours for an average 46 months of participant care.
Interest in PACE programs continues to grow with some discussion of adding more programs in Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula and expanding into the Upper Peninsula, where there currently are no programs.
Locally, interest in Care Programs has increased with Muszynski stating there are plans to open a second location in Grand Rapids with Care Resources planning to seek federal and state approval at the end of June.
‘Bingo’ and More
Care Resources provides transportation with a fleet of 20 vehicles; an on-site physician, medical clinic, and 2,200 square-foot pharmacy; vision, dental, audiology, and foot care services; laundry and shower facilities; an extensive therapy gym; and grocery shopping services.
Also at its Kalamazoo Avenue location is a fully-staffed day center, which currently serves about 100 participants at various levels. There are various activities, such as stretching programs, classic car shows, and visiting animals along with two outdoor courtyards, a meditation room, and a walking trail.
“Our goal is to really treat people with dignity, but to also get them up and moving,” said Muszynski. “The building is specifically designed to be spread out, so they have to get up and move a little bit.”
The highlight, however, is Bingo.
“They can purchase items at our Bingo store,” Muszynski said as he opened a room lined with shelves and stacked to the brim with an assortment of items. “Fun items, as well as items they can’t get with their Michigan Bridge Card.”
Eligibility
Care Resources PACE eligibility requirements include being 55 or older, meeting the nursing facility level of care, being able to be safe in their home with PACE services at the time of enrollment, and qualifying for Medicaid according to PACE Medicaid requirements.
The Care Resources therapy room. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“When they first enroll in the program, they have to be deemed safe in the community with PACE services,” said Muszynski, adding he encourages people to think about when they might need PACE services and strive toward early identification. “PACE is not crisis intervention—there is a process to get into the program. With Medicaid, it could be 30 days or so because we can only enroll on the first of the month. Without Medicaid, it could potentially be a couple of months.”
Muszynski also said to remember that there are several factors that qualify people for skilled nursing, and that it is not always an extreme of going from a hospital to a bed-ridden state. It could include a myriad of things from forgetfulness to treatment such as feeding tubes or dialysis.
Horsley-Pettigrew agreed that having a medical assessment completed is vital before making long-term decisions on care. “It could simply be coordination of care and medication that is needed, and that person may not need to be put in a nursing home,” said Horsley-Pettigrew. “The coordination of care and the proper medication really keep away some of the seriousness of (issues) escalating.”
Continuing to Build Awareness
One of the benefits Muszynski said he has seen in Care Resource participants is a sense of belonging.
“They get involved in our program, and people who weren’t even getting dressed are now getting dressed and doing their hair because they are coming to see their friends,” he said. “It really allows them to get involved in the community and get out of the house.”
One of the the Care Resources’ vehicles. (WKTV./D.A. Reed)
Muszynski and Horsley-Pettigrew are continually meeting and working with state legislators to keep them educated on the benefits of PACE programs. In May of 2022, the PACE Association of Michigan (PAM) hosted its Day at the Capitol in Lansing, allowing PACE staff and participants to share their personal stories about how the program is impacting their lives.
“We’ve got some real champions in Lansing,” said Muszynski. “That’s part of (our) success in Michigan, is the support of the state. It’s phenomenal.”
To find out more about the Care Resources PACE program, visit Care Resources PACE. Volunteer opportunity inquiries at Care Resources can be directed to Karen Altom at 616-913-2036 or karen.altom@careresources.org.
LANSING – Long associated with calm music, soothing landscapes and the soft tones of Tim Allen’s voice, Michigan’s campaign to promote tourism will get an update to appeal to younger audiences.
David Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan, said the updated campaign marks the first time Pure Michigan has targeted young individuals.
“They’re more interested in experience than stuff,” he said. “Mostly Baby Boomers and Gen Z are looking for experience rather than the bigger TV set or the nicer car. That provides a great opportunity for the travel industry.”
The new ads will be more vibrant, Lorenz said. “You’ll see more people and more activity in the ads. The music is more uptempo.”
“For 17 years, we’ve always used the music from Cider House Rules, we’ve used Tim Allen’s voice, we’ve had this very calm, subtle approach,” Lorenz said. “That reaches the older folks, but we really felt by lifting up the spirit and showing the diversity in this way, we’re going to be more appealing to younger people as well.”
Grand Rapids Included In New Spots
The campaign, billed as “Keep it Fresh,” will include spots focusing on Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Traverse City, “using the sights, sounds and artistry that reflect the range of unique experiences and stories to be found in Michigan,” according to a news release from the office of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
“We know that people, when they come to Michigan, expect to see beautiful nature. They’re going to find that,” Lorenz said. “But now they’re also starting to realize they can find vibrant, interesting cities.”
“It’s unbelievably cool. I never thought Detroit would come back the way it is in my lifetime,” he said.
The new campaign will mark Pure Michigan’s return to national airwaves, with spots airing on Discovery, Food Network, HGTV and Magnolia Network, and in local regions throughout the Midwest.
Digital portions of the “Keep it Fresh” campaign launched in late February, with TV ads beginning in March.
The New Pure Opportunity campaign. (State of Michigan)
New Business Marketing Campaign
The council also launched Pure Opportunity, a business marketing campaign touting the state’s skilled labor pool, freshwater resources and top ranking in climate change preparedness.
That campaign will feature images of Michigan companies like Pfizer in Portage, Orbion Space Technology in Houghton, Short’s Brewing Company in Bellaire, Daddy Dough Cookies in Grand Rapids and Detroit Denim.
“Michigan is a place that will drive the world forward through grit, our world-class workforce, and stunning natural resources,” Whitmer said in a news release.
Modernized music
One of the first changes people may notice in the new campaign is more upbeat music.
“We were limited because of the slow, soft, beautiful, emotionally evocative music style of Cider House Rules,” Lorenz said. “It’s kind of hard to say, ‘Hey, let’s go snowmobiling!’”
Nicole Churchill, a co-founder of Assemble Sound, the Detroit company that developed the new score, said they wanted to refresh the music without completely deviating from what people have grown to know and love.
“That Cider House Rules score that’s been used for so long has become such a connection with the brand, I think the biggest challenge was how you maintain the integrity and pay homage to that while still bringing a little bit of newness and youth, and how you get people who are across different generations to like the same thing,” Churchill said.
Julian Wettlin, director of creative licensing for Assemble Sound, said “It was kind of a tightrope to walk between this modern, kind of poppy, electronic, indie-rock world that they wanted to play in with keeping the sincerity that Cider House Rules has.”
It’s All Michigan
The company used all Michigan talent for the demos, and the score that was selected was composed by Ann Arbor native Ben Collins.
Detroit Poet jessica Care moore joins Tim Allen as the voice in the new Pure Michigan campaign.
Wettlin said he didn’t allow the project to overwhelm him while working on it.
After seeing rough cuts of the spots, he thought to himself “Oh, right, this will live for a very long time.”
While the state only contracted for one song, Wettlin said it was designed to be adaptable enough to fit multiple spots.
“We basically gave them a toolbox of sounds,” Wettlin said. “When they get into mix, they can take down some of the bass and let the synths live a little higher in the mix on the more nature ones, and the nightlife ones maybe pull some of that sentimental quality and bring up more of the fun quality.”
A new voice
Another auditory change people are likely to quickly latch onto: the introduction of a new voice, Detroit poet jessica Care moore.
Moore, whose first and last name are not capitalized, came to national prominence after winning “It’s Showtime at the Apollo” a record-breaking five times in a row.
Oprah shared in 2022 one of moore’s poems, “Her Crown Shines,” which was written for then-Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson following her nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Lorenz said the Michigan Economic Development Council had looked at introducing a second voice for years, but “they just didn’t seem right until we found jessica.”
“We’re using her in a different way. We’re using her writing talents as well as her voice,” Lorenz said. “I love her kind of grainy, granular, earthy voice. It’s going to blend really well with Tim.”
Focus on diversity
Highlighting diversity is one way the new campaign will appeal to younger audiences, Lorenz said.
“We have a lot to be proud of with our diversity, and we think that’s very appealing to a lot of people right now,” Lorenz said. “With our TV and radio ads, you’re going to hear an additional voice with Tim Allen this year – you’ll hear a woman. That, in itself, demonstrates in a subtle way that we’re not the same old state you think we were. We’re so much more.”
But he acknowledged that some audiences may feel that capitalizing on diversity may seem superficial or opportunistic. It’s a concern that they considered.
“That’s one of the reasons why it’s taken us a while to really take this approach, because we felt that it had to be genuine. It had to be authentic. It had to be real,” Lorenz said.
“We tell the truth about things that are important to people, and things that we know are gaining importance in the future,” he added. “The state has changed in the last 17 years, and we’re trying to represent that change.”
Everyone Is Welcomed
Moore joins Allen in the campaign, who has faced backlash in recent years. After attending the inauguration of former President Donald Trump, Allen told Jimmy Kimmel that, “You get beat up if you don’t believe what everybody else believes. This is like ‘30s Germany.”
Asked whether that factored into the decision to introduce a new voice, Lorenz emphasized that “Tim is not our spokesperson, he’s our voice,” and that he is not being replaced, but rather joined, by moore.
Marketers have to be careful with political debates, he said. “It’s really important that we stay out of that, because we’re in a very divided time politically.”
But it’s tricky.
”Everything seems to be perceived as being political these days,” Lorenz said. But he isn’t concerned about backlash to a more diverse campaign.
“As long as we’re doing the right thing and we’re trying to do our best to articulate that we’re trying to make sure that all persons of goodwill know that they are welcome here, that’s what counts.” Lorenz said. “If there are others out there who take that as some kind of a political statement, they just don’t understand.”
Disability Advocates of Kent County will host a Kent County Transportation Forum on Monday. (WKTV)
Disability Advocates of Kent County will host the Kent County Transportation Forum on Monday, April 10 in the Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, 160 68th St. SW. This event will bring together stakeholders to discuss options for countywide mobility.
“There is so much planning going on for the future of mobility in our community,” said David Bulkowski, executive director of Disability Advocates of Kent County. “We need to make sure people are informed about plans being considered and organized to deliver the best outcomes.”
In Michigan, 19% of people with disabilities live within the federal poverty rate and 48% of people with disabilities struggle to afford basic costs of living. Unemployment remains a driving factor behind this high level of economic instability; only 34% of adults with disabilities in Michigan have a job. Those who have a position often work part-time without a living wage.
Expanding Transportation Options
One way to address financial hardship among people with disabilities is to expand accessible public transportation options. Many individuals rely on public transit for their work commute and other common destinations.
Public transportation access remains scarce outside of the six cities in The Rapid service area: Grand Rapids, East Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Walker, Grandville, and Kentwood. Those who live in places like Cedar Springs, Rockford, and Lowell often struggle to find a bus route and must rely on specialized services like Hope Network, but usually options are limited to expensive rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft, assuming these services can even be found in these areas.
Community Organizer Michael Williams, who leads the Concerned Citizens for Improved Transportation (CCIT) advocacy work group, believes the community could deliver better results for people with disabilities. He calls for greater connectivity between transportation systems in cities instead of having a series of distinct, fixed bus routes.
“There is not one perfect solution to this challenge,” Williams said. “However, solutions start at aligning current efforts to better compliment each other, rather than repeating each other.”
Building on the past work of Faith In Motion and CCIT and a strategy session conducted during Disability Advocates’ Disability Awareness Day, Williams will host the Kent County Transportation Forum. State and local elected officials, municipal organizations such as Mobile GR, and transportation providers such as Hope Network will have a presence at the forum.
Everyone Welcome to Join the Discussion
The Kent County Transportation Forum seeks to coordinate local, state, and federal approaches toward achieving countywide mobility. Representatives from the City of Grand Rapids, the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council, The Rapid, and Kent County Mobility Task Force will discuss their transportation plans and seek ways to find agreement between plans. Kent County recently appointed its County Wide Mobility Task Force. Connecting current efforts will better help identify the needs for Kent County’s new team.
“We’re bringing riders, transportation providers, and planners to one place,” Williams said. “How can we work together and connect people in Kent County and beyond? This forum is a fantastic opportunity to align current planning processes into a coordinated regional effort.”
Those interested in learning more about accessible transportation or getting involved with CCIT can contact Michael Williams at michael.w@dakc.us.
A competition at the FIRST Robotics event at East Kentwood. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
By D.A. Reed WKTV Contributor
GRP Titans Nikolai Nigersoll demonstrates how the team’s robot works. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Battery issues were the challenge that Grand Rapids Prep Titans FIRST robotics team faced on Saturday, but they did not have to go far to find support.
“We are a team here,” GRP Titans mentor Matt Stewart said of all the 39 participating robotics teams at Kentwood’s FIRST Robotics competition. “All of robotics is a community-oriented thing. We’ve learned so much from all of the other teams.”
Multiple teams reaching out to give GRP Titans tools to help them test their battery, offering their team’s batteries, and offering to let the Titans charge in their pits.
“Everyone is so graceful and helpful,” said Stewart. “In the pits, it’s a community. Once you’re on the field, then you (have to) compete.”
“The Hardest Fun You’ll Ever Have”
The East Kentwood Red Storm Robotics Team (3875) hosted the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) qualifying tournament March 31-April 1, 2023. The competition was sponsored by Dematic, a supplier of materials handling systems, software and services based in Grand Rapids. It gave the teams an opportunity to qualify for the state competition, which is April 6-8 at Saginaw Valley State University.
FIRST Robotics Competition is designed to combine the excitement of sport with the precisions of science and technology. FIRST Robotics’ website calls their competitions “the ultimate Sport for the Mind,” while high school participants have labeled it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have.”
Michigan Robotics teams strive to teach students a multitude of skills, including mechanical engineering, computer-aided design, electrical engineering, programming, systems integration, website building, animation, and fabrication/machining skills.
“You see the kids mature, and one of the big things is all the technical skills,” said event coordinator Wendy Ljungren, adding that the program has opened the college door for many students. “It’s been great to see our kids going into the STEM fields. We’ve had people become doctors, and lawyers, and professionals in engineering and STEM fields, and really see them transition.”
Teaching Life Skills
Sara Robarge, mother of EK teammate Kailey Robarge, said she has seen strong leadership skills taking hold in her daughter over the last year.
Red Storm Robotics teammates Mo Otajagic and Kailey Robarge carry the team’s robot Terence off the field. (WLTV/D.A. Reed)
“I have seen her take on leadership that I hoped I had instilled in her, but I have seen her put it into practice this year,” Robarge said. “As a freshman, she stepped out and tried out for the Drive Team. She also stepped up and said, ‘I’ll lead a robot build.’”
EK robotics mentor Mark VanderVoord said he has seen growth in many students, this year being current team captain Sarah Shapin.
Since Shapin joined the team in sixth grade, “she has learned a lot of technical skills. She’s going to U of M (University of Michigan) next year to do computer programming. Outside of that, she has a high-level view of how it all fits together and how everybody should be working together.
“All of the kids look up to her at this point,” said VanderVoord. “And she was the goofy one when she started!”
VanderVoord emphasized that robotics students are learning far more than how to build a robot.
“It’s about all the life skills,” VanderVoord said. “The teamwork and the technology stuff, but there are kids on our team who are learning marketing and there are kids who are learning all sorts of disciplines. We’re teaching kids to learn (everything).”
Growing the team is a large part of Red Storm Coach Trista VanderVoord’s focus.
“This year we focused a lot on recruitment,” Trista VanerVood said. :We wanted to grow our numbers, but mostly grow our numbers of girls, of females in the program.”
The Building Blocks
That recruitment doubled the size of the Red Storm team overall, with now over 40% of the team consisting of females—quadrupling its female percentage from last year.
East Kentwood’s Red Storm Robotics team stand next to their robot, Terence. The team competes at the state championship this weekend. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“It’s been awesome to see the growth, and it’s been awesome to see the sub-teams that have developed there and really come together and take on their part of the team,” Trista VanderVoord said.
EK’s Red Storm finished the tournament 20 out of 39 with a ranking score of 1.66, 5-7-0, 20 ranking points, and earned the Team Sustainability Award. The team already had earned a spot at the state competition by winning the highest award, the Impact Award, at the Lakeshore competition in March.
Other teams at this weekend’s state competition are Hopkns’ Tech Vikes (2054), West Catholic’s Enigma Robotics (2075), Forest Hills’ Comets (3357) and Code Red Robotics the Stray Dogs (2771), which is a community team based out of Byron Center High School.
Abby Strait, high school senior and part of Wyoming High School’s Demons Robotics (858) team, has no trouble taking ownership of her role on the team.
“I’ve always been one of the people who has their hands all over the robot,” Strait said. “By the time we get to the competition, I know the robot inside and out. The more you put into the program, the more you get out of it.”
Demons Robotics finished the tournament 15 out of 39 with a ranking score of 1.83, 7-5-0 (wins-losses-ties), and 22 ranking points.
GRP Titans
Grand River Preparatory High School participated in the EK tournament with its first robotics team in ten years, the GRP Titans (9206), due to grants received from FIRST Robotics.
Stewart said that all students participating have been very invested in the program.
“Some of them had no prior experience, some of them only had building, yet every student has been all hands on deck with everything, and it’s been really cool to see,” Stewart said. “They all know what they do best, what they need to work on, so it’s been really fun to see them all working together.”
Though the Titans currently have approximately 15 team members, Stewart sees that number growing and sustaining since the team is composed mostly of underclassmen.
The GRP Titans finished the tournament 28 out of 39 with a ranking score of 1.50, 4-8-0, and 18 ranking points.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
At approximately 3 a.m. on Wednesday, April 5, officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the area of Abbie Street SE and S. Division Avenue on the report of a shooting.
When officers arrived, they located a victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The victim, a 41-year-old male Wyoming resident, was treated by medical personnel and transported to an area hospital with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect, a 34-year-old male Wyoming resident, was taken into custody at the scene. The victim and suspect are known to each other.
The circumstances surrounding this incident are still being investigated by the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Investigative Division. Other individuals involved in this incident have been identified and interviewed by detectives, and there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345.
Due to the rain and snow, rivers such as the Grand River, are expected to rise and cause flooding in some areas. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Sustained rainfall in the region has resulted in more runoff and higher water levels on local rivers than originally anticipated. The National Weather Service is expecting several rivers to be at, or near flood stage, by the end of the day on Friday (April 7), particularly the Grand River in Comstock Park which will experience moderate flooding. Additionally, increased flows on local waterways are likely to erode riverbanks resulting in water encroaching further onto some properties than normal, which could result in property damage.
Residents in these areas should pay special attention to water levels:
GRAND RIVER IN COMSTOCK PARK – Currently at 12.7 feet – Will gradually increase until Friday evening when it crests at or near 15 feet. This crest represents MODERATE flooding which we have not seen since May of 2020.
GRAND RIVER IN ADA – Currently at 17.13 feet (Action Stage) – Will somewhat rapidly increase until Thursday night when it levels off around 19.7 feet. This crest is still within “Action” stage, but very close to “Minor Flooding”.
GRAND RIVER IN LOWELL – Currently at 12.79 feet (Action Stage)– Will quickly rise and then level off around 14.9 feet (just under “Minor Stage” on Friday evening before receding.
BUCK CREEK IN GRANDVILLE – Currently at 7.24 feet – Will quickly rise to 8 feet (Action Stage) on Thursday morning and then recede.
The Kent County Emergency Operations Center is currently under a level 1, limited activation to assess the situation. “Emergency Management and our partner organizations have been actively monitoring the severe weather and flooding concerns in Kent County,” said Emergency Management Coordinator Matt Groesser. “While we were fortunate to have been spared from some of the severe weather threats today, we expect to be dealing with localized flooding, especially in the Comstock Park area, through the weekend.”
If flooding occurs in your area, Kent County Emergency Management recommends the following actions to protect you and your family:
During floods
Stay out of flood waters. Flood water moves faster than it appears and can carry debris, which might injure you. Additionally, there is a danger of electrical shock from downed and exposed power lines. Children should never play around high water, storm drains, or viaducts.
Avoid driving in flood water as vehicles can easily be swept away. If you are stranded and surrounded by flood waters, call or text 911 immediately.
Flood water can be dangerous to your health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flood water can contain dangerous bacteria and other pollutants, including raw sewage.
If flooding does occur in your area, avoid contact with flooded areas and wash up if contact does occur. Listen to public announcements or contact your local health department to find out if your tap water is safe to use.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) encourages Michiganders who get their drinking water from wells to get their well water tested following a flood event. More information is available by calling the MDHHS Drinking Water Hotline at 844-934-1315.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety were called to two homicides this weekend and an accident that resulted in its fire engine being hit.
Homicide, Suicide on March 31
On March 31, officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a 911 call from a residence in the 3000 block of Buchanan Avenue shortly after 7:30 a.m. When officers arrived, they discovered two deceased males who both had gunshot wounds in the driveway of the residence.
Andrew Gil, 25, was located inside a vehicle parked in the driveway, and Louis Gonzales, 30, was found in the driveway near the car. A handgun was recovered from the scene.
According to a report released today, based on evidence collected at the scene and autopsy findings from the Kent County Medical Examiner’s Office, investigating officers have concluded that this incident was a tragic homicide followed by a suicide. It has been determined that Gonzalez shot and killed Gil before turning the gun on himself and taking this own life.
Gonzalez and Gil are related and evidence of a dispute between the two has come to light during the course of the investigation.
Shooting on 44th Street
On April 2, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a shooting in the 200 block of 44th Street SW at approximately 2 a.m.
When officers arrived, they located Isaia Mojica, 24, who had been shot. Mojica was given aid by first responders and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later. Officers were then notified that another male suffering from gunshot wounds was dropped off at a local hospital. It is believed that this person was injured during the shooting on 44th Street. His injuries are non-life-threatening. The other occupants of the vehicle that dropped him off left immediately.
According to initial witness statements this incident began as a physical altercation involving several individuals. The shooting began during this altercation and multiple people fired shots. A handgun was recovered from the scene.
Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident and would like to speak to anyone who has any information.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-866-774-2345.
Fire Engine Damaged in US-131 Accident
On April 2 at around 2:45 a.m., police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety was assisting the Michigan State Police Department on a rollover crash on US-131 south of 44th Street.
While at the scene, the Wyoming fire engine and a Michigan State Police car were struck by two separate vehicles. No one was hurt.
The accidents are being investigated by the Michigan State Police.
Officials from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety stated they are still assessing the extent of the damage to the engine. The department may not know anything for about month, but the preliminary damage does appear to be significant, according to the department officials.
Firefighter Matt Young, Fire Lt. Brad Deppe, residents Lauren and Andy Gohlke with their son Emerson, Police Sgt. Blair Shellenbarger and Police Officer Lee Aktinson at the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Employee Recognition Ceremony on March 23. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
“I just remember thinking that I was watching my child die on the floor right now,” Lauren Gohlke said of Jan. 10, 2022, the day her son Emerson stopped breathing.
Through the quick actions of her husband, Andy Gohlke, and the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, Emerson’s life would be saved.
“I am so very, very thankful to our first responder and everyone at the hospital,” Gohlke said, adding she especially appreciated Officer Chad Lynn for assisting her. “How fast that they got there and that they truly cared about Emerson, even though they didn’t know who he is, which means a lot.”
Gohlke and her husband, Andy, were taking Emerson to his one-month check up on Jan. 10, 2022.
“I had been siting in the back with him and I noticed he was purplish-red in color,” Gohlke said. “We hadn’t even left the driveway yet and I said something to my husband, Andy, who got out of the car and immediately came around to the back.”
Andy Gohlke brought his son out of the car into the cold as the couple thought it might help to wake Emerson up. Realizing there was a problem. Andy Gohlke took Emerson inside and immediately began performing CPR. The couple had taken a class in infant CPR at Corewell Health a few months.
“He told me to call 911 and as I was on the phone with dispatch, I could him go “one, two, three…,” Gohlke said.
The Call No One Wants to Hear
“[It is] the call that no one wants to hear, an infant is not breathing” said Captain Timothy Pols, of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, during the department’s annual employee recognition ceremony on March 23.
Sgt. Blair Shellenbarger and Officer Lee Atkinson were first to arrive and observed Andy Gohlke performing CPR on his son, who was not breathing and did not have a pulse, Pols said. Shellenbarger and Atkinson worked together to resuscitate Emerson. Shellenbarger took over CPR and Atkinson prepared the AED (automated external defibrillator) machine.
Equipment Officer Steve Boetsma, Firefighter Matt Young, resident Andy Gohlke, with his son Emerson, Police Officer Lee Aktinson and Sgt. Blair Shellenbarger were recognized for their life saving efforts. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
“The whole thing is still a blur,” said Gohlke, who by this time had been moved to the living room with Officer Chad Lynn. “[Lynn] told me that the reason there was so many people there is that they are all dads and parents and they understood what we were feeling.”
Gohlke heard the AED advise not to shock. Shellenbarger continued to perform CPR and heard Emerson make a slight noise and take a shallow breath, Pols reported. It was then that Equipment Operators Steve Boetsma and Tom Marsman and Firefighters Matt Young and Dan Rettig arrived and took over resuscitation efforts by administrating oxygen and continuing CPR.
“With the application of this treatment, Emerson’s color improved,” Pols said. “He regained a pulse and was breathing on his own.”
Gohlke said Officer Lynn let her know that Emerson had cried a little, saying “That is good. That is good.” Gohlke added that it did make her feel better.
Appreciative to all the First Responders
Emerson was taken to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, where after a series of tests, it was determined that he had silent reflux. After doing some research, Gohlke learned silent reflux does not usually go to the extreme of a life-or-death situation.
Looking back, Gohlke said if she hadn’t been siting in the backseat, she might of just thought Emerson was sleeping and he probably would not have survived the trip to the doctor’s office. She is also grateful that her and her husband took the infant CPR class, something she now recommends to all young couples. Pols noted that the quick action of Andy Gohlke to perform CPR on his infant son helped “avoid losing precious seconds while waiting for first responders.”
Sgt. Blair Shellenbarger, Officer Lee Atkinson, Fire Lt. Brad Deppe, Equipment Operators Steve Boetsma and Tom Marsman, and Firefighters Dan Rettig and Matt Young all received the Life Saving Award at the March Employee Recognition Ceremony. Andy Gohlke received a citizen citation for his quick actions in performing CPR. Pols noted they were all just happy that Emerson and his family were able to join them for the event.
“You know its more than a year later and we are are still dealing with the trauma of the event,” said Gohlke, who described it as the worst week in the couple’s lives. “These guys just went back to work.
“It means a lot to know we have people in our community such as those on the Wyoming police and fire who are there for our children and our love ones.”
The juvenile pedestrian who was struck on the morning of March 14 by a vehicles, has died, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety reported.
The juvenile died March 28 from injuries that resulted from the crash. On March 14, Wyoming police and fire personal responded at 6:55 a.m. to the area 44th Street SW and Byron Center Avenue on a report that a juvenile pedestrian was struck by a vehicle.
Investigators continue to look into the circumstances surrounding this accident. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash are ask to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Investigative Division at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-866-774-2345.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Construction on the intersection of 54th Street and Clyde Park will start next week. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Drive along 54th Street near Clyde Park and you can’t help but notice the orange barrels that are out along the street.
Road construction officially starts in the City of Wyoming on April 3 as contractors have been staging to prepare the reconfiguration of the corner of 54th Street and Clyde Park Avenue.
In the planning stages for the past several years, the city finally received approval from the federal government to allow construction of an entrance/exit from southbound U.S. 131 to the Meijer, said Russ Henckel, assistant director for the city’s Department of Public Works.
“The federal government has a policy on a freeway egress being used for a private business,” Henckel said, adding it took time for the U.S. Department of Transportation to approve the placement of the pylons placement needed to reconfigure the ramps on and off I.S. 131.
The layout of the street. (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Goal is to Improve Traffic Flow
The design features an egress that allows traffic from U.S. 131 to turn right or left on 54th Street or head straight into Meijer. Those exiting Meijer would have the option of going right on 54th Street or straight on to southbound U.S. 131. Those wishing to go left out of Meijer will have to exit on to Clyde Park and then turn left at the intersection light. There will be a traffic light at the southbound U.S. 131 and 54th Street intersection as there is now.
The current entrance and exit from Meijer to 54th Street will be eliminated. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The northbound U.S, 131 on and off ramps will not be changed.
The current turn-in to Meijer from the westbound lane of 54th Street will be eliminated. The left turn lane on westbound 54th Street to southbound Clyde Park will be extended to help reduce the traffic from backing up into the westbound lane of 54th Street, Henckel said.
Also part of the project will be the resurfacing of Gezon Parkway from Byron Center to Clyde Park and 54th Street from Clyde Park to Division Avenue.
Other Projects
Also starting on April 3 is the resurfacing of Eastern Avenue from 28th Street to 44th Street.
On Jordan, Calhoun, Opal and Loraine, a waterman replacement project will be started the first week of April.
Local boxer Junior Rios (right) and his coach Anbrocio Ledesma. Rios will be one of the top open division boxers to watch at this year’s Michigan Golden Gloves Championships. (Courtesy, Junior Rios)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
If it’s April in West Michigan it must be time for some Golden Gloves boxing and this year is one of transition for the fabled boxing tournament.
The 91st annual Michigan Golden Gloves Championships begin this weekend, Saturday, April 1. This year’s tournament will be held at West Catholic High School (1801 Bristol Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) as the DeltaPlex, which hosted the tournament the past several years, closed its doors earlier this year.
“The Golden Gloves is one of the most prestigious tournaments in boxing,” said tournament co-director Brian Lentz. “The Golden Gloves is an exciting five-day event. The first three days are the West Michigan Championships and the final two days are the Michigan State Finals.”
Began in 1923
The Golden Gloves began in Chicago in 1923 and the Chicago Golden Gloves is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. This year’s Michigan Golden Gloves will be the 91st running of the tournament that began in 1932. Over the past 90-plus years, the Michigan Golden Gloves has produced some of the greatest boxers to have ever come out of the state of Michigan.
Floyd Mayweather and many other big names were Golden Gloves Champs
One of the greatest boxers of all time, Floyd Mayweather, is a former Golden Gloves champion from West Michigan along with a host of other champions, including Tony Tucker, Buster Mathis Jr., Roger Mayweather, Chris Byrd, Tim Littles, Andre Dirrell, Anthony Dirrell, Ra’eese Aleem, Fabian Williams, Roger Turner and Peter Quillin to name a few.
38 gyms represented
There are a total of 38 gyms in Michigan and this year’s tournament hopes to have representatives from all of those gyms. The first three days of the event will be the West Michigan Championships where boxers from Lansing to the west will compete. The East Michigan Championships will be held for boxers from east of Lansing. The final two dates will be the state championships where the winner and runner-up boxers in each division from the east will square off against the top two boxers in each division from the west with a spot on the Michigan team for the National Golden Gloves tournament on the line. This year’s National Golden Gloves Tournament is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia, PA. from May 8 through May 13.
Three divisions
The Golden Gloves is split into different divisions. There is a novice division, for beginning boxers that have had fewer than 10 fights, and an open division for more experienced boxers. There also is a female division.
WKTV will televise the tournament (see below)
WKTV will televise all five nights of this year’s tournament. WKTV commentator Bob Serulla is in his 23rd year of working the Golden Gloves and is excited about this year’s tournament.
“I think we are going to have a heck of a year,” Serulla said. “There is a lot of good, young talent and some highly-ranked fighters this year. Obviously, the Golden Gloves is going through a transition with the closing of the DeltaPlex, but I’m looking forward to a big year.”
Among the open division boxers are some highly-ranked local boxers. Justin Lacy-Pierce is a former national champion who recently qualified to compete for a spot on the USA National team. Lacy-Pierce is ranked fourth in his weight class by USA Boxing in their recent rankings at the end of last year.
Local boxer Junior Rios will be one of the top open division boxers to watch. (Courtesy, Junior Rios)
Junior Rios is another local standout who placed second at the regional qualifier for USA Boxing that took place March 18-25 in Detroit. Maurice Davis of Kalamazoo is another standout in the open division to watch along with Ulysses Campos of Grand Rapids, while Zoe Hicks of Lansing is a nationally-ranked female boxer in the 114-pound weight class.
Another name to keep an eye on is Ryan Schmidt. A member of the famed Schmidt family of boxers from the west side of Grand Rapids, Schmidt is making a comeback to the Golden Gloves at age 38. Schmidt was a five-time state champion from 2001-2005 and also was a silver and bronze medal winner at the National Golden Gloves during that time.
Along with the big names, the tournament is the birthplace of boxing dreams for young boxers making their first appearances in the ring.
“Opening night is a night you have some of the best fights,” Serulla said. “A lot of guys match up who have never fought before. You see people who come out of nowhere put on a show, especially in the novice division. I love opening night at the Gloves. You see some out and out wars on the first night.”
The opening night of this year’s Golden Gloves takes place Saturday, April 1. Boxing begins at 7 p.m. Action continues Wednesday, April 12 and Saturday April 15 with the state finals scheduled for Friday and Saturday April 21 and 22. Bouts begin at 7 p.m. each day with the doors opening at 6 p.m.
WKTV Golden Gloves Schedule
Catch all the action on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&TU-verse 99 with a live tape delayed airing of each night. You also can stream WKTV at WKTV25Live
West Michigan Preliminaries
Saturday, April 1
Airs Wednesday, April 5 at 5 p.m.
West Michigan Semifinals
Wednesday, April 12
Airs Saturday, April 15 at 11 a.m. and Tuesday, April 18 at 11 p.m.
West Michigan Finals
Saturday, April 15
Airs Sunday, April 16 at 12 p.m. and Wednesday, April 19 at 5 p.m.
State Semifinals
Friday, April 21
Airs Saturday, April 22 at 11 a.m. and Wednesday, April 26 at 5 p.m.
State Finals
Saturday, April 22
Airs Sunday, April 23 at 12 p.m. and Wednesday, May 3 at 5 p.m.
Take a look at our boys basketball state finals edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, where host Zach Fanko interviews Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler and players Roy Fogg and Owen Rosendall in the first half of the show, followed by South Christian Coach Taylor Johnson and player Sam Medendorp in the second half.
You will enjoy watching both coaches talk through some season highlight reels, giving their play-by-play analysis of these games.
From Left: South Christian center Sam Medendorp, Coach Taylor Johnson and WKTV Friday Night Highlights host Zach Fanko taped a special edition Wednesday honoring the Sailors second-place finish in the Division 2 state finals. (WKTV)
From Left: Tri-unity Christian boys basketball guard Owen Rosendall, forward Roy Fogg, Coach Mark Keeler and Friday Night Highlights host Zach Fanko taped a special edition Wednesday honoring the Defenders second-place finish in the Division 4 state finals. (WKTV)
The Norton Indian Mounds is a prehistoric Goodall mounds located in Wyoming and protected by the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (rossograph, CC BY-SA 4.0)
Used during religious rituals and ceremonies, Native American burial grounds were typically located on elevated bluffs near major bodies of water. Nearly 2,000 years ago, Native American tribes known as the Hopewell must have been attracted to the Grand Rapids topography. They constructed forty-six sacred burial mounds along the west side of the Grand River just south of what is now Bridge Street. The shape of these burial mounds may have varied some but often they were rounded, dome-shaped, ranging from 3-18 feet tall and 50-100 feet wide. These early mounds were regularly built to bury important members of local tribes along with artifacts such as stone knives, copper axes, carved pipes, pottery, and ornamental utensils with carved animals made of copper and shell.
Early missionaries and fur traders reported that the Native Americans of the time had no knowledge of the origin of the burial mounds and that they held them in great reverence. Due to residential and commercial expansion, settlers in the 1850s unfortunately held less veneration for the burial grounds and completely leveled them to provide dirt for roads in the Grand Rapids area. Flint arrowheads and other items were unearthed in nearly every mound and many artifacts were sold to museums and can be seen by visiting those museums today.
On the grounds of Ah-Nab-Awen Park outside of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, three symbolic Indian burial mounds have been constructed in honor of Michigan’s three major tribes, the Ottawa, Potowatomi, and Chippewa. Elders of the Three Fires Council proposed the name Ah-Nab-Awen which means “Resting Place.” The dedication of this park is a nice gesture in the right direction. Does it appease those ancient souls of those who had their graves grossly desecrated? Given all the burial grounds that were plowed under or plundered by treasure hunters, all the times Native American’s were displaced by land grabbers and forcibly relocated, all the broken treaties, and “The Trail of Tears,” unrest in the afterlife might be expected, even vengeance. So it’s no surprise some of the most frightening monsters of myth come from Native American legends, curses, and spells.
Ah-Nab-Awen Park features three symbolic Indian burial mounds.(grandrapidsmi.gov)
The Navajo skinwalkers used spells, charms, and curses to promote fear and practice evil to harm humans whenever possible with supernatural ability to shape-shift into any creature, even werewolves and vampires.
The Alaska Kushtaka or “land otter man” comes from the Tlingit people folklore and is believed to be shape-shifters capable of taking on human form, the form of an otter, and any other form it chooses, known to be cruel, evil, and a trickster.
The Wendigo, flesh-eater of the forests of the Great Lakes region and central Canada are historically known for murder, insatiable greed, and a voracious appetite for human flesh. Wendigo is known by several names that translate, “The evil spirit that devours mankind.” The Ojibwe’s description is that of a malevolent supernatural cannibalistic giant associated with winter, the North, coldness, famine, and starvation.
The Algonquin Legend of the Wendigo has the scariest artistic depictions, more than 15 feet tall with glowing eyes, long yellow fangs and claws, with an overly long tongue. It’s said the ash gray beast carries a strange odor of decay, decomposition, and death and can mimic human voices. The Wendigo will hunt you down with blinding speed and eat you or possess you and turn you into Wendigo.
Never disrespect the dead! If you should unearth human remains, immediately contact your county coroner and if the remains appear Native American, the Native American Heritage Commission should be notified. Leave Native American artifacts where you find them, it’s illegal and unethical to collect artifacts on public lands. Native Americans consider death a natural part of life and customs include preparing the soul for the spiritual journey, preparing the spirit to “walk on.” Interfering with the long walk is not recommended. Tread lightly, please!
Sketch released by the Wyoming Department of Public Safety.
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety has released a composite of a person-of-interest in a Nov. 1 2022 shooting in the 2200 block of Indian Mounds Drive that resulted in the death of a 19-year-old.
The Department is again requesting assistance from the public with any information related to the homicide of Kane Coronado, who shot and killed Nov. 1, 2022, while riding his bicycle in the 2200 block of Indian Mounds Drive.
Investigators are interested in speaking to anyone who may have information about the suspect who was last seen driving an older gray model four-door car with normal wear and tear and minor body damage. Investigators believe the suspect may have abandoned or sold the gray sedan after the incident in November and may be driving a different vehicle at this time.
The suspect was described by a witness as a white male approximately 30 years of age. He had a thin, light or gray colored beard and was wearing some sort of hat like a beany or a stocking cap. The male was described as having a thin build and wearing “scruffy” clothing.
Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact Wyoming Police, 616-530-7300, or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-888-774-2345.
Firefighters Sam and Mike Jones check the vehicle over. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Lt. Jesse May, center, directs the clean-up at the intersection of 36th and Clyde Park. With him are firefighters Mike Jones (left) and Sam Jones (right). (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
From the left, Firefighters Cullen Dodge and Mike Jones help with clean-up at the intersection of 36th and Clyde Park. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The Wyoming Fire Department uses its vehicles to block traffic so the team can clean-up the intersection. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Firefighter Sam Jones makes sure the engine is not on fire before loading the car on to the tow truck. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The Wyoming Fire Department crew help to load one of the vehicles on to the tow truck. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Firefighter Cullen Dodge (center) pours a kitty litter-like material on to the street to absorb the oil and gas from the damaged vehicles. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Part of the duties of the Wyoming Fire Department is to clean-up after an accident. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Lt. Jesse May keeps an eye on traffic as his crew works on cleaning up the intersection of 36th and Clyde Park. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
NOTE: This is a two-part series on a ride-along with the Wyoming Fire Department. The first part is a glimpse of the daily activities of one of the department’s teams based out of the Central Station, located at 1250 36th St. SW.
“Did you see Steve almost get hit three times?” said Wyoming firefighter Mike Jones as he hops back into the department’s ladder truck.
It was not hard to miss the first incident. Equipment operator Steve Boetsma stood with a blower in hand clearing the debris from the intersection of Clyde Park and 36th Street while the driver of a large black SUV decided to go through the accident versus following the traffic cones to go around it.
Jones said the driver made a crude gesture with Lt. Jesse May noting, “Well, we are station 1.”
“People don’t like us,” Jones said. “They don’t like the police more, but they especially don’t like us when we are blocking an intersection.”
It is 11:15 a.m. on March 22 and this is the fourth run, the second to the same location, the Wyoming Fire Department’s red team has made since the start of its shift at 7 a.m. Within this 24-hour shift, which ended at 7 a.m. March 23, the Wyoming Fire Department would answer 21 calls in total.
The Start of the Day
Equipment operator Steve Boetsma puts the ladder truck through its paces in a check of the equipment. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The start of the shift was busy with the five-member team of May, Boetsma, Jones, Sam Jones (Jones’ brother), and Cullen Dodge responding first to a medical call, followed by the team’s first visit to the intersection of 36th Street and Clyde Park Avenue, which also was a car accident.
Rolling in after 9 a.m., the team is able to focus on its daily routine of pre-checks, maintenance and starting breakfast.
Boetsma takes the ladder truck outside for a routine check, something that is done at the beginning of each shift.
“It is actually the only working ladder truck in the department’s fleet,” May said during a tour of the station. Smaller engines that pump water are both located at the Burton Street and Gezon stations, but are not at the capacity of the ladder truck. If a May 2 millage proposal passes, the department would be able to purchase a second aerial truck that would include a bucket. The second aerial truck would not only provide more water pump capabilities, but the department would be able to switch between vehicles, reducing wear and tear.
Mutual Aid
Lt. Jesse May shows the equipment on one of the medical response vehicles. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
An alarm signals. It’s for Grandville, near the Wyoming/Grandville border.
Even though close, “We can’t answer that call,” May said. You can tell it bothers him not to respond. “If we go, then there is no one to cover the city.”
There are mutual aid agreements between many of the West Michigan communities. In 2020, the City of Wyoming had to rely on assistance from neighboring communities 140 times because the department’s staff was on other calls. Most recently, during the March 18 snowstorm, the Grandville Fire Department responded to a call in Wyoming on Chicago Drive. While on the call, Grandville’s fire engine and a tow truck were struck by oncoming vehicles.
In a Kentwood Fire Department’s 2022 Fire Report, under the mutual aid section, Kentwood responded to mutual aid calls in Wyoming 50 times, while Wyoming responded to mutual aid calls in Kentwood twice. Of the 50 calls Kentwood responded to in Wyoming, 23 were for EMS.
The Increase in Medical Calls
Firefighter Mike Jones prepares a medical call. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The alarm goes off. It’s 10 a.m.
“They made breakfast,” Jones said as he climbed into the truck.”There is enough for everyone. We try to eat together as a family at every meal; breakfast, lunch and dinner. It doesn’t always work out that way.”
For Wyoming, medical emergencies, such as heart attacks and overdoses have doubled in the past five years from 633 to 1,310. Nursing homes can sometimes have multiple calls in a day, May said. This call is to a doctor’s office.
The average response time for the Wyoming fire department is 5.16 minutes, which falls behind the national recommended average of four minutes. The team makes it to the scene within five minutes. To the team’s surprise, an ambulance service has gotten to the scene before them. May and Jones hop out of the truck to assist. For the three-man team to go out, assist and come back to the station, it takes about 30 minutes.
“Many times we are first on the scene,” May said. “Because we don’t transport, we can take vitals and evaluate, but we have to wait for an ambulance, which depending on the calls that day, could be 30 to 40 minutes.”
No. 1 Priority: Staff
As soon as they get back, Jones is corralling everyone for breakfast. It is about 10:30 a.m. when the group sits down at a large wooden table with the Wyoming Fire Department logo embedded.
As they eat, the group openly discusses the need for more staff. Boetsma noted that for a structural fire, the minimum staffing requirement is 14. A fully staffed day, with no one on vacation or sick, the Wyoming Fire Department has 11, but usually staffing levels are at nine. May noted that with nine on a shift, it allows for the department to staff three of its four stations. The only unmanned station is Division Avenue, which is the busiest area for calls, May said.
If there is eight or less on staff, then only Gezon and the Central Station are staffed. The city is divided into two with Central Station taking everything north of 44th Street and Gezon everything south of 44th Street.
Helping to ‘Soften the Load’
Having more staff is on top of the department’s wish list. A May 2 millage proposal would maintain that current staffing of 36 and add three more firefighting positions.
Chart from the City of Wyoming
Even with the additional staffing, the Wyoming Fire Department would still be at the bottom of area departments with 39 firefighters covering a population of around 77,000, which is one firefighter serving 2,000 residents. In the City of Grand Rapids, there are 195 firefighters covering a population of about 201,000, which is about one firefighter serving around 1,000 residents.
The additional staff would “soften” the load, May said, adding it would allow firefighters time for other tasks such as testing to make sure its self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) are in working order. The department does this in-house to help keep costs down and for faster turnaround time, he said. It also would allow staff to work on certifications and other maintenance needs that are currently low priority.
Clean up on 36th and Clyde Park
Breakfast is over and the team splits up to take care of various tasks.
Equipment operator Steve Boetsma cleans the intersection of Clyde Park and 36th Street. Firefighter Cullen Dodge walks behind him. This was just before a black SUV almost hit Boetsma. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
“I think people believe we sleep all day or just sit around,” Jones said. “We don’t. We have equipment checks and stuff around the station that needs to be done.”
It’s 11 a.m. and the alarm goes off for the second accident at 36th and Clyde Park. This time, all five members head out, three on the ladder truck and two in a medical response vehicle.
No one is injured. The team puts out an engine fire and starts the process of clean up which includes a kitty litter-like compound on the oil and gas, sweeping up the debris, and assisting the tow truck drivers in removing the vehicles. To protect the scene, the firefighters, police officers, and others, the large ladder truck is used to block a portion of the intersection. The department has a vehicle to block traffic, but not enough staff to drive it to the scene.
“Since there were no injuries, if there had been a medical call, I could have sent two of the guys there,” May said. “I probably would not have though because of the need for traffic control.”
It only took 40 minutes for the clean-up and even with the engine blocking the intersection, there were several close calls, the three with Boetsma and a couple others, with vehicles trying to get around including one person using the wrong lane of traffic to try and make a left, which May had to stand in front of the car to get the driver to turnaround.
It’s back in the truck, but before heading back to the station, the team has one more stop they would like to make.
Next: Part 2, A visit to the Division Avenue station.
JCI South Kent will host its annual Easter Egg Scramble April 8 at the soccer fields of Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. Registration for the event opens at 10 a.m. and the event begins as 11 a.m.
The family-friendly event is free and open to children ages two through11. The Easter Bunny will be in attendances and ready for pictures. To ensure each child comes away with a full Easter basket, about 10,000 plastic eggs and pieces of candy have been readied for the event. Children will need to bring a basket or bag to hold their treats.
JCI South Kent is part of the United States Junior Chamber or Jaycees. It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to personal and leadership development through community service for people ages 18 to 40. The organization provides residents of Kentwood, Wyoming and the surrounding areas opportunities to grow personally and professionally through volunteer community service.
To find out more information about members, mostly meetings, projects, and volunteer opportunities, visit jcisouthkent.com.
The annual event will take place at Lamar Park’s soccer fields. (Courtesy, JCI South Kent)The Easter bunny will be available for pictures. (Courtesy, JCI South Kent)
The Tri-unity Christian Defenders were going for a second straight Division 4 state championship Saturday morning at the Breslin Center at Michigan State University, but they finished just two points short as Munising edged them 39-37.
The game featured plenty of strong defense from both teams, but a late surge proved to be the difference as Munising won its first-ever basketball state title in school history while Tri-unity fell just short of title number six.
“I thought we had a golden opportunity to win the state title, but we came up empty,” said Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler. “We shot ourselves in the foot. I thought that we played some phenomenal defense, but on offense we took a lot of bad shots. Shots that were just rushed and we kept doing it. I thought we also had way more turnovers than we usually have and that doesn’t help.”
Tri-unity committed 15 turnovers for the game, while Munising finished with eight.
The Defenders looked to negate the turnover issue with its work on the boards. They outrebounded Munising 39-17 with 17 of those boards coming on the offensive end of the floor. While the Defenders produced extra shots, a lid seemed to be on the basket for Tri-unity as it connected on 14-of-45 shots for the game, a 31.1 percentage. The Defenders were especially cold from long range as they shot 21.1 percent from three-point range, connecting on 4-of-19 three-point shots for the game.
An early lead
Despite the cold shooting and turnovers, Tri-unity was right in the game from beginning to end. They jumped out to an 8-2 early lead before Munising battled back to take a 9-8 advantage at the end of the first quarter.
Munising built on the lead in the second quarter as it outscored Tri-unity 9-4 to go up 18-12 midway through the second. Both defenses were in control the remainder of the first half with a three-point shot by Tri-unity’s Jordan VanKlompenberg cutting the Munising lead to 18-15 at halftime.
Defense continued to hold serve in the third quarter with points being at a premium. Tri-unity outscored Munising 10-9 in the third quarter and trailed 27-23 heading into the final quarter.
After Munising opened the fourth quarter with a bucket, Tri-unity scored the next five points to go up 30-29. A three-pointer by VanKlompenberg and a layup by Roy Fogg put the Defenders up 30-29 with 3:45 remaining in the game.
Munising, however, regained the lead for good when Cully Trzeciak hit a three-pointer with 2:11 remaining to put his team up 32-30. Seconds later a steal and layup by Trevor Nolan put Munising up 34-30.
After a Tri-unity turnover, Munising added a free throw with 1:07 remaining to go up 35-30. Fogg responded with a pair of free throws for Tri-unity, but a pair of free throws by Munising upped the margin to five with 33 seconds to go. After a steal by Munising, the Mustangs tacked on a pair of free throws with 18 seconds remaining to go up 39-32.
One final push by the Defenders
Tri-unity made one final push in the game’s final seconds. Owen Rosendall connected on three straight free throws with 13 seconds remaining and VanKlompenberg added a bucket with two seconds left, but the Defenders were unable to get a steal in the final two seconds of the game.
“They (Munising) had a great strategy,” Keeler said. “They were not going to allow us to beat them inside. They were letting us take all the threes we wanted and we were not able to knock them down. I’m proud of our kids. They played their hearts out and did their very best. Give credit to Munising, they have a nice team.”
Jordan VanKlompenberg led the Defenders with 15 points. (Courtesy, Becky Rillema)
VanKlompenberg led Tri-unity with 15 points, while Fogg added 11. Rosendall finished with five points, followed by Akais Giplaye, four and Trey Rillema, two.
Giplaye led Tri-unity with 13 rebounds, including six on the offensive end. Fogg and VanKlompenberg both added seven rebounds, including three offensive boards apiece. Rosendall, Rillema, Keaton Blanker and Wesley Kaman added three rebounds each. Rosendall led Tri-unity with six assists.
“I felt we had a chance to win back-to-back titles and we actually did,” Keeler said. “We just fell two points short.”
With the season ended, the Defenders say goodbye to a trio of seniors, including Dylan Bruinsma, Hanif James and Fogg.
“It’s tough to say goodbye to the seniors,” Keeler said. “We did have a pretty young team this year. We started three juniors and one sophomore so I’m pretty excited about the future. I’m looking forward to next year. I feel we have a lot of potential especially if we work in the summer and get stronger in the offseason.”
Tri-unity finished the season with a 22-7 record, while Munising ended at 27-1.
Tri-Unity Coach Mark Keeler (far left) and his team watch the action during their semifinal win over Frankfort Thursday. The Defenders are looking to win a sixth state championship on Saturday morning. (Courtesy, Becky Rillema)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
The Breslin Center on the campus of Michigan State University has seen hundreds of wins over the years with the home team playing stingy defense and dominating on the offensive boards.
Tri-unity Christian took those pages out of that successful Michigan State playbook during Thursday’s Division 4 state semifinal game against Frankfort and the result was a 54-37 win that sends the Defenders on to Saturday’s D-4 state championship game against Munising at 10 a.m.
Tri-unity played solid defense from the opening tip to the final buzzer as it limited Frankfort to 10 points or less in three of the four quarters.
The Defenders celebrate after a state semifinal win Thursday at the Breslin Center and are looking to win back-to-back state titles on Saturday. (Courtesy, Becky Rillema)
“We focused in on making sure we challenged them (Frankfort) and not letting them have anything easy,” said Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler. “We played great defense. I was really happy with our defense.”
The Defenders also dominated the boards, outrebounding Frankfort 41-22 for the game including pulling down a whopping 21 offensive rebounds.
“I was really happy with the way our guys controlled the boards,” Keeler said. “That was huge to have that many second shots.”
Akais Giplaye led the way on the boards as he pulled down 11 rebounds including nine offensive rebounds. Wesley Kaman added four offensive rebounds while Roy Fogg and Trey Rillema had three offensive boards.
Offensively, Tri-unity did a solid job of sharing the ball and spreading the scoring load around. Owen Rosendall led the Defenders in scoring with 13 points while Fogg added 11 points, Rillema, seven; Giplaye and Kaman, six apiece and Jordan VanKlompenberg, five. Keaton Blanker added two points, three assists, a steal and an offensive rebound.
Tri-unity fans had a lot to celebrate during its team’s state semifinal win Thursday at MSU. (Courtesy, Becky Rillema)
‘Everyone contributes’
“We had great balance which I really like,” Keeler said. “This team does a great job of sharing the ball. We don’t have one or two guys that do all the scoring. Everyone contributes on offense and we really take pride in that.”
Tri-unity took control of the game in the first quarter. The Defenders jumped out to a 10-4 lead in the early minutes thanks to three-point shots from VanKlompenberg and Rosendall.
Tri-unity led 16-8 going into the second quarter. Frankfort kept the score close throughout the second quarter and trailed 25-21 at halftime.
The Defenders began to pull away in the third quarter. Up by two points early in the quarter, Tri-unity closed out the third on a 15-4 run to take a 40-27 lead into the fourth. Frankfort managed to cut the margin to 10 points before Tri-unity pulled away in the final quarter.
Defenders succeed at wearing them down
“Our desire was to really up the tempo of the game,” Keeler said. “We did not want them to walk the ball up the court. They had a couple of big guys and we wanted to get them tired so every chance we got we pushed the ball trying to wear them down. By the fourth quarter it seemed they were pretty tired.”
Tri-unity improved to 22-6 for the season, while Frankfort finished at 18-9.
14th appearance in the state semifinals
The Defenders made their 14th appearance in the semifinal round at the Breslin Center.
“It’s not so much the number of times we’ve been here so much as it is special for these young men to get here,” Keeler said. “This is a different group. Every year it is a different group of young mean and it’s something we don’t want to take for granted. Thise guys really love each other and play for each other.”
Tri-unity celebrates after its state semifinal win Thursday at MSU. (Courtesy, Becky Rillema)
The Defenders, who defeated Ewen-Trout Creek in overtime to win last year’s Division 4 state title, face Munising in Saturday’s championship game at 10 a.m. Munising (26-1) defeated Marine City Cardinal Mooney 55-44 in the other semifinal game.
“We know they are a good team and there is no quit in them,” Keeler said. “They had a lead on Cardinal Mooney before Cardinal Mooney came back at the end of the third quarter. Munising then turned it up a notch in the fourth quarter and pulled away. We are going to have to come in ready to play.”
As we approach spring break travel, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting a busy week and is reminding guests to pack their patience.
With the upcoming spring break travel season happening between March 30 and April 11, Ford International Airport is gearing up to ensure the more than 150,000 passengers visiting the terminal that week are ready for a safe and smooth travel experience. As a reminder, the terminal building never closes; however, the security screening checkpoint opens at 4 a.m. or 60 minutes before the earliest departure.
“We are once again prepared to ensure safe and happy travels for spring break passengers,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric said. “We look forward to another busy travel season and are grateful to the many teams and partners who make it possible.”
Important Travel Tips and Numbers
Some of the top prohibited, voluntarily abandoned items for spring break travelers include:
•Sunscreen lotion and tanning lotion
•Water bottles with water in them
•Gel and spray deodorants
•Liquid makeup and perfumes
Be sure to keep all liquids, gels, creams under 3.4 oz.
Arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure to begin the check-in procedure. Parking will be busy, so please give yourself extra time to find a space.
Passenger Traffic: Guest traffic is currently surpassing 2019 levels, which was a record-breaking year for the Airport. “We expect to be at or above our 2019 spring break travel levels and 8 percent above our 2022 spring break traffic.”
Peak Holiday Travel Dates: March 30 through April 11. Peak departure dates are March 30 and April 2. Expected peak return dates for passengers are April 8 and 9.
Expected Spring Break Travel: 150,000-plus total passengers from March 30 through April 11. This includes both departing and arriving passengers. As many as 13,000-plus passengers on peak days.
Top Destinations: Punta Gorda, Orlando, Clearwater, Tampa, Sarasotaand Washington D.C.
In addition, to kick off one of the most anticipated weeks of vacation, the Airport will host a Passenger Appreciation Day on March 31 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Passengers will be greeted with a live band, special costumed characters, a puppy parade and more.
Airline Contacts
Individual airlines are responsible for the check-in process, all matters related to gates (including departures and deplanings), the handling of passenger luggage, their plane de-icing process, cancellation or delay of flights, passenger ticketing and rebooking options.
If you have questions related to any of the items listed above, please contact your airline.
Tied at 22 apiece at the half, Tri-unity Christian outscored Kalamazoo Phoenix 32-19 in the second half to grab a 54-41 win in a Division 4 quarterfinal Tuesday at Gull Lake High School.
The win advanced the Defenders (21-6) to a semifinal matchup with Frankfort (18-8) at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Breslin Center at Michigan State University.
“The team is very excited and very tired; a lot of emotion,” said Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler, whose team won a state title last year. “They are looking forward to playing in the Breslin Center.
“They (Kalamazoo Phoenix) jumped out on us and then we tied the game heading into the half. We started out nervous and scared. I was quite surprised by our start. However, the boys settled down and we finished strong with excellent defense. We led most of the second half, but it was not decided until late in the fourth quarter.”
Roy Fogg led the Defenders with 16 points, followed by Owen Rosendall, 10 and Akais Giplaye, nine. Keaton Blanker had four assists and five rebounds.
Roy Fogg led the Defenders with 16 points. (Courtesy, Tri-unity)
“Roy played an excellent game the entire night,” Keeler said. “However, he was in foul trouble a lot, missing a lot of the second quarter and the last half of the third quarter.
“Owen Rosendall really stepped up big with excellent defense on Phoenix’s explosive guard.”
Keeler said they are looking forward to playing at the Breslin Center.
“Frankfort is a good team with nice size,” Keeler added. “We will need to be at our best to beat them.”
After three years of limited offerings during the COVID pandemic, family–friendly activity options are once again available at The Salvation Army Kroc Center during Spring Break 2023 from April 3–7.
Open swim, climbing wall, and gymnasium hours are extended to help parents make sure they never hear, “I’m bored!” New this year, guests can use the Kroc’s online registration system to reserve an open swim session and pay in advance to cut down on wait times when they arrive.
Day passes are only $12 per person for all ages during Spring Break week, and as always, Kroc Center members get unlimited free access to all activities. All children age 11 and under must be supervised by an adult while visiting the Kroc Center. There is also a “family room” where parents and kids looking for a break can have snacks, play games, and more.
Those who may be looking for a place to celebrate Easter can also visit Kroc Church for special events on Easter Sunday, April 9. Activities include a breakfast, Easter egg hunt, and a 10 AM worship service. There will also be a Good Friday observance on April 7. Please see the Grand Rapids Kroc Church page on Facebook for more information.
“Spring Break has always been one of the most popular times of year at the Kroc,” said Major Carol Huffman, Senior Kroc Officer. “Our entire Kroc Krew is excited for the opportunity to welcome in families again for a week of fun close to home.”
Once Spring Break wraps up, the Kroc Center will be excited to also launch some new building renovations in April to better serve members, including the addition of new second-floor locker rooms, plus changes to the lobby to improve safety, traffic flows, and energy efficiency.
Visit GrKrocCenter.org or call 616-588-7200 for more information on open recreation hours and other details.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The Kent County Recycling and Education Center is temporarily closed due to structural damage. (Courtesy, Kent County)
UPDATE: The Kent County Recycling and Education Center will reopen on Friday, March 24.
TheKent County Recycling and Education Center (REC), located at 977 Wealthy St. SW, is temporarily closed after an incident caused structural damage to the building on Monday afternoon. The damage occurred when bales of cardboard recycling built up and pushed through the building’s sidewall, damaging the exterior wall and a roof support beam. No one was injured and the incident is under administrative review to further understand the cause.
According to Steve Faber, public relations for the Kent County Department of Public Works, there have been structural engineers out looking at the facility last night and today. The engineers are assessing the extent of the damage and putting a plan in place for repairs.
“They will give us the plan on how things can be shored up and hopefully we will be back in operation soon,” Faber said, adding the ultimate goal is to have the facility up and running again as soon as possible..
For today, items coming to the recycling facility will be sent to the county’s Waste-to-Energy Facility, which serves as a back-up when the recycling has to close, Faber said. All tours and education programming at the REC are postponed indefinitely.
Residents wishing to make sure their recyclables head to the recycling facility are encouraged to hang on to items until next week, Faber said.
“The health and safety of our employees and customers is our number one priority,” said Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works. “We’re gathering a full assessment of the damage and will only reopen once repairs are made, and we know it’s safe for workers and visitors to enter.”
Kent County’s REC serves as the primary materials recovery facility for residential recyclables generated throughout West Michigan.
Wyoming community members will be among the first in West Michigan to use a new community engagement and feedback solution after an interaction with the Wyoming Department of Public Safety. This new service uses text messaging to contact community members after calls to dispatch or after receiving certain police services.
These text messages are sent shortly after the incident and will ask community members to take a quick survey about their experience with the dispatch and our officers. It will also allow them to provide comments, feedback, or words of gratitude after receiving public safety service. Text surveys will begin going out later this week.
This product, called PowerEngage, will send text message surveys to those whose number is recorded as part of a call for service or in an officer’s report. Community members can also take a text message survey and provide feedback even if they did not receive a text message. The department will soon be announcing a number dedicated to sharing feedback, and QR codes will be made available to scan and start that conversation.
Residents that do not want to participate can simply not respond or let the department know in advance by calling 616-530-7309 and the person’t number will never receive a survey. As with all texts, residents may reply with STOP and that will opt them out of all future text surveys from the department. It is important that everyone know that these surveys should not be used to report any type of emergency or crime. Call 9-1-1 for any emergency or to report any criminal activity.
“It is important for our department to hear from the community about how we are doing, especially from those that we have recently met,” said Wyoming Department of Public Safety Chief Kim Koster. “This new product, called PowerEngage, will give me access to community feedback in near real time, providing insights into areas where we can improve the service we provide to Wyoming. It also has potential to boost officer morale when positive feedback is provided.”
Members of the community may provide feedback to the Wyoming Department of Public Safety through the new survey option or at City’s website feedback option at https://www.wyomingmi.gov/Contact.
By Emily Armstrong Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
Oral health is an integral component of overall wellness. Yet access to dental services can be a serious barrier for older adults to maintain their oral health. Each year the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) partners with Grand Rapids Community College to host Senior Dental Day; an event that helps older adults in Kent County engage their oral health and find a new dental provider.
Last year, the event served 18 individuals, providing dental cleanings, x-rays, and exams conducted by GRCC dental program students. To qualify, seniors must be over 60 years of age and have not been to the dentist within the last 12 months. Held at Cook Academic Hall at GRCC’s downtown campus, the event will take place this year on Monday, March 20.
“We’re so thrilled to again offer the Senior Dental Day initiative. This is an event we look forward to each year and the partnership with Grand Rapids Community College gives us the chance to connect with high-risk seniors and connect them with services to support their health and independence,” shared Brandon Beck, Contract Administrator with the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan.
Locally, AAAWM supports oral health in a variety of ways. In Kent County, the Kent County Senior Millage (KCSM) network provides low-cost dental services to Kent County residents 60 years or older in partnership with Cherry Health and Exalta Health. AAAWM is also a member of the Kent County Oral Health Coalition, a group focused on advocacy and outreach in the West Michigan.
If you have any questions about this year’s event, you can reach out to Brandon at BrandonB@aaawm.org. If you’re an older adult in Kent County seeking dental services, you can contact the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at 616-456-5664 to be connected to resources.
On the anniversary of its inception, the Metro Pattern Crimes Task Force (MPACT) announced today that it has arrested 12 individuals believed to be involved with 22 burglaries throughout Kent County including the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood.
Since Jan. 30, MPACT has been investigating numerous business break-ins throughout Kent County. The suspects targeted marijuana dispensaries, liquor stores, and convenience stores that sold vape pens similar to the rash of break-ins that took place on Jan. 27 that included Wyoming’s D. Schuler. Officers did not state if the arrests was related to the Jan. 27 break-ins.
The investigation conducted three residential search warrants and recovered four stolen handguns and 12 stolen cars. It is believed that along with the cities of Wyomig and Kentwood, the cities of Grand Rapids, Walker Lowell and Cedar Springs and the townships of Solon, Cascade, Gaines, Plainfield and Byron has all been affected by these incidents.
“By having a unit like this that is under one roof representing several different areas, officers are able to identify developing behaviors and patterns and working together to solve significant crimes that stretch across Kent County,” said Lt. Andrew Koeller, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety public relations officer.
Focus on violent and serial crimes
The task force was created in February of 2022 to address not only violet crime, but also significant pattern crimes such as burglaries, purse snatchings and other incidents that often occur across multiple jurisdictions, within the county.
“The team runs under the radar but has helped with making a number of arrests in violent crimes such as homicides and shootings and serial crimes such as the stolen vehicles,” Koeller said.
Arrests for the business break-ins took place over the last several weeks with the last one on March 14. The adult and juvenile suspects have been arrested on charges ranging from Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Felony Firearms, Breaking and Entering with Intent, to Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. Several cases are still open as MPACT investigates and is exploring charges of Conducting a Criminal Enterprise, a 20-year felony.
Case still under investigation
The suspects range from 16 to 21 years old spanning rom the cities of Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Walker, Coopersville and Alpine Township. According to a press release, it is believed that the group could be responsible for burglaries outside of Kent County. The task force is coordinating with area law enforcement partners as the case unfolds.
“This investigation unit is the Swiss Army knife of the county for crime,” Koeller said. “These guys are amazing and extremely dedicated, working long hours to solve significant crime that is committed in our county.”
The task force consists of personnel form the Wyomig Department of Public Safety, Kentwood Police department, the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Anyone with information regarding these incidents is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 16-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or at https://www.silentobserver.org.
After a successful basketball season, Lee Coach Dominic Shannon said it’s an understatement to say he’s proud of the boys.
“Words truly can’t express the love and respect we have for this special group of boys,” said Lee, whose team finished 19-2 overall and 8-0 in the Alliance League. “We accomplished the first conference championship in 43 years and lost by a total of four points all season. In my second year as head coach, we are well on our way to revitalizing a program which once upon a time had rich basketball history.
“The goal coming into this season was to continue to reshape the culture and for the student-athletes to understand what must be accepted or received in order to have a memorable season. I’m not surprised that we were successful, but I did not expect us to win 19 games this year. My staff and I, once fall league started, we began to see the team form and we all believed we would have the first winning season since 2010-2011, in which that Lee team finished 12-11.”
Last year, the Legends were 5-16 overall and 2-6 in the League.
Shannon’s highlight this season?
“Seeing the boys accept accountability and holding their brothers accountable,” Shannon said. “The 19 wins and two losses are impressive, the first conference championship in 43 years is extremely impressive, but as a coach I understand that the ball stops bouncing after so much time has passed.
“Once that ball stops bouncing all they’ll have left is their character and values and principles that they’ll stand on. We definitely want to win and compete, but the growth and maturity of the boys is essentially the driving force behind the success. This season was a success on several levels.”
Overtime loss to Godwin Heights in the districts
Shannon said the overtime loss to Godwin was and still is tough to swallow.
“We executed the game plan as we were up five points with under 40 seconds left in regulation and not to mention we missed 16 total free throws while being in position to win the game in regulation,” Shannon explained. “Execution late in the game was not what we’re capable of, essentially leading to an early playoff exit. I am already preparing for next season as I see where I can sharpen as preparation is key.
“The environment was very fun and I hope this game has restored the rivalry between Lee and Godwin.”
Scoring leader junior Marc Whitfield
Whitfield averaged 20 points, 5 assists and 3 steals this season. He had three 30-point games with a season high of 36 points against Lansing Eastern.
Lee guard Marc Whitfield. (Courtesy, Lee High School)
“Marc came into the season as our best player and I believe he exited the season as a more well-rounded player,” Shannon said. “The challenge for Marc this season was leading vocally the correct way. Marc’s energy and passion is felt each day in practice. So as coaches we evaluate what a student-athlete can do to improve themselves on and off the court, and for Marc it was communication.
“We’ve seen him accept ownership in not so pleasant times, lift up his teammates when they get down on themselves and show full maturity in the Godwin game. We believe he is a special athlete and his senior year is going to be fun to watch.”
Lone senior starter Joe Russau
“We sincerely appreciate the example he set as a senior by maintaining a 3.5 GPA all season and the presence he had as a captain,” Shannon said. “As a captain, there’s certain expectations the coaches have and he absolutely met them and it’ll be tough to see him go. He has yet to make a decision on where he’ll be playing college basketball next year, but whichever school he commits to will be receiving an awesome young man.”
Expectations for next year?
Shannon said they will keep building upon the foundation laid two years ago.
“We are only losing one starter and three seniors total entering next season which provides comfort for the coaching staff as our senior class will be strong and understanding of expectations,” he explained. “We are expecting next season to be a battle in our conference and we’ll likely have a target on our back as defending conference champions.
“It would definitely be sweet to repeat as conference champs, but to meet those expectations, the work begins now.”
