Category Archives: Non-Profits

Local law enforcement and BBB share tips on how to recognize scams and how consumers can protect themselves

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Every day online users are bombarded with real — and scam — communications. The trick to keeping your money and personal information is knowing the difference. (Pixere.com)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

With email and phone scams on the rise in an ever-increasing online and media culture, local law enforcement and government agencies are working to educate consumers on current scams and how to protect themselves from becoming victims.

Phishing, defined as the fraudulent practice of sending messages designed to trick individuals into revealing personal information, has become one of the main conduits for fraud.

Katie Grevious, Better Business Bureau Communications Specialist, told WKTV that falling victim to a scam has become more difficult to avoid as “scammers are becoming more crafty and creative.” Grevious said that scammers use fear and a sense of urgency to prompt consumers into following their directives: “It is an emotional situation. Something is wrong, something bad is going to happen — that’s what gets people.”

The ongoing pandemic has also played a role in increasing the phishing strategy, with emails offering grants to those out of work and in need of money. In a more general sense, an increasing number of consumers have begun shopping online, providing ample opportunities for scam artists to create situations that involve an emotional response of fear and urgency.

“We don’t see it really slowing down as the pandemic continues and we become more online and internet focused,” Grevious said.

This is the first of two stories on this on this subject; visit here for a story of personal interaction with possible scams.

Online shopping, social media scams

An online scam could also be as simple as clicking on a link to track an order. Scam artists often use the names of larger corporations, such as Amazon, to send emails offering a link to track an order that the consumer may not remember placing.

Grevious urges consumers to hover their computer mouse over the link, which will reveal a bar that states where it will actually take you, and even hover over the sender’s name to see the email address associated with that email. If it is a jumble of letters and numbers instead of, for example, Amazon.com, it is not legitimate. Also look at the browser — if there is a lock symbol and “https” listed there, it means it is a secure and authentic site.

“It is really important that people are vigilant all the time,” said Grevious. “Look for simple grammar and spelling mistakes. Big companies make sure everything is spelled correctly.”

Slowing down is also key to ensuring consumers don’t miss something important.

(Pixere.com)

“Think before you act,” Grevious said. “Our culture has a quick-go pace. We do a lot on our phones, so we don’t do that double-checking and hovering.”

Det. Andrew Tompkins of the Kent County Sherriff’s Office and member of the Metropolitan Fraud and Identity Theft Team agrees: “Good practice is that if you didn’t order anything or didn’t sign up for something, then it’s most likely a scam.”

Grevious also urges consumers to avoid emails that tell you to re-log into another account you may have, such as Facebook, and offer a link to do so in order to complete the instructions given. These are often ploys that will reveal your password to the sender.

“People may think it’s not important if their Facebook or Instagram account gets hacked,” said Grevious, “but a lot of people have a lot of similar passwords because it’s too hard to remember 200 different passwords to everything. Your Facebook password may offer a clue on how to get into more important accounts — like bank accounts.”

Preying on pet, gift card buyers

In 2021, one of the most common phishing scams involved buying pets online.

“People tried to buy pets online because of the pandemic,” Grevious said. “They pay for the pet through payment apps and then find out it’s a scam. The scammers will often use a random address on the website they create, so people assume it’s real. Then they show up at that address to get their animal and it’s not there.”

Buying pets online is also a place to be aware of possible cams. (Kent County District Court historic photo)

Grevious advises seeing the animal you are interested in purchasing in person beforehand, even if it involves traveling. “Legitimate businesses want to know you are a good fit for their animal. They want to see you in person.”

While email scams have become increasingly common, scams involving phone calls are still prevalent and used often in attempts to illicit money from victims.

Det. Tompkins said that one of the most common scams involves cold calls targeting people to send gift cards, claiming they are from various government agencies and that they have a warrant for the arrest of the consumer unless he/she pays to absolve the issue.

“Government agenc(ies) will never ask for gift cards to get you out of legal trouble,” Det. Tompkins said. “No legitimate business is going to ask for gift cards for services.”

Summer and winter have revealed an upward trend in scams as air conditioning and heat are turned on in homes.

“If you pay your electric bill online, and someone calls you saying they are from Consumers Energy and ask you to confirm personal information,” Grevious said, “say you will call them back and call the company from a number you know, like the number provided on the bill.”

Det. Tompkins had similar advice: “Do not give personal information or identifying information out. Don’t call the number that a person provides you over the phone, search the number for that business to call and confirm this is a real interaction.”

Some scams, however, play on the familiar. Det. Tompkins warns residents, especially the elderly, to be careful of scammers who call claiming to be family. “Scammers call elderly pretending to be their grandkids saying they were arrested and need to send money.”

When asked the standard amount lost by individual victims of scams, he said, “The typical amount of loss is under $1,000. But if the scammers target business or subject(s) that are wealthy, then the loss is in the several thousands.”

Grevious reminds consumers to remember that, “you are in control of your information and who you are talking to. Think before you act.”

Consumers are also urged to speak up if they become victims of a scam.

“The more people let us know what is happening, the more we can help,” said Grevious.

Resources and Fraud Report Links:

Better Business Bureau consumer resources and scamtracker site: https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker

https://www.bbb.org/all/spot-a-scam

https://www.bbb.org/all/spot-a-scam/how-to-spot-a-scam-email

Identity theft, contact the Federal Trade Commission: https://www.identitytheft.gov/#/

Phone scams: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/

Tax scams or relating to the IRS: https://www.irs.gov/

Local faith, medical leaders rally behind healthcare workers, stress dark COVID days remain but will pass

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The Rev. Khary Bridgewater and Kent County Chief Inclusion Officer Teresa Branson, at left, led the Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers” and pandemic awareness gathering. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

It is no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic seriously impacts the lives of all Kent County residents regardless of race, ethnicity and faith — although current statistics make clear it impacts the unvaccinated to a more serious degree.

It is not surprising, therefore, that speakers at a Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers”, attended by county clergy, the leaders of local hospital  networks, and Kent County officials, stressed three things: appreciation to frontline healthcare, the non-discriminatory nature of the virus, and the need to get vaccinated as an individual’s part in keeping themselves and their neighbors safe.

The prayer service was led by several local clergy. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“One of the realities that we are seeing — and I just came off the hospital floor — is the fact that there is not sector or section of this community that is not being affected by COVID,” Rev. Khary Bridgewater said to WKTV at the gathering at  Mercy Health Saint Mary’s downtown Grand Rapids. “Young. Old. Regardless of ethnicity. Regardless of creed … We are all in the same boat. We are all dealing with the same impact.

“Everyone is having the same sort of regrets as they struggle with this virus, particularly those at the end of life and they realize this was an avoidable situation. It doesn’t matter who you were when you get to a hospital bed. We are working very hard with every member of our community to stress the simple truth that COVID is dangerous.”

The gathering and prayer service was led by the Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, formerly known as the Kent County COVID-19 Task Force). The gathering’s stated goal was to “stand with our front-line medical workers, hospital staff and public health officials, as well as their families, who are sacrificing daily to provide the care that our community needs.”

Leading the gathering was Rev. Bridgewater, facilitator of the Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, and by his side was Teresa Branson, Kent County Chief Inclusion Officer, who as been a leader of the group since its inception. The pandemic-aware gathering was limited to local media, a few other people, and several persons remaining in their cars in the parking lot location.

The gathering also highlighted numerous churches and faith-based organizations “coming together to raise community awareness of the current situation in our hospitals; issue a public statement of commitment; and pray and bless our health care personnel and their families.”

Among the local medical leaders present were Dr. Matt Biersack, president of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s; Dr. Darryl Elmouchi, president of Spectrum Health; Kent Riddle, CEO of Mary Free Bed; and Dr. Ronald Grifka, chief medical officer of University of Michigan Health-West.

“In this season of hope, when so many workers turn to their home, their families, their traditions, remember many healthcare workers will be working around the clock taking care of their patients,” Grifka said to the gathering. “That selfless spirt embodies what we celebrate this time of the year. I ask that no matter what your beliefs, please keep our healthcare workers in your hearts.”

At a Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers”, Kent County clergy, leaders of local hospital  networks, and county officials gathered. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, according to supplied information, is a group of faith-based and non-profit community leaders that have partnered with the Kent County Health Department and its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office.

“Together, they have reduced the spread of COVID-19, provided space for church vaccination clinics and informed the community about the vaccine,” according to the supplied information. But in doing so, thy have also heard “the concerns of our hospitals who are beyond capacity and our health care professionals who are weary and overburdened.”

In response to the current pandemic situation, faith leaders from across the city and the county also pledged to eliminate all non-essential, indoor gatherings; restrict essential gatherings to less than 50 people per 2,000 square feet; require all attendees at indoor gatherings to wear a mask and abide by social distancing and COVID-19 hygiene; and — maybe most importantly — to encourage all members of our community to get COVID-19 vaccination and any appropriate booster shots.

Feeding the masses: Mel Trotter, Cherry Health, The Rapid — and the public — team up for huge Thanksgiving meal

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A view of Mel Trotter Ministries’ Thanksgiving diner for the public in need, from 2018. (Mel Trotter Ministries)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Imagine having 1,500 people at your Thanksgiving meal table; then imagining the traffic jam in your driveway. And, by the way, some of them may need a COVID vaccination.

Mel Trotter Ministries, working with medical partner Cherry Health and transportation partner The Rapid, have plans to serve 1,500-plus persons — in person — at a Thanksgiving Community Meal Thursday, Nov. 25, Thanksgiving Day, at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids.

While volunteer opportunities are filled, but public “sponsorship” donations are still being accepted to cover the cost of the meal. For more Information visit meltrotter.org/thanksgiving.

“We are so excited to be able to be together again, and to demonstrate the compassion of Jesus to anyone who is alone or hungry this Thanksgiving,” Dennis Van Kampen, President and CEO of Mel Trotter Ministries, said in supplied material. “Being in community is what it’s all about and we definitely missed that last year.”

Covid precautions and safety measures will be in affect and strictly followed according to CDC guidelines, according to an announcement from Mel Trotter Ministries. Temperature checks at the door, along with mandatory mask wearing at all times other than while eating will be enforced for all who attend the Community Meal.

Additionally, in partnership with Cherry Health, the event will also be offering a free Covid vaccine clinic that morning.

“For the last several months, our staff has held regular vaccine clinics at Mel Trotter,” Dr. Jenny Bush, director of pediatrics and COVID response coordinator at Cherry Health, said in supplied material. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect ourselves and our community from COVID-19, and we want people to feel encouraged to get vaccinated. We know a big part of that is meeting people where they’re at, making them feel comfortable, and making the process as quick and easy as possible.

“We hope that by offering an onsite COVID-19 vaccine clinic at this incredible event, we are able to remove barriers to care and increase vaccination rates for our neighbors experiencing homelessness and anyone in the Grand Rapids community who attends.”

Doors open at the Thanksgiving Community Meal at 10 a.m., and vaccine clinic runs from 10 a.m. to noon, with meals being served between 11 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. in the DeVos Place Convention Center, Ball Room.

While there is free parking available onsite, The Rapid and Mel Trotter Ministries will continue their partnership to provide free transit service to and from the community meal as they have in years past.

The free service will consist of two shuttles connecting South Division and portions of northwest and northeast Grand Rapids to DeVos Place. The service will begin around 10:00 a.m. and conclude around 1:30 p.m. (See map and schedule information below).

“One of the most important things we provide to the community is access,” Deb Prato Chief Executive Officer at The Rapid, said in supplied material. “While that access is often focused on employment, education, and critical services, partnerships like this that provide a free ride to a Thanksgiving meal are a great reminder that the value we provide goes far beyond day-to-day commuting.”
 

The Rapid’s regular fixed-routes and paratransit services are not in operation on Thanksgiving day, as part of its standard holiday service schedule. For more information on The Rapid, please visit ridetherapid.org.

 

Kent County, partners receive state refugee resettlement grants to assist local Afghan refugees

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Kent County Community Action has been providing meal assistance to local Afghan refugees. (Supplied/Kent County)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Kent County’s efforts to assist Afghan refugees being resettled in West Michigan gained a boost as the Kent County Board of Commissioners, at a Nov. 18 meeting, approved two grants to meet the health and nutritional needs of newly arriving Afghan refugees.

One grant is a $333,000 Refugee Resettlement Food Assistant Grant from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services which will be managed by Kent County Community Action (KCCA), according to an announcement from the county.

The second is a $180,000 Refugee Screening Grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity which will be administered by the Kent County Health Department (KCHD).

The health department will screen newly arriving refugees for contagious disease, review and document medical history, administer vaccinations, and provide referrals for primary care physicians, according to the announcement.

 
“Kent County is expecting more than 350 refugees from Afghanistan and the responsibility to provide health screenings and immunizations for these new residents falls on local public health,” KCHD Public Health Division Director Joann Hoganson said in supplied material. “These funds will allow us to provide screenings and other support services to the Afghan refugees and assist them in their transition to a new life in the United States.”


The KCHD will also provide health education services that include an introduction to the U.S. health care system along with information about nutritional healthy living and Medicaid health insurance coverage.

Kent County Community Action has been providing meal assistance to local Afghan refugees. (Supplied/Kent County)

The food assistant grant will assist KCCA in its temporary meal and housing assistance to refugees.

 
“I am glad that KCCA can help during this time of need,” KCCA Program Manager Rachel Kunnath said in supplied material. “I cannot imagine what these families have been through over the past few months, and it is my hope that these meals are a little taste of home that brings them comfort.”

Local resettlement agencies determine the needs of each family as meals are provided to those in temporary living quarters until permanent housing is established. To date, KCCA has prepared more over 1,000 meals which are packaged in boxes containing 20 culturally appropriate meals with four to five different varieties and pita bread.

Santa Claus Girls, adapting to hard times, return this holiday season and look to the future

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This year’s Santa Claus Girls operation will look different than it did in 2018. But the desire to support local families in need has not changed. (Supplied/Santa Claus Girls)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The historic holiday non-profit and volunteer-run Santa Claus Girls program, which most recently operated out of Kentwood but has temporarily set up its toy shop in Grandville, will return this Christmas season after last year breaking a century-long run of helping families due to the pandemic.

The Santa Claus Girls program, shown in this undated photo, has been around for more than a century, but is changing these days. (Supplied/Santa Claus Girls)

After 112 years of service to the West Michigan community, losing its facility and unable to gather volunteers in numbers in 2020, Santa Claus girls was determined to get back to business in 2021, Tina Hudson, president of Santa Claus Girls, said to WKTV.

But things will be different — a new workplace, a compacted work schedule, a smaller number of kids and families supported, a different plan to get the gift package out to the community, and — maybe most importantly for the future — changes in how the group is funded.

“We are back this year but in a very different format,” Hudson said. “We are working out of West Michigan CDL for four days — Dec 9-12. (The group usually works months ahead of time to gather and put together gift packages). This will entail an extremely high intensity work time for us. We are fortunate, though, to at least have this time and space.”

West Michigan CDL, a Grandville truck driver training school with a well-known Commercial Drivers License (CDL) program, has allowed Santa Claus Girls to use their facility this year. But, Hudson has pointed out, they are a working facility and, so can only offer up a short period of time.

“Due to limited time constraints, we estimate being able to service approximately 2,500-3,000 families rather than our usual 5,000 to 6,000. So that means 5,000 kiddos rather than the 12,000 to 13,000 we usually do,” Hudson said, noting that they have already reached their registration limit. And, “again due to limited time and storage space, we are not able to accept donations of toys, clothing, etc. this year.”

The client families, this year, will be given a control number and pickup time— “We are not delivering, curbside pickup only,” she said.

The Santa Claus Girls are not all “girls”, as in this 2019 photograph. (WKTV)

The children who will be given gift packages will be the same ages Santa Claus Girls have always done: infant to age 12 of both genders. But due to the limited time they will not be wrapping gifts, so parents will have that option. The gifts will be bundled and placed in non-see-through plastic bags and given to the parents.

“The parents will not be coming into our building but snaking around the parking lot (in cars) to the pickup door,” Hudson said.

One other result of the change of practice this season is that the program will — actually wants to — deplete its stockpile of toys and clothes and other items. And they will then turn to their future work of finding a more permanent home, restocking their shelves and finding other means of financially supporting the program.

“We lost our storage space at Knoll (Industries in Kentwood), due to its sale and had to move out any remaining items we had after Christmas 2019,” Hudson said. “Meijer was kind enough to step up and send trucks for us to move things into and they are storing goods for us. We hope to deplete our inventory this year and find a permanent home, but so far no luck.”

And talking about “hoping” for the future, even their funding sources will need to change.

“We operate on a $200,000 budget, all donations from the community. With not working last year due to COVID our donations barely came in,” she said. “We are working with what is in a bank account and dearly hope to have donations return to us this year.

“Besides losing Knoll we also lost our longtime sponsor — The Grand Rapids Press.  We are now a stand-alone charity and are praying the community steps up and helps us out.”

For more information about the Santa Claus Girls, visit santaclausgirls.org.

Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber seeking new leader as longtime president steps down

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From left to right, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. Chamber member Kathy Bates and Chamber President Bob O’Callaghan at one of the candidate forums hosted by the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce . (Supplied)

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Community Writer

Nine years after taking the helm of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, Bob O’Callaghan is ready to let someone else steer the ship. He plans to retire at the end of this year.

 

As president and CEO of the chamber, it’s O’Callaghan’s job to help businesses in Kentwood and Wyoming grow stronger.

“I get asked once a week, ‘What do you do? What is your job?’” he said. “I’m a connector. I connect businesses to other businesses to help them grow, and give them a chance to do more business.”

Bob O’Callaghan helping to promote the 28th Street Metro Cruise which expanded to Woodland Mall in 2021. (WKTV)

More than 400 businesses are members of the chamber, and most of them – around 70 percent in recent years – are actively involved. Those businesses have representatives serving on committees and offering volunteers to staff the chamber’s many events.

As he looks back on his years of service, O’Callaghan says the group’s community involvement is his proudest achievement. 

 

“We look at ourselves as a community chamber,” he said. “Some of our events, like the 28th Street Metro Cruise, the Santa parade, and the Government Matters meetings … are really huge because it gives exposure to the chamber and gets information out that’s sometimes not out to the general public.”

O’Callaghan has been involved with the chamber in some capacity for three decades. Prior to leading the group, he served on various committees and on the board of directors. In nearly 30 years with the chamber, he has seen both Kentwood and Wyoming become much more diverse cities. And he witnessed those cities go through bad times and good.

 

Chef Joseff VanHorn with Bob O’Callaghan who has been a champion to local businesses for 30 years, 9 as the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s president/CEO. (WKTV)

During the Great Recession of 2007-2009, Wyoming saw the General Motors plant on 36th Street, the Studio 28 movie theater and Classic Chevrolet, one of the biggest Chevrolet dealers in Michigan, close within three weeks of each other. 

“Everyone was down in the mouth and asking ‘Are we ever going to come back,’” he said. “To see that devastation and to see how we’ve come back – COVID has been a kick in the rear again, but before that, everything was going well. There weren’t a lot of empty buildings available, people had staff, the economy was good. So it was nice to see that come back, and I think it will again. COVID is just a temporary setback on the business community.”

He acknowledges that businesses everywhere are struggling now with lack of staff due to COVID. He hopes some of the biggest businesses in the area, like Metro Health, Lacks and Steelcase, might be on the leading edge of finding new ways to attract and retain employees.

“They are going to have to change the way they operate in regards to employment, and the bigger companies will be leading the way to take us forward,” he said. “Once we get over this shortage of people – however we do that – I think you’ll see some changes in how things are done.”

O’Callaghan said more than 70 people, who are hoping to serve as his replacement, have already been interviewed, and the final candidates will be narrowed down after Thanksgiving.

His last official event will be the chamber’s annual meeting on Jan. 28.

 

At the Santa Parade, which this year will be Saturday, Dec. 11, Bob O’Callaghan would often ride in the vehicle that pulls Santa. (WKTV)

“It’s kind of a great way to go out,” he said.

But before that, he’ll have one last Santa parade – one of his favorite chamber events – to participate in. The parade is set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 11, and runs down South Division Avenue from 33rd Street to 44th Street.

“I have been fortunate enough to ride in the vehicle that pulls Santa. Nobody sees me, of course, but I would see the kids waving, and mom and dad smiling and taking pictures. That’s a really good feeling when you see that happening. We’re doing something in our community that’s needed,” he said. “There are years I come back and I don’t feel my feet are touching the ground.”

Celebration! South one of the Mel Trotter Ministries’ Turkey Drop sites

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By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Mel Trotter Ministries will be collecting turkeys at its annual Turkey Drop set for Wednesday. (pxhere.com)

Mel Trotter Ministries will host its 18th annual Turkey Drop this Wednesday with Celebration! Cinema South being one of three turkey drop-off locations.

The event collects frozen turkeys from area residents which will be given to those in need for the holiday season. Last year, Mel Trotter Ministries had the goal of collecting 2,500 frozen turkeys and the community’s outpouring resulted in surpassing the goal by more than double. Organizers said they hope to surpass last year’s numbers.

Frozen turkeys may be dropped off curbside. Mel Trotter Ministries’s staff and volunteers will be grabbing the turkeys from the vehicles quickly and safely while wearing masks and gloves. Mel Trotter Ministries is partnering with Feeding America West Michigan who will be distributing the frozen turkeys to food pantries and local organizations at no cost to them. 

Drop off is from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Celebration! Cinema South, 1506 Eastport Dr. SE; Celebration! Cinema North, 2121 Celebration Dr. NE, and Mel Trotter Ministries Downtown, 225 Commerce Ave. SE. 

For more information about the event, visit meltrotter.org/turkeydrop

Advocates want to push ban of PFAS, other chemicals in food packaging

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Panera is one national chain that is working to eliminate food wrappers with “forever chemicals” such as PFAS. (Wikipedia)

By Vladislava Sukhanovskaya
Capital News Service

LANSING — Some lawmakers and environmental advocates want to ban chemicals in food packaging that they say threatens the health of Michiganders.

PFAS, bisphenols and phthalates can be found in almost every food package — from burger wrappers to bottles for drinks.

The chemicals include per- and polyfluorinated substances or PFAS, a large group of chemicals that has been used globally since the 1940s to manufacture “products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. PFAS chemicals are so effective that they’re used in many industries, including food packaging.

A bill that would ban these chemicals from food packaging has been introduced in the Michigan Senate.

Other troublesome chemicals identified in the proposed ban are bisphenols and phthalates. Bisphenols are used to line cans and phthalates are commonly used in plastic food packaging to add flexibility, Courtney Carignan, an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition of Michigan State University, wrote in an email.

 

It’s not easy to tell which food package contains these chemicals because there are no labeling requirements for them, Carignan said.

PFAS, bisphenols and phthalates can be found in burger wrappers, french fry bags, canned food, and packages for drinks, according to the Ecology Center, a nonprofit environmental group located in Ann Arbor and Detroit.

Whether these chemicals are released into food depends on the temperature, time of storage and the acidity of food, said Rebecca Meuninck, the deputy director of the Ecology Center.

“Many of these chemicals have been linked to concerning health effects such as infertility, hormone and immune disruption,” Carignan said.

They accumulate in peoples’ bodies, said Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, who sponsored the legislation to ban them. “The more we are exposed to them the worse it’s for our health. People have PFAS in their blood. PFAS lasts for an extremely long period of time, they don’t break down.”

PFAS can cause high cholesterol, decreased immune system response to vaccines and development of certain types of cancer, according to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.

It’s important to avoid PFAS in packaging not only because it can be released into food, but also because manufacturing this type of packaging and disposing of it pollutes the environment, Meuninck said.

There are alternatives to PFAS, such as bamboo, palm leaf, bio-wax, clay and compostable plastic polylactic acid that usually is made from corn, according to Toxic-Free Future and nonprofit Clean Production Action. Both organizations advocate for safer products and chemicals.

 

PFAS is a long-standing controversial problem in Michigan.

State officials say that at least 1.9 million people are affected by PFAS and more than 11,000 sites are contaminated by this family of chemicals, according to news accounts. In 2018 and 2019, the state spent $69 million to clean up and address PFAS, according to Bridge Michigan.

One of the state’s largest contamination areas is that in Rockford, where Wolverine, a shoe company founded in the community, was found to have left a 25-mile square wide trail of PFAS contamination from a former tannery factory. Wolverine’s PFAS supplier was the chemical corporation 3M.

People can ask companies like McDonald’s and Burger King to phase PFAS out of packaging, said Rebecca Meuninck, the deputy director of the Ecology Center.

In 2021, 3M sued Michigan to oppose state new limits for PFAS in drinking water, saying that those limits are flawed because they were made in a “rushed and invalid regulatory process,” according to Bridge Michigan.

People can ask companies like McDonald’s and Burger King to phase PFAS out of packaging, Meunick said. Panera and Whole Foods are working to do that now.

It’s absolutely possible for companies to eliminate PFAS and other chemicals from food packaging, Irwin said. “There are many food packaging systems out there that don’t use these chemicals. And Michigan is a major center for packaging innovation and food products.”

This is Irwin’s second attempt to ban the chemicals in packaging. He said, “Legislation hasn’t gotten much traction in the past, but every year we learn more about PFAS.”

This time around, he has the support of the governor who on Oct. 27 issued an executive directive to limit the state’s purchase of products with PFAS.

And the Biden Administration recently announced a plan to “prevent PFAS from being released into the air, drinking systems and food supply.”

 

Similar bans have taken place in California, Connecticut, Minnesota, Maine, New York, Vermont and Washington.

Joanne Bailey-Boorsma contributed to this story.

Discrimination complicates organ transplants for those with disabilities

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While there has been no reported cases of discrimination for organ transplants to those with disabilities, state leaders are hoping laws will prevent it from every happening. (Pxhere.com)

By Emerson Wigand
Capital News Service

LANSING – Without laws to prevent it, Michiganders with disabilities are not guaranteed equal consideration for needed organ transplants, advocates say.

This discrimination has been an issue for those with developmental disabilities nationwide, said Nicole Patton, the manager of state government relations at the National Down Syndrome Society. Notable cases have occured in New York, Maryland and Texas.

“One example was James Wellman, of California,” Patton said. “He was denied a kidney transplant because of a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism.”

Of the 29 states that have passed laws prohibiting organ transplant discrimination, 13 acted in 2021 alone, Patton said.

Michigan could join them. Similar legislation has been proposed by Rep. Bronna Kahle, R-Adrian, and Sen. Curtis Hertel, D-East Lansing. Without a state history of cases, Michigan’s proposed legislation is preventative.

“We haven’t heard any explicit stories from Michigan,” Patton said. “But that doesn’t mean that they haven’t happened.”

Cyndie Peters, an advocate for the special needs community in Grand Rapids, was shocked to discover this issue existed. The former nurse has a daughter who has Down syndrome. She  is supporting these bills to add new protections.

 

The bills would restrict those involved in organ transplants from basing decisions on an individual’s disabilities. This includes denying transplants or giving lower priority on a waiting list to those with disabilities.

Peters said without these laws one can’t ensure equal consideration for people like her daughter.

“It’s not specific to Down syndrome,” Peters said. “It could be anyone with a cognitive disability.”

A lot of this discrimination happens at the referral stage, as some doctors consider disabilities in transplant recommendations, Patton said. Some doctors make assumptions regarding the quality of life for those with conditions like Down syndrome, as well as their potential to recover from transplants.

Seeking justice for organ transplant discrimination can be difficult, Peters said. Legal red tape and court processes can waste vital time.

“Suddenly it’s a year down the road,” Peters said. “But your child needed an organ transplant six months ago.”

That’s why enforcement is the biggest part of this legislation, Patton said.

Hertel agrees that there needs to be consequences for this type of violation. His bill would allow those alleging discrimination based on disability to have their time-sensitive court case prioritized.

In addition to Hertel’s bill, a bill sponsored by Kahle was passed by the House. Both are  in the Senate Health Policy and Human Services Committee.

Hertel said he hopes to see a hearing soon, and he expects to see bipartisan support.

“We should be able to agree that all lives have value,” Hertel said. “People shouldn’t be discriminated against based on physical or mental disability.”

Grand Rapids’ Sweet Adelines are Hawaii-bound to perform in 80th anniversary Pearl Harbor program

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The Grand Rapids Chapter of the Sweet Adelines performed at the WKTV studio. (WKTV)

By Colleen Pierson
WKTV Community Contributor

This December, the Grand Rapids Chapter of Sweet Adelines will be singing to honor those who lost their lives 80 years ago during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The West Michigan based group, under the direction of Master Director Denise VanDyken, was the only musical singing group from Michigan to be chosen to perform at the 80th Anniversary Pearl Harbor Commemoration Concerts Series in Hawaii set for Dec. 7, 2021.

“We are thrilled to be part of this historic event,” VanDyken said. “A once in a lifetime experience, it will be very emotional and such an honor to perform.”

The performance also helps mark a special anniversary for the 60-member chorus.

Master Director Denise VanDyken gets the chorus ready for its performance. (WKTV)

“Our chorus is one of the longest running barbershop singing groups in the world,” she said. “We just celebrated our 70th anniversary. To be named as the official representatives of the state of Michigan to sing at the Pearl Harbor 80th Anniversary Commemoration is indeed a true hour.”

The Grand Rapids Chapter of Sweet Adelines is one of 10 nationwide chorus groups to be featured in this historic commemoration to honor America’s heroes who fought on the “date which will live in infamy.,” as so coined by then President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service against the base on Dec. 7, 1941 was what pulled America into World War II. Eight American battleships sank at Pearl Harbor with 188 American aircraft destroyed. Around 2,403 Americans died in the attack and another 1,178 were injured.

Of the eight battleships, only two were never repaired or returned to duty: the USS Arizona and the USS Oklahoma. The USS Arizona still lies in the Pearl Harbor waters. As part of its commemorative activities, the Sweet Adelines will take part in an Official Military Wreath-laying Ceremony at the USS Arizona Memorial and an Official Flag-Folding Ceremony at the USS Missouri Memorial. The USS Missouri was the last battleship commissioned by the United States and is best remember as the site of the surrender of the Empire of Japan, which ended World War II. The USS Missouri was retired to Pearl Harbor in the late 1990s.

The opportunity to perform at the 80th Anniversary Pearl Harbor Commemoration Concerts Series is just one of many accolades the award-winning group has received in the past few years. In 2019, the Sweet Adelines Grand Rapids was named fifth in the world at the Sweet Adelines International’s Harmony Class Competition.

For more about the Sweet Adelines Grand Rapids or to join the group, visit their website, www.grsa.net. To see a sneak peek of the group’s performance check out WKTV Channel 25 at 7:30 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. and WKTV Channel 26 6:30 and 9:30 p.m., all of which air on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11, or head over WKTV’s on-demand.

GVSU, Ford Foundation’s Veterans Day event hosts veteran/author who inspired ‘Black Hawk Down’

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Image taken from promotional material for the Veterans Day Celebration, with U.S. Army Rangers First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (Ret.) speaking. (GVSU)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

U.S. Army Rangers First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (Ret.), whose battlefield experiences in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia led him to become an author, is also an advocate for “teaching the next generation of leaders through his experience with the atrocities of war.”

In that and many other ways, Eversmann is the perfect person to be the featured guest at a Veterans Day Celebration hosted by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Grand Valley State University’s Peter Secchia Military and Veterans Resource Center and GVSU’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies — a center named for Col. Ralph W. Hauenstein.

Hauenstein — a journalist, war hero, entrepreneur, philanthropist and so  much more — was also a strong advocate for educating leaders on the impact and aftereffects of military conflict.

The Veterans Day Celebration, with Eversmann speaking, will take place Thursday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m., in GVSU’s Charles W. Loosemore Auditorium, 401 West Fulton St., Suite 134 E, DeVos Center, Grand Rapids. For more information and to register, visit this gvsu.edu page. Free parking is available at the nearby Seward Ramp.

U.S. Army Rangers First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (Ret.), now an author and speaker. (Supplied)

“In October of 1993, First Sergeant  Matt Eversmann led a group of Army Rangers in a UN peacekeeping operation in Somalia,” it states in event promotional material. “Having been trapped, outnumbered, and marked for death, Eversmann’s survival and heroism earned him a Bronze Star Medal with valor device. He’s since been immortalized in the film Black Hawk Down.

“Upon returning from Somalia, Eversmann committed to teaching the next generation of leaders through his experience with the atrocities of war – not unlike our namesake, Colonel Ralph W. Hauenstein. His story highlights the importance of leadership, followership, and responsibility in our age of tribalism.”

While the Veterans Day Celebration will be a live event, the Hauenstein Center continues to offer a digital alternative for all of their events “as we consider the health and safety of our members, students, and the community.” The program is available virtually by visiting  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87222394732 or call 929-205-6099 to gain access to the webinar ID: 872 2239 4732  to view the live broadcast.

In addition to members of the Hauenstein Center, all community members who are veterans or military-connected are invited to an hors d’oeuvres and drinks event at 5:30 p.m.

Eversmann — soldier and author

Eversmann is the co-author of two military-related books, The Battle of Mogadishu and Walk in My Combat Boots, and he knows what he writes about. But he is also a strong advocate for veterans rights and post-military employment and other services.

In Eversmann’s supplied biography, it states that: On October 3, 1993, Matt was placed in charge of a group of Army Rangers to lead a daytime raid against an eager enemy militia. His inspiring story of survival was immortalized in the epic film, Black Hawk Down, which recounts the harrowing experience. For his actions on the battlefield he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with valor device.

During his remaining time in uniform, he worked at the Army War College, taught at The Johns Hopkins University and was finally deployed to Iraq where he lived with the Iraqi Army for 15 months during The Surge. He remained on active duty until May of 2008, when he retired after 20 years of service.

His frustration with the typical hiring process for veterans fueled his desire to help others avoid the “veterans predicament,” where servicemen and women are overlooked because of a broken hiring system. Since his retirement from active duty, he has worked in several industries in mid-level to senior-level positions. He was an operations officer in healthcare, an executive director in a non-profit and a VP of leadership development for a data management company.

Photo of the Week: Movies and Popcorn

Local Faces, Local History, Non-Profits, Recreation
Beltline Drive-In (Photo from the Wyoming Historical Commission)

For almost forty years, the Beltline Drive-In Theater was a beacon along 28th Street, welcoming movie lovers from allover West Michigan. In 1948, Jack looks jumped into the booming post-war drive-in theater business when he bought land on 28th Street in Wyoming to build the theater, which would eventually include a miniature golf course and “Bounce Land” trampoline court. The theater, which was known for its waving Bugs Bunny and Goofy, had a capacity of 850 cars.

The drive-in theater would eventually be replaced by Studio 28, the area’s first in-door multiplex movie theater that featured 20 theaters in one. Studio 28 would close in 2019. The site is now the home of HOM Flats, which faces Prairie Parkway, and Frankie V’s restaurant, facing 28th Street. Jack Looks theater company, which is still locally owned, evolved into Celebration! Cinema with theaters at RiverTown Mall, on the East Beltline and Knapp, and on Kalmazoo Avenue near the M-6 interchange.

The image is supplied by the Wyoming Historical Commission. The commission operates the Wyoming Mich. Historical Room at the KDL Wyoming Branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW. The history room is open every Tuesday from 9:30 – noon. For more about the Wyoming Historical Commission, visit the organization’s Facebook page.

Kentwood resident honored with Sweet Adeline of the Year Award

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By Colleen Pierson
WKTV Community Contributor

Kentwood resident Pattee Bender received the Sweet Adeline of the Year Award. (Supplied)

It was an award well deserved. This year’s Sweet Adeline of the Year Award went to Pattee Bender, who has been a contributing member for 24 years. Her strong work ethic, and superior knowledge of the barbershop art form, and the many roles she plays within the group led to the honor.

So, what exactly went through her mind when her name was announced as the winner?

“Whaattttt? They called my name?,” she said. “I didn’t think it would be me. I truly am so surprised, grateful and humbled.”

Bender serves as choreographer, is the showmanship leader and oversees costume and makeup teams for the Grand Rapids Chapter of Sweet Adelines. In addition, she serves as the coordinator of the singing group’s upcoming travels.

“Almost a year ago, with optimism and excitement, our chorus accepted the invitation to sing at Pearl Harbor for the 80th commemorative anniversary,” Bender said. “I have been the point person with our music tour company, and am responsible for coordinating registrations, hotel information, forms, payment schedules and communicating information to our performers and travelers.”

 

It may seem a bit overwhelming, but that is one of the reasons why Bender received her award. She goes about every task with unbridled enthusiasm, attention to details and immense talent.

  • Pattee Bender’s reaction when her name was announced.
  • Bender receives her award.

Master Director Denise VanDyken agrees.

“I was surprised at the number of candidates that were nominated for this award. They are all so talented,” VanDyken said. “Pattee is very deserving of this prestigious award and we are all very proud of her.”

The Grand Rapids Chapter of Sweet Adelines is an a cappella group that sings in four-part harmony. The group just marked its 70th anniversary, making it one of the longest running barbershop singing groups in the world.

For more about the Sweet Adelines Grand Rapids or to join the group, visit their website, www.grsa.net. 

Gonzo’s Top 5: It’s time for Restaurant Week GR, and a Chili Cook-Off

Citizen Journalism, Gonzo's Top 5, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Restaurants, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Contributing Writer

I turned on Christmas music for the first time last night as I was driving down U.S. 131 and seeing the lights at LMCU Ballpark, which is prepping for the annual Christmas Lite Show display. I can’t believe it’s their 24th year this season.

You know, I’m ready for the holidays.

How about you?

This weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5 includes holiday events, a sports card shop opening, a chili cook-off and great Grand Rapids restaurants.

Enjoy.

Oh, and Winter Wonder Walks at the Christmas Lite Show in Comstock Park are next weekend (Nov. 11-14). For ticket information, click here.

As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Here we go.

Craft season has started. This week’s featured show is Jenison Christian School. (Photo from Pxhere.com)

5. Craft Show Season

Many craft shows are returning this year, which is exciting for those who love to shop local and get some unique items. If you have a favorite show, please let me know. I plan to include them in our weekly list here on WKTV Journal. This weekend you can check out the annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival at Jenison Christian School. The event is from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 6). You will find both original handmade crafts and baked goods. More info on the school’s Facebook page.

  • A sampling of items available at the Thornapple Sports Cards & Games opening on Saturday. (Thornapple Sports Cards & Games)

4. Thornapple Sports Cards & Games Grand Opening

I’m so nostalgic about sports cards. I collected them as a kid. Got back into the hobby after college. Then I got excited all over again when my kids were kids. Today, I don’t keep up with it like I used to, but I know there is a resurgence in collectibles, especially as NFTs become all the rage. (That’s another topic for another day.) This weekend Thornapple Sports Cards & Games in Hastings has its grand opening with special guest, outfielder/catcher Eric Haase of the Detroit Tigers. He’ll be signing from noon-2 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 6). Autographs are $20. I talked to owner Austin Ball the other day who is so excited to open his store, and bring in one of his favorite Tigers players. Learn more about what specials and deals you can get this weekend on the Thornapple Sports Cards & Games Facebook page. It is located at 107 E State St. Suite B., Hastings. Grand opening is from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Dan and Lis Verhil bring back their famous Chili Cook-Off this weekend.

3. Chili Cook-Off at the Ballpark (Sullivan Field)

It’s back! Lisa and Dan Verhil, former owners of the Cottage Bar in Grand Rapids, are excited that Fans of Valley Field wanted to bring back their popular chili cook-off. After a five-year hiatus, it returns Saturday (Nov. 6) at Sullivan Field, 650 Valley Ave NW, Grand Rapids. Proceeds benefit Kids’ Food Basket and Fans of Valley Field to help restore and renovate Sullivan/Valley Field.

“Dan and I are truly excited to bring back the chili cook off, especially when we’re raising money for two great causes, Valley Field and Kids’ Food Basket,” Lisa Verhil told Gonzo’s Top 5. “We’re also excited to see our favorite Chiliheads who have cooked with us during our previous chili cook-offs. Several of them are returning, and it will be great to see them.”

The event is from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday with live entertainment beginning at noon. Chili tasting and judging begins at 3 p.m. Traditional Red & Homestyle categories, with more than 30 teams. Admission is $5 in advance (includes 3 chili tastes), and $10 at the door. Tickets for chili tastes are $1 each. Yes, there will be adult beverages, too. More info, including a schedule of events, at ballparkchili.com.

2. Bridge Street Makers Market + Bar Hop

In the mood for some early holiday shopping? Traverse to the Stock-Bridge Neighborhood of Grand Rapids to shop 35 makers. Locations Include Harmony Hall, One Bourbon and Bridge Street Market. Products will be a wide variety of handmade goods such as jewelry, knit goods, home decor, metal working, prints, soap, paintings, candles, and more. The event is FREE to attend! You only pay for items you purchase, and the drinks, of course. This is designed as a family-friendly event. More info available on the Bridge Street’s Maker’s Market Facebook event page.

1. Restaurant Week GR

This is an event I have supported since it debuted more than 10 years ago. I’ve done many stories, judged events, dined with the Lovely Pam (we just celebrated our 35th wedding anniversary) and taken contest winners to some of the best restaurants in Grand Rapids. One thing I’ve learned over all these years: These chefs ALWAYS deliver. Restaurant Week GR begins today and runs through Nov. 13 with more than 50 restaurants offering some incredible meals. This year you can sign up for Restaurant Week GR’s Digital Pass, then use it to check in to at least three participating restaurants for a foodie-themed gift. Plus, you’ll earn a digital coupon for a return visit to each restaurant you visit. For a list of restaurants and more details go to experiencegr.com/restaurant-week.

Please let me know if you make any great restaurant discoveries during Restaurant Week GR.

Email me: michigangonzo@gmail.com

Have a great, safe weekend, everyone.



John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Together at St. Jude releases free coloring book about COVID-19 vaccines

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Together by St. Jude has just released a free coloring book that talks about the COVID-19 vaccine and how it protects people from the virus. (Together by St. Jude)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

On the heels of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s emergency use approval for a COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has created a free coloring book to help children learn about vaccines and how they work to prevent COVID-19.

 

The coloring book was developed and reviewed by patient education and infectious disease specialists at St. Jude. It is available for download at the Together by St. Jude web-based resource.

 

A “St. Jude Coloring Book: COVID-19 Vaccines” answers questions about COVID-19 vaccines in words children can understand. “A COVID-19 vaccine uses the body’s immune system to fight the coronavirus,” the book reads. “Your immune system is like a team of superheroes that protect you from germs.” The book also uses simple pictures to show how the vaccine works to help your body make antibodies to fight the virus that causes COVID-19.

“The vaccine coloring book offers children the opportunity to learn more about the COVID -19 vaccine by coloring images of doctors, children, and the COVID-19 virus,” said Rachel Schmeizer, a child life specialist at St. Jude. “The illustrations in the book help to prepare children for the vaccination process and explains how the vaccine works to protect their bodies from COVID-19.”

Together by St. Jude published its first coloring book on COVID-19 in 2020. “Learning About the Coronavirus” helped children understand the virus and taught ways to stay healthy by keeping a distance, wearing a mask, and washing hands often. The coloring book was translated into 16 different languages and was downloaded more than 14,000 times in more than 150 countries and territories.

“Throughout the pandemic, parents have struggled  through numerous difficult conversations with their children. We want to prepare our children for the significant changes in their daily lives and teach them how to stay safe, but how can we do this without scaring them?” said Niki Jurbergs, PhD., Jude Psychology Department. “We created these coloring books to prepare parents with the tools they need to introduce these new and potentially scary concepts in an age-appropriate way. Having a plan ahead of time, including talking points, can make parents feel more comfortable during this conversations.”

In addition to the two COVID-19 coloring books, Together by St. Jude has also released “Riley Takes a Medicine,” a coloring book that teaches children undergoing cancer treatment about the different types of drugs and the importance of medication compliance. All three coloring books are free to download. 

Advocates say more work needed to maintain drop in homelessness

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Increasing more affordable housing would reduce the need for shelters, according to Family Promise of Grand Rapids officials.(pxhere.com)

By Emerson Wigand
Capital News Service

As winter approaches, local officials worry that a reported drop in homelessness is misleading or temporary based on short-term pandemic relief.

Michigan’s Campaign to End Homelessness recently reported a 19% decrease in those seeking emergency shelter since 2019.

“Those numbers don’t tell you that homelessness is down,” said Cheryl Schuch, the chief executive officer for Family Promise of Grand Rapids. “What they tell you is that the number of people being served by our shelter system is down.”

 

Family Promise operates the only family shelter in Kent County. There’s been an increase in families facing homelessness here, Schuch said. Collecting data on the issue can be challenging, especially in the case of families.

Despite the reported decrease in homelessness, Family Promise is at capacity, she said.

 

Full shelters aren’t limited to West Michigan.

 

“I don’t see that the homeless population is going down,” said Michelle Munn, the case manager at New Hope Center, in Cadillac. “The numbers look good, but it’s only because there’s extra funds right now for COVID.”

New Hope Center is the only shelter provider in Wexford and Missaukee counties. Its shelters are generally full, with vacancies filled quickly by walk-ins or those on a waiting list, Munn said.

While Munn said she thinks this drop is positive, she worries about what will happen when pandemic relief programs end.

COVID impacts were a large part of the statewide decrease, said Eric Hufnagel, the executive director of the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness.

The biggest help was the eviction moratorium, which ended in August, Hufnagel said. Another factor was the Covid Emergency Rental Assistance funds that are still available.

“That was the No. 1 reason we saw our numbers decline,” Hufnagel said. “We believe that’s slowing down what could be a flood of evictions.”

Imagine a front door and back door, Hufnagel said: The front door is how people come into homelessness, the back door is how people are rehoused.

“Our hope is that we can put a dent in the flow through the front door,” he said. “The challenge we are seeing now is that back door.”

Michigan’s affordable housing stock is the weakest it’s been in decades, Hufnagel said. That means higher prices and rental rates for the housing that is available.

 

It’s even harder for people to move to new housing because there are fewer options, and existing options cost more.

 

“The majority of our families can’t afford housing even though they’re working,” Schuch said. “That has really been magnified in West Michigan.”

Family Hope of Grand Rapids has been working with Eastbrook Homes which is developing more affordable homes for the area. Also, Holland Home sold its former Fulton Manor to Hope Network, which plans to turn the former nursing home into a 120 affordable home. The nonprofit housing corporation ICCF is currently working on several affordable housing projects.

The pandemic has decreased shelter space in part due to fewer volunteers to staff facilities, Hufnagel said. Additionally, distancing recommendations have reduced available space in some shelters.

Rising COVID-19 cases adds to these concerns, said Susan Cancro, the executive director of Lansing-based Advent House Ministries. Increasing positive cases could halt new admittances for areas with limited shelters.

“That’s a problem for those on the street who are homeless,” Cancro said. “Especially as the weather becomes more cold and wet, and there’s nowhere to go.”

Schuch said it’s important to increase access to temporary housing to keep people safe for now.

 

“We have families staying in cars and other places,” Schuch said. “We have to make sure there’s adequate shelter available.”

Without more affordable housing, those problems will only get worse, Schuch said.

“Only investing in shelter doesn’t make sense. They won’t need our shelter if there’s enough housing.”

Life jackets and proper cold water gear save lives as water temperatures drop

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Great Lakes, Non-Profits, Recreation, West Michigan, ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

As temperatures in Northern Michigan are cooling down, Paddle Antrim warns paddlers to take precautions to protect themselves from heightened dangers of sudden, unexpected cold water immersion while on late season paddling outings.

“Whenever paddlers are out on the water, they should dress with the assumption they may end up in the water,” said Paddle Antrim Executive Director Deana Jerdee. “With the cooler weather, water temperatures have dropped and therefore a wetsuit or a full immersion drysuit with insulating layers is necessary.”

Sudden immersion in cold water can cause gasping and inhalation of water resulting in drowning and time spent in cold water will cause your body to lose, resulting in unconsciousness, and/or swimming failure as muscles become numb. Wearing a life jacket may keep your head above water and support your body should your swimming ability fail or you become unconscious.

In 2020 the US Coast Guard reported 271 canoe/kayak injuries or deaths (2020 Recreational Boating Statistics, US Coast Guard) accidents and of all the casualties that resulted in deaths, 79% of those who died were not wearing a life jacket. Of the casualties that didn’t result in death, hypothermia was the leading cause of injury. “Death and injury in kayaks or canoes are almost completely avoidable if a properly fitting PFD and cold water gear is worn,” said Jerdee. “Paddling is like any other sport – you need to wear the proper gear and have the proper skills to safely participate, especially during the colder months when the lower water temperatures can be extremely dangerous.”

 

Should you ever find yourself in the water it is recommended that you stay with – and preferably on top of – your boat. Never overestimate your swimming ability. All too often people underestimate the distance to shore or the effects of cold water and unfortunately drown while attempting to make it to safety.

Paddle Antrim makes the following recommendations to paddlers heading out on the water:

  • Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Simply stated, life jackets save lives;
  • Dress for the water temperature;
  • Avoid boating alone and always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Have a cell phone or VHF radio accessible, in a watertight bag, should you need to call for help;
  • Carry essential safety gear, signaling devices and whistles; and
  • Refrain from using alcohol.

For one West Michigan woman, knowledge is power as she faces Huntington’s disease, search for a cure

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Ashley Greenway — with husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody — is a wife and mother from Holland who has tested positive for Huntington’s Disease and is an advocate for the cause though her work with the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

When it comes to Huntington’s disease, a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, some people simply do not want to know if they have the defective gene.

According to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA), there are currently approximately 41,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease. The symptoms of HD are sometimes described as having ALS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s — simultaneously. And it has no cure.

For Ashley Greenway, a wife and mother from Holland, Mich., who has tested positive for Huntington’s disease (HD) — leading to the knowledge that it may well impact her physical and mental abilities during her prime years and that her two children are at risk — testing was the right thing to do.

In her case, knowledge was and is power: the power to speak out; the power to advocate; the power to help others now and — maybe — her children in the future.

“Someday, my kids may need to take advantage of the resources HDSA has to offer and I wanted to make sure that I did my part,” Greenway said recently to WKTV. “It’s the same feeling when I participate in medical studies for HDSA. Last week I was in Wisconsin and had a lumbar puncture done so HDSA could have spinal fluid to assist in their efforts to better understand the disease and find a cure.

“A cure may not be available in my lifetime, but perhaps my kids could receive it. It’s very rewarding just thinking that I play a small part in helping understand and cure this disease.”

Finding out, finding ways to help

After first finding out she was at risk in 2006, then researching and agreeing to be tested, she tested positive in 2012. She then also faced inward soul-searching and outward reflection of her own family.

Ashley Greenway, with husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody. (HDSA)

“At the time of diagnosis I was working outside the home and a mother already,” Greenway said. “I do believe that if I had known my prognosis prior to having kids, it would have impacted my decision on starting a family. The first thing my parent with HD said to me when I told them I was positive was ‘I’m sorry’. … I can’t imagine the guilt I’ll feel if I find out I passed this on to my kids.”

But, she points out, now there are methods available for couples at risk of HD to have kids with no HD risk.

While she declined to talk much about her HD-positive parent — who is nearing 60 year old but with no symptoms — Greenway did say was the only one in her family, out of 20 at risk members (first cousins, their children, siblings, and nephews), that has been tested voluntarily.

“No one else is open about it or wants to know,” she said.

“I used to think of that day (when she learned the test results) as the day I was given my expiration date, but now I see it as the day I became a better person,” Greenway said in supplied material. “Surprisingly, I didn’t cry. I was too in shock to process. I was trying to figure out what this meant and how I felt. I have three siblings, two nephews, and my own two children that are at risk of inheriting this horrific disease and I’m the only one who’s been tested.”

And how did she respond to knowing?

In 2013, Greenway started to get more involved in the HD community, including involvement with the Predict HD medical study out of Rochester, New York. In 2014, Ashley was involved with the documentary film Alive and Well, the film follows seven people coming to terms with the reality of living with HD.

She went back to school, graduating in 2015 from Baker College of Muskegon with an associates degree in business. In 2019, she trained for the Chicago Marathon with Team Run for HD, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic. Recently she took part in the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) #LetsTalkAboutHD Stories.

Ashley Greenway’s daughter Bailey, shown with a quilt inspired by Ashley’s work with the West Michigan Team Hope run/walk, a fundraising event for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)

She has also have become heavily involved with the annual HDSA’s West Michigan Team Hope Walk/5K Run — the West Michigan portion of HDSA’s largest national grassroots fundraising event, which takes place in over 100 cities across the U.S. and has raised more than $20 million for Huntington’s disease since its inception in 2007.

She has gained support from her family in her work as well — husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody — both with her fundraising and with her advocacy for the cause. To honor all that support, she even has made a quilt out of all her family’s and friend’s Team Hope shirts from previous years and donated it to HDSA as a silent auction raffle item.

She is now lead coordinator for the local event, and has seen the event though a rough time in this time of COVID.

“During 2020, HDSA had to cancel all of their in-person events,” Greenway said. “These events generate a lot of funds for social worker’s salaries, grants to scientists for trials, or money to families affected by HD for medical bills. Whatever the use of the funds, they were understandably lacking during the pandemic. … It was important to me that our group still meet our fundraising goal for the year.”

And, Greenway says, she leans on her HD-positive parent as she moves into the future.

“My HD positive parent is still here inspiring me to stay strong and encouraging me to get more involved in HDSA, without symptoms,” she said in supplied material. “My involvement in HDSA provides me with a sense of purpose I’ve never felt before. When HD takes me out of this world, I’ll be leaving it a better place because of how I’ve helped this HD Community.” 

Huntington’s Disease Society of America

HDSA was founded in 1967 by Marjorie Guthrie, the wife of legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie. Woody died from HD complications when he was only 55 years old, but the Guthrie family legacy lives on at HDSA.

A sign at a West Michigan Team Hope run/walk, a fundraising event for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)

The DNA error that causes HD is found in a gene called “huntingtin”. This gene was discovered in 1993. Everyone has the “huntingtin” gene, but only those that inherit the mistake, known as the HD mutation, will develop HD and risk passing it on to their children.

HDSA, according to supplied material, is the “premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease. From community services and education to advocacy and research, HDSA is the world’s leader in providing help for today, hope for tomorrow for people with Huntington’s disease and their families.”

One of its current efforts involved changes to federal rules which it comes to Medicare policy through advocacy for the HD Parity Act (HR 2050/S 868) in 2021.

“Without passage of the HD Parity Act, patients with Huntington’s disease will continue to suffer the mandated 2-year waiting period for Medicare benefits after qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance,” according to an HDSA statement. “Individuals with HD have a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disorder. During those two years, patients continue to decline, and are falling through our social safety net by being denied access to Medicare when they need it most.”

For more information on the HD Parity Act, visit HDSA.org/takeaction.

To learn more about Huntington’s disease and the work of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, visit HDSA.org or call 800-345-HDSA.

D.A. Blodgett-St. Johns closing annual toy drive early in hopes of beating shipping delays

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D.A. Blodgett-St. Johns Communications Specialist Allyssa Murphy stands with boxes of toys received in last year’s D.A. Blodgett-St. Johns Virtual Toy Drive. This year’s drive is being held through Nov. 22. (Supplied)

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Contributing Writer

With shortages happening now in everything from groceries to computer chips to toys, D.A. Blodgett-St. Johns is hoping donors will get in the holiday spirit a little early this year.

Due to Covid-19-related supply chain issues and shipping delays, the nonprofit agency is closing its annual toy drive on Nov. 22, a few weeks earlier than usual. The drive, which opened on Oct. 1, provides gifts for children receiving services from the agency.

DABSJ, a Grand Rapids-based agency, provides services like foster care, adoption, family preservation, and children’s residential treatment.

“We help around 7,000 kids each year, and about 500 of those are kids we provide holiday gifts for,” said Allyssa Murphy, communications specialist with the agency. “Some of them are in foster homes, so they are not with their biological families. Some are in low-income households. We work with each social worker on our team and figure out who is in need and exactly how we can help.”

Closing the drive early will help ensure the gifts get in the hands of kids before the holidays, Murphy said. The gifts need to be shipped to the organization, then distributed to social workers, who get them to the families they support.

 

This is the second year the toy drive is being held virtually due to the pandemic. Donors can log onto the Virtual Holiday Gift Drive through a website called Roonga to view the gifts that are needed and decide what they might like to donate.

Toys received in last year’s D.A. Blodgett-St. Johns Virtual Toy Drive await distribution to West Michigan children. (Supplied)

Murphy said the vendor they are working with through Roonga put a limit on the number of certain toys they could request due to item shortages. Also, their contact at Roonga suggested they end the drive early to make up for expected delays due to a shortage of delivery drivers.

The toy drive site features items for all ages and price ranges along with basics like socks, underwear and hygiene kits, which are especially important, Murphy said.

“They’re not necessarily the most fun items, but they are necessary, and the kids we support really do need them,” Murphy said. “Gift cards are probably the highest needed item. That really makes up the difference for some families.”

Through Roonga, DABSJ has partnered with a third-party vendor that provides all the toys at wholesale prices, Murphy said. DABSJ typically gives a $50 gift card and at least three gifts per child, depending on how many gifts are donated.

“Sometimes we get more, sometimes less, but we try to give as much as we can,” Murphy said.

DABSJ President and CEO Mary Muliett said many of the kids they help have experienced some type of trauma, and the pandemic has not made things easier.

“These kids need our help now more than ever,” Muliett said. “They deserve a positive and magical holiday season, just like any other kid. We need help making that happen.”

To donate to the holiday gift drive, visit the drive webpage or dabsj.org. For more information or to discuss donation options for businesses, contact Allyssa Murphy at amurphy@dabsj.org.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, WKTV partnership begins new ‘Hands On Health’ informational program

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Karla Black, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Kent County Health Department, was invited to Hands on Health to discuss COVID-19 and the vaccines with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Kentwood non-profit Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is always looking for new ways to serve the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities. And WKTV Community Media is always looking for ways to work with groups in service of its Wyoming, Kentwood and West Michigan audience.

So the two this fall have partnered to begin a new multi-media project, Hands on Health, to provide health education in a format that is accessible to the Deaf, Deaf/Blind, Hard of Hearing — as well as other community members.

The first two episodes are now available on WKTV cable channels in Wyoming and Kentwood (check out the initial schedule below and WKTV cable schedule), on the WKTV Video Podcast page, and on the social media platforms of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (D&HHS) — YouTube and Facebook.

D&HHS, according to supplied material, has served the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing (D/DB/HH) communities across West Michigan for more than 25 years. The agency began after a deaf man’s medical emergency turned nearly fatal due to the emergency services’ lack of accessibility.

“The situation shone a light on the lack of access and services for the D/DB/HH communities,” Deb Atwood, D&HHS executive director, said in printed material. “Today, our agency serves 27 counties across West Michigan, providing a wide range of services specifically for the D/DB/HH communities.

“Each day, we work toward our mission of providing equal communication access, education, and advocacy to the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing in pursuit of all life’s opportunities.

The genesis of Hands On Health

A study published in 2016 by a group of University Medical Departments found that health literacy among the deaf is alarmingly low. When compared to their hearing counterparts, deaf participants were 6.9 times more likely to have inadequate health literacy.

These disparities are caused by several factors including communication barriers, fewer opportunities for incidental learning, and especially lack of accessible information. Many within the D/DB/HH communities are not given appropriate access to information that allows them to understand or practice autonomy over their own health.

“Our agency has recognized the of issue inadequate health literacy among the D/DB/HH in the Greater Grand Rapids area and throughout West Michigan,” Erica Chapin, D&HHS community and partnership manager, said in printed material. “These issues were made alarmingly clear throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited accessible information about COVID-19 and vaccines, D/DB/HH individuals have been susceptible to misinformation and unable to make informed decisions about their health and safety.

“This situation has brought to light the lack of information on general health and wellness topics. To combat this issue, our agency is starting the ‘Hands On Health’ video series that provides health education in a format that is accessible to the D/DB/HH and other communities.”

These first two episodes feature two deaf hosts — Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President — with guest Karla Black, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Kent County Health Department, who was invited to discuss COVID-19 and the vaccines.

Hands on Health has premiered on WKTV Cable Channel 25 with Episode 1 continuing today, Oct. 21, at 5 p.m. Episode 2 will premiere Oct. 25 at 9 p.m., and continue Oct. 26 at 9:30 a.m., and Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. They may also run at different days and times; see the weekly schedule.

For more information and to donate to Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services, visit  www.deafhhs.org/donate.

Suggestions for future topics can be sent to handsonhealth@deafhhs.org.

Hands on Health continues a discussion on COVID-19 and the vaccines, hosted by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President. (WKTV)

Kentwood artists take part in exhibit bringing healing to veterans

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George Doornbos created this piece of a soldier kneeling in front of a grave. (Supplied)

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Contributing Writer

George Doornbos and Dewey Heetderks, two veterans residing at Holland Home’s Breton Woods campus, both took up woodworking in their retirement years and found the art form greatly enriched their lives.

So when an opportunity arose to take part in a veterans-only exhibit designed to bring healing through art, they both signed on.

Doornbos and Heetderks each showed woodworking pieces in Has Heart, an ArtPrize venue at Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Grand Rapids. ArtPrize 2021 ran Sept. 16 to Oct. 3. 

The 21 works in the Has Heart collection were all created by military veterans, many of whom struggle with homelessness, PTSD, military sexual trauma, and thoughts of suicide.

 

Doornbos said working with wood helps keep his mind off aging and other unpleasant things. He was eager to participate in the exhibit hoping other veterans might also find peace through making art.

Artist George Doornbos (Supplied)

“I am very glad I went through it,” Doornbos said. “We were hoping to inspire some veterans or older people like myself to see if we could interest them in art or some other hobby to keep their mind off their troubles.”

Doornbos was in the Army from 1953 to 1955, serving as a radio operator. He took up woodworking seven years ago, at the age of 80, in the Holland Home wood shop. He works in a process called intarsia, which involves coloring and combining pieces of wood to form an art piece.

 

Dewey Heetderks creates hand carved wooden bowls using the grains and natural defects found in the wood to create unique and expressive works. (Supplied)

He typically creates animals, scenery or lighthouses, he said, but for the ArtPrize exhibit he entered a piece depicting a soldier kneeling over the grave of a fallen comrade. It was an idea that came to him about a year and a half ago, after he took part in an Honor Flight.

Honor Flights, funded by a nonprofit organization, transport American veterans to Washington D.C. to visit the memorials honoring those who have served and died for the country.

“We went to the cemetery and the various war monuments, and this impressed me – the number of people who have given their lives so we can live with the freedoms we have. I was moved by that whole experience that whole day,” Doornbos said.

Heetderks worked in the Army medical corps as a urologist from 1963 to 1965, after graduating from the University of Michigan. He began turning wood about 15 years ago, at the age of 75, while spending winters in Florida.

 

Heetderks hand carves wooden bowls, using the grains and natural defects found in wood to create unique and expressive works.

Artist Dewey Heetderks

“Wood is a beautiful product of our lord,” he said. “If it’s sanded and polished and given the opportunity with a beautiful finish, it’s lovely. I embellished every bowl I made. I made a special effort to create something unique, and that was a lot of fun.”

Neither of them had any plans to enter ArtPrize until a representative from the organization visited Holland Home to tell the residents about the veterans-only exhibit being created this year.

Both artists said the most important thing about the exhibit was giving veterans a creative outlet.

“For those that were involved, art for them was particularly important, particularly those that were suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome,” Heetderks said. “It was obviously a release for them. It’s wonderful.”

Local author, descendent of Sojourner Truth, creates children’s book detailing ancestor’s iconic life

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Cory Mcliechey, a descendent of Sojourner Truth, keeps his family’s legacy thriving with his recently released children’s book, “Keeping the Truth Alive.” (Supplied)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

Cory P. Mcliechey, a 5th generation grandson to iconic historical figure Sojourner Truth, keeps his family’s legacy thriving with his recently released children’s book, “Keeping the Truth Alive.”

In Mcliechey’s debut tale, he strives to educate today’s youth about a historical woman and the trials she endured.

The cover of Cory Mcliechey’s recently released children’s book about Sojourner, “Keeping the Truth Alive.” (Supplied)

“Keeping the Truth Alive” contains colorful illustrations that Mcliechey himself designed and created, captivating readers as they learn about a heroine who stood against her oppressors and fought against inequality and racism, providing greatness to America despite the obstacles Sojourner Truth experienced.

Having recently lost his parents, Mcliechey told WKTV that he felt driven to finish the book as a way to keep his familial legacy alive.

“I dedicated it to the memory of my parents whom me and my siblings had to bury earlier this year,” Mcliechey, a Grand Rapids resident, said to WKTV “That was my motivation in getting the book done.”

Book an extension of community work

Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, Mcliechey has been a community advocate and activist for many years, “fighting for equality and justice,” he said.

Cory Mcliechey’s Top Notch Kids community program aims to change the narrative of the gun by providing real life opportunities to rejuvenate communities using the “GUNS” of home improvement — caulk guns, staple, guns, nail guns, and paint guns. (Supplied)

One of the goals he hopes to accomplish through his activism is helping people realize that, “Throughout all of the ‘isms,’ such as racism, the different hues and colors of people are a reflection of God’s majesty. Don’t get it mixed up with how we view it as humans.”

Mcliechey paused, then repeated, “Different hues, but human.”

Mcliechey has put action to his words, founding a non-profit organization, Descendants of the Truth, whose sole agenda is to educate youth on their history while teaching them life skills.

Top Notch Kids is one program among many under the umbrella of Descendants of the Truth. Designed to encourage and inspire youth to help revitalize their neighborhoods, this movement provides a fun and safe alternative to the culture of violence so prevalent in today’s world, he said.

(Supplied)

Top Notch Kids aims to change the narrative of the gun by providing real life opportunities to rejuvenate communities using the “GUNS” of home improvement, such as caulk guns, staple, guns, nail guns, and paint guns. This not only helps them take part in their community, it allows children to attain a valuable skill to help with career readiness.

The motto of Top Notch Kids emphasizes the objective: “We don’t kill with guns, we build with guns.”

Book part of series, documentary in work

When asked about his plans for the future, Mcliechey said that he intends to continue Sojourner Truth’s story as a series.

“I want to continue with Sojourner Truth’s story because there is so much to know about her. This (“Keeping the Truth Alive”) is just a small glimpse of what she’s done for society and America,” Mcliechey said.

The author is also preparing to create a Top Notch Kids children’s book that focuses more on current issues versus history. The main objective of the new work is stressing safety, improvement of self and community, and to guide children toward helping their community.

Cory Mcliechey’s artwork has gained admirers such as American feminist journalist and social-political activist Gloria Steinem. (Supplied)

A more immediate work-in-progress is a documentary on Sojourner Truth’s journey from enslavement to activism and advocacy.

Mcliechey has been working closely with Lateef Calloway, founder of the Phoeion Group LLC (dba Calliwood Productions LLC), and American feminist journalist and social-political activist Gloria Steinem, to showcase how Sojourner Truth’s teachings impacted Truth’s descendants’ individual lives and their views on civil rights, human rights, and women’s rights.

In fact, it was while working with Calloway that Mcliechey’s artistic side reignited.

“I’ve always been an artist,” Mcliechey said, “but it had become dormant. Lateef reignited my passion for art.”

Mcliechey attributes his ability to create the illustrations for “Keeping the Truth Alive” to Calloway and his mentorship.

Calloway also encouraged Mcliechey to design a painting for Steinem. As a way to draw attention to issues of women today and continue Gloria’s legacy, Mcliechey produced a painting of an African Goddess, featuring 24-Karat gold leaf imported from Thailand, which is now hanging in Steinem’s brownstone.

To order a copy of “Keeping the Truth Alive” by Cory P. Mcliechey, visit here.

To learn about the separate Sojourner Truth Memorial currently underway to honor the American icon, visit here.

Harvest of Justice luncheon to honor clinic that vaccinated 500 migrant workers

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A member of the Migrant Legal Aid staff gets a vaccine. (Supplied)

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Contributing Writer

A Sparta health clinic that went above and beyond the call of duty to vaccinate West Michigan farm workers will be honored at Migrant Legal Aid’s annual Harvest of Justice Luncheon this month.

The event, designed to share client success stories with donors and the community, will be held at noon on Wednesday, Oct. 13, at the Eberhard Center on GVSU’s downtown campus.

Clinics held at the Mercy Health Physician Partners office in Sparta last March vaccinated more than 500 migrant workers against COVID-19, according to Mary Bennett, CFO Of Migrant Legal Aid.

The clinic did an exemplary job organizing its vaccination site so farm workers could get in and out quickly without standing around waiting, according to Teresa Hendricks, executive director of the organization. 

“It was an incredible logistical feat,” she said.

Migrant Legal Aid, a nonprofit that advocates for migrant workers’ rights, has assisted at several vaccination clinics in hopes of getting as many of the workers vaccinated as possible. The state doesn’t keep numbers on how many farm workers have been vaccinated for the virus, Hendricks said, but Migrant Legal Aid has assisted with vaccinating 625 people so far.

They’re not done with the work yet, and they hope to persuade more migrant workers to get the vaccine through a video recently produced by WKTV. In both English and Spanish, the video dispels common myths surrounding the vaccine and presents the facts. Appearing on the video are Spanish-speaking doctors who have gotten the vaccine themselves.

“We realized a peer-to-peer video speaking about the importance of it was going to be key,” Hendricks said.

(Right) Mirgrant Legal Aid Executive Director Teresa Hendricks shows off her vaccine shot with a staff member. (Supplied)

The video will be shared on Migrant Legal Aid’s website and YouTube channel along with other social media sites. It will also go out to listservs (a mailing list) for other migrant providers, Hendricks said.

The video can also be used at migrant camps, where Migrant Legal Aid staff can show it on an iPad when they’re visiting, Hendricks said. At future vaccination clinics, they can have it playing on a loop while people wait to get their shots.

The Harvest of Justice luncheon is an important event to spread the word about what Migrant Legal Aid does, Bennett said. In addition to the award presentation, the luncheon will feature highlights of the work the organization has done over the past year.

“We have table hosts we ask to bring guests who might not be familiar with our program and what we do. That grows the community awareness as well as our donor base. Most of them, after they hear what we do, are eager to help,” she said.

Last year’s luncheon was held online at the WKTV studio due to the pandemic. The online version got a wide audience and raised the interest of people who are excited to come in person this year, Bennett said.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Charlie LeDuff, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and investigative journalist.

 

In his research for articles about farm workers, LeDuff has embedded himself with migrants crossing the border and working in the fields in California to see what they go through. He nearly died while crossing the border during his investigative reporting, Hendricks said.

Tickets to the luncheon are free, but there will be an “ask” for donations, Bennett said. For tickets, go to www.migrantlegalaid.org.

Snapshots: Things to do this weekend

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“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I’m not sure about the universe.” 

Albert Einstein

Pulaski Days is the celebration of Polish/Lithuanian culture held every fall in Grand Rapids since 1973 . (Supplied)

Two words: Pulaski Days

After a year off due to COVID, Pulaski Days returns this weekend with three days packed full of fun. There are eating contests, a Saturday parade, a Sunday mass and of course plenty of food and drink. A total of 14 halls will be open offering an array of activities, food, and souvenirs. For more, check out John D. Gonzalez’s latest story.

Who could resist? (KC Animal Shelter)

Expand the Family

The Bissell Pet Foundation’s fall national “Empty the Shelters” adoption event, running Oct. 4-10, is a quarterly effort that has helped more than 61,787 pets in shelters find their “forever homes” by sponsoring reduced adoption fees for $25 or less. This fall’s event will be hosted in more than 180 shelters in 38 states, including about 11 in West Michigan such as the Kent County Animal Shelter and Crash’s Landing. So this weekend is a perfect time to start looking for that new family addition.

One Last Look

ArtPrize officially closes on Sunday, which means you have a few more days to check out the pieces, including the winners, which will be announced on Friday. There are items both inside and outside. A popular spot has been the Grand Rapids Public Museum, which features a number of outdoor pieces including the one pictured above, or just travel along Monroe Avenue and Monroe Center for some great “eye candy.”

Fun Fact: The Polish/American Hero

Kazimierz Michal Wladyslaw Wiktor Pulaski or Casimir Pulaski, was a Posh nobleman, solider and military commander. After being driven into exile for helping with an uprising in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Pulaski came to America at the recommendation of Benjamin Franklin. He would help in the American Revolutionary War, first by saving the life of George Washington and second helping to create the American cavalry. Pulaski died in the Battle of Savannah in 1779. He is buried in Monterey Square, Savannah, Georgia. Today, many events and places have been named after this war hero, including Grand Rapids’ Pulaski Days. 

Group pushes for teacher training to recognize epilepsy seizures

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The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Jack O’Malley, R-Lake Ann, would make seizure action plans for students with epilepsy accessible for employees in contact with them. (pxhere.com)

By Emerson Wigand
Capital News Service

LANSING — Advocates for children with epilepsy are pushing to train Michigan school employees to recognize seizures and provide necessary first aid.

The legislation would mandate education for all of the state’s school districts to help the 13,600 Michigan children with epilepsy and their families.

 

Elizabeth Stout, an Albion College student and youth consultant with Children’s Special Health Care Services of Michigan, said thebill is a great step.

“Every patient is different when it comes to their epilepsy and how you treat it,” said Stout, who has had epilepsy for the past 12 years. ”It’s hard when people assume things about a health condition, and it would be a lot easier if there was more education.”

The bill would require that all school employees be educated in seizure first aid and recognition. This one-hour training would be provided online for free, with in-person options as well. (pxhere.com)

The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Jack O’Malley, R-Lake Ann, would make seizure action plans for students with epilepsy accessible for employees in contact with them. Using information from parents, the plans are specific to each student’s needs, including information on medication or first aid.

The legislation would also mean each school would need have a full-time employee trained to administer emergency rescue medication in potentially life-threatening situations. Eleven other states have already passed seizure safe schools legislation.

“Most individuals we meet with, certainly on the legislative side, are surprised to know this training isn’t already in the repertoire for teachers,” said Brianna Romines, the president of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan.

 

The bill would require that all school employees be educated in seizure first aid and recognition. This one-hour training would be provided online for free, with in-person options as well.

The training is also offered by the National Epilepsy Foundation, which allows broader access than the state’s chapter can provide, said Russ Derry, the Michigan Epilepsy Foundation’s director of education.

Romines said epilepsy training is as important as other safety training teachers receive. One school counselor, who was trained yearly in the use of fire extinguishers, said she has never had to use one in over 15 years But the counselor has responded to between about five and 15 seizure emergencies each year.

 

The lack of education is a problem because it stigmatizes epilepsy, said Sierra Cameron, the CEO of the Michigan chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“If a child goes into a seizure, it might not be as clinically bad as folks think it is,” Cameron said. “If you don’t have any familiarity with seizures, it might really daunt you.”

One of the consequences is that school employees call 911 and have children diagnosed with epilepsy taken from class to the emergency room, Romines said. This leads to trauma for the children and needless costs for families from hospitals, ambulance rides and lost wages for those who leave work.

“So, there are economic and emotional impacts to this,” Romines said. “But all of that could’ve been simply addressed with training.”

Another challenge is that school employees may be uncomfortable administering invasive rescue medication, Derry said. While nasal medication options are increasingly available, the primary rescue treatment for youth suffering seizures is administered rectally.

 

Derry empathizes with these employees, but he said rescue medication training is just as important as learning to use epipens for students with serious allergies. While a school nurse would ideally be administering the medication, all employees allowed to administer medication would receive training.

 

Derry said everyone should understand the needs of students with epilepsy as seizures can happen any time.

“In Michigan, we have one of the worst ratios of school nurses to students in the country,” Derry said. “We have about 4,200 students per school nurse.”

Stout said it’s also important to remember epilepsy is not just seizures with uncontrollable movements. Epilepsy can prompt staring spells that lead to students being disciplined for not paying attention, or to an assumption that they have attention deficit disorder, Romines said. Many effects of epilepsy and its medications are difficult to distinguish.

“That’s why we’re hopeful for this training,” Romines said. “Not only does it teach you seizure first aid, it teaches seizure recognition.”

The foundation says it hopes the House will hold hearings on the proposed Seizure Safety Act in October.

 

Stout said repeatedly explaining your condition is exhausting. While she was lucky to have teachers that were open to that conversation, that’s not always the case.

“If teachers and others within the education system understand epilepsy, then it’s easier for students to be honest about it, and share it,” Stout said.For youth diagnosed with epilepsy, and their families, in need of more support she recommends the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan’s Call and Connect Network.

County animal shelter one of many local animal welfare groups part of Bissell’s ‘Empty the Shelters’ campaign

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Kent County Animal Shelter’s Angela Hollinshead with “George” — who has since found a home. But there are many more like George awaiting. (KC Animal Shelter)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Animal Shelter’s staff members are always enthusiastic about participating in the Bissell Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” fall event, which starts next week, not only for the funding provided to support the adoption event but also for the publicity to make people aware of the event.

But they also know there is always a need for sheltering needy animals, and a year-around need to support current and possible future animal lovers in finding their perfect housemates.

“Bissell is wonderful in that they provide all the resources shelters need through media sites to make people aware of the event, as well as funding it,” Angela Hollinshead, division director of the Kent County Animal Shelter, said to WKTV. But “we will always need adopters. There will always be a need for people willing to adopt the pets that come through our door.”

Who could resist? (KC Animal Shelter)

The Bissell Pet Foundation’s fall national “Empty the Shelters” adoption event, running Oct. 4-10, is a quarterly effort that has helped more than 61,787 pets in shelters find their “forever homes” by sponsoring reduced adoption fees for $25 or less. This fall’s event will be hosted in more than 180 shelters in 38 states, including about 11 in West Michigan, including the Kent County Animal Shelter.

Founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, Bissell Pet Foundation began its “Empty the Shelters” campaign in 2016 by sponsoring adoptions across the country and in Canada.

“Shelters are in dire need of support in the wake of natural disasters and overcrowding due to obstacles such as increased length of stay and slowed adoptions for mid-to-large sized dogs,” Bissell said in supplied material. “Our fall ‘Empty the Shelters’ will support the adoption of thousands of pets across the country, helping shelters in this time of crisis. Opening your home to a shelter pet will save a life and create space to give another pet a chance.”

Among the participating West Michigan shelters are Al-Van Humane Society, Crash’s Landing, Faithful to Felines, Harbor Humane Society, Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven, Humane Society of West Michigan, SPCA of Southwest Michigan, Van Buren County Animal Control and Wishbone Pet Rescue Alliance.

Because every shelter is not participating for the full event, potential adopters are encouraged to visit the “Empty Shelters” website to find the nearest participating shelter and confirm their adoption day details.

Animal rescue, adoption efforts are year-round

“The pets who come to us are not broken or damaged, oftentimes coming to us through circumstances that are no fault of their own,” Hollinshead said. “We have met some truly wonderful animals.”

While the pet intake numbers fluctuate from month-to-month, Hollinshead said that they take in approximately 142 animals per month.

Need a little, or big, companion while working from home? Kent County Animal Shelter may have a perfect match awaiting. (KC Animal Shelter)

“These events help us a lot because we don’t turn away stray animals,” she said. “The reduced adoption fee helps us find homes for pets who have been here longer.”

Since 2019, Hollinshead has also noted a 48 percent decrease in pets coming into the shelter due to resources they are now able to offer current pet owners. Some of the resources available include spaying and neutering, food resources, and a behavior specialist who can help pet owners with training for their animals.

“These options allow us to focus more on each individual pet and its needs and provide better outcomes,” Hollinshead said.

If an individual or family is not able to adopt, Hollinshead also encourages community members to consider fostering shelter animals, volunteering at the shelter, and raising awareness of the need for continued help from the community.

Located on Fuller Avenue in Grand Rapids, the Kent County Animal Shelter will be participating for the full duration of the event, Oct. 4-9. Potential adopters may contact the shelter at 616-632-7300 if they have any questions.

For more information on BISSELL Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” fall event, visit here.

It is official: Wyoming is now the home of University of Michigan Health-West

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Staff are getting new lab coats with the University of Michigan-West on them. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Today’s the day that Metro Health — University of Michigan Health’s name officially changes to University of Michigan Health – West.

The new name, announced earlier this year, serves two purpose. It describes the organization’s role as part of the state’s top-ranked health system, University of Michigan Health. And it emphasizes a focus on West Michigan, where the organization had been working to advance healthcare for eight decades.

Peter Hahn, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (Supplied)

Visible changes will be gradual as physicians and staff receive new lab coats and uniforms, and correspondence and signage are updated for multiple sites across West Michigan. The transition is expected to continue into 2022. Throughout the process, the experience for patients will be seamless. Patients will not need to change anything in the way they connect with services.

“University of Michigan Health-West will have the same progressive, patient-focused culture as when we were known as Metro Health or Metropolitan Hospital or Grand Rapids Osteopathic Hospital,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, president and CEO, University of Michigan Health-West. “Our founding physicians would be proud of our identity today, as part of one of the world’s greatest health systems.”

Metro Health was found in 1942 as the Grand Rapids Osteopathic Hospital with a home on Lake Drive converted to serve the new facility. In 1957, the hospital moved to Boston Street in Grand Rapids. In 1985, the hospital’s name was changed to Metropolitan Hospital.

In 2003, construction began on the the Metro Health Village in Wyoming and in 2005 the hospital changed its name to Metro Health.In 2007, the Metro Health Village was open and two years later, the hospital began relationships with the University of Michigan Health in several areas: cancer, neurosciences, pulmonology, cardiology, endocrinology, pediatric cardiology and pediatric endocrinology.

The former Metro Health became the premier affiliate of University Michigan Health on Dec. 15, 2016.

“As we approach the fifth anniversary of the affiliation, the name change reminds us of what our relationship with University of Michigan Health has made possible,” said Hahn. “Sept. 27 will become another important milestone of our long, proud legacy of innovation, compassion and excellence.”

Gradual changes will take place with new signage and other details. (Supplied)

Recent years have see the addition of multiple services and capabilities, including more outpatient care sites, certification as a comprehensive stroke center, and groundbreaking regional partnerships to advance cancer and cardiovascular care. Earlier this year, the state grand approval to launch Michigan’s first new open-heart surgery program in nearly 20 years.

 

“These accomplishment are bringing world-class care close to home for the patients we serve across West Michigan,” Hahn said. “This really is a testament to the dedicated staff across our organization, as well as visionary leadership through the years that made us who we are today. Together, they have set the stage for an even brighter future as University of Michigan Health-West.”

The 208-bed acute-care osteopathic teaching hospital serves 250,000 patients and 61,500 emergency patients a year, with more than 500 physicians on staff. UM Health-West operates 30 neighborhood outpatient centers and offices in West Michigan. 

Special forces: West Michigan non-profit to hold benefit comedy night to support American hero

3-bottom, Community Health, Local Entertainment, Local History, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, Upcoming Events, Veterans, WKTV Projects, ,
Jaeger, and The Jaeger Foundation founder Jonathon Jacobs. The non-profit works to provide services dogs like Jaeger to other veterans. (The Jaeger Foundation)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

What West Michigander James McCloughan went thorough in Vietnam in 1969-70 was no laughing matter — and he has the scars and Congressional Medal of Honor to prove it.

But local non-profit The Jaeger Foundation will be holding a “Special Farces” comedy night Oct. 8 in Muskegon to help provide McCloughan with a service dog as part of the foundation’s continuing efforts to provide service dogs to veterans and first responders who need them.

James McCloughan is presented the Congressional Medal of Honor for service in Vietnam — specifically in the May 13-15, 1969, battle of Tam Kỳ  and the Nui Yon Hill — by then Secretary of Defense James Mattis (U.S. Defense Department)

“Mr. McCloughan is a true American Hero,” Jonathon Jacobs, chief executive officer of The Jaeger Foundation, said to WKTV. “He was an Army Medic in Vietnam. Mr. McCloughan took two blasts of shrapnel to his back and was shot through the arm and still never quit and kept going back for more wounded.”

The Jaeger foundation was born out of a need to provide service dogs to veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD and other disabilities, Jacobs said. And the planned comedy night is one of many ways the foundation raises money to do so.

 

One event is the Special Farces Comedy Competition, which will be held at Back Alley Comedy Club in Muskegon, Oct. 8, at 8 p.m. Tickets are available on the Back Alley Comedy Club website at backalleycomedyclub.com and the event page on Facebook.

The night will feature 9 stand up comics, battling head-to-head for the title of “Funniest Comedian”, as well as other prizes. The night will also include a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. The Jaeger Foundation also has t-shirts and decals on their website to raise funds to pay for the purchase and training of the service dogs.

For Jacobs, the goals of the foundation — even the foundation’s name — is personal.

Jaeger, at rest. (The Jaeger Foundation)

“The foundation was created in 2019 after going through to the journey to get my own service dog,” Jacobs said. “Naturally the foundation was named after my Service Dog, Jaeger.  After reaching out to many programs, and not fitting within the limits of their program, we decided to start the foundation with the goal of getting service dogs in the hands of veterans and first responders with as little red tape as possible. So far we’ve helped about 15 People to receive service dogs at no charge to them.”

And “Mr. McCloughan” certainly deserves a service dog for all he has done, during wartime when he earned his Medal of Honor, and for what he has done for the community in West Michigan.

McCloughan was born in South Haven in 1946, was a four-sport varsity athlete at Bangor High School and went on to wrestle and play football and baseball at Olivet College. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and a teaching certificate in 1968, he accepted a teaching and coaching position with South Haven Public Schools. Three months later, McCloughan was drafted into the U.S. Army at the age of 22.

James McCloughan with a military dog in Vietnam, likely dated 1969. (U.S. Defense Department)

His service in Vietnam — specifically in the May 13-15, 1969, battle of Tam Kỳ  and the Nui Yon Hill, which earned him his Medal of Honor — was nothing less than heroic. And deserves a completely separate story. (Which is detailed here.)

Following his service in Vietnam, McCloughan returned to his teaching and coaching profession. In 1972, he earned a Master of Arts in counseling and psychology from Western Michigan University, and then taught sociology and psychology at South Haven high until his retirement in 2008 earning him the Michigan Education Associations’ 40 years of Service Award.

He was also the recipient of the Wolverine Conference Distinguished Service Award for 38 years of coaching football and baseball in addition to 22 years of coaching wrestling.

He was inducted into the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1993, Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame 2008. McCloughan was also a Michigan High School Athletic Association wrestling official for 25 years.

For more information on The Jaeger Foundation visit here.

Grand Rapids Ballet turns tragedy into dance to raise awareness about homelessness

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, , ,

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

When tragedy happens or circumstances become extreme, we’re all just one or two steps away from homelessness.

For more information about the performance, visit https://grballet.com/ or https://degageministries.org/ For more about ArtPrize, visit https://www.artprize.org/.

That’s part of the message of “Created by Circumstance,” a collaboration between the Grand Rapids Ballet Company and Dégagé Ministries as part of ArtPrize 2021, which continues through Oct. 3 in downtown Grand Rapids.

Three performances of the six-minute show — created by GRB professional dancer Gretchen Steimle — are planned beginning at 5:30 tonight (Sept. 22), with additional shows Sept. 24 and 26.

The goal of the show, and collaboration, is to share a message of hope, help and awareness, said Thelma Ensink, executive director at Dégagé Ministries.

She said more than 800 people a night experience homelessness in Grand Rapids.

“It’s such a variety of circumstances that places someone in that position,” Ensink said. “I am constantly amazed at the stories I hear from the people we serve; some have Masters Degrees and above, and then experience a traumatic event in their life or struggle with mental health or whatever it may be… All of us are vulnerable to being in this position.”

“Created by Circumstance” offers a glimpse into the lives of those experiencing homelessness in the Heartside neighborhood.

Steimle, a member of the Grand Rapids Ballet, began the project last winter, where she communicated with staff, as well as musicians Thomas and Isaac, who knew first-hand of the resources that Dégagé provides the community.

She was at first “overwhelmed with the idea” of creating an artistic piece of work from their struggles.

Gretchen Steimle, a member of the Grand Rapids Ballet, was the creative force behind “Created by Circumstance.” (Supplied)

“I can only create from my perspective,” Steimle said, “so I really tried to find the ways we were connecting, and the commonality we were finding together in what we shared.”

And what they shared was “hope, and dance, and music, and art, and all of those things that all humans experience,” she said.

The six-minute, music and movement piece includes four dancers from the Grand Rapids Ballet Company, as well as saxophone and vocals from patrons Isaac and Thomas, who have been served by Dégagé.

Words in the piece are actual testimonials and quotes from patrons, as well as songs and rhythms.

“It’s really this big, community movement piece,” she said.

It’s a testimony of an organization that strives to keep up with the demand, especially after being hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to ongoing services, Dégagé added new services such as job creation for patrons, hotel stays, extended shelter hours and PPE, according to reps.

In 2020, Dégagé served more than 60,000 meals, provided more than 7,200 loads of laundry, nearly 6,000 showers, and helped 52 women move into housing.

To see their community work turned into art is an awesome experience, Ensink said.

“I love that ballet and homelessness came together,” she said.

“That isn’t something you often think about as coming together…. Dance is an ancient art form, and I love that dance is expressing homelessness, It’s raw, it’s human. And that’s what homelessness is, it’s raw and it’s human.

Grand Rapids Ballet dancers and musicians Thomas and Isaac will perform “Created by Circumstance,” an ArtPrize 2021 entry. (Supplied)

“I love that dance is expressing this in such a beautiful way. I think people will be truly moved by this performance.”

As for ArtPrize, “Created by Circumstance” is included among other artist entries as a recipient of one of ArtPrize’s curatorial grants.

Each of the three performance locations also will include a QR code for visitors to scan with a chance of finding cash prizes ranging from $250 to $1,500 each to award to any participating artist which would directly impact Dégagé by supporting its mission.

In addition, Ensink said Dégagé is expanding and is in the middle of a $7.3 million capital campaign. Each performance will have information about the campaign available via QR codes.

Ensink hopes ArtPrize attendees will see all the good things they do for the community through their ministry.

“We are all people created in God’s image, and we are all connected,” she said. “We all have the potential of being friends, of being neighbors and of being a community that supports one another.”

For more information about the performance, visit https://grballet.com/ or https://degageministries.org/ For more about ArtPrize, visit https://www.artprize.org/.

John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

The six-minute performance will be done at three different locations in the city on Sept. 22, 24, and 26. (Supplied)

Running for a cause: Runway 5K returns to Ford airport Saturday, Sept. 25

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Health, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects
Making a return is the Runway 5K at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Ever wanted to se if you can outrun a jet airplane? Probably not. But you can run with the jets and support a local non-profit as, after a pandemic pause in 2020, the popular Runway 5K will return to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport on Saturday, Sept. 25.

And the Ford airport’s two commercial aviation runways will still be operational during the race.

Register is still available to be one of the 1,200 walkers and runners given the rare opportunity to compete on an actual airport runway. For more information and to register, visit triviumracing.com/event/grr5k2021/.

The course will begin north of the economy parking lot, looping on taxiway Juliet and runway 8L/26R, the Airport’s general aviation runway, before ending back at the parking lot.

A runner during the 2019 Runway 5K. (Supplied)

Race-day registration and packet pick-up begins at 7 a.m., with the race starting at 9 a.m. A one-mile fun run will begin at 9:05 a.m. Awards for the top three overall males and females, as well as age groups, will be presented at 10:15 a.m.

The race is being hosted by Trivium Racing, with this year’s charity partner being the Family Hope Foundation — a Jenison nonprofit which provides resources, activities, support and funding for therapies to families of children with special needs in West Michigan.

“The true impact of 2020 is beginning to come to light,” Jane Eppard, executive director of the Family Hope Foundation, said in supplied material. “Many children with special needs lost ground due to disruptions in school and routine in the past year. This was clearly evident in the 25 percent increase in scholarship requests we received this spring.

“The opportunity to be the charity partner for this year’s Runway 5K and the support it will bring to families in our community is deeply appreciated and gives the organization hope.”
 

In 2019, the Runway 5K raised nearly $14,600 for charity.

“We are delighted to welcome West Michigan back to the Airport for this year’s Runway 5K,” Torrance A. Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, said in supplied material.

“We are also honored to support the good work of Family Hope Foundation, which provides therapy scholarships, family fun, advocacy, education and resources to families of children with special needs. We encourage runners and walkers of all abilities to come out and see the Airport from a perspective you will only get once a year.”

Registration includes a T-shirt, post-race snacks and beverages, awards for top finishers and other giveaways.

Disability Advocates’ new headquarters to include first-of-its kind occupational therapy home center

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Construction for the Disabilities Advocates of Kent County’s future home is now underway. Move-in date is set for April 22. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Katie Pew Wolters admitted she thought raising $40,000 was a monumental task for the dream of having a model apartment that showcased how people with disabilities can live independently.

“Now they are raising $2.5 million,” said the former executive director of the Grand Rapids Center For Independent Living which became Disability Advocates of Kent County.
 

The $2.5 million is for the Disability Advocates’ new expanded headquarters which the organization celebrated the start of construction on Sept. 14. The 8,600-square-foot facility, located in the future Special Olympics Michigan facility, 160 68th St. SW., will including a new Occupational Therapy home accessibility center.

Kate Pew Wolters, the first executive director for Disability Advocates, said she remember the challenges of raising $40,000 for the organization’s first model apartment. (WKTV)

“The $40,00 we raised was for a model apartment which was a corner of our office,” Wolters said. “It is nothing like what is being planned now. It had a bed and a very small kitchen but it was designed so people with disabilities would learn about being independent.”

The new Occupational Therapy home accessibility center builds on the initial concept that Wolters and her staff had in the early 1980s. (Diability Advocates was founded in 1981). The center will be a place where people with disabilities explore ways to renovated and retrofit their homes so they can be more independent. It will serve as a “test space” showroom where persons with disabilities, their families healthcare, and design professional and building contractors can explore options for a safer home, including models and adaptive equipment, something that is not offered anywhere in the region.

Disabilities Advocates Executive Director David Bulkowski said the center will be a national model where people can come “hang out and try new things to make themselves more independent.”

“The Home Accessibility Center is a response to a demonstrated need,” said Disabilities Advocates Development Director Peggy Helsel. “Often people ask, ‘What does that mean?’ When we talk about universal design and home, we are giving people a real-life model home to experience what a universally-accessible space can look.”

Through corporate sponsors and private fundraising, Disability Advocates have raised $1.75 million of the $2.5 million for the project. The organization launched its public campaign for the remaining $750,000 on Sept. 14. Bulkowski noted that they have received a matching challenge grant of up to $50,000 from the Frey Foundation to help get things rolling.

Disability Advocates of Kent County’s new headquarters will inline the Occupational Therapy home center. (WKTV)

“Dreams can come true even from 36 years ago,” Wolters said. “I am very excited about this opportunity. We knew we needed to keep going until we got it done.”

Disability Advocates will be one of nine disability organizations occupying the former South Christian High School, which is currently being transformed into the largest Special Olympics trading and inclusion center in the world. Special Olympics launched its own public phase of capital campaign in July to raise $20 million for the retrofitting and construction of the 127,000-square-foot facility that was once the South Christian High School.

Wolverine Building Group is the general contractor with Disabilities Advocates allocating 40-percent of its construction budget on engaging with local minority-owned contractors which include DHE Plumbing, Monte Christo Electric, and Grand Rapids Fire Suppression. Mathison l Mathison Architects is the architect. A move-in date has been set for April 22.

Saturday’s Freedom Cruise marks 9/11, remembers those who have served

3-bottom, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, Veterans, , ,
Cars line up in Sparta for the annual Freedom Cruise Honor Ride. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Thom Antor is a busy man. It is fairly evident when calling his cell phone as the voicemail is full. But despite being busy, he returns every call.

“That was a long few minutes,” said the District 2 Kent County Commissioner with a laugh. It was 40 minutes ago that he said he would call back in a few.

It happens when you are organizing one of the area’s biggest events that honors veterans, this Saturday’s annual Freedom Cruise, which attracts thousands of classic cars, motorcycles, and military vehicles. The people come with one purpose, to honor those who have served.

“It is just an amazing thing to see all these cars and people line up along the route, honoring those who have served,” Antor said.

The event is a 30-mile route that takes participants through the northern portion of Kent County. The route starts in Sparta and then heads to Algoma Township. It continues to Comstock Park, making its way through Alpine Township and finally returning to Sparta.

 

“The drive goes through the Comstock schools where there will be veterans there from World War II, Vietnam and other wars,” Antor said. “The school has students there and the band really does an incredible job celebrating the veterans, especially as the cruise moves through.”

Leading off the Freedom Cruise are a couple of large sedans and a black bus that carries the Gold Star Families. A Gold Star Family, an honor that no-one wants, is an immediate family member or members of a fallen service member who died while serving in a time of conflict.

 

Before every Freedom Cruise Honor Ride, there is a ceremony to recognize a fall hero. The event takes place at 1:30 p.m. at the Sparta High School football field, 475 W. Spartan Drive. The ceremony recognizes a local Gold Star Family with a special portrait of their fallen service member. This year, the solider being recognized is Army Sergeant First Class Richard J. Herrema, who died in 2006 at the age of 27. His parents are Mary and Richard Herrema of Hudsonville. WKTV will be covering this year’s event and producing a show to air on WKTV at a later time.

The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes with the cruise leaving from the Sparta High School.

“The most important thing we want these families to know is that we will never forget,” Antor said. “It is a promise we make to those families and we have had families say this has really made a difference to them.

“They have been to programs offered by the military, counseling and other things, but what has really touched them has been the Freedom Cruise and to me that is far more important than writing checks to help veterans or helping to improve the quality of life.”

In fact, the Freedom Cruise is a fundraiser for the Finish the Mission Veteran Relief Fund, which offers support to area veterans by helping with home repairs, car repairs and other services.

 

“This all started with my dad,” Antor said. “He had gotten to a point where he could not live on his own and we did not have a lot of choices for him.”

A classic car makes its way through the Freedom Cruise. (Supplied)

Antor’s family had their father move into the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans and made the commitment that someone would be with him everyday while he was there.

“It was during that time that I started walking around the facility and seeing that there were some needs,” Antor said. “I talked to the director and he said what they really needed was help with the band shell, which had been a popular thing but was in need of repair.”

So Antor made the commitment to raise the funds for the band shell. He hosted the first Freedom Cruise in 2014.

“We raised enough money (around $70,000) to repair the bandshell along with provide some infrastructure and writing,” he said.

 

The popularity of the Cruise encouraged Antor to continue hosting the event, now in its eighth year. It also lead to the development of the Finish the Mission Veteran Relief Fund, which expanded it services to help serve as a support gap to veterans.

“If they need something, help with bills or repairs, then we provide a check to the organization that will be doing the work,” Antor said, adding that all veterans receiving assistance are first vetted to make sure they do not qualify for other existing programs before Finish the Mission steps in.

So because of the veterans — and especially the Gold Star Families — Antor does not mind being so busy that he cannot always get to his phone. That goes double this year as the Freedom Cruise falls on 9/11, a day the nation will be remembering and honoring those who died in the World Trade Tower and Pentagon attacks and died thwarting the hijacking of United Flight 93.

“We should always remember what they did,” Antor said. 

Veterans Council seeks nominations for three awards

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Senior Living, Volunteers, , ,
Harold Mast discusses the three awards that the United Veterans Council of Kent County are seeking nominations for. Deadline is Sept. 14.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Recently, the United Veterans Council of Kent County expanded its annual awards from one to three.

 

The organization will continue with its Veteran of the Year Award but has also added two new awards, Association Member of the Year and Raising Up Veterans, which is a non-veteran award.The Council is seeking nominations for these awards with the deadline being Sept. 14.

The purpose for the expansion, according to Harold Mast, who is serving as the UVCKC spokesperson for the awards, is to recognize and show appreciation for what veterans have done and are now doing outside of the service to their country.


“I think it is a very important thing for our community to recognize veterans,” Mast said. “Particularly today and in the past couple of weeks or last several weeks, recognizing what the military has done, what the military is going through and how much our citizens rely on the military for.”

The Veteran of the Year Award is presented to a veteran who is dedicated to helping veterans and goes beyond what is expected. It is not what the veteran did during their service but rather what they have done after that service. Mast said, who used the the 2019 award recipient as an example. Bob Green, a veteran living in Kentwood, has done a lot for AMVETS and has been instrumental in recognizing veterans, especially those in nursing homes, through pinning ceremonies.

The new Association Member of the Year Award is similar to the Veteran of the Year, but focuses on the Council’s associate group’s such as veteran organizations’ auxiliary groups. The Raising Up Veterans is for those non-veteran residents who help with programs and other veteran-related activities.

Mast said the Council puts out a call for nominees and then the member veteran organizations of the UVCKC nominate candidates who are then blind judge by a panel. The recipient of the award is announced at the Council’s Oct. 23 banquet.

All nominees must be a resident of Kent County and need to be nominated by a Council member organization. Mast said many of the council organizations are willing to work with any resident interested in nominating someone for an award. To nominate a person, Mast said he recommends residents visit the UVCKC website, www.UVCKC.org, where the nomination forms are available along with a list of member organizations. Residents may also contact Mast at hamast@comcst.net.

 

TheUnited Veterans Council has been serving Kent County for more than 70 years by hosting such events as the Veterans Day and Memorial Day parades, supporting Gold Star mothers, and erecting and maintaining the monuments in Veterans Park. The Council is formed from groups such s the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, Fleet Reserve Association, Marine Corps League, Order of the Purple Heart, and DAV, just to name a few. 

BISSELL Pet Foundation fights shelter overcrowding

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Cora, a one-eyed, 9.5-year-old dog was all to find her fur-ever home in the Empty the Shelters: Big Dog and Cat Crisis campaign. (Supplied)

By Brittany Schlacter
BISSELL Pet Foundation

More than 1,800 dogs and cats found forever homes over the course of six days through the emergency “Empty the Shelters: Big Dog & Cat Crisis” event with BISSELL Pet Foundation. The event was hosted in 97 shelters in 29 states. BISSELL Pet Foundation aided shelters experiencing overcrowding by sponsoring reduced fees for harder to place pets, including adult cats and large and senior dogs.

Approximately 808 adult cats and 997 large or senior dogs were adopted during the event hosted Aug. 16-22, 2021, including 33 cat and 49 dog “foster failures,” (when a foster family plans to adopt the pet) and a total of 1,887 animal lives were touched because of the effort.

Since Jan. 2021, BISSELL Pet Foundation has helped find homes for 12,427 pets and provided $927,100 in direct funding to the shelter partners through “Empty the Shelters.”

 

“With shelters struggling with overcrowding across the country, the adoptions through this emergency ‘Empty the Shelter’ have opened up space to help another 1,805 pets in need,” said Cathy Bissell, founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. “We thank our partner shelters for the incredible work they did to help these pets find families, and of course a heartfelt thank you to all of the people who chose adoption and gave these pets a second chance at life.”

While thousands of lives were saved, here are just a few notable adoption stories from throughout the country:

  • Cora, a one-eyed, 9.5-year-old dog in Cummings, GA, found a fantastic home to live out her golden years after four months in the care of Animal Ark Rescue.
  • A diagnosis of kidney disease didn’t stop Sassy, the 14-year-old calico from Carsonville, MI, from securing her forever home during Sanilac County Humane Society’s event.
  • Houston Humane Society adopted out one of their longest residents during this emergency Empty the Shelters. Shelby, a six-year-old dog, found her family after 150 days at the shelter.

The next “Empty the Shelters” event is scheduled for October. For more information on adopting or donating to “Empty the Shelters,” visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org/empty-the-shelters.

ArtPrize early: Yellow Ribbon sculpture, inspired by local veterans art project, to be unveiled at public event

Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, Veterans, WKTV Projects, , ,
  • Retired Chaplain John Hooglund, from Holland Home at Breton Woods, produced this work as part of veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • Veteran Jurgen Nitzsche produced this work as part of veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Kent County Veterans Services had planned an in-doors Yellow Ribbon Gala this week to unveil the selected works of more than 100 local veterans created during veteran art workshops in 2020 and 2021, and led by local artist Pamela Alderman. But pandemic concerns caused that to be canceled.

But Alderman will still be showing off selected works which inspired and are included as part of her Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize work at an event Saturday, Aug. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., behind Grand Valley State University’s L.V. Eberhard Center, on the Blue Bridge, in Grand Rapids. The program starts at 10:30 a.m.
 

The event will include Alderman’s Yellow Ribbon sculpture, made in collaboration with several veterans, as well as other individual art pieces made by veterans during the art workshops and also led by Alderman.

There will be live music performed by singer/songwriter and Navy veteran Drew Nelson. There will also be snacks and activities for kids, and county Veterans Services Officers on site to answer questions and set up future appointments for veterans and their families. Additionally the Veterans Services office will have a pop-up shop for making Kent County Veteran ID cards.

But the stars of the show will be the works of the veterans and how their works — and their stories — inspired Alderman’s work.

Pamela Alderman, the lead artist of the veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry, with her son, who is in her first year in the military. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)

“The community veteran ArtPrize work took two years to develop,” Alderman said to WKTV. “Over 100 veterans participated. Some families participated with three generations.”

About 14 veteran art workshops were held throughout the pandemic, some indoors and some outdoors in the Veterans Services parking lot. Some art supplies were event delivered door to door.

 

“The finished work (Alderman’s sculpture) showcases four Kent County veterans pieces, but on Saturday, we will highlight the work of over 100 veterans and family members, plus loved ones,” Alderman said.
 

The Saturday event will also highlight how Yellow Ribbon evolved into a bigger ArtPrize project with Michael Hyacinthe from [Has Heart] at Veterans Memorial Park. This ArtPrize venue, co-curated by Hyacinthe and Alderman, will host the work of 21 veteran entries along with the Yellow Ribbon work.

For Alderman, the two-year project was as much a passion as a project.

“I’m a veteran wife. My husband served as a Naval Officer for 20 years,” said. “I’m also a Blue Star Mother. My youngest son is training as a Navy pilot, and son-in-law also serves as Navy helicopter pilot.”

Artworks tell veteran’s stories

One of the works to be displayed, an abstract vision including a helicopter flying, was created by retired Chaplain John Hooglund from Holland Home at Breton Woods.

According to suppled material, Hooglund worked as an U.S. Army chaplain for 30 years. In Vietnam, he travelled by helicopter with two gunships. Stateside, he helped integrate church services across racial and gender lines. At the Pentagon, he worked with more than 1,400 chaplains — and assisted them in performing their most difficult duties.

“Once, when he walked into a bar wearing his chaplain’s uniform to deliver some sad news, the father burst into tears as soon as he saw him,” Alderman relayed to WKTV in an email. “Those kinds of experiences still follow John decades later.”

Another work, another abstract vision of a flag and a service member saluting, was created by Jurgen Nitzsche, who detailed his service in a statement relayed by Alderman.

“I served in the U.S. Army 394th station hospital unit for six years,” Nitzsche said. “In 1969, I was honorably discharged … During my time in service, I learned mechanical engineering and people skills, which helped me to become an engineer and plant manager. I believe the military is a great start in life for any young person. I’m 80 years old, and I am proud to have served in the United States Army, to help keep our country free and safe.”

Many local veterans groups helped

In addition to the support of Kent County Veterans Services, Alderman also thanked several local groups for their assistance with the workshops and with her project.

Among the groups supporting the project were 92 For 22 and the Kent County Veterans Treatment Court; Ottawa-North Kent Blue Star Mothers and Marne American Legion; Blue Star Mothers of South Kent and American Legion 305; Blue Star Mothers of Ionia, Kent and Montcalm and Ray I. Booth American Legion; Grand Rapids Home for Veterans; Holland Home; Finish the Mission; WINC: For All Women Veterans; and the GVSU Veterans Upward Bound Program.