Category Archives: Non-Profits

Honoring America’s veterans, Gold Star ceremony & Freedom Cruise at 5/3 ballpark Sunday

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By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org


The 2019 West Michigan Freedom Cruise and Gold Star Family Honor Ride — an event intended to to “Remember Gold Star Families, Support All Veterans and Never Forget!” — will return to Fifth Third Ball Park in Comstock Park Sunday, Sept. 22.


This year, the annual event will honor fallen soldier U.S. Army Sgt. Chad J. Vollmer, of Grand Rapids, who while serving with the Army 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry, was killed in action in Iraq on Dec. 23, 2006.


Each year, the event, this year co-sponsored by West Michigan Veterans Coalition, honors a family with a ceremony unveiling a specially commissioned portrait of “their fallen hero” and then escorts the Gold Star Family (the family of a military man or woman killed in defense of the United States) and the portrait on an honor cruise.


The free-to-the-public Freedom Cruise and Gold Star Family Honor Ride event will begin at the ball park, 4500 West River Drive NE, with gates opening at 11 a.m., the Fallen Soldier Ceremony beginning at 2 p.m., and the Freedom Cruise beginning at 3 (to 3:15) p.m. and ending back at the ball park after a 25-mile motorcycle and classic car ride to Sparta.


The Stars & Stripes Cars & Bikes Freedom Cruise Honor Ride online pre-registration closes Friday, Sept. 20, at 8 a.m., with on-site Honor Ride registration at Fifth Third Ball Park on Sunday, Sept. 22, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.


According to event organizers, including principal organizer Tom Antor and Capt. Paul J. Ryan, US Navy Reserve (Retired) and board member of the West Michigan Veterans Coalition, there will be many activities in addition to the ceremony and the ride.


There is a classic car and motorcycle show with 1,000 plus vehicles anticipated. An additional feature this year will be a “Veterans and Family Resource Fair” sponsored by the West Michigan Veterans’ Coalition.  The resource fair providers will include organizations that assist veterans and their families in areas including housing, barriers to employment, legal issues, issues affecting female veterans, mental health, spiritual well-being/social support and transportation.


The West Michigan Veterans Coalition, according to supplied information, is a collaboration among local military-friendly organizations that provide support, information, and resources to veterans and their families, employers, and other organizations throughout West Michigan. It’s mission “is to improve the lives of veterans, their families, and anyone who served in the Armed Forces by connecting them to all available services and resources throughout West Michigan.

 
For more information and registration information visit the Freedom Cruise website at freedomcruisegr.com.

Cat of the week: Davina

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Davina

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On Jan. 31, 2019, Dr. Jen received an email from Julie S. who befriended a cat that folks up the block from her dumped—and just as one of our nasty winter storms was blowing in. She was half-starved, shuddering and shivering and sporting a healing bite wound. Julie was kind enough to bring the kitty in out of the cold, but she wasn’t in a position to keep her, so she reached out to us. We were completely full and starting an intake waiting list, so Julie offered to house the kitty and get her the appropriate medical care in the meantime.


It took 2-1/2 months until we were able to open our doors, but by the time this 2-1/2 year old arrived (born in the fall of 2016), her caretaker was able to offer excellent insight on her personality, likes and dislikes:


“I have temporarily nicknamed her ‘Lady LongSpine’ because she stretches out soooo long when I hold her; I’m sure she will accept a name change easily. She likes being inside of a house, not outside. She prefers to explore space slowly and carefully, traveling around the edges of a room, pausing to check out the area; she tends to hide out under furniture until she feels safe enough to explore more openly. She likes to be where people are and once she has made their acquaintance, she enjoys the attention—in particular, she is fond of being stroked and cuddled like a baby. She’s a vocal girl, purring and talking to you quite a bit, letting you know if she is thirsty or hungry (again, like a baby). If she is in the mood for your attention or thinks it is time you tidied up her litter box, you will know it. She really likes to play with ‘da bird’ toy that is a bunch of feathers attached to a stick—I could swing that around for hours; she may be partial to stalking toys and chasing them around given her enthusiasm for this type of activity.


“Go easy on the nip, as she can get quite wild! She will be OK with a gentle dog that is slowly and properly introduced, and also has places to go to that a pup can’t reach. She’d also be alright with kids if they too are gentle, understand that she is timid at first and has had some hard times, and let her approach them until she gets to know them better. She may get along with other cats, but they would need a ‘getting to know you’ period of gradual adjustment. She will try to be the top cat in a home, so placement in a house of her own would suit her best; when she was on the streets she literally had to fight with other cats for food, and I believe she has a long memory of pain endured and a fear of dealing with felines she saw only as foes. Overall, she is very sweet and extremely cute—I wish I could keep her myself.”


Armed with this very detailed, helpful information, we set out to make Davina’s transition as smooth as possible, but first she needed Dr. Jen’s pre-program work-up to insure she was healthy; it was at that time Dr. Jen discovered that the bite wound Davina had suffered transmitted the feline leukemia virus. Sadly, this meant that she would not be going to Crash’s as planned, but thankfully she was going to become a resident of Big Sid’s, our sanctuary for virally infected kitties.

Easy on the ‘nip there, kitty. Wait! This is the resident imposter, Donut. See what happens when you succumb to the ‘nip?

After a few days of loving her up at the clinic, we sent her down to settle in. At the writing of her bio a month after her arrival, here are the insights the cat care team has about our lovely little gray-and-white girl:


“Davina—she was very shy when she first arrived but is slowly starting to be a little more social. She loves being up high on a tall cabinet until she sees people enter the room, then she’s right there asking for her well-deserved attention. She LOVES her wet food, treats, and back scratches.  She’s still a bit wiggly when picked up, but will sit in your lap once you sit down. She does have a feisty side to her towards the other cats, though she’s not mean or aggressive—just a girl who needs her space. She has gotten a little more brave and has been spending a lot more of her time on the windowsill watching the birds and squirrels. She would do best with only one other cat, or as the only cat. Dogs are probably too much for her.”


We couldn’t agree more with their assessment of this darling little lady, and since the virus is transmissible AND she really would like to be the queen of her very own castle, it will be our goal to secure for her the type of home life she has long been dreaming—and deserving— of.

More about Davina:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Gray & White
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • Prefers to be an only cat

Want to adopt Davina Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.



Cat of the week: Podrick

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Sir Podrick awaits his next abode

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On July 1st, 2019, south-side stray savior, Sandi D. came across this friendly fella hanging around one of her feral colonies on Putnam SW. She didn’t have room to take him in but couldn’t let her chance slip away, so she plopped him in to a travel carrier and took him back to her crowded but cozy home. He proceeded to vomit all morning, so she brought him to see Dr. Jen’s colleague for an anti-nausea injection and oral meds for very soft, stinky stool.


A few days later she took him in to C-SNIP for his neutering, where they discovered an old tail injury that caused his appendage to have a permanent bump distally, close to the tip. When Dr. Jen finally saw him on the 8th for his official work-up, he tested positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus); no big surprise, considering he was intact for the first 3 years of his life (born in the summer of 2016).


Other than minor stud tail and moderate gingivitis, he appeared quite healthy overall, but over the course of the next several weeks at our sanctuary, he developed a painful, bilateral case of conjunctivitis that wasn’t responding to a slew of different topical medications. After examining him again a month after his arrival, it was clear he needed steroids systemically in hopes of counteracting the inflammation that was causing him significant pain. More than likely it is viral in nature, too; it’s not caused by FIV but feline herpes, which is ubiquitous in stray cat populations, most often stemming from infection during kittenhood.


Moving forward, he may need some sort of long-term medication—either topically, orally or by injection—to manage this condition, but he takes his meds like a champ, so there shouldn’t be an issue on the receiving end.


A few weeks into his stay with us at Big Sid’s, our cat care manager noted the following:


“Podrick has really settled well despite his eye problems, intermittent fevers and just feeling terrible. He’s learning that human affection isn’t so bad after all, after being quite tense both at the clinic and upon arrival. He lets out the occasional grumble or hiss when being picked up but will come looking for human attention on his own. He prefers to be tucked away, sleeping in a cubby to being out in the open, but I blame that on just not feeling well lately. He’s an adorable guy, who I feel in time will become playful and start hanging out with the other cats. He would do best in a home with older kids that can provide him with lots of attention and playtime, while also being respectful to his space. I certainly wouldn’t call him aggressive but he does have his reservations on being held. Dogs are a possibility as he’s not real timid.”


As we expected, his (and our) primary concern was to get him feeling better, and as he did so, he became more comfortable in his surroundings—maybe TOO comfy.


Since Pod isn’t a biter, there is minimal risk of transmitting FIV to another kitty, unless tempers flare and fighting ensues. He is so handsome, especially now that he can see all that is going on around him clearly AND understands that indoor life has benefits he wasn’t previously aware of. His life has been rough thus far, and now that he has turned a corner and is fitting in beautifully, we are going to do our darndest to find him the type of home he may have only dreamed was possible.

More about Podrick:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Tabby (Tiger Striped)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Large
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats

Want to adopt Podrick? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.




For Fountain Streeters, church means more than simply Sunday morning sermons

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Fountain Street Church, with public art across the street. (William Thompson)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

The Fountain Street Church community has been honoring its past and looking to its future during its 150th anniversary year, and its collective memory is deep with history and tradition.

But if you ask individual members — those who attend Sunday for its more traditional Sanctuary Service in the awesome and history sanctuary, or its it very non-traditional Chapel Service in its humble but equally historic chapel, or those who are at Fountain Street for the multitude of activities and groups throughout the rest of the week — it is the individual memories that often stand out.

WKTV asked three Fountain Streeters what their most cherished memories were, and the answers ranged from a special prom for youth who do not fit into the “straight” prom scene, to a woman’s group focused on community outreach, to the smiles on the faces of children reenacting the Christmas Story.

If that does not tell the story of the spectrum of people at Fountain Street, nothing will.

Fountain Streeter Todd Johnson (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“The thing I remember, that means the most to me, is when we instituted the Family Christmas Pageant, on Christmas Eve,” said Todd Johnson, co-chair of the church’s 150th Celebration committee. “We’d been holding an 8 o’clock and and 11 o’clock service, but for many of us with children that was too late for them. They’d fall asleep. So we started a 5 o’clock service and it was just great.

“For the kids, we basically reenact the Christmas story. We have Mary and Joseph, and someone reads the story, and the innkeeper and the kings and the angels and the shepherds. The kids would participate in this wonderful service. It would culminate with each kid taking a little candle, a 4-inch candle, they’d light it and they’d put it in the front of the chancel.

“It was just beautiful,” he said, fighting back tears of beautiful memories. “They’d turn the lights out and we’d all sing ‘Silent Night’. It is just a beautiful service.”

Memories, and lifelong friends, are also made outside the church.

One of the many community outreach activities of the church, which has members and attendees all across West Michigan, are having Districts, geographical divisions with district leaders who work with fellow Fountain Streeters on activities, gatherings and projects — and, sometimes, personal needs.

Fountain Streeter Judy Botts. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“I’ve been a District leader for like 14, 15 years,” said Judy Botts, a coordinator of the Fountain Street Church 150th Anniversary Grand Celebration Street Party. “It started off being a group of 14 or 15 of us, and over the years we are down to about five people. But we come together once a month and our purpose is to help people within our geographic district that we’ve been assigned to, in terms of any care services they have, to involve people in social action kinds of things, and just plan fun things within our districts so that people can get to know each other better, to make stronger connections.

“That is what makes the church, the connections that you have,” she said. “There is long term friendships that have been established here. … That is part of what a church is about.”

Minister’s has many special memories, but …

Even the senior minister of Fountain Street, W. Frederick Wooden, a man whose efforts and accomplishments are too long to list, will — if pressed — pick one memory that stands out.

“There are too many wonderful moments. That is what keeps a clergy person going,” Wooden said. “It is the moments of real meaning and power, and they do come.

“But the one I’ll pick, because it is different from the others, is the Fountain Club meetings of our high school (age) youth. Seven years ago, maybe upwards of 10, we had the idea that there were kids their age in high schools around the area that could not go to their prom because they did not identify as ‘straight’. And if they went as themselves, they would be ridiculed, bullied or harassed.

Fountain Street Church front with Gay Pride flag. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“And they (the club), they came up with the idea that we should host a prom for all those who did not feel welcomed at their prom. … Every year since, we have had a dance for LGBTQ kids — and their friends, it is not just for LGBTQ kids but everybody else. … They come in all shapes and sizes and colors … and they are just having the best of time in the world.

“There is nothing that makes you feel more hopeful about the future,” he said. “If this is what America is going to look like, I am all for it.”

WKTV in Focus podcast discusses anti-discrimination public policies, business advantages

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WKTV Journal In Focus’s podcast on the anti-discrimination public policies featured Kentwood City Commissioner and community advocate Emily Bridson, at right, along with Patti Caudill, manager of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion for the City of Grand Rapids, and Skot Welch of Global Bridgebuilders. The program is hosted by WKTV’s Ken Norris, left. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal’s In Focus series of podcasts, we discuss the anti-discrimination public policies — a timely topic as the City of Grand Rapids City Commission just this last passed a Human Rights Ordnance which will be the basis of the formation of future public policies.

Visiting our studios, each with unique perspectives on the subject, are Kentwood City Commissioner and community advocate Emily Bridson; Patti Caudill, manager of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion for the City of Grand Rapids; and Skot Welch of Global Bridgebuilders which, according to its website, has the “core belief that inclusion is a business discipline.”

For a link to the ‘Anti-discrimination Policies” audio podcast, click here; for a link to the episode’s interview video, click here and scan down the list to the Sept. 5 In Focus podcast. (If you’d like to give us some feedback on our special In Focus podcasts, please contact Ken Norris at ken@wktv.org.)

Regular episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times).

Cat of the week: Clawdette

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She’s large, in charge — and the consummate companion

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


We were contacted in early July by this gorgeous girl’s owners (who had adopted her back in April of 2013) whose complaint was that she had been leaving pee spots all around their house since they brought her home, that they had tried everything to curb this activity, and that they simply couldn’t deal with it anymore. It should be stated that there was another cat in the household who could have been the culprit.


At Crash’s Landing, we strive to match adopters with a cat who will be a life-long family member. We realize that sometimes things just do not work out as anticipated, and our policy is to gladly take any Crash cat back, any time.


Such was the case with Clawdette. Dr. Jen responded to the owners asking that all previous medical records be forwarded in advance of Clawdette’s return. Unfortunately, the owners had never taken Clawdette to be seen for her presumed urinary issues and, indeed, had taken her only once to be seen by a vet, back in 2014.


When Clawdette arrived at the clinic, Dr. Jen discovered that the poor girl was crawling with fleas, which had prompted her to over-groom to try to control the flea problem. This in turn caused a secondary skin infection. In addition, Clawdette was in dire need of dental work and extractions; her lab work reflected all that was wrong with her, and quite a few drugs and treatments were needed to correct the problems that neglect had caused.


Thankfully Clawdette, our pudgy princess who was born in the fall of 2011, bounced back as if nothing had ever happened, and even though she had been gone for over 6 years, she was as welcoming and accepting of us as if she had never left.


However, she isn’t used to being surrounded by so many other cats, and consequently she isn’t afraid to vocalize her opinions about her new roomies. Because she is a bit of a darling little diva (well, ok big diva, as she weighs in at almost 12#), we would like to find her an indoor home of her very own. She spends most of her days lounging around, laying belly up and patiently waiting for a tummy rub. She has shown us her playful side as well, but attention is what she craves most, and we are more than happy to give it to her.


We have had absolutely no issues with any sort of aberrant litter box habits; if a cat is going to act up and piddle outside of the box, a shelter/multiple cat situation is where this type of behavior would likely surface. Clawdette had been set up by her former housemate.


Clawdette has been nothing short of perfect since she returned. We can’t help but think that if she were the problem in her former home, circumstances surrounding her were causative, but in all reality, none of us who have spent time with her believe that she was naughty by nature. She is such a lovely cat—everyone who meets her is simply smitten with her—that there is no doubt that she is going to make the consummate companion for someone.

More about Clawdette:

  • Tabby & Domestic Short Hair Mix
  • White, Tabby (Tiger Striped)
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Extra Large
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • Prefers a home without other cats

Want to adopt Clawdette? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

World Affairs Council begins 70th year with ‘Strategic International Relationships’ series

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Then U.S. Secretary of Defense Ash Carter and Vietnamese Minister General Phung Quang Thanh sign a joint statement after a 2015 meeting at the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense in Hanoi, Vietnam. (DoD/Glenn Fawcett)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

If you look in the history books, international relations between the United States and the countries of Vietnam, Germany and Japan have had dark periods of political axis when American was at war with each.

But if you look at modern international and strategic relationship, all three are among America’s most important economic partners and military allies in the world.

So it is fitting that the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan (WACWM) begins its 70th year of with a fall series titled “Global 2020: Three Strategic International Relationships”, where America’s relationship with Vietnam, Germany and Japan will each be focused on for a night.

The three evening presentations — Vietnam on Sept. 20, Germany on Oct. 8 and Japan on Oct. 29 — are scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Donnelly Center on the campus of Aquinas College.

“These three countries — Vietnam, Germany and Japan —all have obviously complicated historical relationships with the U.S.,” Michael Van Denend, WACWM executive director, said in supplied material. “But no one would deny the strategic importance of all three nations to U.S. foreign policy and trade today. We’re interested in discussing how the countries are currently collaborating.”

On Wednesday, Sept. 25, Ed Martini, associate provost at Western Michigan University and director of the school’s Extended University Programs, will speak on “Vietnam, the United States, and the Long Road to Peace.” Martini, a professor of history, has centered his research on Vietnam, and he is the author of “Agent Orange: History, Science, and the Politics of Uncertainty”.

Germany is the focus on Tuesday, Oct. 8, as the Consul General for Germany in the Midwest, Wolfgang Moessinger presents “Wunderbar Together: Germany and the U.S.” Consul Moessinger began his work in the Chicago Consulate this summer, after having served in numerous countries for the German government since 1991, including Senegal, Finland, Russia, Scotland, Azerbaijan, and Ukraine.

To close out the fall series, Japanese Consul General Tsutomu Nakagawa, the country’s chief representative in the Midwest and based in Detroit, will lead a conversation on “The Future of Japanese-U.S. Relations” on Tuesday, Oct. 29. Consul Nakagawa has served in India, Thailand and the Middle East, and has also been a senior advisor to the Japanese government for international trade policy.

All three presentations are open to the general public for a $10 fee and additional information is available at worldmichigan.org/fall2019 or by calling 616-776-1721. The Aquinas College Donnley Center is located at 157 Woodland Lane S.E., Grand Rapids. Free parking is available at the center.

 
The World Affairs Council of Western Michigan is located at 1700 Fulton Street E., Grand Rapids, For more information visit worldmichigan.org .

Cat of the week: Lyanna

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The perfect mix of sweet and sassy — that’s Lyanna

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Gratiot Area Animals in Need (G.A.I.N.) contacted us in early July of 2019 in hopes of us being able to accommodate a FIV+ girl they had in their foster program. Although she had been with them since April, she wasn’t tested until her spay appointment in June, and when her viral status was discovered, they were in need of locating a shelter, such as ours, that caters to their special status. The only way the virus can be transmitted is through bite wounds, so at some point she was injured by another cat.


Lyanna hasn’t a mean bone in her lovely three-year-old body (born in the summer of 2016); in fact, she has proven to be one of our most outgoing, gregarious girls. In the words of our volunteers:


“Lyanna definitely goes against the “torti rules” by being the sweetest little thing. She enjoys gazing through the French doors to the lobby just waiting for one of the volunteers to pop in, scoop her up, and give her the attention she adores so much. She loves to follow us around and watch everything that is going on. I’ve seen her sass a few of the bigger boys and stand her ground when challenged, but she is not at all physically aggressive. She’d make the perfect companion for a home with kids, maybe a smaller dog, (she was fostered with dogs) and access to plenty of playtime. I’d worry a little about her trying to get outside because she does try her darnedest to sneak in to the lobby on occasion, so that should be taken into consideration.”

That. Face.

“Lyanna is the perfect mix of sweet and sassy. She loves people, but doesn’t have a ton of time to be held or sit in laps, as there is just too much to do! She is very playful and loves to chase bell toys around. She will sometimes play with other cats, but other times she wants nothing to do with them. She has one of the biggest appetites of all our residents—probably to fuel her high level of energy!”


We firmly believe that being FIV+ is not going to hinder her from finding a home as her charming personality, pawsitively stunning looks, and non-torti temperament (they are typically quite opinionated and, shall we say, less than agreeable) make her an awesome candidate for companionship. A word of friendly advice: don’t miss out on the chance to make lovely Lyanna yours!

More about Lyanna:

  • Tortoiseshell & Domestic Short Hair Mix
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • FIV+
  • Spayed
  • Good in a home with other cats, dogs, children

Want to adopt Lyanna? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Cat of the week: Quiet Ann

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Quiet Ann excels at being demure

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On March 2nd and again on March 17th, we had what we believe to be an entire family of terrified cats dumped off in carriers. ‘The Shy Seven’ were the first to arrive and then three more joined us, rounding things out to ‘The Timid Ten’.


Needless to say it was a HUGE ordeal for all involved, from the stunned volunteers who kept pulling cat after cat out of cramped carriers, to the traumatized kitties who had no idea what was going on, and finally to Dr. Jen, who spent the greater part of two weekends at the clinic getting them program-ready. The latter was no small feat, as every single cat (yup, all 10 of them) were intact; 4 of the 5 girls were pregnant, and all 10 were clearly out of their element and having major trust issues.


Adding various medical issues to the mix, like fleas and a variety of internal parasites, dental disease and chronic herpes virus—suffice it to say that we ended up having a heaping handful of kitties who needed a great deal of help, not only physically but probably more importantly, mentally.


It was clear from the onset that the family had been neglected and lacking human contact for quite some time given their poor body condition, painfully long nails, and a shyness that went beyond anything we have seen before—and we have seen a lot. We have no idea where they came from, or why someone thought it was a good idea to displace them as they did without regard for our space or financial capabilities, but Dr. Jen believes a kindhearted, elderly person owned them and, for whatever reason, let them breed and multiply, running rampant in the house and growing wilder and more wary as the days wore on. This person could have then passed away (or moved away) and the cats were left to fend for themselves until a family member (or landlord) came in and booted the entire lot of them out—and onto our doorstep.

Plays well with others

Regardless, we’d like to think they were loved by someone at some point, as this helps us believe in the goodness of people, enough so as to offset the stupidity and callousness of others.


Let’s just say that for the most part, the journey we have all been on together is ever evolving—and it is going to be a long road full of bumps, setbacks and yes, triumphs along the way. It is now a few months since the arrival of this family, and we are just now able to share their stories, as it has taken a great deal of time (and patience) to get to this point.


Although we can’t verify their twisted family tree, Dr. Jen believes they were all born in late 2016. In any case, we have learned who is independent, who absolutely needs to be part of a duo (or trio), and who is going to be our most challenging and in need of the most convincing that we are good and that we will do no harm.


Quiet Ann is blossoming before our eyes, becoming much more accepting of being petted, but we’re still not able to physically pick her up for more than a few minutes, or panic ensues. She is, as her name states, a soft-spoken (meowing) little lady who is as stunning as she is sweet. She’d pair up well with Roller who needs to go with another one of the 10 who will complement him nicely as the more self-assured dame of the duo.


Potential adopters should be aware that it will more than likely be a tough transition for any of them, but once they settle in, get themselves familiarized with their new surroundings, and develop a new routine, they are going to be amazing cats. They are 100% worth the effort, but they will require more patience, time and energy than your average shelter cat.


Honestly though, we feel each and every one of our cats is above average, especially this family, who have come so far since they day they were dumped on our doorstep. Their transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.


We want to reiterate that at our free-roaming facility, cats like these have all the time in the world to acclimate and adjust—at a snail’s pace if that is what is necessary. We have no cages, no time limits, no rules or regulations—each individual cat gets to stretch his legs at his own speed; each kitty gets to spread her furry little wings and fly when she is ready to leave the nest. We offer a peaceful, secure environment to each and every cat in our care as long as they need it—and us. Slow and steady wins the race, and we firmly believe that with love, all things are possible; we surely can see endless possibilities and bright futures full of promise for this family of ours.


To help potential adopters see what we do, if you are interested in meeting one or more of the family members, we’ll set up special ‘quiet times’ for you to come visit them. They really thrive in calm surroundings, so we want to showcase them at their best!

More about Quiet Ann:

  • Domestic Medium Hair & Domestic Short Hair Mix
  • Buff/Tan/Fawn; Tabby (Gray/Blue/Silver)
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • Good in a home with other cats; no children

Want to adopt Quiet Ann? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Cat of the week: Axil

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What a ham

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


We cannot begin to express our intense dislike for non-breakaway collars placed on cats who are allowed to go outside; plain and simple—they are NOT safe, and in Axil’s case, wearing one became traumatic.


We have no idea just how long he had been wandering around in a neighborhood nearby Crash’s with just such a collar digging into the tender flesh of his right armpit, unable to free himself from the shackle that had rubbed his skin raw until it embedded itself deep within the tissue since it had no other place to go. We also have no idea how he finally broke free—if a kindhearted person cut it off and cut him loose—but by the time he was rescued in late June of 2018, the delicate and dainty boy (born in June of 2014) was still suffering the consequences of that dreaded collar.


Sue realized he had a wound on the outside of his arm, but she had no idea just how damaged, raw and angry the skin was medially; it was not a pretty sight to see on such a pretty guy.


Axillary wounds such as his are very difficult to successfully treat, as healing is delayed drastically when a moist environment is present. Add in the fact that bacteria loves pockets such as armpits AND that it is an almost impossible area to bandage, and well, Dr. Jen had her work cut out for her.


For the first four weeks his skin was treated topically, first with therapeutic honey, then Silvadene cream, and although some healing had taken place, Dr. Jen had to go in and surgically debride excessive granulation tissue that his body formed in trying to heal itself. Dr. Jen then used silver nitrate to cauterize the open wound in hopes of stimulating healing and resumed treating kitty topically.


However, in August, Dr. Jen had resolved herself to the fact that nothing topical was going to cut it, and she ended up taking Axil to surgery to amputate the foreleg in order to remove the affected skin and delicately close the wound defect without causing too much tension.


When all was said and done, and Axil had spent several days at Dr. Jen’s home recuperating, one of our volunteers offered to foster him in order to keep a close eye on him; we were concerned he would overdo it at our free-roaming facility and wanted to give him ample time to fully heal.

Loves to lounge

Jan worked diligently for the next 6 months to slowly acclimate Axil into her furry fold, but no matter what she tried, our feisty little tripod took too much delight in terrorizing two of her shy cats to the point they had to be separated. It was with a heavy heart that she decided it was best for her household to return him to Crash’s, and although it broke her heart, she does get to visit him every week on her shift.


We were apprehensive as to how Axil would respond to now being a ‘big fish in a little pond’, but he has settled in quite nicely; in fact Tully, one of our biggest sweethearts is making it his personal goal to be Axil’s BFF, whether he likes it or not. Ideally we want to find Axil a home where he is the only cat, or at least have a buddy that will stand up to him when he gets a bit big for his beautiful britches!


In the meantime we are going to work with him on his manners and delight in seeing him hop around our place with ease and grace.

More about Axil:

  • Domestic Medium Hair
  • Black
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Prefers a home without other cats.

Want to adopt Axil? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Cat of the week: Slink

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Slink is slowly overcoming his shyness

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Slink, born in the spring of 2011, was aptly named by his persistent, pint-sized rescuer, none other than Sandi D. Seems this elusive and evasive guy preferred to avoid all human contact and sneak around the feral feeding station Sandi supplied rather than risk getting snagged and snipped; having been intact well into his senior citizenhood, we guess we really can’t blame him.


Not one to shy away from a challenge, Sandi laid down the law and told him how things were gonna go, and finally, after weeks of setting her trap, Slink allowed himself to be caught. A week after his trip to CSNIP to remove his manhood in late April, Sandi brought him in to see Dr. Jen as he wasn’t feeling well; as it turns out his neuter site had abscessed, he was running a fever and his white blood cell count was astronomically high.


To top things off, he had a fractured tooth with root retention that was causing him oral pain, major stud tail and was matted and scabby, all from living a rough life out on the mean city streets. And of course, he tested a very strong positive for FIV, a virus transmitted primarily from cat to cat by fighting, which it appeared he had done his fair share of.


Poor old guy. We didn’t have any room at our sanctuary at that time so, Sandi took Slink on home after Dr. Jen tended to his variety of medical needs and let him recover in the cozy confines of her makeshift living room shelter. A week later, he had healed beautifully, so Dr. Jen was able to vaccinate him, and in early June he came back out to see the good doc for his follow-up test, booster vaccines and a long overdue bath and brush out; the hair Dr. Jen removed from him could have made an entirely new cat!


Slink may have been a bit bald when he finally made it down to Big Sid’s, but he was definitely beautiful. His large jowls (fat-headed status comes form being intact and hormonal) had shrunk down nicely, his tail was no longer greasy and he had put on good weight. Our solid, sturdy boy was ready to join the ranks and become a resident.


However, over the next few weeks it was obvious that his mouth was giving him more trouble, as can be very common with FIV+ kitties, so Dr. Jen wasn’t surprised when she had to remove all of his teeth, with the exception of his canines, in late June. Although this sounds shocking, in all honesty we have a sizable population of cats that have very few, or in some case NO teeth, and once that source of chronic pain and inflammation is gone, these cats pork right on out as it is no longer problematic to eat.


Sure Slink may meow with a bit of a lisp, but he is happy and much healthier now! 


We asked our shelter director and manager to weigh in on his personality thus far to give everyone an idea of what type of cat he is:


“Slink is slowly but surely coming out of his shell. He was so terrified that he hid under a bed for the first week or so, only coming out when Sandi would come and visit him. He now hangs out in a cubby or on top of the cat walk but will explore the shelter when it’s quiet. If you approach him slowly, he will let you pet him and really enjoys it. He is very passionate about canned food and treats! I would like to see him have a buddy or two in his home to give him confidence and show him how great it is to be an indoor cat.”


“In the past couple of weeks, Slink has gone from cowering behind a bed in a cage to hanging out with us in the meds room. Sandi visited him several times in the first few days, and she must have had a talk with him because suddenly he’s out and about looking for attention. He is not one bit aggressive but a little shy, so we’ve gone a little slower on handling him. We did discover he actually enjoys being brushed — he will be silky soft and shiny in no time. He’ll need a buddy or two to live with to help boost his confidence. I’m going to say dogs and small kids may be a bit too much for him.”


As Slink comes out of his shell more and more each day, we have to smile with pride. He is going to make a fabulous friend for someone who can provide a mellow, quiet life for him, one where he can lounge lazily in a sunbeam after filling his tummy, soaking up the warmth of the type of home he had only been able to dream of for far too long.

More about Slink:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Gray/Blue/Silver
  • Senior
  • Male
  • Large
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • FIV+
  • Good in a home with other cats, no children or dogs

Want to adopt Slink? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Kent County’s successful courthouse therapy dogs coming to Wyoming’s district court

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Kent County 17th Circuit Court Judge Kathleen Feeney, with one of the West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc. dogs and handler, at City of Wyoming’s 62-A District Court. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Kai and Bentley, a German Shepard and a Goldendoodle, respectively, were friendly but not very talkative as they were introducing themselves around City of Wyoming’s 62-A District Court earlier this summer as part of Kent County’s Courthouse Therapy Dog Program pending expansion.

That’s okay, though, it’s sort of what they are trained to do as therapy dogs: to present a smiling dog face, a scratch-able ear, and a transferable sense of calmness to humans in stressful situations.

And, anyway, as WKTV hung out with Kai and Bentley and several of their 4-legged friends while the dogs prepared to start duty in Wyoming, their West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc. handlers and Kent County 17th Circuit Court Judge Kathleen Feeney — a driving force behind the program — had plenty to say on the dog’s behalf.

“They have been going to the different courthouses, getting used to the victim witness units, and in the courtrooms,” Judge Feeney said to WKTV in late June. “So they could be available for children who are victims of crime … and for vulnerable adults, who are also preyed upon, unfortunately, in criminal circumstances.

“We work them (the dogs) in two-hour shifts because that is about all they can handle because, believe it or not, they absorb a lot of the stress the kids are under.”

As of last week, Judge Feeney said several dogs have been “trained for Wyoming, Walker and Grandville (courts), as well as the 63rd and 61st District courts,” but have not yet started working in Wyoming.

Several of the West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc. dogs and handlers at City of Wyoming’s 62-A District Court. (WKTV)

In late 2018, Kent County’s Courthouse Therapy Dog Program began a trial effort in Judge Feeney’s court, along with the 61st and 63rd District Courts in Kent County. The program is a joint effort of Judge Feeney, Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker and his office, as well as with West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc.

“Prosecutor Chris Becker and I had talked about having dogs brought into the courthouse for a couple years now, and when we started hearing about more and more courts in Michigan having dogs coming into the courthouse, courthouse dogs … We thought, OK, we need to start looking into this more, and he was very open to it,” she said.

Maybe not so incidentally, Judge Feeney has a personal connection to therapy dogs and to the local therapy dog group.

Kent County Circuit Court Family Division Judge Kathleen A. Feeney. (Supplied)

“My now four-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, Rosie, is a West Michigan Therapy dog,” she said. “So we do dog therapy, in addition to the 400 other people who belong to this organization throughout West Michigan. And so I thought, okay, this is perfect. Let’s see if we can’t bring West Michigan Therapy Dogs into the prosecutor’s office and the courts.”

And the trial program, less than a year old, is already proving its success.

“The evolution is how people are valuing it, Judge Feeney said. “At first we only got a couple calls from victims or victim advocates … for dogs, but all of a sudden, they started seeing how positive it was for the victims, for the families, who are also very stressed and concerned about what is going on. Now there are a lot more requests.”

So what sort of dogs work well as therapy dogs? Just how do they do their jobs? Kai and Bentley let their handlers tell us.

Kai. (WKTV)

Kai’s “been doing therapy work for two years. He’s an 8-year-old dog and he’s been a court dog since October (2018),” Mary Hovingh said to WKTV. His “personality is calm, sweet, and in his case, he likes kids. Everything he does as a therapy dog is with children, no adults.

“I read the child. If the child does not want to touch the dog, they can sit near the dog, play games. If they want to pet the dog, they can. I’ve had kids show him pictures, they’ll read a book and show him a picture. And he will, oddly, look at the pictures.”

Mary Hovingh. (WKTV)

Hovingh explained that in addition to working in courts, “my dog goes to schools, he’s up to eight or nine different schools now, during the school year. And he does libraries. About a third of his people, the children who read to him, are special needs kids. He has ridiculous amounts of patience for children.”

Three-year-old Bentley, according to handler Val Bares, has a similar demeanor and work ethic.

Bentley. (WKTV)

“What traits make a good therapy dog?” she repeated a question from WKTV. “Mostly you look at the personality, you want the dog to be friendly with people. There are people dogs and there are dog dogs, and you want a people dog, one that loves to be petted. Their temperament is key. You want them to be calm.”

Bentley and Bares have been together since he was a puppy, and they work together in hospitals, a burn unit camp and at an assisted living center, she said. And she would not trade her work with Bentley for anything.

“I don’t know where it is more rewarding, for him or for me,” she said. “ Their intuition to people that are hurting or that are sad, is just unbelievable. It is such a blessing to be able to do this with him, in this program.”

Val Bares. (WKTV

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know — weekend edition

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By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“It always helps to have people we love beside us when we have to do difficult things in life.”

From The World According to Mister Rogers (p. 45).
WKTV file photo

Get to know your neighbor, Aug. 6

Started in 1984, National Night Out has evolved to neighborhoods hosting block parties, festival, parades, cookouts and other community events with safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personal, exhibits and much more. More here.

Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

How about doing some daytripping?

Be a fake tourist for a day. Go to local museums, parks, festival events or even the town historical sites and city hall. You might be amazed about how much local history sits buried in these locations that most people don’t know a lot about. Go here for more day trip ideas.

Circle Aug. 8th on your calendar

Comedy-drama, Superior Donuts by Tony® Award- and Pulitzer Prize–winning author Tracy Letts, explores the challenges of embracing the past and the redemptive power of friendship. It opens Aug. 8th at Circle Theatre. Go here for the deets.

Fun fact:

Because he ‘hated it so’

That’s the reason Fred Rogers (aka Mr. Rogers) got into television. When he turned on a set, all he saw was angry people throwing pies in each others’ faces, and he vowed to use the medium to make the world a better place.

Cats of the week: Caboose and Snickerz

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Meet Caboose

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


These two boys had it really rough prior to their rescue, and both had significant health issues that needed prompt medical attention. But probably most important of all, they are absolutely enamored by one another. In fact, their bond was almost immediate and has since grown to the point that we will strive to adopt them out as a duo because, honestly, one is rarely seen without the other close by.


We’ll begin with Caboose, a one-year-old fella (born in early 2018) from Lansing who found himself in dire straits when his rectum prolapsed (due to chronic diarrhea secondary to internal parasites). Thankfully, his rescuer took him to emergency immediately, and surgery corrected his issue. Unfortunately, he tested FIV+ (and upon retest, a faint FELV+), and although his rescuer was smitten with this darling boy, she had a houseful to think of for the long haul, so she contacted us for help.


All was going quite well after his arrival, but just three days into his stay at our sanctuary, Caboose prolapsed again — and this time had to have a portion of that pooching rectal tissue amputated. The second time around proved to be successful, and now (a month after his arrival) he is off all meds and pooping like a trooper.


Four days after Caboose came into our program, we opened our doors to a bedraggled but beautiful brown tabby — Snickerz — who hailed from the east side of the state. His rescuer came across him a month earlier, living outside of a local business, begging for dinner from food trucks on the property; he supposedly had caretakers but it was painfully obvious that this five-or-so-year-old fella (we think he was born in early 2014) was suffering, not only from a nasty respiratory infection, but heavy internal parasites, a nasty ear infection, and a horribly rotten mouth that attributed to his malnutrition and poor body weight. He also tested positive for both viruses.


Since his immune system was so run-down, Snickerz also came down with calici virus, an infectious, transmissible feline illness that causes painful oral ulcers, fever and lethargy. However, through it all, nothing dragged him down, and we all truly believe that the comfort he found in cuddling up next to his caring comrade Caboose expedited the healing process.


The two perfect peas-in-a pod have similar personalities as well as being bosom buddies, and it has been delightful watching them interact. Here is what our volunteers had to say:

Heeeere’s Snickerz

“Caboose — I just love this cat! He’s really doing well slowly starting to socialize, and likes to hang out now in different rooms. I love how he perks up when he sees me, almost like he’s proud of himself for being so much more brave and outgoing. He will eat bowl after bowl of wet food, and piles of Temptations. He’s doing great after his surgery and I think it’s obvious he feels good — look at the weight he’s gained! He doesn’t mind being picked up, LOVES belly rubs, and has sat on my lap a few times. Caboose is really starting to come out of his shell. He was so shy for a while, but he has settled in just great. He loves attention and has a great purr almost like Scherzer (our resident pigeon).”


“Snickerz is a bit on the shy side but is starting to show his personality. He prefers to be lying in his big puffy bed (with the stuffed lion his rescuer brought in with him) next to his other lounging friends. To me, he’s very kitten-like because he’s a little on the small size. He’s not real crazy about being picked up, but will curl up in your arms if you sit down with him. He enjoys treats and wet food, along with chin scratches. Being that he’s so shy he’s going to take some patience. Snickerz is a quiet boy who is really enjoying the comforts of indoor life. He’s such a happy and content guy that he has been caught purring in his sleep on numerous occasions.”


Both boys need to go into a quieter home, no small kids or boisterous dogs, and most definitely with one another; how could you separate these soulmates? We would love for nothing more than to give them the storybook ending they so deserve, a happily ever after that includes the both of them not necessarily riding off into the sunset, but rather napping side by side, contentedly, in complete bliss for countless days to come!

More about Caboose:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Tabby (Tiger-striped)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • FIV+ and FELV+
  • Good in a home with other cats, no children or dogs

More about Snickerz:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Tabby (Brown/Chocolate)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Small
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • FIV+ and FELV+
  • Good in a home with other cats, no children or dogs

Want to adopt these great guys? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Oliver Art Center opens creative space and library

Entertainment, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, ,
Courtesy Oliver Art Center

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Oliver Art Center (OAC) has established a permanent community creative space for young artists and their families to explore art in its various forms. OAC already hosts a lending library space on the top floor of the renovated Coast Guard Station.


The addition of the new creative space will allow visitors to peruse books on art, artists, and museums in addition to allowing exploration of artistic mediums through perpetual, self-guided art projects. The community space will be open all year during regular business hours and features comfortable seating for both adults and kids; books, puzzles, games geared to all ages; curated, self-guided art projects; and display space for budding young artists.


“This space will assist in helping an underserved part of the local population: parents with young, preschool age kids, as well as older kids,” said Mercedes Michalowski, OAC’s Executive Director. “The need for this space was born out of two free, art drop in days that OAC hosted earlier this year.”


Michalowski said that the first day hosted just over 20 kids and adults; the second day, about a month later hosted over 45. The parents of the younger children asked OAC to keep programs like the drop-in days going in the fall and winter when there are less opportunities to occupy younger children.


“We are very excited about this opportunity,” said Michalowski.


Oliver Art Center received a grant from the Grand Traverse Community Foundation Charlie and Linda Kehr Fund that is providing the funds to purchase furniture and other major initial needs for the room. Cash donations as well as material donations will be welcome as the space and program continues.


Oliver Art Center is located at 132 Coast Guard Rd., Frankfort, MI 49635.


Cat of the week: Tinker

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This guy just loooooves to climb

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


TERRIFIC is one of many fabulous words we can use to describe Tinker, a charming little chap (born in May of 2017) who came to us mid-November, 2018. Rescue dynamo Sandi D. was out and about making her rounds on Quarry St. NW in Grand Rapids when she stumbled across this handsome black-and-white guy who had been abandoned by his owners. Not one to let any grass grow under her feet, she scooped him up and took him on home; five days later Dr. Jen was able to work him up at the clinic with the intention of taking him into our program.


Unfortunately he tested a faint positive for Feline Leukemia, a transmissible virus that befalls too many outdoor cats in our area who don’t receive proper care and vaccinations, so instead of making his way down to Crash’s he got to pack his little kitty bags and head on over to Big Sid’s. On his one month follow-up, he still retested a faint positive, so he is an official resident of our sanctuary, or Sid’s Kid as we call them. 


No worries though, as from the get-go Tinker has been absolutely thrilled with his new surroundings—he is SO darn excited to be indoors and receiving three squares a day. He cannot absorb enough attention from his human caretakers and finds it fun to hang out high above everyone’s heads where he can look down and survey the activity.


He has been known to be a bit aggressive towards certain cats, but over time he is learning that it is a hoot to engage in play versus swatting and swiping at his feline roomies. Because the virus is transmitted by sharing of bodily fluids (saliva, blood), we feel it is best he go into a home with another positive kitty—or none at all, since he would wholeheartedly enjoy being the king of his very own castle.


Everyone simply adores this little busybody! When kids come to our Meet and Greets, he enthusiastically welcomes them and shows off a bit, matching their energy and eagerness to have a good time. Tinker is going to make a spectacular addition to any household who wants an outgoing, adventurous companion. He loves to climb, so keep that in mind if you have your eye on this great guy.


We are sure that once you meet him you will come to agree that he is too cute for words.

More about Tinker:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Black & White/Tuxedo
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with children, no cats

Want to adopt Tinker? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Cat of the week: Montana

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Montana at rest

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


In April of 2019, while out tending to her feral colonies, our favorite cat wrangler, Sandy D., came across this beaten-down and bedraggled, intact boy who had obviously been having a hard time on the streets. Suffering from a ruptured cat bite abscess on the left cheek, the 3-year-old (born in the spring of 2016) was a smelly, sticky, matted mess of draining pus and dead tissue. Graphic, but true.


Sandy brought kitty out to the clinic so that Dr. Jen could tend to his medical needs, and in doing so, the good doc discovered that he was FIV+ (no big surprise there); he also had a nasty toenail injury, greasy stud tail, major intestinal parasites and was downright filthy. After deep-cleaning not only his wound site but his entire body, Dr. Jen neutered him, got antibiotics and pain meds on board, dewormed and vaccinated him—he wasn’t ready to go into our program at Big Sid’s, but he was at least squeaky clean and feelin’ fine for his foster time at Sandy’s.


Although Dr. Jen is quite partial to the big boys she affectionately call ‘fat-heads’, it is a cryin’ shame that this darling, dapper fellow had to roam the streets a fully functioning, fighting male for so long. Given the fact that his face was in such rough shape when he arrived, Dr. Jen thought naming him Montana (think Scarface) was more than appropriate, though at his recheck exam three weeks later, his facial fur was growing in very nicely, covering the gooey grossness he was sporting when they first met. In fact, this sweetheart healed so remarkably well that to look at him now you’d never know what injuries he had once sustained.


Indoor life suits Montana to a ‘T’, and he has acclimated to his surroundings better than we all had anticipated, given his history. Here are some astute observations from our volunteers:


“Montana is a pretty laid-back guy, but does have a tendency to get a little upset at times if another cat gets in his way. He loves people, attention, and just hanging out in the windowsill. He’s a nice, big, solid boy and would make the perfect cat for a household with older kids who would know to respect his space.” 

“Montana is a very chill boy. He doesn’t do much other than perch himself on a windowsill and watch birds all day long. He keeps to himself most of the time, but he doesn’t mind sharing his preferred perch with a cat or two, so he could probably live with or without a buddy. He’s not one to look for attention, but he is very accepting of love when you seek him out. He has a tendency to nip when he’s had enough of you, so he should probably go to a home without young children.”


Overall we are very pleased with his progress in the time we have had him—it’s not even three weeks after he became a Sid’s Kid that we are sharing his story. We are enjoying watching him transform into a silky, stunning (former) stud, but even more so, we are delighting in how happy he simply is enjoying his view of the world, now from the inside out. To see him lounge on the floor with his legs stretched out in front of him, relaxing and soaking in the sun, accepting a gentle head scratch or back stroke brings us all so much joy; after all, this boy right here deserves all of the pampering he can get!

More about Montana:

  • Domestic short hair
  • Large
  • Black & White (Tuxedo)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • House-trained
  • FIV+
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Prefers a home without other cats, children

Want to adopt Montana? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!




Sheriffs Office begins ‘Pink Patch’ breast cancer awareness campaign

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, Non-Profits,

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

The motto of the Kent County Sheriffs Office’s just-started Pink Patch breast cancer awareness effort has a simple, stated goal: “Supporting the fighters, admiring the survivors, honoring the taken and never giving up hope.”

The program offers pink Sheriffs Office patches for a $10 donation with the proceeds going to Gilda’s Club and the Kent County Sheriff’s Office Benevolent Fund.

“We have sold 150 patches in the last 2 weeks which has raised $1,500,” Sgt. Joel Roon, Kent County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson, said last week to WKTV. “The reception from the community has been amazing. Our clerks have heard many inspiring stories of people who were motivated to buy a patch because of a personal story.”

And thanks to the program being registered with the national Pink Patch Project, the local effort is event getting out-of-the-county requests.

“We have even received a few out-of-state requests which we’ve obviously accommodated,” Sgt. Roon said. “Local interest with officers from other agencies has also been evident and very exciting.”

The goal of the Sheriff’s Office program is to “raise awareness about the importance of screening and early detection.”

According to a flyer distributed by the Sheriffs Office about the program, here are a few sobering yet hopeful facts: One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime … Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, but there are 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the country.”

Patches are available for purchase at the Kent County Sheriff’s Office at 701 Ball Ave. NE, and two substations: the North Sector office at 790 17 Mile Road NW and the South Sector office at 8557 Kalamazoo Ave. SE.

For questions about the patches, contact deputies Mandy Bernal-Hill at 616-632-6228, Joy Matthews at 616-632-6224 or Jordan Peters at 810-223-1732.

Eyes on digital devices

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Non-Profits, , ,

By Katie Vinkovich, COA, Grand Rapids Lions Club Vision Clinic


Did you know that digital devices can negatively affect your vision? On average, Americans spend seven or more hours a day looking at their screens. Digital devices give off a high-energy blue light that can contribute to many eye-related problems. This overexposure to blue light can lead to sleep problems, blurred vision, eye strain, and headaches, among other things.


The average millennial spends nine hours per day on devices such as smartphones, tablets, computer monitors and flat-screen TVs which also emit blue light. Healthy eyes allow you to use technology comfortably for longer periods of time. Lack of comprehensive exams means that you may have unknown eye problems that can hold you back from using technology to its fullest.


Below are ways to limit blue light exposure and prevent future problems:

  • Turn off devices at least one hour prior to going to bed.
  • Maintain a comfortable distance away from devices, use the zoom feature to see small print instead of bringing devices closer to your face.
  • Turn down your screen brightness to reduce glare.
  • Schedule an eye exam.
  • Ask your eye care provider or optician about blue light filtering lens options for glasses.

Cat of the week: Tyrion

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, ,
This guy will steal your heart, guaranteed

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


It is a bit of a convoluted journey as to how this totally adorable classic tabby made it to Dr. Jen (finally) on May 6, 2019. Evidently he was found wandering around the parking lot of the Meijer on 54th and Clyde Park, just down the road from the vet clinic, and he was picked up by a woman who then took him home on the city bus.


Somehow she contacted none other than one of our regular rescuers, who then transported him to the Humane Society of West Michigan as we were full up at Crash’s, and she has a withstanding ‘in’ with them as far as placing strays is concerned. However, he tested positive for Feline Leukemia, so she took him right back on home, contacted Dr. Jen and asked if the good doc could do his medical work-up. Dr. Jen actually ended up doing one better, offering to take him, sight unseen, into our program at Big Sid’s.


The two-year-old (born in the spring of 2017) IMMEDIATELY took Dr. Jen’s heart for his own, along with every single person he made contact with at the clinic and sanctuary alike. It really bummed us all out that such a sweetheart had the bad luck to carry the virus, but since he was an intact male when found, it wasn’t surprising—sad, but not totally unexpected. 


Once at our free-roaming, fun-loving facility Tyrion found his place easily and quickly started entertaining not only himself but any audience he could command: 

“Tyrion is a non-stop, action-loving cat. He will chase a ping pong ball up and down the hall for hours on end, but playtime is even better when another cat will wrestle with him. He has a few ‘besties’ who are usually down for some hardcore, rough-and-tumble; in fact, they can get so into it that we actually have to make them stop out of fear they will unintentionally hurt each other. He would do amazing with kids!”


“Tyrion is one of our most popular guys. He’s always up for adventures and activities— and soaks up any attention he can get from us. He does play a little too rough with the other cats at times, but we are hoping time and his calming collar help him lighten up a bit. He’s got a lot of energy and will need kids that will tire him out at the end of the day. He would do well in a home with another cat buddy, one who matches his energy level and will stand up to him, and maybe even a playful dog. His exuberance and ebullience knows NO bounds!” 


As you can imagine, we are all as pleased as punch that his personality is so over-the-top and outgoing, as this type of kitty holds a lot of appeal to high-energy families. And at his four-week follow-up appointment, he tested NEGATIVE for Feleuk—not once, but twice, on our in-house test AND through our outside lab.


However, we have learned the hard way that this first round of diagnostics is an excellent screening test, but there can be false negatives, so in cases where a prior positive cat then turns up virus-free, Dr. Jen now sends out a specialized (and, of course, more expensive test) to confirm. This type of test is far more specific and has less margin of error, so when it came back negative, it was a major cause for celebration.


This terrific tabby is not going to be with us at Crash’s long, mark our words, as he is simply too awesome to pass by!

More about Tyrion:

  • Medium
  • Tabby (Tiger-Striped)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats, dogs, kids

Want to adopt Tyrion? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Cat of the week: Sansa

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , ,
Meet Sansa!

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


While making her rounds feeding the ferals on Dunham off of Fuller on the southeast side of town in May of 2019, a rescuer came across this spayed and four-paw declawed girl who obviously had been abandoned. Without any natural defenses except her teeth, she was a prime candidate for picking up transmissible diseases like Feline Leukemia; sadly, it was too late — by the time she was taken in, the damned virus had already made its presence known, though it wouldn’t show up on her blood test until a recheck exam later in the month.


When we first met this lovely kitty (born in May of 2016, we guesstimate), she had a pretty nasty infection going on in her right eye and needed a tooth pulled; it took a few weeks of recuperating at her rescuer’s home and topical meds to get the conjunctivitis under control, but by the time we had an opening at our sanctuary in mid-June, Sansa’s gorgeous green eye was no longer swollen or inflamed. Although we were upset that she harbored the leukemia virus, the rest of her lab work was normal, and she had put on excellent weight since she was taken off the streets. Regardless of her time spent homeless, she is as sweet as spun sugar, yet solid and sturdy like her namesake. In a word, Sansa is spectacular.


Sansa is such a people-pleaser and meshed with our furry fold at Big Sid’s so easily. Just read what one of our volunteers had to say about her:

“Sansa is a little doll! She spends a good portion of her day watching birds and squirrels outside, but when she gets lonely, she walks around talking until she finds someone to hang out with, as she loves, loves, loves human attention of any kind. She’s quite the talker at times, a congenial little chatterbox with the most darling face, even when it is in motion. She has a very sweet disposition and has already been seen cuddled up twice sound asleep next to our big tough guy, Gibson. I think she’d get along great with other cats and would do well in any home.”


We don’t feel that having the virus is going to label Sansa as a difficult-to-adopt-kitty, as her personality and charm make her absolutely irresistible. Ideally we’d like to find her a catdom of her own to rule, but a house with felines of her own kind would be excellent too, as we all know every queen needs her court! 

More about Sansa:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Tabby (tiger-striped)
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • FeLV+
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • 4-paw declawed
  • Good in a home with other cats, children

Want to adopt Sansa? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.



Two new exhibits at Holland Arts Council begin July 12

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, , ,
Courtesy Michael Burmeister

By Kailey Schroeder, Holland Arts Council


The Holland Area Arts Council is presenting two new exhibits, ‘Riser’ and ‘Pauses’, with an opening reception on Friday, July 12th at 6pm. The exhibitions and reception are free and open to the public with light refreshments provided during the reception.


‘Riser’ is an exhibition by artist Michael Burmeister, owner and director of Button Gallery in Douglas, Michigan. This exhibition will feature both ceramic pieces and two-dimensional paintings. Burmeister uses his abstract art as a way to reflect the complexities of the natural landscape. His works will be available for purchase during this exhibition. 

Courtesy Nuel Friend

‘Pauses’ is an exhibition by artist Nuel Friend. His large-scale paintings dominate the space as they explore the difficult-to-explain, yet inspirational aspects of life. Friend thoughtfully paints with oil in a contemporary style with dramatic movement. His works will also be available for purchase during this exhibition.


Explore ‘Riser’ in the Holland Area Arts Council’s Armstrong Gallery and ‘Pauses’ in the HAAC Padnos Gallery. Both exhibits are on display until Sept. 4.   


The Holland Area Arts Council is a nonprofit organization working to educate, engage and challenge the community through the arts. The Arts Council is located at 150 East 8th Street. Call (616) 396-3278, email helpdesk@hollandarts.org or visit www.hollandarts.org for more information.


Cat of the week: Renly

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, ,
Renly is the sweetest

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


In April of 2019, a Freeland resident found this ADORABLE and outrageously outgoing fella (born in the spring of 2017) wandering around her house. He was so stinkin’ sweet that she couldn’t help but bring him in and fall hopelessly in love with him, but when he tested positive for Feline Leukemia, she realized she and her husband weren’t going to be in a position to keep him permanently. She emailed Dr. Jen to inquire about intake, and approximately a month later, Renly made his way to us. He passed his initial exam at the vet clinic with flying colors, with the exception of still retesting positive for FELV, so Dr. Jen sent him on down to Big Sid’s to meet his new roomies—and the volunteers who would be caring for him at our sanctuary.


It honestly takes all of two seconds for anyone who meets him to be enamored by his charm and enthusiasm for life; he is just so darned happy to be indoors, surrounded by people who will stop what they are doing to pet him, lift him up and carry him around. In fact, we’ve been told the following about our gorgeous, gregarious guy:


“Renly is so sweet! He is happiest being held like a baby and often demands to be picked up. He is very active and busy, always seems to be getting in to things and following volunteers around. He doesn’t really care about other cats at all, he really just wants to be around people. His rescuer said he really loves dogs. He would be amazing with kids!


“Renly is a very busy boy! He loves to run up and down the halls looking for anyone willing to play with him. He really enjoys toys, boxes, and anything he can chase. He’s one cat that enjoys being picked up and held. I have seen him be a little possessive of his food while eating with the others, but with time and patience he will do just fine with another cat or two. I’d love to see him in a home with kids that he can run and play with.”

Look at that face. Just look at it.

We have no doubt that if he was virus-free, Renly would be scooped up instantly after posting his bio, but sadly this throws a wrench into things, since he can transmit the disease to others of the feline kind through bodily fluids (sharing dishes and litter boxes, grooming and rough play where biting could occur). However, we are confident that the right person is going to come along, gather him up into their loving arms and make him their very own, virus be damned.


He is such an amazing, adventurous and downright gleeful fella that whomever opts to take him home is going to be one of THE luckiest cat owners in our little corner of the world!

More about Renly:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Orange & White
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • FELV+
  • Good in a home with other cats, dogs, children

Want to adopt Renly? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.



Taking care of our kids: two interviews with local leaders on latest WKTV Journal In Focus

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Health, Non-Profits, WKTV Journal In Focus, ,

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus are two local efforts to support the youth of Kent County with the most basic of needs: proper nourishment and successful early childhood development.

We will talk with a West Michigan group which provides more than 8,000 dinner meals a day to kids during the school year. We will talk about what they do and what plans they have to do more in the future. Then we talk with the local group tasked to administer the public funds approved by vote as last year through the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage … and we are talking about more than $5 million dollars annually.

First In Focus is In Focus is West Michigan’s Kids’ Food Basket, a nonprofit organization best known for its Sack Supper Program, which provides a free, well-balanced nutritious evening meal distributed within classrooms at the end of each school day. The group serves schools in three counties with facilities in Grand Rapids, Muskegon and Holland. With us is Bridget Clark Whitney, founding CEO of Kids’ Food Basket, and we will talk with her about her organization, about the Feeding our Future campaign, and why it is so important to assist our young citizens in gaining proper nutrition.

Then In Focus is First Steps Kent, the local group approved by Kent County Commissioners to administer the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage passed by county voters in November of last year. First Steps Kent is, according to its website, “an independent, influential and neutral entity that leads the community’s efforts to strengthen and coordinate early childhood services in Kent County.” With us is Annemarie Valdez, president and CEO of First Steps Kent.

WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times). All individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

Understanding Health Literacy

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Non-Profits, Senior Living, ,

By Laura P., AmeriCorps Member, Cherry Health


Are you confident you can compare premiums and deductibles to find the best health insurance plan for you and your family?


Can you use a nutrition label to calculate how many grams of sugar are in a bowl of your breakfast cereal?


Are you able to locate the medical services you need, when you need them?


If so, you may have high health literacy! When we talk about health literacy, we are referring to a person’s ability to access and understand health-related information and services. It’s something we all possess to varying degrees, and we often use our health literacy skills without knowing we’re using them.


Health literacy can vary widely between people depending on someone’s level of education, cultural background, economic status, skill with numbers, and mental health. No matter our level of health literacy, we build our skills over a lifetime and there is always room for improvement. Health literacy skills include the following:

  • Being able to correctly dose and administer medications
  • Knowing the body systems and how to describe pain
  • Finding and understanding information on a medical topic
  • Being able to manage a chronic health condition
  • Knowing your own and your family’s health history
  • Comparing treatment options to decide what’s best for you
  • Understanding your provider’s instructions
  • Filling out complex forms accurately

Knowing a patient’s general level of health literacy is important to successful treatment, as people with lower health literacy are likelier to be hospitalized, end up in the emergency room, and to take medications incorrectly. Where appropriate, healthcare providers should use plain language to ensure that they and their patients are on the same page. For patients with a different cultural background than their providers, extra attention is needed to ensure that communication is clear and understood.


Delivering quality healthcare requires examining how health literacy influences every aspect of the medical experience, both at the office and at home. It is our responsibility to make sure the services we provide and the information we share are accessible and understandable to all.


Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.


Cat of the week: Dean

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , ,
This shy guy is best adopted with his buddy, Roller

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On March 2nd and again on March 17th, we had what we believe to be an entire family of terrified cats dumped off in carriers. ‘The Shy Seven’ were the first to arrive, and then three more joined us, rounding things out to ‘The Timid Ten’. Needless to say, it was a huge ordeal for all involved, from the stunned volunteers who kept pulling cat after cat out of cramped carriers, to the traumatized kitties who had no idea what was going on, and finally to Dr. Jen who spent the greater part of two weekends at the clinic getting them program-ready.


The latter was no small feat, as every single cat (yup, all ten of them) were intact, four of the five girls were pregnant, and all ten were clearly out of their element and having major trust issues. Adding various medical issues to the mix—like fleas and a variety of internal parasites, dental disease and chronic herpes virus—we ended up having a heaping handful of kitties who needed a great deal of help, not only physically, but probably more importantly, mentally.


It was clear from the onset that the family had been neglected and lacking human contact for quite some time, given their poor body condition, long nails and a shyness that went beyond anything we have seen before—and we have seen a lot. We have no idea where they came from or why someone thought it was a good idea to displace them as they did without regard for our space or financial capabilities, but our proposed scenario is this: a kindhearted, elderly person owned them and, for whatever reason, let them breed and multiply, running rampant in the house and growing wilder and warier as the days wore on. We suspect this person then passed (or moved away), and the cats were left to fend for themselves until a family member (or landlord) came in and booted the entire lot of them out—and onto our doorstep.


Regardless, we’d like to think they were loved by someone at some point, as this helps us believe in the goodness of people, enough so to offset the stupidity and callousness of others.


Let’s just say that for the most part, the journey we have all been on together is ever evolving—and it is going to be a long road full of bumps, setbacks and, yes, triumphs along the way. It is now over two months since their arrival, and we are just now able to share their stories, as it has taken a great deal of time (and patience) to get to this point.


We have had one shining star, jovial Jenn, who has been trying to pave the way for her siblings/uncles/cousins/aunts to follow, so really, we should have renamed the group as ‘The Timid Ten, Not Including Jenn’. She was the only girl who wasn’t or hadn’t been pregnant, as her reproductive tract was underdeveloped; just 15 months (born in later 2017, we think, along with Dean, Desna, Roller and Quiet Ann), she turned out to be quite the trailblazer, assuming the role of matriarch of her furry family.

Roller and Dean are best buddies

Dean and Roller are really good buddies, as they snuggle together all of the time. While Roller will let people pet him if they approach him slowly, Dean has made very little progress since he’s been with us. He is very comfortable here, though and is exploring more every day, although he typically runs right back into a hiding space as soon as someone enters the room. We think both of these boys will do very well in a home together once they had had ample time to bond with their owners.


At our free-roaming facility, cats like these have all of the time in the world to acclimate and adjust at their own rate—a snail’s pace if that is what is necessary. We have no cages, no time limits, no rules or regulations—each individual cat gets to stretch his legs at their own pace; each kitty gets to spread her furry little wings and fly when she is ready to leave the fold.


We offer a peaceful, secure environment to each and every cat in our care as long as they need it—and us. Slow and steady wins the race, and we firmly believe that with love, all things are possible; we surely can see endless possibilities and bright futures full of promise for this family of ours.

More about Dean:

  • Domestic Medium Hair
  • Tabby (tiger-striped)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats, no children

Want to adopt Dean? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


With Lakeshore Art Festival near, international muralist’s work now graces Muskegon

Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Upcoming Events,
Bre McCarthy, Lakeshore Art Festival marketing/entertainment coordinator, is clearly head over heels in love with artist Kelsey Montague’a mural. (Lakeshore Art Festival)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Muralist fans — actually art fans of any genre — have a new sight to see as the Lakeshore Art Festival, in conjunction with the JCI Greater Muskegon, held a public unveiling of a mural by internationally known “street artist” Kelsey Montague in downtown Muskegon.

The artist, known for her winged murals, has about 77 similar works on display around the world, including one piece commissioned by singer/songwriter Taylor Swift and two pieces located in Michigan, one in Ann Arbor and another Detroit.

The mural will be permanently displayed on the east side of the Frauenthal Center building. The Lakeshore Art Festival will take place July 5-6.

Artist Kelsey Montague, middle, with to the right is Carla Flanders, Lakeshore Art Festival director, on right, and Danielle Conley, Lakeshore Art Festival Children’s Lane coordinator. (Lakeshore Art Festival)

Montague’s “pieces are inspirational, inclusive and uplifting,” Carla Flanders, Lakeshore Art Festival director, said in supplied material. “It’s a great message and a perfect fit for the Lakeshore Art Festival and for the Muskegon Lakeshore area … The Frauenthal Center stands as a symbol of a community that is deeply dedicated to the arts.”

According to supplied material, the transformation of the Muskegon Lakeshore community served as inspiration for this project. The visual elements inside the butterfly wings, a blue heron, black-eyed susan, water, lighthouse, and music notes bring attention to aspects of the Muskegon lakeshore.

The new mural by Kelsey Montague on the outside wall of Muskegon’s Frauenthal Center. (Lakeshore Art Festival)

“We are inspired by this uplifting project and the community collaboration behind it,” Eric Messing, Frauenthal Center executive director, said in supplied material. “This piece highlights and celebrates the vibrant transformation happening in our area, and the Frauenthal Center is thrilled to serve as home to a work of art that will spark conversation for our community and visitors alike.”

The Lakeshore Art Festival is always the first Friday and Saturday in July, and this year will feature more than 350 fine art and craft exhibitors, street performers, specialty food booths, interactive art stations, children’s activities and so much more in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan.

For more information visit lakeshoreartfestival.org.

Homeless Veterans Stand Down at Metro Health campus offers support, supplies

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, Local Business, Non-Profits, Veterans, WKTV Projects
  • Some of the veterans at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • One of the veterans at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Some of the veterans at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Some of the veterans at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • One of the assistance tables at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • One of the assistance tables at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • One of the assistance tables at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • One of the assistance tables at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • One of the assistance tables at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • One of the assistance tables at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • VFW Post 702 distributed clothing at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Community Rebuilders was distributing a truckload of military surplus equipment at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Community Rebuilders was distributing a truckload of military surplus equipment Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • It was not all serious at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Scenes from the Homeless Veterans Stand Down Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

It was no coincidence that the Community Rebuilders veterans assistance group was distributing a truckload of military surplus equipment suitable for urban camping, nor that the Wyoming-Grandville VFW Post 702 Auxiliary was distributing piles of clothing suitable for life on the street, at the Homeless Veterans Stand Down in Wyoming last week.

While not solely for homeless veterans, it was clear that many of about 200 veterans are currently or have been homeless as they lined up for services Friday, June 14, at Metro Health Park’s Granger Green. The event brought together nearly 50 organizations in an event sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Metro Health/University of Michigan Health.

The services offered ranged from basic food and shelter needs, to physical and mental health, to job and education services — all programs and community partners welcomed by Metro Health.

“This is our third or fourth year hosting it and we have just been honored by so many people in the community who are supporting the event for these veterans who have put their lives on the line many, many times over again for our freedom, and we are so honored to give back in a small way,” Michelle Rademacher, Metro Health community outreach specialist, said to WKTV. Metro Health/UM Health’s involvement “is important because these are members of our community and we are a community-based hospital and we want everyone to feel welcome here.”

Among the groups in attendance were the federal and Michigan based Veterans Affairs representatives as well as the Social Security Administration, the State of Michigan Veterans Employment Services and the Grand Valley State University Upward Bound veterans education assistance program, Trilogy Health Services and the Mental Health Advocacy Council, and veterans community organizations including American Legion posts and Team Red, White and Blue.

“A lot of these veterans don’t even know there is a VFW and that they can join,” Ron Oakes, commander of VFW Post 702, said to WKTV. “We do things like this for exposure, to let veterans know we are out there … (and) … that we are here to help the veterans.”

Coincidentally, Oakes’ VFW post itself is currently without a permanent home.

“We used to have a building, but not now,” Oakes said. “But we are still here and we are still looking for one.”

The veterans seeking goods and services had to produce proof of veterans status via a DD214, or valid state or military identification.

Veterans who were not able to be at the stand down can seek assistance by, among many sources, visiting the Kent County Veterans Services office at accesskent.com .

Cat of the week: Lenka

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Meet lovely Lenka

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On occasion we have to set up live traps behind our facility on the northeast side of Grand Rapids, as people do have a tendency to drop cats off after (and sometimes during) hours; also we are seated across the street from an apartment complex that has had its fair share of abandonments, so our parking lot is no stranger to strays in need of assistance.


This spring (2019) we noted a few cats hanging around who had proven to be quite elusive, so in early May we set up a live trap in hopes of snagging one or both of them; instead we caught this scraggly yet stunning senior citizen—whom we had never seen before. As it turned out, the eight-year-old (born in April of 2011) was actually microchipped to a person living only a few blocks away, but multiple attempts to contact the owner failed.


Dr. Jen reached out to an old neighbor of hers who still lived nearby, and he told her that the owner had passed away a year ago, and the remaining residents of the household left this poor to fend for herself. The neighbor had been watching out for her and providing food and shelter, but he hadn’t seen her for quite some time before we caught her. He was so relieved she was safe and sound, indoors and being cared for, as his two former Crash Cats screamed bloody murder whenever they caught sight of her traipsing around their yard.


Since this sweet, seasoned girl was getting a second chance at a bright future, Dr. Jen opted to rename her Lenka, which is Slavic in derivation and means ‘light’. Although Lenka was sturdy in frame, she was underweight and thin, eating to her heart’s content and purring up a storm when stroked and spoken to. One thing that was clearly evident was that Lenka was definitely used to being indoors and could not be happier to have that soothing environment envelop her again.


Very shortly after her arrival, however, she developed large ulcerations on her upper lips, so along with treatment for an ear infection, Dr. Jen started antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial invasion of the lesions known as ‘rodent ulcers, an inflammatory condition that can be brought on by stress. The good doctor held off on using steroids to treat this form of Eosinophilic Granulomas, as she was hesitant to use an immunosuppressive drug right off the bat; luckily Dr. Jen’s gamble paid off and within days, Lenka’s lips healed beautifully.


But her medical issues weren’t over yet: when it came time for her four-week recheck at the clinic, Dr. Jen noted an elevated heart rate—and the fact that even though this girl could eat her weight (8#) in canned food, she hadn’t put on more than a few ounces. As Dr. Jen suspected, lab work revealed that Lenka was hyperthyroid. Thankfully, this condition, which is common in geriatric cats and causes a hypermetabolic state, is very easy (and cost-effective) to medically manage; Lenka takes her twice-daily pills like a trouper.

Dr. Jen tells her clients that if their pet is going to have an endocrine disorder, thyroid disease is probably the one that requires the least effort to control, and bi-yearly follow-ups once levels normalize. So, that being said, we asked our cat care team to give a glimpse of Lenka’s personality traits as seen at the shelter:


“Lenka is so sweet but really should be an only cat. She loves one-on-one time with people and can’t get enough attention. She just prefers a little bit of space from the other cats. I have a feeling at one time he was the Queen Bee of a household. She’s not one to be physically aggressive but will let out a serious warning growl to the other residents if they get too close — especially when eating. Considering her almost immediate health issues/setbacks, and hearing a little of her background I really don’t blame her for being a little grumpy. She’s not crazy about being handled but enjoys chin scratches and belly rubs. I would love to see her as an only cat in a home with a retired couple ideally, but as long as she is showered with affection she will be thrilled!”

More about Lenka:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Tabby (tiger-striped)
  • Senior
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • Good in a home with children, no other cats

Want to adopt Lenka? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Cat of the week: Desna

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Dainty, demure Desna

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On March 2nd and again on March 17th, we had what we believe to be an entire family of terrified cats dumped off in carriers. ‘The Shy Seven’ were the first to arrive, and then three more joined us, rounding things out to ‘The Timid Ten’. Needless to say, it was a huge ordeal for all involved, from the stunned volunteers who kept pulling cat after cat out of cramped carriers, to the traumatized kitties who had no idea what was going on, and finally to Dr. Jen who spent the greater part of two weekends at the clinic getting them program-ready.


The latter was no small feat, as every single cat (yup, all ten of them) were intact, four of the five girls were pregnant, and all ten were clearly out of their element and having major trust issues. Adding various medical issues to the mix—like fleas and a variety of internal parasites, dental disease and chronic herpes virus—we ended up having a heaping handful of kitties who needed a great deal of help, not only physically, but probably more importantly, mentally.


It was clear from the onset that the family had been neglected and lacking human contact for quite some time, given their poor body condition, long nails and a shyness that went beyond anything we have seen before—and we have seen a lot. We have no idea where they came from or why someone thought it was a good idea to displace them as they did without regard for our space or financial capabilities, but our proposed scenario is this: a kindhearted, elderly person owned them and, for whatever reason, let them breed and multiply, running rampant in the house and growing wilder and warier as the days wore on. We suspect this person then passed (or moved away), and the cats were left to fend for themselves until a family member (or landlord) came in and booted the entire lot of them out—and onto our doorstep.


Regardless, we’d like to think they were loved by someone at some point, as this helps us believe in the goodness of people, enough so to offset the stupidity and callousness of others.


Let’s just say that for the most part, the journey we have all been on together is ever evolving—and it is going to be a long road full of bumps, setbacks and, yes, triumphs along the way. It is now over two months since their arrival, and we are just now able to share their stories, as it has taken a great deal of time (and patience) to get to this point.


We have had one shining star, jovial Jenn, who has been trying to pave the way for her siblings/uncles/cousins/aunts to follow, so really, we should have renamed the group as ‘The Timid Ten, Not Including Jenn’. She was the only girl who wasn’t or hadn’t been pregnant, as her reproductive tract was underdeveloped; just 15 months (born in later 2017, we think, along with Dean, Desna, Roller and Quiet Ann), she turned out to be quite the trailblazer, assuming the role of matriarch of her furry family.


Brice, Dr. Ken, Polly, Uncle Daddy and Virginnia—in some way or another—fathered and mothered this group, though we can’t verify their twisted family tree; we believe they were all born in late 2016. In any case, we have learned who is independent, who absolutely needs to be part of a duo (or trio) and who is going to be our most challenging, in need of the most convincing that we are good and will do them no harm.

Who could possibly resist that face?

Desna is part of a trio (the others are Polly and Quiet Ann). Although it is a lot to ask, we can’t imagine splitting the trio up. All three of them will cram themselves into a teepee bed and sleep there, piled on top of each other, for hours contentedly. They prefer to wait for people to approach them and give them attention but relish it when received. They are very bonded with one another; we feel that separating them would be devastating to all three.


At our free-roaming facility, cats like these have all of the time in the world to acclimate and adjust at their own rate—a snail’s pace if that is what is necessary. We have no cages, no time limits, no rules or regulations—each individual cat gets to stretch his legs at their own pace; each kitty gets to spread her furry little wings and fly when she is ready to leave the fold.


We offer a peaceful, secure environment to each and every cat in our care as long as they need it—and us. Slow and steady wins the race, and we firmly believe that with love, all things are possible; we surely can see endless possibilities and bright futures full of promise for this family of ours!

More about Desna:

  • Domestic Medium Hair
  • Tortoiseshell
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • Good in a home with other cats, no children

Want to adopt Desna? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.


Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Cat of the week: Dunkin No-nuts

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Meet Dunkin No-nuts

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


For those of you who know how much joy Dr. Jen takes from naming our kitties, you realize that she takes her time in getting to know each cat before making a final decision on what to call him or her, and oftentimes the good doctor will make a play on words in homage to a specific attribute (or lack there of). Nothing delights her more than having someone crack up when they discover why she gave a cat the title she has, as a LOT of thought went into it.


So in March of 2019, when spritely little Sandi D. first brought in this newly neutered, fabulously fat-headed, 3-1/2-year-old (born in the fall of 2015), Dr. Jen had to chuckle when this moniker appeared to fall down from the heavens and land solidly in her lap.


As the story goes, he had been hanging around the same southwest Grand Rapids neighborhood that brought us Churro and Burdock, so our red-headed rescue machine set out her live trap in hopes of getting him off the streets. After a successful venture, she carted him off to C-SNIP for long-overdue neutering and then took him back home to get him used to the idea of being an indoor cat.


It took this kitty a few weeks to be brave enough to come out of his wine box cubby, but once he did, he greeted her only with a few hisses that really were more for effect than anything. She coaxed him into her good graces with canned food, and slowly he began to open up to her, but suddenly he fell ill and stopped eating for three days, so he headed back to the clinic.


As it turns out, not only was he suffering from inflammation/infection of the bile ducts within his liver, but the poor guy tested positive for Feline Leukemia (he was negative the month prior). Treatment was undertaken and within a few days he had bounced back completely, ready to head on down to our sanctuary to join our residents.


It is a bit of an understatement to say that people were immediately drawn to his stunning, smashing good looks, but it has taken him quite a bit of time to warm up to the fact that people want to see him—and love on him. Slowly but surely, our volunteers have made excellent progress, to the point that they can now say this about Dunkin No-nuts:


“Dunkin is very quiet and shy, but also very sweet. He has a favorite spot in a cubby and doesn’t really move from that room. He does really like it when people come up to him and give him some love, and I think he would do great in a home where he is able to bond with his owner over time. He needs a quiet home with no kids or loud dogs. He doesn’t seem to really care about the other cats at all, so he could probably live with or without them.”

“Dunkin—in a perfect world, he would be best buddies with Ellston, since they resemble each other and make a handsome duo, but unfortunately, they don’t really care for each other. Dunkin is extremely shy and reserved and is usually found hunkered down low in a cubby just watching from the sidelines. He is super-sweet to us and actually likes to be held but will go right back to his hidey-hole when you put him down. To me, he’s one of those cats that is just too overwhelmed with all the other cats. He’s not aggressive in any way, just prefers to be left alone. He’d do well in a home with older kids, no dogs, and maybe one other cat.”


Since the virus is transmissible, ideally we would like to find him a home where he will be the only cat, and given his gentle personality, we feel this would be greatly beneficial and allow him the security and space he needs to blossom. He is such a LOVELY boy!

More about Dunkin No-nuts:

  • Domestic Medium Hair
  • Black & Smoke
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • FeLV+
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats, no children

Want to adopt Dunkin? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.


Land Conservancy of West Michigan completes Phase I campaign for ‘The Highlands’

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By Antonio Bailey Jr., Blandford Nature Center


The Land Conservancy of West Michigan has successfully completed the Phase One campaign for The Highlands. The future of the former golf course as a premier space for learning, recreation and conservation is now secure.


“We are incredibly grateful to the community and donors who have made Phase One of The Highlands project a success,” said Joe Engel, Executive Director at the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. “We are looking forward to a bright—and green—future for this vibrant natural space here in Grand Rapids.”


The Highlands is a partnership between the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and Blandford Nature Center. Both organizations share a passion for preservation, education and making natural spaces available to everyone in the Grand Rapids community. When the 121-acre Highlands Golf Club went up for sale, the two organizations saw it as an opportunity to join forces in a long-term collaboration to transform the land into an accessible urban refuge.


In January 2017, Blandford Nature Center acquired The Highlands with a loan from The Conservation Fund. The Conservation Fund is a national nonprofit organization that helps local communities achieve their conservation goals.


“Had Blandford Nature Center not been able to step in with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and acquire this property, it would be turning into a housing development right now,” said Jason Meyer, President/CEO of Blandford Nature Center. “We are grateful to the Land Conservancy for their hard work on the Phase One campaign to secure the future of The Highlands.”


The Land Conservancy of West Michigan spearheaded the campaign to raise over $5 million to cover the purchase of the property, a long-term restoration and management fund, miscellaneous campaign costs and the master plan for Phase Two.


“We asked the community to show their support for this project that will provide Grand Rapids families opportunities to engage in healthy outdoor activities and environmental education,” said campaign co-chair David Morgenstern. “They responded resoundingly.”


The completion of the campaign opens the doors for Phase Two, which will focus on implementing the master plan for the property—including installing trails, building a pavilion, adding wetlands and wildlife habitat and opening up a stream long-buried beneath the east end of the property.


“We’re excited that the foundation has now been laid for Phase Two, where the community’s collective vision for The Highlands will come to life,” said campaign co-chair Marti O’Brien.

The Highlands is the first and only neighborhood-based natural space in northwest Grand Rapids that is completely free and open to the public. Its main entrance on Leonard Street is right on The Rapid bus line. With restoration managed by the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, The Highlands will once again become home to native plants and wildlife for all of Grand Rapids to discover.


“For years, expanding Blandford Nature Center to include the 121 acres that made up the former Highlands Golf Club was a pipe dream,” said Mary Jane Dockeray, founder of Blandford Nature Center and campaign co-chair. “To see it transform into a natural area to be appreciated and used by all Grand Rapids citizens is a gift.”


There will be a public celebration of the milestone achievement at The Highlands on the eve of the summer solstice. The event will feature guided hikes, music by AnDro, ice cream and more. It will take place on Thursday, June 20, 2019 from 6:30-8:30pm at The Highlands located at 2715 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. Learn more about the event on the Land Conservancy’s website.


Phase One of The Highlands project was made possible with support from the Judy & Kenneth Betz Family, CDV5 Foundation, Consumers Energy Foundation, Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation, Frey Foundation Fund of the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Grand Rapids Community Foundation, REI, The Conservation Fund, Third Coast Development, Wege Foundation, Wolverine Worldwide Foundation and many more.


Cat of the week: Pepe LePew

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Meet Pepe LePew! (Courtesy Crash’s Landing)

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Dr. Jen had waited an awfully long time to find the perfect cat to name Pepe LePew, so when Sandi D. (volunteer and friend to all ferals and homeless cats) brought this spectacular specimen to Dr. Jen in early March, 2019, she knew she had found the cat she had been patiently pining for!


Not only was this 3-year-old (born in March of 2016) a stunning tuxedo, but he was extremely stinky, since he was all boy. We didn’t have an opening yet at Crash’s, but Sandi is well prepared to accommodate the wayward souls she picks up off the streets, so she fostered him in her home until we were able to take him into our program on April 11th.


And there was no question on anyone’s mind as to exactly why Dr. Jen bestowed such a moniker on him, as he was still quite malodorous—though totally adorable—upon arrival into our program.


Once at Crash’s, Pepe made himself at home, quickly winning over the volunteers with his stunning looks and spunky attitude. Here is what two of our cat care team members had to say about our beautiful black-and-white, sharp-dressed man:


“ Pepe—he’s adorable and it’s always tempting to scoop him up but he’s a little on the sassy side, and will squirm/swat until he’s put down. He’s young, playful, and maybe a bit of a stinker, but I think as he gets older he would learn to settle down and actually enjoy human affection. He’s a very handsome guy, and I have a feeling he won’t be with us long. A home with older kids, and maybe a dog to buddy up with would be perfect.”

Courtesy Crash’s Landing

“Pepe is a very social guy. He always has to be the center of attention. He does tend to bite a little when he gets overstimulated or when you are doing something he doesn’t like, such as being combed, so it would be best if he goes to a home without young children—older children though would be great for him. He also probably needs a buddy to play with.”


We find it funny that he has been described as a stinker, inside and out, which makes him all the more endearing in our opinion. As you can clearly see, he can also be inquisitive, laid-back and super social, a fantastic combination of traits to possess!

More about Pepe:

  • Domestic Medium Hair
  • Black & White/Tuxedo
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats, older children

Want to adopt Pepe? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Cat of the week: Chihuly

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Chihuly — large, and in charge

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On Jan. 15, 2019, Dr. Jen received an email from a friend of a former volunteer asking for help for a bedraggled male cat who had been hanging around for about three years. The poor guy’s eyes needed attention, and he had a slight cough or hard time swallowing.


Over the years, the kitty had become friendlier to the point where he sat at the back door crying all night and trying to get in when the door opened. He had scratched and bitten the woman before in an attempt to get in, and then suddenly one day climbed into her lap and let her pet him. He then insisted on being in her lap every time she fed him, going so far as to nuzzle into her coat and let her wrap him up in a blanket to sleep.


It took a few days for us to be able to get this poor guy (born in the summer of 2014) off the streets so that Dr. Jen could see what she could do about those eyes. Considering how haggard and tattered-looking this guy was, it was obvious that he had been through some pretty rough spots in his life, including a fractured or dislocated right rear toe, bronzing of the fur on his forepaws from rubbing his eyes, fleas, a notched ear from fighting, a broken upper canine tooth, contracting a severe feline herpes virus infection that was causing his chronic conjunctivitis AND being infected by Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).


But, in spite of all of the above, Dr. Jen could clearly see that Chihuly was a diamond in the rough, a precious work of art that had yet to be appreciated.


At the writing of his biography about a month after his arrival, we are happy to report that charming Chihuly is really enjoying indoor life and takes his topical eyes meds like a trouper (he is also on an oral lysine supplement to help with the herpes). We have also learned from our cat care team the following about his likes, dislikes and kitty-quirks:


“Chihuly has a tendency to be a little bit of an attention hog, but once he’s had his fill, he’ll give you a quick swipe of the paw to warn you; I wouldn’t call him aggressive, he just has his personal limits. I’ve never seen him actually start any fights, or intentionally go after another cat, but he will join in on the growling if anything is going down between the others.”


“I have learned that the way to his heart is with endless bowls of canned food — he’s been known to eat four big plates and still follow you around for more. He would eat until he explodes if you let him.”


“He’d do best in a home with adults, and maybe one other cat, but dogs may a bit too much for him. Overall he is incredibly sweet and has gotten much better at not expressing himself by striking out; you can tell the time spent on the streets has made him a bit defensive, but he is learning rather quickly that soaking up the love and attention afforded him is the key to happiness.”


Chihuly will continue to evolve and make positive changes for weeks and months to come, but thus far, we are already impressed by his acclimation into our free-roaming, 50-cat population. He will require long-term medication to keep his eyes comfortable, but overall it is an affordable care plan that he doesn’t mind one bit. Simply stated, if you fill him up with yummy canned food and give him a lap to snooze on, he will be your best friend fur-ever!

More about Chihuly:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Black & White/Tuxedo
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Large
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats, no children

Want to adopt Chihuly? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Protecting ourselves from financial scams

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, How-To's, Non-Profits, Senior Living, ,

By Regina Salmi, Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan


Every year millions of Americans are victims of scams or fraud. It is estimated that approximately 11% of the population experiences loss of money or personal property annually. While it can happen to a person at any age, older adults are often the most frequent targets for fraud. Older adults often have access to funds, excellent credit, and own their homes, making them attractive targets for criminals. In fact, older adults lose an estimated 2.9 billion dollars a year to fraud.


These are the current scams targeting older adults: 


Grandchild Scam: A caller will sound distressed and claim to be a grandchild in trouble or in danger and beg to have money wired to them immediately. The best thing to do is to hang up and call family members to insure everyone is safe and sound. 


IRS/Social Security Scam: A person could receive a call, an email or an official-looking letter, demanding immediate payment. They are told information will be forwarded to local law enforcement officials for arrest if they fail to pay. This is not the way any government agency collects debts. If you get this call, hang up immediately or delete the email without opening it. 


Home Repairs: Beware of door-to-door home repair contractors. They intentionally seek out older adults, particularly those living alone. They may say they are ‘working down in your neighborhood’ and are offering discounted work while in the area. They claim you need an expensive repair you cannot do yourself, like a new roof, dangerous branches removed from a tree in your yard, or offer you an amazing deal on new windows. All they need is a deposit and they’ll get to work. The catch is, the deposit is usually a few thousand dollars and they never show up to do the work. The only contractor showing up to your door is the one you called yourself. 


While it seems there are scams everywhere we turn, there are a few ‘rules of thumb’ we can use to protect ourselves from being fooled: 

  • If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Criminals feed on our desires by offering us goods or opportunities we wouldn’t, in reality, be able to attain: vacations, money, miracle cures, property, etc. You can be sure there is always a hidden cost and we end up losing much more than we would have ever gained. 
  • Never send money to someone you do not know. Any business or government agency you owe money to will send you the request through the mail. If a paperless billing notice arrives in your email and you didn’t initiate it, call the company directly to confirm it is from them. 
  • Do not give personal or financial information to someone who calls, emails or shows up at your door. Avoid giving out your bank account, credit card, or Social Security number unless you are positive you know who is requesting the information. Businesses you have accounts with will ask you to verify some information to make sure it’s you, like the last four-digits of your social security number, but they are confirming your information — not receiving it for the first time.
  • If you get an email or pop-up message that asks for personal or financial information, do not reply, open any attachment or click on any link in the message. Legitimate companies don’t ask for this information by email and you’re often opening a door to identity theft. You also risk downloading viruses or software that collects your personal information and/or disables your computer’s security

It’s important that we protect ourselves and share tips and information with family and friends who might also fall prey to these schemes. 


If you’re ever unsure about whether you might be the victim of a scam there are several resources available to you. The Kent County Elder Abuse Coalition updates current scams frequently on their website here.


The Michigan Attorney General also has a consumer alert webpage here.


If you believe you may be a victim of a scam, you can call them at (877) 765-8388.