The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition begins Sunday, May 11.
The Kingpin of Comedy stand-up comedy show runs weekly from May 11-Oct. 19 at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title: The Funniest Person in Wyoming,” said SNF founder, Brian B.
The Kingpin of Comedy will receive a prize package over $1,000 in value – including $500 cash (Courtesy, Brian B.)
That prize package includes $500 cash, Kingpin of Comedy bowling pin trophy, personalized Kingpin bowling shirt and the opportunity to close the SNF LaughFest show in 2026. Additional prizes from Spectrum Entertainment Complex, GLC Live at 20 Monroe and Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids LaughFest round out the total prize package to over $1,000 in value.
More information about SNF and the seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition can be found here.
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
Davenport University is expanding its unique online bilingual program, Casa Latina, to include three additional associate degrees and two graduate certificates. These additions to the program highlight the need for ongoing support and advocacy for multilingual learners and will be available to students in fall 2025.
Established in the fall of 2024, Casa Latina will now include fully online and bilingual associate degrees in accounting, business administration and human resource management, and graduate certificates in business essentials and human resource management. These offerings are in addition to the 12 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs currently available to students.
“Casa Latina provides a range of career-focused undergraduate and graduate degrees, along with bilingual support services and scholarship opportunities,” said Alejandra Guillén, Director of Marketing & Recruitment for Casa Latina.
“Graduates leave professionally fluent in both English and Spanish, with the skills and cultural understanding to succeed in diverse work environments.”
Bilingual students, especially first-generation students, look for programs that fit their lifestyle (Courtesy, Davenport University)
Fit your lifestyle
Davenport found bilingual students, especially first-generation students, were looking for programs that fit their lifestyle, but not everyone was ready to commit to a four-year program.
“At Davenport, Casa Latina students will now have the option to start with a two-year associate degree, reap the fruits of that commitment, and then finish their undergraduate degree when it’s convenient for them,” said Guillén.
Empowering bilingual individuals
The initiative is grounded in the belief that fully developed bilingualism is a powerful asset (Courtesy, Davenport University)
Casa Latina is designed to empower bilingual individuals and elevate the value of Spanish-English fluency in professional settings. The program focuses on those with underdeveloped or underutilized language skills, helping them achieve full proficiency and succeed in high-demand fields such as business, technology, health care and urban education.
“With nearly half a million Latinos in Michigan, and only 2% holding a postsecondary degree, the need for an accessible, culturally affirming educational pathway is urgent,” said Guillén. “Casa Latina exists to meet this need.
“Many Spanish-speaking individuals—especially those who feel their English skills are not strong enough—have long considered college out of reach. Casa Latina removes this barrier, offering a fully bilingual pathway to higher education.”
The initiative is grounded in the belief that fully developed bilingualism is a powerful asset. It enhances cognitive abilities, expands socioeconomic opportunities and strengthens communities. The program prepares its students to succeed individually and contribute meaningfully to the organizations and communities they serve.
Learn more!
For more information about Casa Latina, click here.
Grab a four-legged friend for this popular community event filled with music, food, drinks, and fun – all while supporting a great cause (Courtesy, Hats & Hounds)
Dust off your best hat and grab a four-legged friend for the popular Hats & Hounds popular community event filled with music, food, drinks and fun – all while supporting a great cause.
There will be a chance to win a prize for Best Dressed Hound & Handler – so don your best outfit! (Courtesy, PAWS)
Event details
This evening of fun will take place on Thursday, May 22 at 6 p.m. at Wildwood Family Farms located at 7970 Snow Ave SE, Alto, MI 49302. Guests will enjoy toe-tapping bluegrass music from the Round Creek Trio, indulge in southern-inspired food and beverages, take part in exciting raffles and games, and have the chance to win a prize for the Best Dressed Hound & Handler Contest.
Tickets are just $25 per person and include all food and drinks. In addition to the fun, attendees will meet PAWS clients and learn firsthand about the life-changing impact PAWS assistance dogs have on individuals with disabilities.
Financial support is needed as the need for assistance dogs increases (Courtesy, PAWS)
“It’s exciting to bring this event back for another year. Last year, we were able to raise $15,000 for our mission and this year we’re hoping to raise even more,” said Ashley Diersch, Chief Advancement Officer at PAWS.
“There is a growing need for assistance dogs, and the need for financial support continues to grow as well. With the challenges of inflation and the uncertainty with the economy, we need more help from our community to continue this life-changing work. Every ticket purchase helps!”
Personal pets are welcome, but must be over 16 weeks old, fully vaccinated, leashed and under the control of their owner at all times. If you are unable to attend but still want to support PAWS, donations are welcomed and can be made online.
One of Grand Rapids’ popular community spaces returns for its 103rd year as Fulton Street Market opens its Main Market Season (Courtesy, Fulton Street Market)
One of Grand Rapids’ popular community spaces returns for its 103rd year as Fulton Street Market opens its Main Market Season.
Starting May 3, markets will run Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through the end of October. Offerings include local produce, farm fresh meats and dairy products, artisan makes, hot and prepared foods, and of course – coffee!
Fulton Street Market continues to promote food accessibility through programs including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks, partnership with the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Elders, and the Fulton Street Market Food Recovery Program. Through the Food Recovery Program, Fulton Street Market has redirected over 75,000 pounds of unsold food into the Heartside community free of charge since 2022.
A century of community connection
(Courtesy, Fulton Street Market)
As the oldest farmer’s market in West Michigan, Fulton Street Market has been an integral part of local connection and community since 1922.
Featuring 118 outdoor booths and additional indoor spaces, the market hosts an extensive assortment of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, hand-crafted food items, and unique artisan products year-round. Each market season draws tens of thousands of visitors to shop for produce, grab a bite to eat, and support local farmers and small businesses.
“We’ve been planning for weeks how we want to show up and make the most of the excitement and joy that opening day brings to our community,” says Arick Davis, co‑owner of Last Mile Cafe. “Our team is very excited for Fulton Street’s Main Season!”
In addition to weekly market days, Fulton Street Market hosts ART! at the Market events, a BIPOC Night Market series, and seasonal Rummage Sales. These community favorites amplify an array of artists, uplift farmers and creators within marginalized communities, and bolster efforts to shop second hand.
The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) will host its third annual Older Americans Month show on Sunday, May 4 at The Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming. This special lineup will feature seven comedians ages 55 and older.
“There are more than 117 million Americans 50 and older – 35% of the total population,” says Brian B., founder and MC of the SNF. “I wanted to do a special show to honor and represent that age group.”
This is the third year of special performances to recognize specific brackets of individuals. In February, SNF hosted a show with all-Black comedians in honor of Black History Month. March featured an all-women lineup for Women’s History Month.
“The Sunday Night Funnies is a melting pot of comedians and audience members of different ages and nationalities, so why not honor all the groups that make up the show?” says Brian B.
The SNF lineup for the third annual Older Americans Month show (Courtesy, Brian B.)
An all-star lineup!
Among the May 4 show lineup are three local media personalities. Making her first SNF appearance is Fox 17 meteorologist Terri DeBoer. Retired host of long-running radio show “Flowerland Garden Show,” Rick Vuyst, is also joining the lineup. Another former local radio morning personality, Jojo Girard, will close out the show.
Eva Pritchard, 2023 and 2024 Kingpin of Comedy quarterfinalist, comics Ed Hunter and Tom Hofbauer of Toledo, OH, and local comedian Stu McCallister will also perform.
Don’t forget!
The SNF eighth annual Kingpin of Comedy competition will begin its first round the following Sunday, May 11. The competition will run weekly through Oct. 26.
Kingpin of Comedy previous winners (Courtesy, Brian B.)
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.
*WHS April Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, April 28 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
What to expect
Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.
The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)
Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.
Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.
Resources
To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.
For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.
Cellar Bird Books offers visitors a wide variety of books, locally made gifts, and book club experiences (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
For former Paramount Animation production manager Lea Kocurek, owning a bookstore was a decade-long dream that recently became a reality.
Located on the west side of Grand Rapids, Cellar Bird Books opened its doors at 415 Bridge St. NW on Nov. 18, 2024. Kocurek offers a carefully curated selection of new books for all ages, literary-themed gifts, monthly books clubs, author readings and more.
Rekindling a former passion…
Kocurek says she fell away from reading for pleasure during college but recently rediscovered her love of books – and began to dream.
“Opening a bookstore has been a dream of mine for about a decade or so,” says Kocurek. “I kind of got out of reading for fun, and once I discovered it again, I became a really avid reader.”
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Between animation projects, Kocurek began researching what it would take to open a bookstore. A few months later, she felt the pull to make her dream a reality.
Already harboring a desire to move away from Los Angeles, Kocurek and her husband began looking at other parts of the country to see what appealed to them. After settling on Michigan, they narrowed it down further and arrived in Grand Rapids in 2021.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We bought a house sight-unseen, and our first time stepping foot in Michigan was moving across the country,” says Kocurek. “We love it. We’re definitely putting down more roots with opening this store and everything, but I really love it.”
Falling in love…
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Originally from Texas, Kocurek had moved to Los Angeles with her husband in 2015 to work at Paramount Animation. As she looks back, Kocurek realizes her world has always revolved around her love of storytelling.
“That dawned on me last summer when I was looking at both career paths,” says Kocurek. “I’m not necessarily the one telling the story, but I love bringing stories to people.”
Kocurek has fallen in love with Grand Rapids and the community, and stocks unique items made from local companies and independent artists. She also features books from several local authors.
“I’m trying to build that up a bit more as I get a little more established. I had to figure things out a little bit; this is all so new to me,” Kocurek says with a laugh. “It’s taken me a little bit of time to know how to even run a bookstore.”
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
When asked why she decided on the name Cellar Bird Books, Kocurek admitted the name was inspired by the times she found birds flying around in her basement.
“When I was looking for a name for the bookstore, I liked the ring of it and it fit the cozy/darker vibe I want the store to have.”
Kocurek says she loves all aspects of owning her own bookstore, but some things have caught her by surprise.
“I think the part that surprised me the most is the community aspect of it, and that it’s not just a store,” says Kocurek. “I’m starting to put together events and book clubs, and I enjoy it. I knew that aspect was there but didn’t quite understand how much of a foundation of the store it was.”
How to get books, books…and more books!
Event and book club information can be found here. Options to pre-order new releases, place a special order, shop online or simply view staff picks are also available on the Cellar Bird Books website.
If readers are searching for their next read, Kocurek recommends The Wedding Peopleby Alison Espach, her favorite book of 2024.
To learn more about Cellar Bird Books, visit their website – or simply stop in!
Historic storms brought ice accumulation in northern Michigan and nine confirmed tornadoes to southern Michigan, impacting more than 390,000 Consumers Energy customers (Courtesy, Consumers Energy)
Consumers Energy officials are thanking customers for their patience and understanding as crews from Michigan and neighboring states finish restoring power to the last remaining customers impacted earlier this week.
The historic storms brought ice accumulation in northern Michigan and nine confirmed tornadoes to southern Michigan, impacting more than 390,000 customers.
Consumers Energy crews worked around the clock in difficult conditions to safely and efficiently restore power. While they are nearing the end of our restoration efforts, crews can still be seen throughout the community.
Some crews are being redeployed to assist in other areas still recovering from the storm while others will remain in the region to clean up debris. In the following weeks, crews will work to remove the downed poles, wires and other materials used during restoration.
Consumers Energy asks residents to be aware during the clean-up process; never approach any downed wires or damaged equipment, and allow crews the space they need to work safely.
A show of support
“We are incredibly proud of our crews and support teams who responded swiftly and tirelessly during this critical time,” said Norm Kapala, one of Consumers Energy’s Officers in Charge for restoration. “We know how important reliable power is to our customers, and we thank them for their patience as we worked to bring everyone back online.”
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Throughout the restoration, crews were also deeply moved by the support shown by the communities. In Pellston — the “Ice Box of the Nation” — hearts were anything but cold. When more than 100 crews stopped by the Pellston General Store, they were told: “It’s on us.”
“When we arrived and set up our command center, there was no electricity, no water and no food available,” said Andy Snider, Executive Director of Electric Operations. “This establishment really opened its doors to help our crews out. The support they’ve offered helped us expedite restoration.”
Pellston General Store Director Nate Hendricks said he was happy to help. “These crews are away from their families helping us get back in business and getting everyone’s power back. We want to pay it forward.”
Consumers Energy says they are grateful for this incredible example of community spirit — and for every neighbor, business and local partner who supported their crews throughout this storm.
Continued improvement
Customers will also see crews throughout the year as Consumers pushes forward in their efforts to improve as outlined in the Reliability Roadmap.
As weather events grow more frequent and severe, investing in a stronger, more resilient electric grid is essential. They are continuing to upgrade infrastructure, trim trees, replace aging equipment and implement smart technologies to better withstand future storms and reduce outage times.
(Courtesy, Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce)
Important safety tips
Consumers Energy urges the public to keep important safety tips in mind:
Be alert to crews working along the roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they can go safely past workers on roadsides.
Stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines, and to report unguarded downed lines by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
Never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas. Read more guidance on safe generator use here.
Consumers Energy will trim or remove trees interfering with electric restoration activities. Once safe to do so, clean-up of debris from tree trimming or removal during a storm emergency is the responsibility of individual property owners.
In some cases, the mast that holds the electric service wires to a home or business may have been damaged or torn away. Crews will reconnect the wires to a home, but only a licensed electrician can repair or replace a mast or a cable.
Residents can also utilize the Michigan 211 website for the most up to date information on warming shelters in their area.
Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.
The Tree Amigos – City of Wyoming Tree Commission will host an Arbor Day event at Prairie Park on Thursday, April 24 at 4 p.m. The event will include music and the reading of the Arbor Day Proclamation. In collaboration with the City of Wyoming Parks Dept., The Tree Amigos will plant a Brandywine Red Maple at Prairie Park after the ceremony.
Following the event, The Tree Amigos and volunteers will plant approximately 20 trees in the nearby neighborhood on Sharon Street SW, south of 28th Street. Volunteers are welcome!
Consulting arborist Lauren Davis, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks Director of Programs, recently surveyed the street for potential planting spaces. Tree Amigos Matt Ferris and Matt Jemilo followed up with door-to-door visits to see if residents at the selected addresses wanted a tree – and received an overwhelmingly positive response.
The City of Wyoming Tree Commission, The Tree Amigos, is a volunteer board that seeks to improve the City’s tree canopy with the goal of creating a healthier, more vibrant community.
With the return of spring comes another seasonal tradition – the annual Wyoming Carnival!
Families are invited to Lamar Park (2561 Porter St. SW, Wyoming) to enjoy carnival rides, food, games and prizes April 11 – 20.
“We’re excited for a week of food, fun and games to kick off spring,” said Brittani Stickler, Special Events and Marketing Programmer for Wyoming Parks & Recreation.
The carnival will be open Monday through Thursday from 4 – 8:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 12 – 8:30 p.m., and Sunday from 12 – 6 p.m.
(Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Individual ticket and unlimited ride wristband cost will be announced soon. Tickets and wristbands can be purchased at the ticket booth on site at the carnival.
Krashawn Martin, Director of Parks & Recreation, says this annual event is always “a great opportunity for families and neighbors to come out and enjoy the park, and enjoy the carnival at the same time.”
Impacting youth through family fun
Not only does the carnival provide fun for the whole family, it funds youth scholarships and programming through the Parks & Recreation Department.
Each year, T.J. Schmidt & Company donates a portion of their ticket sales back to the Parks & Rec Department for youth scholarships. The recreation program scholarships can be utilized by most any youth in Wyoming under the age of 18.
(Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Those interested in applying for a youth scholarship can fill out an application on the Parks & Recreation website, or visit the department office location.
The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance distributes funds to the community through their annual grant awarding process.
Something for everyone
The Parks & Rec Department encourages the community to come out and experience this family-friendly event.
“Whether you’re here for the carnival classics or trying something new, there’s something for everyone!” (Parks & Rec website)
Puertas Abiertas (Open Doors), a local nonprofit organization, is celebrating six years of helping Latina women live healthier lives free of violence.
Andrea Inostroza, founder and executive director, has served over 2,500 individuals since the inception of Puertas Abiertas in January 2019. While Inostroza focuses on providing services for female victims of abuse, trafficking and discrimination in the Latina community, no one is turned away.
Regardless of age, gender or ethnicity, Inostroza opens her doors to all in need.
“What we provide here is a support group for women, men, children, adolescents, and LGBTQ+ too,” says Inostroza. “This organization was born with the idea of: Serve the Latino community and break the cycle of domestic violence (DV) through education.”
“We speak their language”
Inostroza leads the organization with cultural sensitivity and awareness. As the only bilingual organization in Michigan offering resources for those escaping domestic violence situations, Puertas Abiertas provides a vital service for the Latina community.
The nonprofit offers services such as therapy; support groups; food, clothing and housing assistance; employment and resume building assistance; and a 24/7 Spanish domestic violence hotline.
Puertas Abiertas works with more than 60 partners and community organizations to offer as many resources as possible under one roof – which was Inostroza’s goal.
(Courtesy, Puertas Abiertas)
“My idea was to have an organization where everybody comes here, and we don’t send anyone anywhere,” Inostroza says, adding that partnerships are vital to the success of this process. “You can’t do this work by yourself. You have to do it in a collaboration.”
Inostroza’s staff includes five Michigan licensed therapists and two full-licensed therapists. Inostroza’s background also contains an extensive knowledge of trauma-informed therapy. Puertas Abiertas’ therapy program currently serves over 140 men, women and children.
Puertas Abiertas staff also includes five advocates that accompany clients to various places (ex: court) and assist with transportation and translation.
“We are always with them. Always,” says Inostroza. “That’s what makes a difference. To have somebody beside you, and to know that you belong to the organization…it’s a sense of belonging.”
“We don’t label”
Inostroza says there is no judgment at Puertas Abiertas.
“We don’t differentiate here, we don’t label. If someone comes here and needs services, we help them. Our mission is to provide, to teach these women to have a healthy life free of violence,” Inostroza says.
“We work with the Latino community, and we’re trying to protect the clients, protect the organization, and to have the best outcome based on everything that is going on around us.”
Teaching safety and equality
Andrea Inostroza-Castro, Puertas Abiertas Founder and Executive Director (Courtesy, Puertas Abiertas)
Inostroza was raised in Concepción, Chile and moved to Kansas with her family in 2002 without knowing the English language or culture. The move was precipitated by a desire to place her children in a safe environment and teach them about equality.
“Chile is very divided by social status, socioeconomics and finances, so we wanted to teach our kids that everybody is the same,” says Inostroza. “We don’t look at anyone differently.”
Initially, Inostroza struggled with the English language and change in culture.
“I came from the second biggest city in Chile, beside the ocean – to Kansas, in the middle of nowhere,” said Inostroza, adding that she later moved to Michigan because of the lakes and her desire to be near water.
Inostroza learned English while pursuing a postgraduate degree. Her certifications include: a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education, a Master of Science in Psychology, a Master in Art Therapy and Counseling. She is also registered as a professional artist at Fine Art America.
Recognizing a need
Inostroza was inspired to start Puertas Abiertas while employed at a Grand Rapids school where 86% of students came from the Latino community.
“I saw a lot of problems with children,” says Inostroza. “[The school] wanted to discharge them from the school system because of their behavior.”
Inostroza realized the negative behavior stemmed from domestic violence at home, or because the students were survivors of domestic violence.
(Courtesy, Puertas Abiertas)
She began talking with her students’ mothers, gaining their trust. Inostroza soon realized the women were also DV victims and survivors, or were sexually abused as children.
“That’s what motivates me: the needs of the people and the misunderstanding of the behaviors of the children in school – because it was not their fault,” says Inostroza. “They were repeating [what they saw at home].
Inostroza began a ten-week support group (Puertas Abiertas) for women. As the number of participants quickly increased, she began looking for a larger meeting place – and encountered unexpected resistance.
David vs. Goliath: The fight for resources
While trying to obtain support and resources, Inostroza was continually turned away with the words: ‘No, there is no domestic violence in the Latino community.’
“Grand Rapids wasn’t prepared to face it,” says Inostroza.
Another misconception was the belief that domestic violence was part of the Latino community culture.
“It’s not,” said Inostroza. “It is a lack of formal education. Latino and South American countries are known for lack of formal education.”
Despite the negativity surrounding her, Inostroza refused to give up.
“In the beginning, it was very stressful. I knocked on so many doors. I can’t tell you how many doors.”
Money was also a problem, with only $1,300 for liability insurance. Puertas Abiertas now has a million-dollar budget and 21 staff members.
“It has been a lot of work, a lot of grant writing, a lot of talking,” Inostroza says. “People are supporting the organization and seeing the work being done. We have the trust of the people, but that took work.”
Breaking the cycle
Many children belonging to the Latino community are born into a domestic violence cycle.
“These children are the future generations of the United States,” says Inostroza. “And we don’t see it. We don’t believe that these kids are going to grow up, they are going to become adults, they are going to have families, and the cycle is going to continue.”
Education is necessary, Inostroza continues, to help these children grow, become independent, recognize the difference between need and want – and break the DV cycle.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs defines which needs are most important to survive (Courtesy, Puertas Abiertas)
“This organization was not based on what I wanted to give the community, it was based on what they needed. That is why it has been so successful,” says Inostroza.
“If we don’t provide the services or the education we’re providing, this is going to continue and continue.”
Wins and losses
Inostroza says she has learned a lot since Puertas Abiertas opened its doors, and that recognizing both wins and losses over the past six years is important.
“It’s important because we learn from our mistakes,” says Inostroza. “We have made some mistakes, and we have learned from them so we don’t repeat them again.”
Inostroza’s staff share the Puertas Abiertas mission, vision and values – and share the rewards as well.
“To know [clients] are going to have a bed at night, a place to sleep, is a huge reward for us,” said Inostroza. “To know they are going to have food, to know they are safe, to see their smile, is what has motivated me to keep going. Nothing else.”
And Inostroza is willing to put in the work.
“We have to do the work…and do the best we can to protect the clients and protect the organization. I cannot fail.”
To learn more about Puertas Abiertas or how to support/partner with the organization, click here (English) or here (Español).
Watch this special episode of WKTV Soundbites En Español with host Yeli Romero and Julieta Torres, Gerente de Programas de Puertas Abiertas: Soundbites En Español.
Wedgwood Christian Services is already seeing positive results from their revived Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), a six-week program that provides support for adolescents and adults with moderate to significant substance use.
Wedgwood’s IOP was relaunched in November 2024 after a brief pause due to staff transitions and low participation. WCS decided to revamp and revive IOP when a need for the program became evident.
(Courtesy photo)
“We started seeing a need for it and had some really good team members for that,” said Nick Bayer, Clinical Supervisor at WCS, adding that significant time was spent constructing a plan for the program. “It also gave us a real opportunity to sit down and say, How do we want to do it?”
Topics for each session are pre-planned to guide and retain focus of the group. One change was making IOP a closed group.
“We run it in six-week closed groups where you don’t have kids dropping and dropping out, it’s the same kids coming in,” said Bayer. “It really helped build that connection between people so they don’t have to retell their stories, or a new person doesn’t know what’s going on, as well as establishing a very specific curriculum.”
Why is IOP needed?
Research shows that one in seven teens will need treatment for substance use disorders. However, only 5% of adolescents in Michigan receive the needed treatment. Wedgwood’s IOP is one of the few federally funded treatment programs exclusively geared toward adolescents and young adults.
Engaging clients in therapy two or three days each week, IOP sessions are three hours in length and held at Wedgwood’s Ekhart Counseling Center in Grand Rapids. The program provides guidance, support and a plan for adolescents, young adults, and their families to rebuild lives and provide hope for the future.
(Courtesy photo)
Motivational interviewing is a major component in earlier stages of treatment while later stages focus on creating a new lifestyle, coping with triggers and urges, and maintaining a strong commitment to recovery.
WCS offers outpatient, intensive outpatient and residential care for substance use treatment. Bayer describes Wedgwood’s IOP as an in-between stage of care. Though intensive in terms of the amount of work and energy being put in, it does not completely disrupt the participant’s life.
Some youth slotted for residential care often try IOP first since residential availability is often low. IOP offers a higher level of support and therapeutic interventions without the intensity of a residential experience.
Vital connections
Wedgwood’s IOP recently completed the first six-week cohort – and is already seeing positive results.
Bayer said the IOP builds a feeling of support and unity among youth that is desperately needed. With several IOP youth on probation, being surrounded by other youth who understand the emotions of that situation is important.
“It’s one thing for me as an adult to talk with them about what it’s like to navigate the feelings of being a teenager on probation. It’s another thing for a peer also going through it to say, I know what it feels like.”
Access and exposure
Bayer said lack of available resources and the current culture contribute to rising adolescent substance use, with few adolescents receiving needed treatment.
(Courtesy photo)
“The nature of being an adolescent is to blame for substance use, different pressures and not knowing about different options,” Bayer said. “They’ve got a lot going on.”
Access and exposure to substances are also significantly higher than in the past. It is not hard to obtain cannabis or marijuana, Bayer said, and cannabis is currently the drug of choice.
“The supply is significant,” said Bayer. “My two-stoplight town has five dispensaries in it, and you see advertisements for it all over. As an adolescent, you’re bombarded with these messages constantly.”
So how do we help our youth?
Wedgwood’s IOP focuses on teaching abstinence and reduction from substances, while also teaching skills and interventions to replace the symptoms of THC and substance use.
“A lot of them are self-medicating,” said Bayer. “They’re having the stress, anxiety and agitation of going through adolescence. They find that maybe cannabis helps them calm down. But now they’re reliant upon it.”
(Courtesy, photo)
Motivational interviewing – a therapeutic approach using questions and rapport to help clients identify their needs and create their own therapeutic goals – is helpful because it creates ownership in the client.
“It’s really effective when it comes to substance use counseling because the big thing for change is motivation,” said Bayer. “If they don’t want to stop using, they’re not going to. It’s so much more meaningful when the goal comes from the person; they are much more likely to strive to meet that.
“It’s where the therapist is the ally of the individual. They are striving toward their goals, and you are supporting them in getting there.”
Much of that support is helping clients build skills in self-control and in safety when using. Because, Bayer said, there is a high rate of relapse in substance use.
“There’s a phrase we use in addiction treatment: relapse is part of recovery,” said Bayer. “Those that suffer with addictions enter treatment on average six or seven times before they have a sustained remission. It’s just hard, and relapse is part of recovery.”
WCS strives to give positive therapeutic support so clients in a relapse situation are not anxious about returning for care.
A full spectrum of care
Wedgwood’s IOP is accepted by most insurance plans, is licensed by the State of Michigan, and provided in several counties. Learn more about Wedgwood’s IOP and other substance use care here.
To learn more about Wedgwood Christian Services and the care they offer, click here.
Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.
*WHS March Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, March 31 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
What to expect
Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.
The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)
Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.
Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.
Resources
To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.
For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Davenport University is hosting an empowering networking event and panel discussion for members of the public (Courtesy, Davenport U)
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Davenport University is hosting Mujeres in Business: Breaking Barriers, an empowering networking event and panel discussion for members of the public on Thursday, March 20, at 5 p.m.
What to expect
(Courtesy, Davenport U)
The event will feature a panel of eight Latina entrepreneurs from the book Mujeres in Business: Michigan Edition, authored by Isabel Flores and Zoraida Sánchez. These inspiring business leaders will share their journeys, challenges and triumphs in the world of entrepreneurship.
Panelists for the event include Zoraida Sánchez, Liza Alvarez, María Erazo, María Marquez, Isabel López Slattery, Nohemi Herrera, Alejandra Walters and María Fernanda Gómez.
Mujeres in Business: Breaking Barriers will take place in Davenport’s Robert W. Sneden Center Auditorium on the W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus, 6191 Kraft Ave. SE.
“This event is about celebrating Latina entrepreneurs who have made a lasting impact in Michigan and beyond,” said Alejandra Guillén, Director of Marketing for Casa Latina. “Casa Latina is dedicated to empowering Latino students, professionals, and entrepreneurs by providing opportunities for leadership, education and community engagement.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to network, engage in a panel discussion, and participate in a Q&A session with the featured entrepreneurs. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.Event registration can be found here.
One-of-a-kind: Casa Latina
Isabel Flores (Courtesy, Davenport U)
In 2024, Davenport University launched Casa Latina, a one-of-a-kind groundbreaking approach to higher education utilizing bilingual methodology across its curriculum to help students become experts in their chosen fields, and professionally proficient in both English and Spanish.
“This event aligns with our mission to uplift and support the growing influence of Latina leaders in business and beyond,” said Guillén. “We want to showcase their resilience, leadership and contributions to the business community.”
Zoraida Sanchez (Courtesy, Davenport U)
According to Pew Research, Latinos will become nearly 30% of the U.S. population by 2050. However, despite being the fastest growing group, Latinos are the least represented in higher education. In Michigan, Latinos represent 6% of the population, but only 2% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. That is compared to 20% of all Michiganders.
The program, offered 100% online, gives students complete flexibility to learn where they are while always having the support of campus resources.
Learn more about the Casa Latina program here or call 866-383-3548.
Over 70 community members, city and county officials, and law enforcement officers attended the iCI Nation “Lunch n Learn” event on March 12 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Over 70 community members, city and county officials, and law enforcement officers attended the iCI Nation “Lunch n Learn” event on March 12.
Held at the Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD), iCI Nation Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Franson hosted the Lunch n Learn event as a way for law enforcement and community to meet and build relationships.
Jennifer Franson welcomes community members to the iCI Nation Lunch n Learn at the GRPD (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“The goal of this right now is building relationships and trust,” said Franson. “Our vision is to unify the city as we protect and serve together.”
iCI Nation has been building successful partnerships between community and law enforcement since 2016. The local nonprofit is dedicated to providing a healthy environment that brings citizens, police officers and organizational resources together to create a stronger and healthier city.
Value in connections
Franson urges police and community to build connections over the shared value of protecting and serving together. Lunch n Learn events are a way to facilitate those connections.
“I want to call out the value of all of you,” Franson said to event attendees. “I want you to try to see each other through that; the value you have, the value they have, and how you – together – are working on the same team.”
GRPD Police Chief Eric Winstrom talks about the value of connections (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
GRPD Police Chief Eric Winstrom sought out genuine connections when he first came to West Michigan. However, being seen as human beings – and not just as the uniform police officers wear – is a challenge, Winstrom said.
“To have people like Jenn Franson who give us the opportunities to connect with people on a regular basis like this, to have easy conversations, positive conversations, but also higher conversations – that’s super vital to the success that we’re seeing,” said Winstrom.
Advocating for our youth
Frank Briones (center) with local youth from his program (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Advocating for Kent County youth was the focus of the Lunch n Learn event.
Event speakers included GRPD Chief Eric Winstrom, Kent County Youth Caseworker Frank Briones, and GRPD Victims Advocate Clorissa Novak.
“Everybody in this room wearing a uniform wants so badly to never put handcuffs on a young person,” said Winstrom. “We want to deal with the root causes. This is not an us against them. We want the best, especially for our kids.”
Briones has worked with Kent County youth for over 20 years. Like Winstrom, Briones realizes the youth coming through his door are not defined by crimes written on an admission form. Often, they come from harmful environments and are struggling.
(Left to right) Peter MacGregor, Jennifer Franson and Lisa Posthumus Lyons (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
“It’s not their fault,” said Briones. “I try to advocate for them, I try to help them as much as I can.
“These kids, they’re our future. We made a commitment to be consistent with our youth, to go above and beyond to help them.”
Franson urges the community to think of the hearts and stories behind the headlines.
“We hear the bad [and] we don’t think of the people, the humans behind [the headlines],” said Franson.
Tragedy turns to triumph when we reserve judgement, said Briones. “We have to show [youth] that this is not the end of the line, that there is hope.”
The social worker-led program focuses on information, support and resources to make sure victims have what they need both physically and emotionally. Education, Novak added, is also a vital component because many victims of crime do not know their rights.
Chief Winstrom (left) stands in the iCI Nation Kids Closet (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
“We are here to make sure people understand what they can expect, help manage expectations, and then support them in a time where our first responders and investigators are doing what they have to do to try to get justice.”
Novak went on to say that the iCI Nation Kids Closet at the GRPD is instrumental in ensuring victims have physical needs such as clothing, toys, backpacks and more.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“It is just meeting folks where they are and trying to make sure that they’re not falling through the gaps,” said Novak. “That they have what they need to get back to that pre-crisis state of function.”
The key to success, Novak said, is collaboration.
“Spread the word,” said Novak. “Let people know that we’re here, that we’re safe folks to talk to.”
Winstrom emphasized the GRPD’s commitment to protect everyone. “We want you to know that if you’re in danger, if you’re being victimized, you can call us.”
Engagement, Collaboration, Partnership
Topics discussed included restorative vs. punitive justice, self-care and needs of individuals and organizations working with youth. Engagement, collaboration and partnership were emphasized repeatedly throughout the discussions.
Engagement, collaboration and partnership are vital to successfully unifying our cities (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
“Community engagement is huge,” said Novak. “People being willing to collaborate, to help our folks or create pathways for referrals is huge. The more relationships we can build the better.”
Briones said he will work with “anyone, anytime, anyplace” to help youth – even when it is hard.
“Sometimes we don’t want to get up and go,” said Briones. “But we do it anyway. We go, one foot in front of the other. We go because they are dependent on us.
“It takes support, love, caring and compassion to help these young people become better people.”
Positive conversations and connections produce support and unity (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
When asked about the GRPD’s greatest need, Winstrom gestured toward event attendees.
“This,” said Winstrom. “More more things like this where we connect on a positive level and work together.
“When the community supports us, we’re all winning. It’s not us against them…we’re co-producing the safest city we can.”
Value & Authenticity = Change
Franson said bringing value and authentic care and love to youth always makes a difference.
“You guys all have it, you guys are all doing it, and I hope that encourages you,” said Franson. “We’re all in this together. We’re all neighbors, we’re all community. We’re working together for each other.”
Kurt (left) often visits with local youth, making them feel valued (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Winstrom agreed: “You’re doing the work; stick with it. It may be difficult, but these kids need adults in their lives who care. That’s going to make all the difference.”
“We have to finish the race,” said Briones. “What we start, we finish. When we can do it together, that’s even better.”
To learn more about iCI Nation, click here. For more information on the iCI Nation Kids Closet, contact Clorissa Novak at cnovak@grcity.us or 616-456-3360.
Lunch n Learn Sponsors
Event sponsors included Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker, Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus Lyons and Kent County Treasurer Peter MacGregor. Lunch was provided by The Candied Yam.
One person is injured after a shooting in the 1200 block of Rathbone Street SW.
At approximately 1:45 p.m. on March 15, Wyoming Police responded to a shooting in the 1200 block of Rathbone Street SW. Upon arrival, officers located an adult female suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The suspect fled the scene before police arrived, and no suspect information is available for release at this time.
Wyoming Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
BLOOM’s month-long festivities allow greater Grand Rapids community members to take part in sustainable practices and seasonal activities (Courtesy, RiverTown Crossings)
This spring, RiverTown Crossings is proud to present BLOOM, an innovative month-long event series dedicated to sustainability and community engagement.
Starting on March 15 and running through April 26, BLOOM will transform RiverTown Crossings into a vibrant hub of eco-friendly activities and events.
“BLOOM showcases RiverTown Crossings’ dedication to community connection, featuring eco-friendly initiatives and engaging family-friendly events,” says Melissa Brink, Marketing Manager at RiverTown Crossings. “We’re delighted to provide a program that brings together sustainability, creativity, and community to celebrate the season.”
BLOOM aims to inspire and educate visitors on sustainable living practices while fostering a stronger sense of community and promoting fresh beginnings.
A wide variety of fun activities are available for all ages, including:
Document Shredding & Recycling Programs – Saturday, March 15
In celebration of World Recycle Day and in partnership with West Michigan Shredding, the community is encouraged to bring sensitive documents for safe disposal at an on-site shredding truck from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Located in the northeast parking lot near Dick’s Sporting Goods, guests may bring paper-based materials for shredding.
Participants who bring their documents to be shredded can text to enter a giveaway for a chance to win a $100 Uccello’s gift card.
Guests are also encouraged to visit several RiverTown Crossings tenants to support their recycling programs. Tenants include:
H&M – The retailer’s Garment Collection Program allows guests to drop off unwanted clothes from any brand, in any condition to recycle boxes in-store. The collected textiles are sorted for reuse, repurposing, or recycling to reduce waste.
American Eagle – Thinking of getting rid of that old pair of jeans? Bring them into an AE and get $10 toward a new pair! Shoppers must be a Real Rewards member to redeem this offer.
Sephora – Drop off your cleaned-out packaging to Sephora’s dedicated collection bins. In partnership with the nonprofit, Pact, the collected packaging will be repurposed into carpets, pallets, asphalt, new packaging and more.
BLOOM Bike Rodeo (Courtesy, RiverTown Crossings)
World Water Day – Saturday, March 22
In celebration of World Water Day, the center will host multiple environmental groups and vendors from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the lower level Center Court, to provide eco-friendly education and activities. Guests can also sign up to receive a free ‘RiverTown Crossings’ branded water bottle, with purchase at select stores and while supplies last.
Spring Affair – Friday, April 4 through Saturday, April 19
Capture season memories with Easter Bunny photo sessions taking place in Center Court. Fresh from the Home & Garden Show in Grand Rapids, DeHamer Landscaping will install a vibrant display of live plants and flowers for a beautiful spring backdrop. Guests are encouraged to reserve their spots and review photo packages, as space is limited. To reserve a photo session, visit whereisbunny.com.
Spring Break Activities – Saturday, April 12
Celebrating the end of spring break, families are invited to visit the RiverTown Crossings for a series of activities including crafts, coloring, face painting, balloon animals and an egg hunt.
The event will teach kids essential bike safety skills, including bike repairs, helmet checks and safe riding techniques, and a skills course will be available for those looking to challenge themselves. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bikes, though a limited number of loaner bikes will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Families can also enjoy exciting giveaways including a wildflower seed in Center Court, and bike raffles throughout the event.
The City of Wyoming has spent two decades [re]Imagining its future, and is making steady progress in making those dreams a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City of Wyoming has spent two decades [re]Imagining its future, and is making steady progress in making those dreams a reality.
The Wyoming City Center plans include many facets geared toward creating a central gathering place accessible by walking.
“What’s happened in recent years has been a calling for a return to the traditional development patterns of downtown,” said Wyoming Deputy City Manager Patrick Waterman. “Main streets where people can get out and walk, and shop, and come together as a community.”
28th Street Pedestrian Bridge
Those driving down 28th Street can now see the installation of a new 12-foot wide elevated pedestrian bridge.
The ADA accessible bridge will accommodate two-way pedestrian and bicycle traffic across 28th Street and is part of 4.6 miles of new non-motorized pathways providing access to various key destinations in the City.
28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We’re trying to put the spokes into the hub to get people,” said Waterman. “Those [trails] will connect north to Grand Rapids and south to Byron Center.”
The City Center’s proximity to the highway and Silver Line bus route will also provide easy access to the downtown area. Construction of the pedestrian bridge will finish in June 2025.
Godwin Mercado Marketplace
Also making steady progress is the forthcoming local Godwin Mercado marketplace at Site 36 Industrial Park.
An 80-acre parcel of land with 75 acres on the south side of 36th Street, Site 36 includes an additional five acres on the north side dedicated to the marketplace.
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
City Manager John Shay says Godwin Mercado answers residents’ call for a community space to gather and hold events.
The 6,000-square-foot market space will provide year-round usage opportunities to support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.
The name Godwin Mercado comes from extensive community input that included residents, community members and business leaders. Godwin Mercado not only serves as a gathering space and point of pride for the greater Wyoming community, it honors the rich heritage and thriving modern culture of the neighborhood where it sits.
“We landed on a name that really connects us to this unique neighborhood and celebrates the community here in Wyoming,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Director of Parks and Recreation, at the groundbreaking ceremony in November 2024.
36th Street Industrial Park
Construction on the 75-acre parcel on the south side of 36th Street is also well underway. The former GM plant was sold to commercial real estate investment company Franklin and Partners in 2022 and now boasts cleared land and structure assembly.
Benteler Automotive‘s new battery components assembly plant will focus on production of a battery tray, tray cover and charging modules weld vent for the V801 Ford Transit Van. The project includes a 299,845-square-foot facility and an additional 17,120-square-foot single-story office area.
“It’s a huge investment in the community,” said Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development for Wyoming.
City officials estimate the Benteler plant will generate 150-170 new jobs.
Construction on Site 36 includes development of three land parcels for industrial use (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
In March 2024, the Wyoming City Council approved Corewell Health’s proposal for a 296,515-square-foot consolidated service center. The project will provide space for Corewell Health’s supply chain offices, document and mail services, a 36,000-square-foot shell space and a dedicated parking area for lab courier fleet vehicles.
All medical supplies for the region’s Corewell hospitals will be distributed from this centralized location and will generate an estimated 240 new jobs.
Franklin Partners retains ownership of the third and final Site 36 parcel, which has garnered notice by other businesses.
“It’s about the people.”
“The genuine excitement that Wyoming has about this project, it’s carried us through it,” said Martin. “People are just thrilled to see something happening after there being nothing here for so long.
“Feeling their excitement feeds our excitement and gets us where we need to go to make it happen. That’s what it’s all about – it’s about the people.”
Over the next decade, Shay would like to achieve the City’s vision of crowded sidewalks, shops and restaurants, and special events that will bring people together and strengthen that sense of community.
Wyoming City Center plaza rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Wyoming [re]Imagined: Learn More!
Click the following links to learn more about the City of Wyoming, [re]Imagined:
UPDATE: A suspect is in police custody following a shooting that took place on March 4, 2025, in the 2700 block of Clyde Park Avenue SW.
At approximately 3 p.m. on March 6, 2025, officers arrested a 43-year-old male resident of Wyoming without incident. The suspect’s name is being withheld pending arraignment.
Original WPD Press Release
One person is injured after a shooting in the 2700 Block of Clyde Park Avenue SW.
At approximately 4:10 p.m. on March 4, Wyoming Police and Fire personnel responded to the report of a shooting in the 2700 block of Clyde Park Avenue SW. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound.
The victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect fled the scene.
Initial investigation suggests this was a targeted incident involving individuals known to each other.
Avoid unverified information
At this time, Wyoming Police are not releasing suspect information.
The Wyoming Police Department is aware of numerous social media posts circulating potential suspect and vehicle information related to the March 4 shooting. However, the department has not released any suspect or vehicle details.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation by Wyoming Police Detectives and Forensic Science Unit, and the WPD urges the public to avoid using unverified information.
Contact information
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
Local teens, community leaders and experts will convene to discuss the toughest challenges youth currently face and offer insight into how best to provide support (Courtesy, WCS)
Local teens, community leaders and experts will convene on Monday, March 10 for the Wedgwood Christian Services (WCS) annual State of the Child (SOTC) conference to discuss the toughest challenges youth currently face.
Held at Frederik Meijer Gardens from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., SOTC provides an opportunity to talk about these challenges and offer insight into how best to provide support.
What to expect
Led by a team of local teenagers in collaboration with a panel of community experts, SOTC will feature a panel discussion with local experts in various fields, a keynote speaker, breakout sessions and – most importantly – insights from teens themselves.
SOTC resonates with families and caregivers of youth due to the direct involvement of local youth (Courtesy, WCS)
Brina Tiemeyer, WCS Director of Clinical services, says SOTC resonates with families and caregivers of youth due to the direct involvement of local youth.
“We have a panel of experts that sit on the stage, but all of the information that we’re talking about is brought to us from teens,” Tiemeyer told WKTV. “We hear directly from their mouths what they’re facing, what their opinions are on how they’re experiencing it, and then we have the experts’ response.”
Featured keynote speaker Dr. Angela Pharris, PhD MSW, will address the Science of Hope. Pharris’ research centers on child welfare and human service organizations, applying a hope-centered and trauma-informed framework.
Dr. Angela Pharris (Courtesy, WCS)
The breakout session topics are directly driven by local teens each year. WCS partner Maranda with WOOD TV8 regularly ventures out onto the streets to engage youth in conversation.
“Local kids from all walks of life have the opportunity to talk, to say what they are experiencing or what they see their peers experiencing,” said Brooke Jevicks, WCS VP of Advancement.
In preparation for the breakout sessions, WCS also formed a committee that leans into several industries. Leaders in state government, educators, therapists and social workers, healthcare leaders, nonprofit leaders and representatives from the court system are all involved in the planning process.
The goal is to provide tangible takeaways for all types of caregivers for children.
“We try to make sure as many industries as possible that work or influence a child’s life have a voice in this event,” said Jevicks. “One of Wedgwood’s core values is diversity and inclusivity. It’s really important to us to make sure that we’re getting voices from all over the community to speak into what we are hearing and seeing so we know what would be most helpful to families, or anybody that’s working with children.”
Positivity produces resiliency
SOTC’s overarching theme that “the state of the child is up to you” led Wedgwood to lean into The Power of One concept for the 2025 conference.
(Courtesy, WCS)
“The science of hope ties into that because there’s data that shows if a kid has just one positive adult in their life, they have a huge opportunity to have a different trajectory than what other kids might,” said Jevicks. “Being that for a kid gives that kid hope, and that’s what will change their whole brain chemistry.”
Tiemeyer agreed: “All mental health and evidence based practice says that the number one resiliency factor to recovering from trauma is having one positive caregiver who makes a child feel that they are safe, lovable and capable.”
Because of this, Tiemeyer emphasizes that SOTC is not just for those serving youth in a professional capacity.
“This conference is for anyone that interacts or even cares for children,” said Tiemeyer. “Our audience is everyone. If you care about children, you should be there. If you have a heart for children, come to State of the Child; everyone is welcome.”
Safety and empowerment in community
For the past 65 years, WCS has been a leader in identifying the need to care for the whole family in order to care for the child, and has remained committed to the mental, emotional and behavioral well-being of both youth and families.
SOTC guests will walk away with resources and a community of support (Courtesy, WCS)
“We are increasing awareness, educating the community, so that people can be empowered to know how to be a good advocate, how to empower our kids to advocate for themselves,” said Jevicks, adding that it is important to know it is okay to ask for help – and that it is okay to not be okay.
“Life is hard,” Jevicks said. “We are born into a broken world, and life is really difficult, and our kids are struggling. Learning more and being empowered helps you empower others.”
Jevicks admitted that the SOTC conference is one of her favorite annual Grand Rapids events.
“It is so thoughtful, it is so intentional, it is so impactful,” said Jevicks, adding that SOTC creates a safe community. “Nobody at State of the Child is judging somebody for what they, or their kids, are going through. It’s a place where everybody can feel heard and seen and valued, and a safe place to talk about it.”
Knowledge, empowerment and community
Knowledge is power – and that is what you will receive at SOTC.
“There is no way you can leave that event without walking away with new information, feeling like you have more tools in your tool belt, feeling like you’re not alone, that there’s a community to go to and be a part of in these hard conversations,” said Jevicks.
(Courtesy, WCS)
Each SOTC guest will receive several tip sheets on a variety of subjects, including how to build resilience, when to know to ask for therapy, stress management and more.
“Wedgwood really wants to be a partner in your life because we know where families and kids are,” said Jevicks. “We want you to thrive at home; that’s what we’re here for.”
SOTC, Tiemeyer said, is the first step to building that community that walks alongside families. “Our goal is to always be alongside them and to empower them to be as successful as they are capable of being.”
Helpful Links
Register for Wedgwood’s 2025 State of the Child conference here.
To learn more about the comprehensive services WCS offers, click here.
A comprehensive economic impact study underscoring the significant contributions of the city’s arts and cultural sector reveals that the Arts & Culture Collective of Grand Rapids (ACCGR) participating organizations generate over $300 million in economic impact annually.
(Photo courtesy of blinkPHOTO)
These institutions attract nearly 1.3 million visitors each year to the Greater Grand Rapids area and employ 2,500 individuals.
The study was released by the ACCGR supported by the City of Grand Rapids, and in collaboration with KConnect and the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University.
“The arts and culture sector is a powerhouse for our region,” said Tim Mroz, Senior Vice President of Community Development at The Right Place and an ACCGR Steering Committee Member. “Generating over $300 million in annual economic impact and supporting 2,500 jobs, these institutions are at the heart of our community’s growth and vitality.
“They are not only cultural treasures but also key drivers of economic prosperity, proving that investing in our local institutions is investing in our future.”
Above and beyond
Beyond the economic figures, the arts are an integral part of what makes Grand Rapids a dynamic and thriving community.
Cultural vitality enriches residents’ lives and attracts businesses and talent (Courtesy, The Stray)
The sector fosters creativity, inspires innovation, and provides a platform for diverse voices to be heard, strengthening the social fabric of the region. This cultural vitality not only enriches residents’ lives but also attracts businesses and talent, reinforcing the area’s reputation as a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
“This initial study begins to quantify what we already know: arts and culture play a vital role in our community,” said Steff Rosalez, Co-Chair of ACCGR and CEO of Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities. “Beyond enriching our cultural landscape, these organizations are pivotal economic drivers.
“Fostering tourism is just one part of our economic impact. The arts and culture sector creates jobs, supplements education, and enhances the overall quality of life, which encourages people who work in other sectors to live here, invest here, and raise families here.”
The ripple effects of this impact extend far beyond the arts sector itself. Local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments, benefit from the influx of visitors attending performances, exhibitions, and events.
A vital relationship
This relationship between the arts and the local economy underscores the essential role of nonprofit arts and culture organizations as both a cultural cornerstone and a key economic contributor to Kent County.
The Verve Pipe performs in the greater Grand Rapids area regularly (Courtesy, The Verve Pipe)
ACCGR remains dedicated to advocating for the arts and cultural sector, aiming to leverage these findings to inform policy decisions and encourage continued investment in the creative economy.
Read the executive summary and explore the complete study here.
About the ACCGR
The ACCGR is an arts + cultural collective leveraging the power of creativity for equitable social transformation. By leading initiatives such as a countywide economic impact study and the development of a comprehensive Arts and Culture Plan, ACCGR is building the infrastructure necessary for a thriving, equitable arts ecosystem.
A unique alliance offers local students an opportunity to earn a college degree while gaining nationally recognized trade certifications (Courtesy photo)
Located just 2.6 miles apart, GCU and WMCI offer a seamless blend of programs that empower students to excel academically, professionally and in some cases, spiritually. Sixteen students will begin the program in the fall semester of 2025.
Tuition is billed separately. GCU students pay standard tuition rates for courses at the university. WMCI’s tuition is $2,000 per semester, regardless of program.
Both institutions are committed to helping students maximize financial aid opportunities, including federal grants, community funding and unique partnering scholarships with local construction-related companies.
GCU President Ken Kemper (left) and WMCI President Jen Schottke shake hands to commemorate the new partnership between their organizations (Courtesy, GCU / WMCI)
The best of both worlds
For students, this means the best of both worlds. They can grow in their faith, develop marketable skills and graduate with the tools to make an eternal impact in their communities. This partnership allows employers to hire well-rounded, highly qualified candidates ready to lead in the construction industry.
“In today’s evolving job market, many students are seeking alternatives to traditional four-year degrees,” said Jen Schottke, President of WMCI. “At the same time, employers in industries like construction are searching for candidates with both technical skills and leadership capabilities.
“We believe this partnership will blend the two by allowing students to earn a college degree while gaining nationally recognized trade certifications.”
Dr. Ken Kemper, GCU President, echoed Schottke’s sentiments: “We are creating an innovative educational pathway that bridges Bible-centered higher education and hands-on trade skills.
“We think this partnership is a game-changer for students seeking to combine their passion for skilled trades with the transformative impact of a biblical education.”
Michigan employers are seeking talent to fill jobs in healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, construction and automotive (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Filling a vital gap
Skilled Trade careers often require less schooling and debt than a four-year degree – and offer a wide range of opportunities for students.
Michigan employers, more than ever before, are seeking talent to fill jobs in fields such as healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, construction and automotive.
“A sizable professional trades shortage exists in Michigan and is expected to continue through 2030,” stated the Pure Michigan Talent Connect website.
“Professional trades will account for more than 520,000 jobs in the Michigan economy, and approximately 45,000 new job openings are expected annually in the state during that time.”
The collaboration between GCU and WMCI offers flexible options tailored to students’ academic and career goals that can help fill that skilled tradesmen gap.
Choose what works for you…
Options offered through the recent partnership between GCU and WMCI include:
Flexible options tailored to students’ academic and career goals will be offered (Courtesy, DU)
Integrated Bachelor’s Program WMCI certifications transfer seamlessly as block credits toward Grace’s on-campus or online bachelor’s programs. Students can complete their degree while growing professionally in their chosen trade.
Dual Enrollment Students can enroll in prescribed courses at Grace while earning certifications in carpentry, drywall, or other construction trades through WMCI. This pathway is ideal for high school graduates eager to start working while pursuing a degree.
Transfer Pathway Students who complete a two-year associate degree at Grace can transfer to WMCI to pursue trade certifications. This approach provides a strong academic foundation, allowing students to specialize in construction.
Top-tier resources
Students in this partnership benefit from top-tier resources at both institutions. From state-of-the-art labs to personalized career support, the programs are designed to equip students with everything they need to succeed.
At GCU, students gain access to a biblically centered education that shapes their worldview and prepares them for leadership. Programs emphasize personal growth, community service and a commitment to Christ’s teachings.
Kemper (left) and Schottke will provide top-tier resources for students at both institutions (Courtesy, GCU / WMCI)
At WMCI, students experience facilities that are among the best in the industry. Four interactive learning labs provide hands-on training in trades like carpentry, plumbing and sprinkler fitting. Nine modern classrooms facilitate in-depth learning and discussions, and a climate-controlled sandpit allows students to practice concrete and plumbing skills during winter months.
All WMCI programs are accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), ensuring students graduate with nationally recognized certifications. These portable credentials allow students to transfer credits to other institutions or relocate without starting over.
Creating unique opportunities
Both organization leaders note that this endeavor will create a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.
(Courtesy photo)
“Many students enter WMCI programs with the dream of owning their own construction company. Through this collaboration, students gain the technical skills needed to master their trade at WMCI while studying business principles at Grace Christian University,” noted Schottke.
“Grace’s business courses cover essential topics like financial management, marketing and leadership. These skills complement WMCI’s trade training, enabling graduates to launch and grow successful businesses grounded in Christian values,” added Kemper.
The GCU and WMCI partnership plans to expand to include additional enrollment periods, new courses and expanded dual-enrollment pathways for high school students.
Local construction firms could also reap benefits from this partnership.
“The partnership between Grace Christian University and West Michigan Construction Institute is an excellent way to prepare and equip people in our community to follow God’s calling to work in the construction industry,” said Craig Baker, Owner of First Companies.
“We are very thankful for this partnership and how it will improve the workforce in West Michigan.”
The 15th annual LaughFest Festival will offer 45 free and ticketed shows with venues in Grand Rapids, Lowell and Gun Lake Casino and Resort in Wayland (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)
With Gilda’s LaughFest less than a month away, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids announced the 15th annual event will offer 45 free and ticketed shows with venues in Grand Rapids, Lowell and Gun Lake Casino and Resort in Wayland.
Included in the free events are a new LaughFest kickoff event, several LaughFest favorites, and a variety of family-friendly shows.
There is something funny for everyone at LaughFest (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)
“LaughFest is very much a festival where there really is something funny for everyone,” said Wendy Wigger, President and CEO of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. “Now in our 15th year, we’re excited to bring some great free shows, as well as events that families can enjoy and join in the laughter together.”
What is LaughFest?
Laughter is celebrated at LaughFest (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)
Launched in March 2011, Gilda’s LaughFest is the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter. The festival has quickly earned a reputation for being one of the nation’s marquee events for both participants and artists.
Based in Grand Rapids and including events throughout West Michigan, LaughFest celebrates and honors laughter as an essential part of emotional health and wellbeing.
Featuring stand-up, improv, showcases and more, LaughFest brings together a diverse audience of children and adults every March.
NEWLaughFest kickoff event:
Kicking off LaughFest is a new free event, Celebrity Clue Scavenger, on Feb. 26. The scavenger hunt will feature six teams comprised of 4-6 clever sleuths, embarking on a quest to decipher cryptic clues.
Handed out by local media celebrities, comedians Matt Lauria and Allen Trieu, and local celebrity chef Tommy FitzGerald, the clues will lead teams to six unique locations within a one-mile radius throughout downtown Grand Rapids.
Family Improv brings lots of laughs (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)
Free LaughFest shows:
March 5 @ Midtown – The Cancer Survivor Showcase: Local comedians who have all experienced cancer share their stories – with a twist.
March 6 @ Midtown – We Are SO Lucky: Allen Trieu’s hybrid stand-up and stage show features his personal journey of heartbreak, love, healing and self-discovery during an unexpected divorce.
A VR Showcase participant engages on stage while audience members watch the simulcast (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)
March 8 @ The B.O.B. – The Virtual Reality Showcase: See comedians live on stage through VR simulcasted to TV screens in Dr. Grins. VR headsets are not required to view the live performance and will not be provided.
March 9 @ Spectrum Entertainment Complex – Sunday Night Funnies: Features up-and-coming talent and a 50/50 raffle with all proceeds going to Gilda’s Club of GR.
Free family-friendly LaughFest shows:
Youth enjoy sharing their jokes on stage (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)
NEW! March 6 @ Resurrection Fellowship Church – Gospel Fest: Hosted by the Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids Sister-to-Sister Breast Cancer Support Group for Women of Color, the event consists of laughter, praise, and shared song with clean comedian Lena Green.
March 8 @ Gilda’s Club GR – Kids Joke Time: Young comedians from West Michigan have submitted their favorite jokes and will take the mic. Comedian Allen Trieu will host.
March 8 @ Gilda’s Club GR – Family Improv: Families get silly playing improvised games while finding new ways to use their imaginations on a rainy day. Led by local improv instructors at The Comedy Project. No improv experience required.
March 5 @ LowellArts! and March 8 @ Gilda’s Club GR – Drums for All with Josh Dunigan: This event is the product of conversations and collaborations Dunigan had with those living with various disabilities. Dunigan provides the drums, participants bring hands and smiles.
All ages enjoy Josh Dunigan’s Drums for All program (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)
Event info / Ticket purchases
The full lineup of free events, as well as ticket information, can be found at laughfestgr.org.
Dinner and show tickets for the Red Door Gala featuring Preacher Lawson are available at gildasclubgr.org/red-door-gala.
The Sunday Night Funnies’ (SNF) third annual Women’s History Month (WHM) show is set for Sunday, March 2.
Lucky Lee (Courtesy, SNF)
Eight comedians will be featured in the March 2 standup comedy performance.
This special show includes returning WHM show participants Cheryl Stoner and Lucky Lee, and new WHM performers CJ Harris and Brittany Melvin. Also taking the stage are 2023 Kingpin of Comedy competition finalist Sarah Wooley and 2024 Kingpin of Comedy quarterfinalist Elieen Nolton.
Lansing comedian Nicole Melnyk and Grand Rapids comic Kim Cook are also slated to perform. Melnyk has been voted Lansing’s Best Comic three times. Cook, a Second City alumni, was also a 2022 Kingpin of Comedy semifinalist. Cook will also participate in the special LaughFest Cancer Survivors Showcase on March 5 at Midtown GR that features all cancer survivor comics.
Kim Cook (Courtesy, SNF)
“The Sunday Night Funnies has always been a diverse show,” says Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “When putting together the lineup each week, I try and have a good mix of comedians – be it race, gender or age-range.
“I wanted to celebrate the contribution women comedians have brought to the show through the years, and what better time to do that than Women’s History Month. Locally, it wasn’t long ago that there weren’t many women doing standup comedy. But over the course of the last few years that number has been steadily growing.”
Enjoy more comedy!
Upcoming SNF performances include SNF’s special LaughFest show on Sunday, March 9 with some of their most popular comedians from 2024.
The month of May will feature an Older American Month celebration performance with a lineup of comics ages 50+ (May 4), and the start of SNF’s seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition (May 11). The Kingpin of Comedy competition will run weekly through Oct. 26.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (fall/winter) and 8:30 p.m. (spring/summer) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
CALEA Accreditation signifies more than just an award; it underscores firm dedication to professionalism, excellence and competence. It stands as a point of pride for the community and police department alike, demonstrating their commitment to upholding the highest standards in law enforcement.
How to provide comments
Anyone wishing to provide comments regarding the agency’s compliance with CALEA standards, engagement in the service community, delivery of public safety services, and overall candidacy for accredited status may provide comments to CALEA through the Public Comment Portal.
The Wyoming PD is looking for information to support continuous improvement and foster the pursuit of professional excellence (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Comments can be in the form of commendations or concerns. The overall intent of the accreditation process is to provide the agency with information to support continuous improvement, as well as foster the pursuit of professional excellence. All comments made through the portal will be sent directly to CALEA; submitters will only receive acknowledgment of their submission.
Anyone wishing to leave comments and have them sent directly to Wyoming Police should use the non-emergency number 616-530-7300, appear in person at the police department, or use the online Police Department Contact Form.
AnchorPoint Christian School in Wyoming is entering PaperGator’s first-ever Paper Recycling Contest in celebration of Earth Day (Courtesy, AnchorPoint Christian School)
AnchorPoint Christian School in Wyoming has entered PaperGator’s first-ever Paper Recycling Contest in celebration of Earth Day!
(Courtesy photo)
PaperGator is offering participating locations the chance to earn exciting rewards by increasing their paper recycling volume until April 11. Locations that show the greatest improvement will be awarded up to $5,000, with the option for bonus prizes. All participants earn double the usual payouts during the contest period.
Investing in the future
Located in urban Wyoming, AnchorPoint has been providing faith-based education to Preschool-6 students since its inception in 2010.
The PaperGator contest teaches students about the importance of recycling while also supporting education (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
AnchorPoint serves a diverse student body, including 44% of students from low-income households. The payouts from PaperGator have helped support the school for the past 15 years by providing funds for educational resources, learning materials and physical activity tools.
Holly Gomez, AnchorPoint teacher, said this contest is important to the school for two main reasons.
“First, we value teaching students about the importance of recycling and sustainability, which is crucial for the environment and for the future of our community,” said Gomez. “Second, it offers us an opportunity to raise funds to purchase Classroom Cruiser Bike(s) for our library.”
Gomez went on to say that the bikes will help create a more dynamic and engaging learning environment by allowing students to merge physical activity with academic work.
“Recent research highlights the benefits of movement in enhancing cognitive function and academic performance in young learners,” Gomez said. “Many of our students face challenges with staying focused during extended periods of seated instruction.”
Gomez believes the Cruiser Bikes are an innovative resource that will make a significant impact on AnchorPoint students.
“The introduction of Classroom Cruiser Bikes will allow students to engage in light physical activity while reading, researching, or participating in library-based activities, fostering both academic and physical well-being.”
The double participation payouts will significantly boost AnchorPoint’s incoming funds, helping meet the cost of the Classroom Cruiser Bikes and possibly provide additional support for other educational tools that will enhance students’ learning experiences.
“Providing equitable access to innovative learning tools like Classroom Cruiser Bikes ensures that all students can benefit from cutting-edge educational resources, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” said Gomez.
Contest award details
Winners will be determined based on the largest percentage increase in paper recycled from January to April 11, compared with the same period in 2024.
Grand Prizes:
1st Place – $5,000
2nd Place – $2,000
3rd Place – $1,000
Top 10:
Double Earnings for the entire year of 2025!
Bonus Prizes:
5 randomly selected participants will win $500 worth of school supplies (to be awarded at the start of the 2025 school year).
All participants will earn Double Earnings from January 2025 through April 11, 2025.
Winners will be announced on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22.
Contribute to the environment and education!
Recycling plays a vital role in protecting the environment for future generations (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
In 2024, the school averaged 1,000 lbs. per month, the equivalent of half a PaperGator full of recyclable material.
AnchorPoint is reaching out to their business partners, the community and local churches to let them know about the opportunity to recycle with the school in order to increase their volume.
AnchorPoint encourages everyone to participate in the PaperGator Recycling Contest and consider recycling their paper products.
“Beyond helping our school, recycling plays a vital role in protecting the environment for future generations,” said Gomez. “By supporting us in this contest, you’re not only helping AnchorPoint, but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for the children we serve.”
AnchorPoint’s PaperGator bin is conveniently located in their parking lot at 601 36th Street SW in Wyoming.
Learn more about AnchorPoint Christian School here.
More information on how to support AnchorPoint’s mission of inspiring and educating the community through innovative, Christ-centered learning can be found here.
Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.
*WHS February Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, Feb. 24 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
What to expect
Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.
The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)
Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.
Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.
Resources
To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.
For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here
The Grand Rapids Symphony invites the community to its second annual season announcement concert on Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. in DeVos Performance Hall. The free event will provide a preview of concerts planned for the 2025-2026 season.
“Cultivating an incredible season for our listeners is an honor,” said Marcelo Lehninger, Daniel & Pamella DeVos Music Director Chair. “After much planning, we can now look forward to taking you on an incredible adventure with this upcoming season.
“You’ll travel around the world with us as we celebrate the global community of composers and artists and highlight how those musical influences have shaped us as artists proud to call Grand Rapids home.”
Grand Rapids Symphony concertmaster and violinist James Crawford (Courtesy, GR Symphony)
What to expect
The evening program will feature selections from upcoming Masterworks, Pops, and Specials concerts performed by the symphony and Grand Rapids Symphony chorus. All four artistic leaders will be present to conduct and invite you to learn more about each selection, each concert and each series.
Viewers can participate in person and through a virtual option.
“This free concert is the perfect time to be curious about what this incredible orchestra has to offer,” said President and CEO Keith C. Elder. “It is an invitation to learn more about the orchestra’s work as performers and educators, to try out a new seat in the performance hall, and to listen to something new and exciting. If you are unable to join us in the hall, make plans to join in the fun online.”
Seating is General Admission and unassigned, but an R.S.V.P is requested at www.grsymphony.org. For those traveling or wintering outside of the area, visit www.grsymphony.org for details on how to attend virtually.
The Sunday Night Funnies’ (SNF) third annual Black History Month show is set for Sunday, Feb. 16.
Eight comedians will be participating in this SNF special standup comedy performance. Comics include Ricarlo Winston, comedy show producer along the Muskegon lakeshore; Brianna Blackburn, local favorite and regular of several LaughFest shows; JT Motley and Darius Walker, past SNF Kingpin of Comedy competition finalists; Mike Logan, 2019 SNF Kingpin of Comedy winner; up-and-coming comics, Emeka Nriagu and Mikeyy Chandler; and Turbulence Tyme with her first ever SNF appearance.
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
“The Sunday Night Funnies has always been a diverse show,” says Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “When putting together the lineup each week, I try and have a good mix of comedians – be it race, gender or age-range.
“I wanted to celebrate the contribution Black comedians have brought to the show through the years, and what better time to do that than Black History Month.”
But wait – there’s more!
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
Upcoming SNF performances include a March Women’s History Month performance featuring a lineup of all women comedians on Sunday, March 2. The following Sunday, March 9, is SNF’s special LaughFest show with some of their most popular comedians from 2024.
The month of May will feature an Older American Month celebration performance with a lineup of comics ages 50+ on May 4, and the start of SNF’s seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition on May 11. The Kingpin of Comedy competition will run weekly through Oct. 26.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (fall/winter) and 8:30 p.m. (spring/summer) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
Two people were injured and an apartment building sustained significant damage after a vehicle crashed into a residential complex in the 2300 block of 30th Street SW.
At approximately 1:35 a.m., Wyoming Department of Public Safety police and fire personnel responded to reports of a vehicle collision involving an apartment building at 2323 30th Street SW. Upon arrival, first responders found a vehicle that had struck the building. The female driver sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while an occupant of the apartment unit was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Due to the significant structural damage, several units in the building have been deemed unsafe. Residents displaced by the crash have been connected with the Red Cross for temporary housing assistance until the building is deemed safe for occupancy.
Preliminary investigation indicates alcohol was likely a factor in the crash.
The vehicle remains at the scene to help stabilize the structure until additional support can be brought in.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
Join the Frosted Frenzy, a hilariously sweet challenge where participants dash around a scenic loop while devouring delicious donuts and balancing a beverage in hand! (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Rec)
This hilariously sweet challenge will find participants racing around a scenic loop, while devouring delicious donuts and balancing a beverage in hand. Frosted Frenzy is perfect for families, friends and anyone with a love for fun and frosted donuts
Enjoy coffee, hot cocoa, and more donuts at the finish line!
The sweetest challenge:
Will you savor every bite and make it to the finish line without spilling?
How to join in the fun!
Registration cost includes t-shirt available in sizes Youth Small – Adult XL. Individuals can sign up for $20 each or register up to five people for only $50.
Wyoming Police thank the public for their willingness to assist with cases of missing persons.
Original WPD Announcement
The Wyoming Police Department is asking for assistance locating 24-year-old Madeline McDonald.
Madeline has been missing since Jan. 27, 2025. Madeline is considered at risk due to concerns for her well-being. While no foul play is suspected, authorities and family members are concerned for her safety.
Madeline is a white female with brown hair and hazel eyes. She stands approximately 5’3″ tall with an average build. Madeline was last seen in downtown Grand Rapids, but no description of her clothing is available. Her intended destination is also unknown.
Wyoming Police continue to search for Madeline.
Anyone with information regarding Madeline’s whereabouts is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866- 774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains sensitive information about violence and rape that may be distressing or traumatic for some individuals.
Liz Midkiff, human trafficking survivor and ambassador for Women at Risk, International (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
WAR Ambassador and human trafficking survivor Liz Midkiff has spent half a decade educating youth and adults on the hard truths – and misconceptions – of human trafficking.
“A lot of people want to fight trafficking, but they don’t know how because information is so vague,” says Midkiff.
Midkiff’s own journey began at 15-years-old when she went on a mission trip to Thailand. Part of that trip involved visiting the red light district and understanding what human trafficking truly meant. Midkiff left Thailand believing God had called her to fight against trafficking.
However, three years later, Midkiff found herself a victim of sex trafficking – and it looked nothing like what she had seen in Thailand.
“People are just given vague information. They have no idea – what does it actually look like in America?”
Kidnapping vs. Grooming
In America, 3% of trafficking victims are kidnapped, but 90-95% are groomed by someone the victim knows. WAR S.T.A.N.D. classes, formulated by Midkiff and WAR founder Rebecca McDonald, focus on both aspects.
Liz Midkiff with her two sons. Due to the physical damage inflicted during her time of captivity, she believed she would never be able to have children. (Courtesy, Midkiff)
“In the classes…we talk about what is safe. What does safe feel like, what does safe look like?
“We talk about stranger danger, but we also talk about danger with people we know. What happens when family and friends are not safe? You’ve got to give the kids options, but you also have to give them what is safe and what’s not safe.”
According to the Children’s Advocacy Project, grooming is defined as “when someone builds a relationship, trust and emotional connection with a child or young person so they can manipulate, exploit and abuse them.”
Grooming is a deliberate process and can take place over minutes, weeks or years, and can happen in person and online. Many groomers also build relationships with family and friends of their target so they appear trustworthy or authoritative.
Midkiff says this is confusing to adults and is often asked to explain what grooming looks like.
“A lot of people have a lot of basic knowledge of what trafficking is, but they don’t know what it looks like or what to even do if they see it,” said Midkiff. “That’s where I feel I can help.”
Taking a S.T.A.N.D.
“I created the S.T.A.N.D. classes because that was something that was really important to me as a mom [and] because I can teach them real-life experience.”
(Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
Midkiff’s S.T.A.N.D. classes begin at 5-years-old because kids understand the concepts of safety and right vs. wrong. However, Midkiff has noticed that many parents avoid talking to their children about trafficking because they believe it will scare them.
“I think adults are more scared than the kids are,” said Midkiff.
Knowledge and preparation help combat that fear.
Prevention: Discretion
Social media discretion – such as abstaining from posting naked pictures of children, or where they go to school – is a preventative measure that can be taken immediately after birth.
Another discretionary action that Midkiff personally implements is having children wear full clothing when in public.
Prevention: Knowledge
Liz Midkiff with her oldest son (Courtesy, Midkiff)
While at a playground with her 5-year-old son, a man sat down and began talking to Midkiff. She had noticed him around the playground and assumed he worked there. He did not.
At one point, the man lifted his shirt, without Midkiff’s consent, to show off his tattoos. Midkiff’s son noticed and ran over, inserting himself between the two adults and refusing to leave, stating it was not safe for his mother.
“He’s five,” said Midkiff. “He was not scared. He was empowered, and he knew exactly what to do. He knew the signs, and he knew what that looked like…because of the class he took one time.”
Midkiff believes educating children when they are young is an excellent form of prevention. Numerous women have approached Midkiff saying, I’ve lived with being molested as a child for 60 years because I didn’t know that didn’t happen to everybody else. I didn’t know what to do.
“If we can get the kids when they’re kids, they don’t have to wait till they’re 60 to have the realization there was something they could have done,” said Midkiff.
Prevention: Recognition
Not only will children be able to help themselves, they will be able to recognize signs of grooming and/or trafficking of others around them.
“If [my son is] doing this stuff at five, when he’s [older] he’s going to know if his 15-year-old friend has a bad boyfriend or a trafficker,” said Midkiff. “And he’s going to know what to do.
Knowing the difference is important, because those situations can look very similar. Midkiff cites sextortion as an example.
Fraud and coercion
While sending naked pictures of yourself to someone you are in a relationship with is not smart, it is not illegal. However, if that relationship ends and the other person sells those pictures to friends, or uses those pictures against you – threatening to show them to others unless you do certain things – it creates a completely different situation.
“Now he’s manipulating you, he’s coercing you,” said Midkiff, adding that it’s confusing to many people because the entire situation began as a consensual relationship. “When I do my class, I talk about force fraud and coercion; that is what makes something trafficking.”
Kids grooming kids
Rebecca McDonald (left), thanks Midkiff’s five-year-old son for raising $300 to provide one month in a safehouse for a trafficking survivor (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
Midkiff’s five-year-old son was recently groomed at a mall by another boy.
The 12-year-old boy approached Midkiff’s son and repeatedly asked if he wanted to come outside to the playground. Despite moving to other areas of the store, the boy persisted, even inserting himself between Midkiff and her son.
“He was trying to separate me from my son,” said Midkiff. “He was grooming him: ‘I like your car, do you like to play on the playground?’ It was innocent kid talk, but did it make sense? No, it didn’t. He didn’t have his mother [with him], and young boys don’t follow other women to the underwear department.”
As Midkiff left with her son, she noticed two older men waiting for that 12-year-old boy at the front doors.
If Midkiff had not been paying attention, she may not have noticed the boy’s grooming tactics. And her young son might have gone with him.
“That’s how it happens,” said Midkiff. “It’s not just snatching them from the store. You can lure him anywhere with a toy. Those are things to look for. And those are the kind of situations I teach.”
Prevention: Be observant, ask questions
Many victims want to ask for help but are afraid of putting someone else in danger (Courtesy photo)
Midkiff says simply being observant can prevent trafficking.
Despite going to a doctor several times while being trafficked, not one nurse or doctor questioned her about obvious evidence of violence.
One friend commented on bruises on Midkiff’s arms. Midkiff sarcastically said that she fell down the stairs – while desperately hoping the girl would ask more questions, offer a place to stay or a phone number to call if Midkiff needed anything.
“She knew there was something else there, and she chose not to ask more questions because she thought I was being standoffish. Why was I being standoffish? Because I didn’t want to put her in danger.”
Many people, however, don’t even know what to look for.
“People say, look for someone who looks malnourished. Well, 70% of the people you see might look malnourished. Maybe their parents don’t feed them, or they have an eating disorder, or they’re struggling artists.”
Midkiff has developed a three-strike rule.
Simply being observant could save someone’s life (Courtesy photo)
“If three things look out of place then I will make the call to the human trafficking hotline number,” said Midkiff, citing an instance when she saw a woman enter an urgent care with a girl who bore a barcode tattoo on the back of her neck.
That tattoo was an automatic red flag for Midkiff. And since 60% of traffickers are women, there was no guarantee the woman was the girl’s mother.
That was enough for Midkiff; she called WAR.
“There were 20 people in that urgent care. Do you think anybody else thought of that? I doubt it. Because nobody even knew that’s what to look for. To me, it was literally sitting right in front of me.”
Traffickers move victims around often to confuse them and prevent them from being able to tell anyone where they are. If someone doesn’t know where they are going or where they are coming from, it is a red flag.
“Even my five-year-old knows where he lives. But some of these girls, they’re being transported every six days, and possibly to different states.”
Comply vs. Consent
To freeze is a normal response to trauma and does not mean the victim did something wrong (Courtesy photo)
Midkiff also teaches the difference between comply and consent.
Teaching a child to say no is important. However, our bodies have at least three different responses to trauma: fight, flight and freeze.
If a child does not say no when faced with a traumatic situation, it is not because they did something wrong, it is because their body shut down – which is a normal reaction, said WAR founder Rebecca McDonald.
“To freeze is a normal, actually healthy, response to trauma. You’re trying to be quiet and not bring attention to yourself.”
That does not, McDonald continued, mean you were consenting.
“We’re taught to comply. Not consent, but to comply,” said McDonald. “Trafficking survivors have complied a lot. It just means that they did what it took to stay alive and survive.”
Set aside fear
Midkiff urges parents to set aside uncertainty regarding conversation about trafficking – before it’s too late.
“Trafficking is happening.”
*Read Liz Midkiff’s full survivor story in WKTV’s Voices of Freedom series.
Resources
Women at Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) is knowledgable and has access to resources such as Homeland Security and the FBI. WAR also provides wraparound services which provide survivors with additional needed help and life skills.
– If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. It is a free, 24/7 service that offers confidential and multilingual support, information and local resources for victims, survivors, and witnesses of human trafficking.
When riverfront construction at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is complete later this year, its Cook Carousel Pavilion will be transformed into a fully-accessible space both inside and out. The 1928 Spillman Carousel, an icon of both the Museum and downtown Grand Rapids, is housed in the Pavilion and will feature a wheelchair-accessible ramp and chariot to allow individuals with mobility devices to ride the Carousel.
The carousel upgrades include a wheelchair accessible bench (Courtesy, GRPM)
The carousel upgrades include a wheelchair accessible bench (Courtesy, GRPM)
“The Museum is committed to making all of its experiences as accessible and inclusive as possible,” said GRPM President and CEO Dale Robertson. “We’ve collaborated with community partners, including Disability Advocates of Kent County, to ensure the Museum remains focused on creating a welcoming and adaptive space for everyone.”
The GRPM’s $50 million expansion project, which began last year, will expand access, experiences, accessibility, and sustainability through enhancements to the Museum and its prominent space on the Grand River.
A rendering of the planned carousel upgrades (Courtesy, GRPM)
A cherished destination
The GRPM is a 170-year-old, publicly-owned institution home to more than 250,000 unique artifacts that tell the history of Kent County and beyond. Funded in part by Kent County taxpayers through a 10-year millage (2016), the GRPM offers three floors of exhibits, the region’s only planetarium, and extensive educational offerings.
The major renovation is the first since the Museum opened at its current location in 1994.
New GRPM outdoor classroom rendering (Courtesy, GRPM)
“The Grand Rapids Public Museum is a cherished destination for many,” said Disability Advocates of Kent County Executive Director Dave Bulkowski. “The addition of the wheelchair-accessible ramp and chariot on the Carousel will provide those who have not been able to previously ride the Carousel a chance to experience that sense of joy and admiration.
“We are proud to partner with the Museum and support our community’s efforts to provide inclusive and welcoming destinations for all our residents and visitors.”
Learn more!
For additional information including hours of operation, admission fees including Kent County discounts, and exhibit/event listings, visit grpm.org.
No matter the cost: Liz Midkiff risked everything to find freedom – and her voice
Human trafficking survivor and WAR, Int’l Ambassador Liz Midkiff is determined to keep others from experiencing the horrors she endured (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains sensitive information about violence and rape that may be distressing or traumatic for some individuals.
Liz Midkiff was trafficked for two years before she found a way out. Held captive physically and emotionally, Midkiff finally had enough.
“I finally got out of it by running into the woods,” said Midkiff. “I think I just lost my mind. At one point I’m like, they can kill us all. I’m going to call my dad.”
Midkiff called her father at 4 a.m. and asked him to come get her – immediately. “He didn’t ask any questions. He got me and took me home. They lived four hours away.”
Midkiff was willing to risk everything to regain her freedom (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Midkiff and her father didn’t talk during the car ride home. In fact, he did not know what he had rescued his daughter from until years later. He simply knew his daughter called, she was frantic, and he needed to go get her.
Though Midkiff received threatening phone calls after she escaped, her traffickers did not want to cross state lines, so she was not in physical danger.
Midkiff stayed with her parents as she began the healing process, describing her parents’ home as her safe house.
“Even if you get somebody out of [trafficking], you’ve got to get them to a place that’s safe or they’re never going to heal,” said Midkiff, adding that many victims do not have a safe place to go to. “I feel really blessed that I had parents that were able to help me.”
Finding hope and purpose
Midkiff’s healing process was long and difficult, mentally and physically.
“I had to have multiple surgeries because people did some ungodly things,” said Midkiff.
Midkiff’s attempts to facilitate healing were not easy – but she did not give up (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The mental and emotional side of healing was difficult for many reasons.
“It wasn’t easy because I didn’t even know I was trafficked until years later,” Midkiff admitted, adding that she was continually told she simply had “bad boyfriends” and that her experiences happen to everyone. “I didn’t know there was an actual name for it.”
It wasn’t until she heard trafficking talked about on television that Midkiff realized: This is what happened to me.
Armed with that knowledge, Midkiff attempted to facilitate healing by talking with various therapists, but did not find it helpful.
“Most therapists have no idea what trafficking is,” said Midkiff. “They have no idea how to speak to a survivor.”
Midkiff found herself struggling with deep-seated anger as she sought meaning in what happened to her. “I just wanted to have meaning to what happened. I wanted to make sense of it, and I wanted purpose in my life.”
Eventually, Midkiff found a Christian counselor who asked where her journey first began. Midkiff explained about her mission trip to Thailand and the call she felt from God to fight trafficking. The counselor then asked Midkiff: “Do you think it’s a possibility that Satan heard that goal too, and he wanted to try to bring you down because you have something so powerful to say?”
Midkiff felt like a switch had been flipped.
“When I felt like I had a call on my life, I feel like that was from God. Three years later, I just happened to be trafficked myself.
Midkiff refused to let guilt and anger rule her life (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
“I feel that Satan tried to bring me down with the one thing I was supposed to fight. That there is something that I have to say that is so powerful, he just wanted to destroy it.”
For years, Midkiff did keep silent. “I didn’t want to talk about it. If I can’t even protect myself, how can I help other people?”
As Midkiff struggled with survivor’s guilt over escaping the trafficking business while others remained victims, Midkiff’s husband echoed the suggestion that Midkiff might have something to say.
“Maybe you have something that needs to be said, and so you need to use that to fight it,” Midkiff’s husband told her. “Instead of in anger, fight it by helping other people.”
Midkiff began seeing other survivors lead programs and meetings and was intrigued.
“Hearing from other survivors, how powerful their story is and how they can help others with what they went through, I thought, I have that. There are so many things that could be said about what happened to me.”
A lifelong journey of healing
Aspects of her physical trauma remain with Midkiff even now – and she refuses to be silenced about those experiences.
“To this day, I don’t sleep in a bed,” said Midkiff. “And if I do, I don’t sleep.
“I’ve been out of this for 15 years now, but to this day, I will wake up so tense I won’t be able to move, or I’ll have nightmares the whole night. I either sleep in a chair, or I sleep on the floor.”
Midkiff’s husband Roger (right) patiently won her trust and love (Courtesy, Midkiff)
When she married her husband, Roger slept on a couch and Midkiff slept on the floor.
“Eventually he just slept on the floor with me. He’s a big guy, so it shows his love, to be able to come down to my level.”
The fact that Midkiff was able to trust someone enough to marry was a monumental hurdle in its own right – and it took time.
“We would just hang out, [and] he became my best friend. He was different from every guy I’ve ever met.”
But even friendship didn’t come easily for Midkiff.
“I didn’t have friends. It’s still hard for me to make friends. I didn’t trust anybody. It was just me and my dog. I was very much a loner, and my husband very much pursued me, but in a friendship sort of way.”
When Midkiff’s dog died, Roger was there to support her.
“My dog had been through all of that with me. When he died, it was like my life was falling apart. But then Roger would just be there, just hang out with me as a normal person. He was never forceful, he was never weird.
“And I realized this is how people are supposed to be. I think that helped me be able to laugh again and be able to have fun.”
When Roger said he wanted to date Midkiff, she revealed everything in her past, fully expecting him to walk away.
It took time for Midkiff to trust that not all relationships are transactional (Courtesy, Midkiff)
“He didn’t leave,” said Midkiff. “He hugged me and said, ‘None of this was ever your fault.’ That was a turning point.”
But obstacles remained.
Because Midkiff’s experiences with men were entirely transactional, certain aspects of her relationship with Roger were difficult. When Roger took her hand or bought her flowers, Midkiff was instantly transported back to her past and became angry, asking what he wanted from her.
“During dating – and even marriage – there was a lot of ironing out of those things,” said Midkiff.
A large part of her healing came from turning back to her Christian faith.
“When [the trafficking] was actually happening, I would say I turned away from it, especially when the church rejected me,” said Midkiff. “That was my final straw. I had a nice little showdown with God in the car, actually. I still believed in Him, but didn’t want anything to do with Him.”
However, Midkiff could see God at work through specific instances where she was shielded from harm by people who said God sent them to protect her.
As Midkiff tried to make sense of why she went through being trafficked, she found purpose in her faith – and found her voice.
Taking a S.T.A.N.D
Midkiff says every step she takes toward speaking out has solidified her belief that God has called her to fight human trafficking.
Liz Midkiff, human trafficking survivor and WAR, Int’l Ambassador (right) with Rebecca McDonald, Founder and Executive Director of WAR, Int’l (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
“Things are happening,” said Midkiff. “The S.T.A.N.D class, different situations I’ve had talking to people, and seeing people freed from shame they felt. People only I would have been able to talk to.
“If you talk to another survivor, it means something different because they understand. I think it’s helped me a lot with my anger and guilt.”
Midkiff began speaking at public events – and happened to share her story at a Women At Risk, International CFR event where founder Rebecca McDonald was in attendance. The next day, McDonald invited Midkiff to speak at more WAR events.
Midkiff has worked with the nonprofit for the past five years, finding she fits well into the role of speaker. And Midkiff’s voice is having a powerful effect.
“Working with WAR, I can speak for survivors, and I can help them.”
Knowledge and preparation are vital
For the past five years, Midkiff has been sharing her story to help others recognize and prevent human trafficking. However, she only shared her story at WAR events. In April 2023, Midkiff took a leap of faith and shared her story on Facebook for the first time.
Midkiff uses her personal knowledge and everything she has learned to protect others (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
But she wants to do more.
Knowledge and recognition of what human trafficking truly consists of is vital in preventing trafficking. However, even if Midkiff had been prepared, she knew her trafficker for six months, and he seemed trustworthy. How could she have known she was entering a dangerous situation?
What would have made a difference, Midkiff said, was having knowledge of how to get out of that situation. “It’s not just how to prevent it but, if this happens to you or your friends, what can you do?”
Knowledge of what trafficking actually looks like is also important.
Midkiff observed that people have a basic knowledge of what trafficking is, but don’t know what it looks like or what to do if they see it. And most people don’t know what grooming means in the trafficking world.
“That’s where I feel I can help,” said Midkiff. “And WAR is such a big help to people because every trafficking case is different and we have the resources, we have the knowledge to back it up. We have Homeland Security, we have the FBI, we have all these things that maybe the everyday person doesn’t have.”
An ambassador for truth
Midkiff works to educate both children and adults about trafficking (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
As an ambassador for WAR, Midkiff’s ministry is funded through the generosity of supporters. Her passion for protecting children from trafficking keeps her continually seeking ministry opportunities.
“I created the S.T.A.N.D. classes because that was something that was really important to me as a mom.”
S.T.A.N.D. classes are available for children as young as 5-years-old and contain age appropriate material regarding safe relationships, stranger danger, private parts and personal privacy. Teen classes may include content about drugs, money, phones and social media.
However, Midkiff has noticed many parents avoid talking to their children about trafficking because they believe it will scare them.
Midkiff has already begun teaching her oldest son (left) about appropriate interactions and relationships (Courtesy, Midkiff)
“I think adults are more scared than the kids are,” said Midkiff, adding that even if they do talk to their kids, there are things parents would not know about.
“What I do is so new, and such a hard topic, that people are a little apprehensive about having me come out. So [I’m] just trying to be bold, stepping out and fighting for kids now because the media is certainly fighting to get your kids right now. Trafficking is happening.”
While Midkiff may never fully make sense of what happened to her, “I’ve come to the peace of: it happened. For whatever reason it happened, I have something to say that needs to be said. And that drives me to seek out these opportunities.”
*Continue reading Liz Midkiff’s survivor story and misconceptions about human trafficking in part four of her Voices of Freedom series, coming to WKTV Journal on Jan. 27, 2025.
Take a S.T.A.N.D.
Liz Midkiff, human trafficking survivor and WAR, Int’l ambassador will lead the S.T.A.N.D. classes (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
WAR, Int’l is hosting two S.T.A.N.D. classes on Jan. 25 at the WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming.
Created and designed by Liz Midkiff and Rebecca McDonald, these classes are teach safety awareness, trafficking signs, age appropriate communications/actions, and more.
– The KidsS.T.A.N.D. Session will be held from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. for children ages 5-10 years old.
– The Teen S.T.A.N.D. Session will be held from 12:30 – 2 p.m. for youth ages 11-17 years old.
More details and registration information can be found here.
Resources
*In an emergency, call 911.
– If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. It is a free, 24/7 service that offers confidential and multilingual support, information and local resources for victims, survivors, and witnesses of human trafficking.
