Category Archives: Our Cities

Hi Ho Silver Line Away!

Local Business, Our Cities,

Congratulations Grand Rapids on another first!kathy_gray

With a launch date of August 25, 2014, Division Avenue will be the home of the first Bus Rapid Transit system, or BRT, in the state of Michigan. Named the Silver Line, this enhanced transportation system will be eagerly watched by Detroit and Lansing as a catalyst for potential economic growth and development leading into the downtown area.

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The stations are equipped with pillar lighting, camera surveillance, emergency phones, and snow melting platforms.

 

Just what is a BRT? According to Peter Varga, CEO of The Rapid, “The Silver Line is a lifestyle mobility system” with the purpose of community building, stimulating both residential and commercial growth, and increasing mobility of visitors, employees, and students into the downtown area.

 

In planning for over a decade, the Silver Line started construction of state-of-the-art stations along Division Avenue in April 2013. Overall, 34 stations have been situated from 60th Street in Cutlerville to the Medical Mile/Grand Rapids Community College loop. The stations are equipped with pillar lighting, camera surveillance, emergency phones, and snow melting platforms. An added feature of the Silver Line stations is to provide level boarding, eliminating the need for wheelchair lifts and providing easy access for those with assistive devices. Care has also been taken to preserve and enhance the landscaping surrounding the stations.

 

As part of the speed and efficiency of the Silver Line, riders will purchase their fare right at the boarding station with electronic kiosks. No need to fumble with money or transfers upon entering the bus. Fares are reasonable as well. An Adult 10-ride card is $11.50, Student 10-ride card is $9. A 31-day unlimited pass is $40 and a Senior/Disabled 31-day unlimited pass is $26.

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The new Silver Line will have free Wi-Fi for passengers among other comforts.

 

The BRT will begin with 8-10 hybrid electric buses. The easily identifiable bright green buses boasting the Silver Line logo are spacious with comfortable seating. Each bus is equipped with 3-position bike rack. An added bonus for commuters is free Wi-Fi. This can cut down on the loss of productivity while driving to and from home, or from work site to work site. You can bring your tablet, laptop, or Smartphone and stay connected while someone else is at the wheel.

 

Unlike the existing bus service, the Silver Line will provide express service potentially slashing commute times by as much as 40 percent. During peak hours, 6 to 8 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m., there will be dedicated bus lanes reducing congestion along Division Avenue. The Silver Line will also employ “signal priority” where the buses have the technology to “talk” to the traffic signals; as the bus approaches an intersection the light will stay green permitting fewer stops along the route.

 

BRT and light rail systems are currently being used in several cities across the nation in cities such as Cleveland, OH; Eugene, Oregon; and Kansas City, Missouri. Studies of these transportation initiatives have shown an increase of 30% to 50% in property values along the routes. The Division Avenue Business Association is excited at the potential of the Silver Line bringing increased business, as well as residential development along this major Grand Rapids thoroughfare.

 

Strengthening communities is another goal of the Silver Line. You can create jobs and educational opportunities in the downtown area, but people need a low-cost means of getting there. Vargas agrees, “The BRT is truly needed for those who are not in a position to own a car.

 

“For those who are middle to low income cars can be a hardship.”

 

Payments, insurance, maintenance, and parking are out of reach for some but they need access to a low-cost efficient means of getting to work or school.

 

Critics of the new $39 million Silver Line project aver that the money could have been better spent on fixing the roads and on structural improvements. Some argue that the city should have opted for a light rail system. Michael Bulthuis, Community Engagement Coordinator with the Rapid explains, “Regarding the cost, many alternatives were looked at for the Division Avenue corridor, one of which was the light rail. BRT was chosen because the return on investment is comparable with light rail, but at one tenth the cost.”

 

Funding for the Silver Line is  possible through grants from the Federal Transit Administration and Michigan Department of Transportation. No local monies are used and funding does not come out of the budget to fix Grand Rapids roads. An added bonus – as of mid-June the Silver Line project was $4 million under budget!

 

Some are concerned with the amount of technology, phones, cameras installed in the stations that vandalism and crime may increase. Bulthuis states The Rapid has never experienced much in the way of vandalism and they do not anticipate a problem in the future. They have invested greatly in proactive safety measures.

 

“As an agency that is concerned first and foremost with the safety of its passengers, we have implemented a number of preventative measures at each station. First, each station will have security cameras. Second, each station is equipped with an emergency phone that will dial 911 directly. Third, stations are very well lit which can be a great deterrent to crime.”

 

With energy costs increasing public transportation will become increasingly important. The Silver Line is just the first piece of moving Grand Rapids toward low-cost, energy efficient transportation which is appealing to business commuters, seniors, and students. Plans for paved park-n-ride lots, like the one currently at the 60th Street BRT station, will make it easier to avoid the overcrowded parking and parking costs downtown. Future plans are being looked at to evaluate the feasibility of a downtown Grand Rapids streetcar system.

 

We are moving to a new age of public transportation. Once again Detroit and Lansing are eagerly watching for Grand Rapids to lead the way. After riding the new Silver Line to reach my employment on the Medical Mile who knows…I just might have to sell the old Taurus and let someone else do the driving!

Meet the Candidates–WE THE PEOPLE!

Local Faces, Our Cities

WKTV Community Media Center produced video segments with individuals running for public office. Meet Franklin Cornielle–Democratic Candidate running for Kent County Commissioner and Michael Johnston–Democratic Candidate running for Kent County Commissioner. Also, meet Republican Candidate Emily Post Brieve running for Kent County Commissioner. Our Citizen Journalism website will continue to share all candidate’s messages/platform from now until the election is over.

Wyoming Homicide Investigation Continues

Our Cities

The Wyoming Police Department is still fully engaged in an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 25-year-old Charles Oppenneer and 18-year-old Brooke Slocum.

 

While investigating an abandoned vehicle at approximately 12 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, officers with the Wyoming Department of Public Safety located Oppenneer’s body in a wooded area just north of Gezon Court in Wyoming.

 

While identifying Oppenneer, it was determined that he was Slocum’s last known contact. At that time, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety named Slocum as a missing person. As a result of the missing person investigation, police executed a search warrant on Slocum’s computer. With the help of the Internet Crimes Against Children, or ICAC, forensic team, investigators found information from Slocum’s computer that led them to identify 31-year-old Brady E. Oestrike – birthdate Dec. 4, 1982 – as a suspect.

 

Yesterday at approximately 9:15 p.m. investigators were in the process of obtaining a search warrant for Oestrike’s residence when he was observed leaving the residence in a yellow, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt.

 

Police pursued the vehicle eastbound on Burton Street from the Burlingame Avenue to the US 131 overpass where the suspect crashed into a cement barrier on the northeast corner of the entrance ramp to northbound 131. The suspect was located in the vehicle and was pronounced  deceased at the scene from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A search of the suspect’s vehicle resulted in the recovery of Brooke Slocum whose deceased body was found in the trunk.

 

As part of its ongoing investigation, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety did discover a number of assault-type weapons in Oestrike’s home. The investigation of Oestrike’s home and the circumstances surrounding this tragedy is ongoing in order to verify Oestrike acted alone and that there are no other victims.

 

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety extends its deepest condolences to the families of those involved in this tragic situation. The families have asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time. The department would also like to thank ICAC, Michigan State Police, the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office and the Grand Rapids Police Department for their assistance during the investigation.

 

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety will be prepared to share additional information on Tuesday, July 22.

Double muder/suicide in Wyoming

Our Cities
Facebook Photo of victim Charles Oppenneer
Facebook Photo of victim Charles Oppenneer
Brooke Slocum
Facebook photo of Victim Brooke Slocum who was found dead in the suspect’s car trunk.

While investigating an abandoned vehicle at approximately 12 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, officers with the Wyoming Department of Public Safety located the body of a deceased male in a wooded area just north of Gezon Court in Wyoming.  The victim has been identified as  Charles Gerard Oppenneer.  His girlfriend, Brooke Slocum, who was 8 months pregnant, was  found dead in the trunk of the suspect’s car.  The unborn child died.  The suspect has been identified as  31-year-old Brady Oestrike, of Wyoming.

 

The Press Conference held today at 10:00a.m. with the Wyoming Police Dept. divulged  answers to the bizarre triple homicide case.

 

Chief of Police James E. Carmody broke down the information for our community.   Although numerous case facts could not yet be discussed–including how or when the victims died–the following was explained:  Police said they learned that  the suspect–Brady Oestrike– had assault type rifles at his home– located at the intersection of Taft Ave and Porter Street.   On Thursday night, police officers kept watch on the suspect’s house while waiting for a search warrant.   Oestrike left his home and other officers were summoned to follow him. The chase began.

 

The suspect shot himself and took his own life after crashing into a barrier  on Burton Street Bridge/US-131 overpass during  the chase.

 

Upon examination of Brooke’s computer, it was found that the suspect met her on Craig’s List.

 

Carmody warned that individuals should be extremely careful on internet sites.  He also asked for privacy for the victim’s families.

Brady Oestrike suspect
Facebook photo of suspect Brady Oestrike.

Omaha Retailer, Gordmans’, Opens New Store in Wyoming

Local Business, Our Cities

by Joan Lukas

Gordmans is based out of Omaha, NE, and offers discount prices on fashion and home decor.
Gordmans is based out of Omaha, NE, and offers discount prices on fashion and home decor.

 

Just in time for back-to-school shopping, a new Gordmans will open on July 17 in Wyoming at Wilsontown Center, 4910 Wilson Ave. SW.  Store representatives say guests can expect a extensive selection of today’s latest brands, fashions and styles in apparel and home décor, big savings of up to 60% off department store prices and specialty store prices, and outstanding guest service. The 50,000-square-foot Gordmans will open this Thursday at 9 a.m.

 

“We are excited to extend the Gordmans’ experience in Wyoming,” says Store Manager Nicole Trier. “Guests will enjoy a well-organized store, and the introduction of phenomenal Misses’ Contemporary apparel new to Gordmans — modern styles and fits from some of the most popular name brands at prices shoppers will love. We look forward to welcoming Wyoming and Grand Rapids shoppers and delighting them with something unexpected!”

 

The new store’s Grand Opening festivities will take place July 25-27. Guests will enjoy exciting surprise giveaways throughout the weekend, special buys on name brand merchandise chosen exclusively for the grand opening celebration, mystery discount cards, and drawings for gift cards worth $25, $50 and $100. Gordmans guests also will discover that Gordmans is an easy-to-shop store that features Gordmans Giggles children’s theater and Gordmans Grandstand, a sports-themed television viewing area.

 

Grand Opening activities begin Friday, July 25 with a 9 a.m. ribbon cutting ceremony. Trier will present a check for $2,500 to Grandville Public Schools to launch the retailer’s Partners in Education fundraising events. Partners in Education is a program through which businesses make additional educational resources available to local public school systems. Gordmans’ guests may join in by purchasing “helping hands” for $1 each. Every dollar raised will directly benefit Grandville Public Schools. Since its involvement with Partners in Education, which began in 2000, Gordmans has contributed more than $1 million to public school systems in markets where Gordmans has stores. The new Gordmans store has selected Grand View Elementary School as its partner school.

 

Gordmans will open another Michigan store the same day at Saginaw Square Shopping Center, on Bay Road in Saginaw, Mich. In addition to these new Michigan locations, Gordmans also operates a store in Muskegon at Lakeshore Marketplace.

 

Gordmans is among the fastest expanding retailers in the country, operating 97 stores in 57 markets and 20 states. Including the Wyoming and Saginaw stores, the retailer will open seven stores in 2014 totaling approximately 350,000 square feet in new and existing markets. The company added nine stores in 2012 and 10 stores in 2013, increasing its store base by almost 40% since 2010.

Kentwood Resident Resource Meeting provides answers for tornado’s devastation

Local Faces, Our Cities

100_1231“Together Everyone Achieves More!”

 

This quote can be applied to the community support shown by Kentwood and Wyoming residents when the tornado touched down on Sunday, July 6. WKTV Community Media attended the Kentwood Resident Resource Meeting at Kelloggsville Christian Reformed Church to get a feel for how the community is bonding together to help others in need. The room was packed with hundreds and hundreds of people.

 

They came to show their support and find out about services offered in their time of need.

 

Please watch this video to see all the highlights of the event:

Wyoming Holds Resource Meeting for Ideal Park Residents

Non-Profits, Our Cities
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Day 4: Roads are clear of trees and debris and residents are focusing on repairing their homes.

janice_limbaughVolunteer on-call firefighters went door-to-door Wednesday evening to distribute informational flyers to Ideal Park residents inviting them to attend a meeting Thursday night for recovery assistance.

 

City officials were expecting about 15 residents to attend the meeting held in the Community Building at Ideal Park Christian Reformed Church but were pleasantly surprised when the room filled up with over 60 people.

 

“First I have to say I am so impressed with all of you,” began Chief Carmody, Wyoming’s director of police and fire safety. “Your hard work and tireless efforts to recover from this disaster is to be commended.”

 

The chief went on to encourage residents to call the city with any concerns, complaints or questions in the weeks to come. “We’re going to stand shoulder to shoulder with you – that is our promise to you,” he said.

Jenny Miller, a resident on Haughey attended the meeting. "I think the city is doing an incredible job clearing the trees and getting power back on by Tuesday! That was amazing."
Jenny Miller, a resident on Haughey attended the meeting. “I think the city is doing an incredible job clearing the trees and getting power back on by Tuesday! That was amazing.”

 

The meeting brought together representatives from the City of Wyoming, Wyoming Public Safety, Public Works and Community Service administrators to talk to the Wyoming residents hardest hit by Sunday’s tornado. The city brought in representatives from a number of trusted volunteer organizations that will provide residents assistance with removal of debris, home repairs and other challenges.

 

On Friday, July 11 from 2 p.m.until 6 p.m. Ideal Park residents are invited to meet individually with these representatives back in the Community Building to present their needs for assistance.  The Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Team Rubicon and the National Relief Network are just a few of the organizations that will be on hand to answer questions and offer assistance.

 

Should residents need assistance at any time over the next several weeks, they are encouraged to call 762-333-1534. A relief service volunteer will direct them to the proper organization for help.

 

Officials stressed that these services are free to the residents of Ideal Park. If, in the weeks to come, someone comes to their door to collect payment for any service, residents are to call the police department.  “We call these people predators,” Chief Carmody said. “Call us. We’ll take care of them.”

Storm-weary residents from Ideal Park get the latest news on clean-up efforts and what to expect next.
Storm-weary residents from Ideal Park get the latest news on clean-up efforts and what to expect next.

 

Other topics on the meeting’s agenda included public safety in and around Ideal Park. According to Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt, a damage survey of the park showed many of the trees still standing are damaged in the treetops posing risk of falling limbs.

 

“Do not go walking through the woods. Don’t let your children walk or play in the woods. Trees are still coming down, even today,” stressed Rynbrandt. “Please stay out of the park until we can get the proper machinery back there to clear the downed trees and trim the broken limbs.”

 

Residents were relieved to learn that the city  is providing brush removal assistance to Crippen Avenue, Averill Avenue, Haughey Avenue, Buchanan Avenue south of 54th Street and 56th Street west of Division Avenue to Crippen Avenue.

 

“Removal of debris is of no cost to you,” Mayor Jack Poll told the crowd. “We have it in our budget for emergency situations like this.”

 

In addition, building permit fees for storm damaged homes will be waived for one month. Residents will still need to have all appropriate inspections and any subsequent repairs will have to be up to current code.

 

Starting this weekend, city building inspectors will be going through the neighborhood to identify problem structures. They can be identified by wearing white hard hats and driving city vehicles.

Weather emergencies can lead to dishonest Vendors. Stay safe with these tips!

Our Cities

100_1140With the severity of  damages caused by the tornado in the Kentwood/Wyoming area it is important to hire vendors that are reputable.

 

Bob O’ Callaghan, President of the Kentwood/Wyoming Better Business Bureau warns individuals of the unscrupulous behavior that some vendors exhibit. “There is so much clean up to be done.  People have to be very careful when hiring suppliers. They can start by calling the Better Business Bureau and the Home Builder’s Association,” he explained.

 

To save you the time–we made the calls!

 

Emily Lubbers, Executive Officer at the Home Builder’s Association, directs homeowners to go to their website and find a vendor who is licensed and insured.  You will find a complete list of reputable vendors.  Do this by going to http://www.mygrhome.com then proceed to the Start Here tab and scroll down to Browse Our Membership.   This list contains vendors that are recommended by the Association. They are all fully licensed and insured.

 

Emily also invites individuals to contact their office by dialing 616- 281-2021.  She and her staff will recommend builders and suppliers.

 

“They can contact our  office and we will make time to help them,” she said.

 

Their office is set up to field calls and help homeowners that were affected by the tornado.

 

Phil Catlett, President of the Better Business Bureau serving Western Michigan, gave numerous tips on how not to be taken advantage of during this critical time:

 

#1:  Don’t let your emotions get in the way in trying to get homes and vehicles fixed as quickly as possible.   Take enough time and consult numerous resources.

 

#2:  Try to use a local business with a solid reputation.  Homeowners may get “storm chasers” knocking on their doors and offering services.   Be Careful.  Check them out thoroughly and completely.

 

#3:  Make sure whomever you hire is licensed.   They also have to have a door to door solicitation. Ask to see these.   In order to find out if someone is licensed, homeowners can go to http://www.michigan.gov/lara.

 

Many thanks to Bob, Emily and Phil for taking the time out of their busy schedules to provide up-to-the- minute current information to assist individuals in need.

Comcast Assistance for Tornado-Impacted Wyoming Residents

Our Cities

by the City of Wyoming

 

Wyoming residents who were impacted by Sunday’s tornado may have questions about their cable service and equipment. Comcast has encouraged Wyoming customers who need additional assistance with their accounts to contact Kyle Mazurek, manager of external affairs for Comcast Heartland Region at (734) 254-1557. (Please note Kyle may only assist with storm-related issues.

 

Comcast has also provided the following tips for storm-impacted residents:

 

For customers whose equipment has been lost or damaged due to the storms:

 

Comcast recommends filing a claim with your homeowners or renters insurance, as it is often covered. For our customers, if the equipment is not covered under insurance we will work with them on a case-by-case basis to alleviate costs.

 

For customers whose homes have been damaged due to the storms and service needs change:

 

Contact your TV, Internet and phone providers regarding your options to transfer or place a hold on your services.

 

For customers without service due to the storms:

 

Check with your TV, Internet and phone providers on the status of service being restored. Depending on your provider, you can usually get this information when you call in or sign into your account online. Comcast customers can also stay up-to-date on service outages in their area via the XFINITY Connect app on their mobile devices. Once power is fully restored, we will have a better understanding of the extent of any remaining damage and where repairs need to be made.

Kentwood’s Kelloggwoods Park Takes a Hit

Our Cities, Recreation
Kelloggwoods Park sustained heavy tree damage.
Kelloggwoods Park sustained heavy tree damage.

All softball games are cancelled at least for this week at Kentwood’s Kelloggwoods Park according to Charlie Ziesemer, Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation director. The park was seriously damaged during the tornado Sunday night and many large trees that once shaded the children’s playground are destroyed.

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A picnic table is spared in the storm.

 

Ziesemer says that they have a lot of clean up to do in the park, but clearing up the neighborhoods takes priority. He said he hopes to have the park open for ball games by some time next week.

A popular play area for children is buried by the mature trees that fell.
A popular play area for children is buried by the mature trees that fell.
Clearing the trees in Kelloggwoods Park will take time once the neighborhoods are cleared.
Clearing the trees in Kelloggwoods Park will take time once the neighborhoods are cleared.
Trees clearly show the tornado's path.
Trees clearly show the tornado’s path.
Twisted within the fallen tree is a swing set.
Twisted within the fallen tree is a swing set.

 

City of Wyoming Continues Work to Open Streets

Our Cities, ,

by Janice Limbaugh and the City of Wyoming

Vicky Devine, left, has worked at the Well Mannered Dog Center for three years. "I could cry. I was doing okay until I got here and saw it," she says of the building's destruction behind her. The center was boarding over 60 dogs over the holiday weekend. All dogs were found safe.
Vicky Devine, left, has worked at the Well Mannered Dog Center for three years. “I could cry. I was doing okay until I got here and saw it,” she says of the building’s destruction behind her. The center was boarding over 60 dogs over the holiday weekend. All dogs were found safe. Photo by Janice Limbaugh

 

Wyoming work crews continue to be on the streets Tuesday morning working to reopen streets blocked by the storm and to provide assistance to the 50+ homes and 5-10 businesses in the neighborhood bordered by Clay Avenue, 56th Street and Division Avenue.

Power lines, tree limbs and power poles block neighborhood streets.
Power lines, tree limbs and power poles block neighborhood streets. Photo by Janice Limbaugh
Homes on Averill SW near Ideal Park suffered extensive damaged.
Homes on Averill SW near Ideal Park suffered extensive damaged. Photo by Janice Limbaugh

 

Consumers Energy expects to have crews working around the clock to secure remaining downed power lines and begin the process of restoring energy after an EF1 tornado touched down in Wyoming Sunday night.  City inspectors have already begun the process of inspecting homes and businesses to ensure they are structurally safe and plan to continue the process throughout the day today.

 

Extra Public Safety patrols will be on duty for the next 48 hours.  Community members who do not live in the area should avoid “sightseeing” in the affected area, which is already congested with work crews and concerned family and friends. Residents will be asked for identification to show that they live in the area before they will be allowed through.

A view of Ideal Park before Sunday night's tornado.
A view of Ideal Park before Sunday night’s tornado.
Ideal Park is only recognizable by the sign.
Ideal Park is only recognizable by the sign. Photo by Janice Limbaugh
While helping a family member in the neighborhood, Eve Goff stopped by the park to take in the damage. "We've had many family reunions under this pavilion," she recalled. "Up until now, many of these trees outlived generations of families here."
While helping a family member in the neighborhood, Eve Goff stopped by the park to take in the damage. “We’ve had many family reunions under this pavilion,” she recalled. “Up until now, many of these trees outlived generations of families here.” Photo by Janice Limbaugh

 

 

Ideal Park suffered extensive damage and will remain closed until further notice.  The Parks and Recreation Department is working with individuals and groups who had reserved space in the park to reschedule events. A reminder that residents who need shelter or other assistance can access one of two shelters now open in Wyoming:

 

• The Salvation Army has established a temporary aid station at the Ideal Park Christian Reformed Church at 320 56th Street SW.

 

• The American Red Cross has established a shelter at the Kentwood Activity Center at 355 48th Street SE.

 

Any resident needing shelter assistance can call the Red Cross hotline at 616.899.4511.  For non-emergency public safety needs, residents can call the Wyoming Public Safety Department at 616.530.7300.  Other city services and requests will be handled through Wyoming City hall at 616.530.7272.

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The Well Mannered Dog Center was a popular dog training facility. Photo by Janice Limbaugh
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Both sides of the building were blown out by winds reaching 110 mph. Rated an EF1, the tornado would have been classified as an EF2 at 111 mph. Photo by Janice Limbaugh

 

“We have made tremendous progress Monday, but there is still a lot of work to do,” said Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt.  “We remain focused on clearing the streets of brush and debris to allow for safe travel of emergency vehicles into the area and, once Consumers Power is through with its restoration, assessing the safety of homes and businesses.

 

“Know that anyone from the City will be clearly identifiable as an employee.  Be cautious if someone comes to your door asking for money upfront to do repair work or for information.  Be sure to get proper identification before answering questions or writing a check.”

 

Public Works is asking Wyoming residents with downed trees or tree limbs inside the curb line so they are not by the road. The yard waste area is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Starting Monday for the next two weeks, Public Works crews will be picking up brush in that neighborhood only.

 

For further information, visit the City website at www.wyomingmi.gov. You can find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofWyoming, and on Twitter @WyomingCityHall.

Kentwood/Wyoming Tornado leads to Community Support

Our Cities, ,
Tornado 5
Homes on Avrill SW in Wyoming were hit hard. Photo by Janice Limbaugh

On Sunday, July 6, 2014 at 10:30p.m., residents of Kentwood and Wyoming faced up to 100 miles per hour winds in what is being referred to as a EF-1  tornado.  People woke up to huge trees through their homes, downed power lines, demolished vehicles, and flooding throughout their neighborhoods.  Numerous injuries have been reported due to the weather damage.

 

According to Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley’s office the storm path was from 60th & Division northeast to 44th & Kalamazoo.  The tornado started in the City of Wyoming on Clay between 60th and 54th.

Tornado 2
Zeeland Truss and Components on Clay sustained major damage from the tornado.

 

This morning a Kentwood firefighter said, ” I counted 20 places that lost their roofs and a bunch of collapses as a result of the tornado ripping through the area.”

 

The City of Wyoming’s Facebook page states-“We appreciate the support of firefighters from Georgetown Township, Jamestown Township and Grandville, who joined Wyoming Public Safety officers last night going door-to-door to check on residents. There are still numerous live power lines down in this area, and we caution all residents to use caution and stay away from any downed power lines. Do not attempt to move any downed wire.  Consumers Power is working to clear the area now. They can be reached to report a downed power line at 1-800-477-5050.  

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Before the tornado, Ideal Park was home to many mature hard wood trees. One resident said, “The scars will be noticeable for years to come.” Photo by Janice Limbaugh
Playground areas within Ideal Park are covered and damaged by fallen trees.
Playground areas within Ideal Park are covered and damaged by fallen trees.

 

Additionally, Ideal Park, which is located in this area, sustained damage and is closed today. 

 

Once Consumers Power has given us the all clear, the City will send crews out to begin cleaning up the storm damage and clearing streets and other public right of ways.

 

The Salvation Army and Red Cross are working to set up emergency shelters. While we don’t have locations yet, we will share that as soon as we are able. For updates, please check back on City of Wyoming Facebook page or follow us on Twitter (WyomingCityHall).

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Salvation Army and the Red Cross set up a food and refreshment tent in the neighborhood of Avrill and 56th. Photo by Janice Limbaugh

 

Right now the Salvation Army truck is on the corner of 56th and Averill street offering refreshments to people in need.

 

Kentwood Parks & Recreation on 48th Street opened at 1:00a.m. last night. The City of Kentwood and The American Red Cross are offering assistance to residents.   They opened a shelter at Kentwood Community Center for those without power or otherwise displaced from their homes. More than 60 people took refuge at the center, sources told WKTV’s Citizen Journalism program.  It is estimated that power will not be restored for days.

 

The Mayor’s office advised neighbors to check on neighbors and not to drive in damaged areas.   Today, from 2:00p.m.-10:00p.m. Kentwood residents can bring tree limbs and yard debris to Kellogwoods Park.  Residents should come into the park via 52nd St/Kelloggwoods Drive.

 

This is probably the most significant tornado since April 21,1967 when a classified F-3 tornado hit in Wyoming/Grand Rapids.  65 buildings were destroyed, and 60 others were badly damaged. 375 buildings sustained minor damage. A church and a K-Mart store were completely destroyed.

An employee of The Well Mannered Dog Center had her car totaled (foreground) while she was inside with the dogs being boarded there. None of the 60 dogs were injured in the storm.
An employee of The Well Mannered Dog Center had her car totaled (foreground) while she was inside with the dogs being boarded there. None of the 60 dogs were injured in the storm. Photo by Janice Limbaugh
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Kentwood home sustained damage from downed trees.

 

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Deck split by uprooted tree in Kentwood.

 

Photos Courtesy:  Janice Limbaugh and Tom Norton

Lamar Park Kicks Off 20th Year of Miranda’s Park Parties!

Our Cities
Joining Miranda at Lamar Park was Brian Sterling, Susan Shaw and Marlee Ginter. Here doing a promo for Park Parties.
Joining Miranda at Lamar Park was Brian Sterling, Susan Shaw and Marlee Ginter. Here doing a promo for Park Parties.

janice_limbaughIt’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years since the first park party was hosted by WOTV 4’s Miranda. The popular community event thrives on providing free family fun to children across West Michigan thanks to a slew of participating sponsors.  The kids love it. The parents love it. And what’s not to love? It’s free stuff!

Free snacks keep the line constant.
Free snacks keep the line constant.

 

Yet more than that, the success of a Miranda Park Party is testament to the community that hosts it. It’s no wonder why the location for the first park party of 2014, kicking off the 20th year, was Lamar Park in Wyoming. Explains Miranda, “We love coming to Wyoming! Your city gets behind us 110 percent – from the parking situation to lost children, the city is ready with the resources to help us pull this party off.”

What's a party without bubbles?
What’s a party without bubbles?

 

And this party proved to be a record-breaking size: approximately 8,000 kids came to play bringing their family members along for the fun.

 

“Even your mayor is here with his grandkids playing – where else can I get that?” she asks, adding, “That’s why when I think of family, I think of Wyoming!”

 

Although park parties have been happening for 20 years, the City of Wyoming has only been hosting them for the last five according to Eric Tomkins, Wyoming’s Parks and Recreation supervisor. The key to its success?

 

“Lots and lots of planning,” says Tomkins.

The man behind the curtain is Eric Tomkins, Wyoming's Parks & Rec Supervisor.
The ‘man behind the curtain’ is Eric Tomkins, Wyoming’s Parks & Rec Supervisor.

 

“We get everybody together six months earlier to coordinate and workout the details. This involves parks and rec, public safety, traffic, medical response – even our senior volunteers get involved to watch for lost children.

One of the most popular activities consists of several tennis balls and very large parachute fabric.
One of the most popular activities consists of several tennis balls and very large parachute fabric.
The pay off is to run underneath when the timing is right.
The pay off is to run underneath when the timing is right.

 

“The bottom line is safe in, safe out.”

 

The event on this day involved about 40 city employees, working as busy as bees in the summer heat for the duration of the party and beyond.  It was obvious to see that it was quite the orchestration. But is it worth it”Absolutely,” Tomkins states.

 

“It’s great for the community to have such a good time and the publicity Miranda creates helps the focus be on Wyoming instead of Grand Rapids for a change. We like that!”

"Want to take a selfie?" Miranda asks the crowd. The answer was a resounding YES! Photo courtesy of WOTV 4 Women
“Want to take a selfie?” Miranda asks the crowd. The answer was a resounding YES! Photo courtesy of WOTV 4 Women
Face painting available even for the youngest.
Face painting available even for the youngest.
The Zip Line was not for the faint of heart.
The Zip Line was not for the faint of heart.
A Miranda Park Party provides free fun in all forms.
A Miranda Park Party provides free fun in all forms.

 

 

 

Judith Wylie Remembered

Local Faces, Our Cities
Judith Moss Wylie loved the City of Kentwood.
Judith Moss Wylie loved the City of Kentwood.

To her friends and family, former Kentwood City Commissioner Judith Wylie lived her life being more than an inspiration. She was “an energetic inspiration” even after suffering a major stroke four years ago that left her paralyzed and in a care facility. At age 80, Judith died on June 10, 2014 leaving a legacy of public service, goodwill and fond memories to the greater Kentwood community.

 

“She was a force and quite unique,” says Joanne Monnier, her friend for over 40 years. “The first time I met Judy was at Welcome Wagon. We were both new to Kentwood in the mid 70s,” she recalls. “I was immediately impressed with how intelligent, witty and energetic she was. She brought that energy to everything she did.”

 

A tireless volunteer, Judith not only raised two sons with her husband of 60 years, Robert,  but also served on the Kentwood City Commission for 20 years from 1981 to 2001. She also co-founded and was president of the Kentwood Women’s Club and a former president and honorary life member of the Sallie Bender Guild of Spectrum Health Butterworth. In all of her life activities, her efforts were committed and consistent.

Judith with former Kentwood Mayor Bill Hardiman and his wife Clova.
Judith with former Kentwood Mayor Bill Hardiman and his wife Clova.

 

“Everything she did, she did one hundred percent,” says Nancy Shane, administrative assistant to the Kentwood Fire Chief and a friend and co-worker of Judie’s for 30 years. “To me and others, she was a mentor, always there to help and encourage. She would take new appointees and run them through the ‘tricks-of-the-trade’ of city hall.

 

“To Judie, the city of Kentwood was her friend and that included all the employees who worked there,” says Shane. She recalls Judie wandering thru the halls during the holidays and wishing every single person a happy holiday. “She really, really cared for city employees. Even when I’d visit her  after her stroke she would ask me, ‘What’s going on at city hall? How is everyone?’ Her caring about the welfare of others was always on her mind,” Shane adds.

 

“At the funeral, you could see that Judie had friends everywhere because there were big groups of diverse people that had no connections to each other except for Judie. She was special to so many people.”

Judith relishing time with two of her four grandchildren.
Judith relishing time with two of her four grandchildren.
Robert and Judith Wylie on their wedding day in 1953. The couple met while working at JC Penney on the east coast.
Robert and Judith Wylie on their wedding day in 1953. The couple met while working at JC Penney on the east coast.

 

Both Shane and Monnier were friends with Judie when she organized the Kentwood Women’s Club, a club to enhance cultural, social, educational and civic opportunities for Kentwood area women. The club just celebrated its 30th year.

 

Judie’s community involvement extended further as a volunteer and former president of the Sallie Bender Guild of Spectrum Health Butterworth. The guild has been in existence for 62 years managing the hospital gift shops on a volunteer basis and turning 100 percent of the profits over to specific projects and programs. According to Monnier, now president of the guild, SBG was responsible for donating $1 million to the DeVos Children’s Hospital and $500,000 to the Meijer Heart Center.

 

“Judie was a tireless volunteer and supporter of the guild,” says Monnier. “And absolutely one of the best sales people we had at the Butterworth gift shop,” she adds, laughing. “She enjoyed working on the floor, talking to people and helping them pick out gifts. It was really another way she served people.”

 

Monnier admits that the passing of her dear friend has prompted inner reflection, saying, “As I look over the years, she was an influence in my life. I’m doing things now because of her. Her support and encouragement is what helped me become president of the guild. I never would have tried something like that if it wasn’t for Judie.”

 

Recently the Kentwood City Commission proclaimed June 17, 2014 as Judith Wylie Day in honor of her 20 years of commitment and service to the city. Bob, her husband of almost 61 years says he was thrilled to receive the honor from Mayor Kepley. Of his wife he says, “She was something special. She was a sweetheart.”hat

Known for her love of hats, Judie wore a different one to church every Sunday. She served as a former deacon at John Knox Presbyterian Church.
Known for her love of hats, Judie wore a different one to church every Sunday. She served as a former deacon at John Knox Presbyterian Church.
Judie considered the City and its employees her friend.
Judie considered the City and its employees her friend.
Judie with former U.S. Representative Vern Ehlers.
Judie with former U.S. Representative Vern Ehlers.

Wyoming Public Safety Officers Tweet from the Beat!

Our Cities, , ,

All done with our interview with . Time to hit the road again.

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8:52 AM – 11 Jun 2014

janice_limbaugh

There’s a first time for everything. In this case, a virtual police ride-along for people using Twitter to follow two Wyoming Public Safety Officers during their 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. shift Wednesday. Officers Margo Clark (pictured above left) and Kelli Duimstra (above right) convinced their bosses to give tweeting on the beat a try.

 

“We thought it would be a great first step – a fun step – to encourage better communication between law enforcement and the public,” says Officer Clark who admits she uses Twitter off duty to keep track of her two teenage stepchildren and understands its usefulness. The goal, she explains, is to ultimately grow the department’s presence on Facebook and Twitter.

 

“Before proposing this, I did research on social media and law enforcement and found that there are many law enforcement agencies that use social media to grow their presence with their community. This will give us a better idea of how it might work for us.

 

“Ideally we’d like to get to the point of sharing public safety information with people in real time, to warn them of things or events happening, receive tips on suspects and help promote crime awareness,” explains Clark. “It’s good from a public relations standpoint too because it demonstrates what we do on a daily basis in our department, something the community has a right to know.”

 

Officer Clark made it clear that during the Tweet-along,names, addresses or photos of individuals involved in calls would not be tweeted. And if you didn’t participate, here’s a sample of how the Tweet-Along went:

 

This is what the inside of our cruiser looks like. #WyDPS #tweetalong pic.twitter.com/DTsD3W1r12

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Headed as backup to a disorderly complaint. This means we are assisting the primary officer on the call.

That call left us drenched!!! Disorderly subject returned home. #WyDPS #tweetalong pic.twitter.com/KPvRxWSC9e

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Clear the office. Getting our daily updated. This is what we turn in at the end of our shift. #WyDPS #tweetalong pic.twitter.com/72fdOqSVF7

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During the five hour shift, there was a lot of interaction between the officers and curious tweeters. The conversation threads have not been posted due to privacy rights. Although it turned out to be a rather slow shift – not necessarily a bad thing for a first time tweet-along – the team had a following.  In the end, Officers Clark and Duimstra were pleased with the results as was their boss, who tweeted:

Congratulations to Officers Clark and Duimstra. You made us all proud today to wear the WYDPS uniform. Thank You! Chief Carmody

Good job Officers! Until the next Tweet-Along, stay safe!

Kentwoodpalooza! Annual Festival of Arts, Film and Music by Teens, for Teens!

Area Education, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, , ,


Hundreds of teens from Kent County and beyond are expected to gather at Kent District Library’s Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch on June 12 from 2:00 to 8:00 PM for Kentwoodpalooza, a festival-style celebration of the arts, the end of school and the beginning of Summer Reading @ KDL.

“We wanted to host an event that would introduce teens to their library so they could see it as a welcoming environment, a place where they could hang out during the summer months,” said event organizer Greg Lewis, a teen librarian at the branch. “The City of Kentwood and area businesses have been very supportive, and since KDL has embraced this we have people coming from all over.”

Supported this year by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts and sponsored by the Friends of the Kentwood Library, activities at Kentwoodpalooza include live music; workshops with local musicians, writers and other artists; plus poetry, teen film festival screenings and free food. “Now that we’ve been doing this a few years, Kentwoodpalooza is becoming known as a summer event area teens look forward to – performers too,” Lewis said. “This is a great opportunity for teens to show what they can do and to learn from some of the area’s most well known performers and artists.”     film-strip-roll-cinema-technology-22984546

Schedule:

1:00 p.m. — JibberJams Crane Wives drummer Dan Rickabus will lead a round of intelligent silliness for all ages. This energetic, engaging interactive performance by a local musician features original songs and improvisation performed in the universal language of jibberish.

1:00 p.m. – Ongoing. Watch local artist Barbara Williams collaborate with about a dozen East Kentwood High School National Art Honor Society students on the creation of a large mural that will hang inside the library when completed.

2:00 p.m. — Kent County Teen Film Festival Encore. If you missed seeing these short films by teens on the big screen in February, watch them now and talk with a few of the young film makers about how they created their masterpieces.

2:00 p.m. — Guitar Workshop with Justin Dore. Join Big Dudee Roo’s lead guitarist in exploring different playing styles of and what makes those styles unique. Find out what it means to be a lead guitarist and hear the dos and don’ts of joining a band. Also, get some practice techniques and hear about the history of the instrument and notable guitarists.

3:00 p.m. — Songwriting Workshop. Max Lockwood, lead singer and songwriter for folk rock band Big Dudee Roo, will perform some of his songs, discuss the songwriting process, share ideas for building a song from the ground up and show how to put together all the elements of a song.

5:30 p.m. — Writing Workshop. Published writer, poet and creative writing instructor Hazel Foster will explain how to take working drafts from revision to publication, addressing revision strategies, submission etiquette, venues for publication and how to survive rejection.

6:30 p.m. — Poetry Reading and Awards Ceremony. Winners from the Kent District Library Teen Poetry Contest will share their poetry.

4:00 — 8:00 p.m. Live Music on the Amphitheatre
4:00 p.m. — December Assembly (Electronic Alternative)
5:00 p.m. — Phantom Ivory (Alternative)
6:00 p.m. – Virgo (Alternative Rock)
7:00 p.m. — Big Dudee Roo (Grunge Folk Rock)

Kentwood High School State Champs!

Area Education, Our Cities, Sports

Kentwood State Champs in Track

 

 

Tuesday, June 10, Kentwood’s State Champion Boy’s Track Team visited the Michigan Capital and Legislators at the request of Representative Ken Yonker. They won the MHSAA State Championship for the 5th time in 6 years!! Special thanks go out to Coach Emeott, his staff, and Ketntwood’s  fantastic student athletes for representing KPS in such a positive manner. In the words of many administrators and students: “Another Great Day To Be A Falcon!”

Facts needed–Answers given on The Kent County Senior Mileage!

Our Cities, Senior Living



The Kent County senior millage serves 17,000 people a year with 43 different services that help them live independently in their own homes.  More than 90% of older adults want to live in their own home as long as possible.

Home delivered meals, personal care, transportation, and home repairs funded through the senior millage help frail older adults age with dignity.  These services also save health care dollars in the long run.

Demand for millage services continues to increase as the population ages. The number of older adults in Kent County has increased by more than 30% since 2000. There are now more than 100,000 older adults in Kent County.

Demand will only continue to grow. The older adult population in Kent County is projected to double over the next twenty years.

As the population increases, funding has decreased. Millage funding has declined from a high of $7 million to the current $6 million level due to declining property values over the past four years.

Waiting lists and unmet needs for meals, home care, and transportation are growing. Individuals on waiting lists are more likely to end up in a nursing home, more likely to seek care from a hospital room, and more likely to die waiting for assistance than their counterparts who receive services.

The senior millage ballot proposal costs pennies a day.  Increasing the millage rate from 1/3 to 1/2 mill will cost the owner of a $150,000 home an extra $12.50 a year.

Thousands of older adults will have a better quality of life and many will be able to stay in their own home.

Remember to vote on August 5 !

Facts about Wyoming’s Upcoming Mileage Proposal on August 5th!

Our Cities, Senior Living, ,

Wyoming SealFrequently Asked Questions by Voters

by The City of Wyoming

What proposal are we voting on?

 

To amend the Charter of the City of Wyoming to provide for a renewal of the annual levy of 1.25 mills on the dollar for public safety, specifically for the operation, maintenance and administration of Police and Fire services in the City of Wyoming for a period of 5 years. For a homeowner with a $100,000 house, this comes to $62.50 per year.

When is the election?

 

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Where do I vote?

 

To find the correct polling location, check your green and white Voter Identification Card, which lists the name and address of our polling place or call the City Clerk’s Office at 530-7296, to verify that you are registered to vote and where you should go on election day to cast your ballot. You can also visit www.mi.gov/vote or follow the Clerk’s Office link on the City website (www.wyomingmi.gov) for voter information.

If I am not registered to vote, can I still do so? How?

 

The last day to register to vote in order to be eligible to participate in the August 5, 2014 election is July 7, 2014. You can register to vote in person at the City Clerk’s Office, the County Clerk’s Office, the Secretary of State and most social service agencies. You may also register to vote by mail using the form available at www.mi.gov/vote.

How many years will the millage renewal levy be in effect?

 

Five years.

Why did City Council ask voters to consider a 1.25 mil increase for public safety in 2010?

 

There are three main factors which contributed the need for additional general fund dollars for public safety.

 

1. The loss of state funding.
2. The closure of the General Motors Stamping Plant in Wyoming.
3. The general decrease in home values which means that we will collect less property taxes this year.

 

These three issues meant that less revenue went into our general fund. Since Police and Fire account for nearly 65 percent of all spending from the general fund, the City Council asked voters to support public safety services, or face elimination and cuts to services.

 

It’s important to note that in 2010 this millage was only meant to allow the City to maintain the current level of services; it was not anticipated the millage would have allowed the City to add new services or people, or bring back services like the Gezon Station.

Why is the City Council asking residents to consider renewing this millage?

 

Many proactive Police and Fire programs have been implemented thanks to savings and efficiencies due to the new Public Safety service delivery model. These have included:

 

• The addition of three full-time firefighters
• Implementation of peak-load staffing with more firefighters on duty during periods of high call volume
• Police accreditation in 2012 at the gold-level by CALEA and re-accreditation efforts
• Offering hands-on citizens’ academies that allow residents the opportunity to better understand the workings of the City
• An increase in utilization and total number of paid-on-call staff to 30
• Cross-training and licensing 16 City employees as firefighters
• Installation of police cruiser dashboard cameras and AEDs in every police cruiser
• Expansion of forensic lab capabilities to expedite blood alcohol and drug testing
• Staging emergency response vehicles during peak call volume times at the Gezon and Burton Street fire stations

 

Renewal of the millage will ensure that we continue to perform at the current level with the current funding.

What services are included in Public Safety?

 

Police and Fire.

Why is the City spending money on road projects, parks and sidewalk snowplowing, when money is needed for Police and Fire?

 

Capital improvement projects such as road projects, along with parks and sidewalk snowplowing are funded by dedicated millages. They do not come from the general fund, unlike fire and police. In years past, voters decided to support specific activities such as parks and roads. We collect funds dedicated for these specific purposes. It is against state law to use these funds for any other purpose than what they were designated for.

 

It would take voter approval to remove funding from a dedicated millage and place it in the general fund for police and fire.

How do the new changes to personal property tax affect the funding for police and fire services?

 

The changes to personal property tax only replace funding that will be lost if the initiative does not pass. These proposed changes do not affect property taxes paid by residents.

How do I get more information?

 

More information is available at www.wyomingmi.gov, or call City Hall at 530-7272.

Wyoming City Council Approves 2015 Budget Proposal

Our Cities

downsized_0917131758b (3)The Wyoming City Council has approved the 2015 fiscal year budget, which continues to reflect the City’s dedication to sustainability in the years ahead.

 

The resolution to adopt the budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015 passed unanimously on May 19, as did resolutions to approve the 2014-2015 budget for the Wyoming Downtown Development Authority and the Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority.

 

The $108.8 million budget is 3 percent more than the current budget, which is a testament of City Manager Curtis Holt’s strategic approach to managing the City’s spending.  Additionally, after five years of declining residential, commercial and industrial property value, the City anticipates a .8 percent increase in retail, commercial, industrial and residential property value. In the last six months of 2013, the City of Wyoming saw more than $60 million in new retail, commercial, industrial and residential development – a 100 percent increase – compared to approximately $6 million in new development over the same period in 2012.

 

Budget highlights include:

  • Contract agreements for the Wyoming City Employees Union and the Administrative and Supervisory Administration, along with the deputy city manager and city clerk positions
  • Funding for the 2014 – 2022 Street and Utility Capital Improvement Program, which will provide approximately $3 million per year over the next 10 years which will allow the city to leverage state funds for qualified projects and complete street surface improvement throughout the City
  • Amendments to the City of Wyoming Fee Schedule to reflect a 3 percent increase in combined utility (water and sewer) rates
  • The 2015 budget, which takes effect July 1, features a return to fully levying the 2010 public safety millage to fund continued implementation of the City’s innovative public safety service delivery model.

 

The Wyoming City Council has approved a ballot question for the Aug. 5 election to extend the millage for an additional five years. The funding would continue the new service delivery model, which has included:

  • The addition of three full-time firefighters
  • Implementation of peak-load staffing with more firefighters on duty during periods of high call volume
  • Police accreditation in 2012 at the gold-level by CALEA and re-accreditation efforts
  • Offering hands-on citizens’ academies that allow residents the opportunity to better understand the workings of the City
  • An increase in utilization and total number of paid-on-call staff to 30
  • Cross-training and licensing 16 City employees as firefighters
  • Installation of police cruiser dashboard cameras and AEDs in every police cruiser
  • Expansion of forensic lab capabilities to expedite blood alcohol and drug testing

 

Mayor Jack Poll praised Holt’s work to balance the budget and expressed enthusiasm and appreciation for the recent investments that indicate improvement in the City’s economic situation.

 

“Curtis Holt and City employees give 110 percent to Wyoming,” Poll said. “Their dedication and creativity have allowed us to find innovative ways to keep the City performing efficiently. These efforts are paying off and Wyoming is coming out even better than we expected.

 

“I also appreciate that the businesses that operate in Wyoming have recognized our efforts to accommodate their needs and to help them take advantage of opportunities when presented. The City Council and I are proud to support this type of continued investment in Wyoming and value such participation that will continue our City’s growth and success.”

 

For further information, contact the city manager’s office at 530-7272 or visit the City website at www.wyomingmi.gov.

Farmer’s Market Thursdays are Back at Metro Health!

Community Health, Our Cities, , ,

Photos and story by Janice Limbaugh

At the Metro Health Farmer's Market, not every booth is farm produce - some are fine crafts, coffees and spices, offering shoppers a variety of local goods to choose from.
At the Metro Health Farmer’s Market, not every booth is farm produce – some are fine crafts, coffees and spices, offering shoppers a variety of local goods to choose from.
The produce displays create an organic work of art.
The produce displays create an organic work of art.
Yvonne Woodward hand weaves custom jump ropes of all sizes out of recycled material.
Colorful and creative patio boxes come in all types of varieties.
Colorful and creative patio boxes come in all types of varieties.
Late spring is the best opportunity for purchasing annual flower baskets.
Late spring is the best opportunity for purchasing annual flower baskets.

Now that the weather has finally shifted to preferable human conditions, it’s time to get back into the rhythm of summer. A welcome change for sure starting with the fresh sights at the Metro Health Farmer’s Market.  Be sure to check out the local produce, goods and services every Thursday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Metro Health Village. And if Thursdays don’t work with your schedule, Metro Health has added a second farmer’s market at Aquinas College on Mondays from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Brown Center parking lot. Now you have two chances and two locations to shop fresh and buy local!

Wyoming and Kentwood Communities Rally for Fun & Fitness Walk

Our Cities, Recreation, ,

by Cities of Wyoming and Kentwood

On Saturday, June 7, area residents are invited to gather at Kent County’s Millennium Park for a one- or two-mile trail Fun & Fitness Walk as part of the Walk in the Park campaign to help celebrate National Trails Day®.   It is one of more than 2,000 celebratory activities planned nationwide.

The Fun & Fitness Walk is hosted in conjunction with the Cities of Wyoming, Walker, and Kentwood Parks and Recreation Departments, Kent County, the West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks and MI Big Green Gym, a partnership between the Michigan Recreation and Park Association, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources designed to promote being active in parks and as part of a healthy lifestyle.

“Michigan’s beautiful parks and recreation areas provide affordable and accessible places for residents to be active and practice a healthy lifestyle,” said Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll.  “What better time to take advantage of our wonderful outdoor resources than National Trails Day!”

The national Walk in the Park event will begin at 9:00 a.m. Registration will be on-site the morning of the event. Sponsor Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will provide water and snacks. Strollers are permitted; however, pets are not allowed. Area parks and recreation departments and trail advocacy groups will be on hand to share information on local walking clubs and trails.

Since 1993, National Trails Day® has inspired millions of individuals and community groups to take part in activities that promote healthy living and provide an opportunity to experience and enjoy our nation’s cherished green space, trails, and outdoor lands. Organized by the American Hiking Society and local communities, National Trails Day® events bring together outdoor enthusiasts across the country for a variety of activities including trail maintenance, hiking, paddling, biking, horseback riding, running, and more. More than 2,000 events are planned for the 2014 day, which is the 22nd annual celebration, designed to raise awareness of America’s magnificent trail system and its countless supporters and volunteers.

A list of all Walk in the Park events can be found at www.MIBigGreenGym.org.

The MI Big Green Gym initiative is a partnership between the Michigan Recreation and Park Association, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, designed to promote our state’s endless opportunities to get active. Learn more about MI Big Green Gym at www.MIBigGreenGym.org.

American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day® is a nationally recognized trail awareness program that occurs annually on the first Saturday of June and inspires the public to discover, learn about, and celebrate trails while participating in outdoor activities, clinics, and trail stewardship projects.  National Trails Day® is a registered trademark of American Hiking Society. Learn more about National Trails Day® at www.americanhiking.org/national-trails-day.

To learn more about the City of Wyoming walk club call 530-3190, email parks_info@wyomingmi.gov

or visit www.wyomingmi.gov for local park and trail information.

Images Worth Repeating

Our Cities, WKTV Projects

photos courtesy of Whitney Moll

USS Silversides Lost Boat Ceremony Pays Tribute to Vets

A fly-by of World War II-era War Birds started the ceremony.
A fly-by of World War II-era War Birds started the ceremony.

WKTV was on hand and proud to record the Lost Boat Ceremony at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum in Muskegon on Sunday. The event was rebroadcasted on WKTV the following day. Here are a few highlights of the patriotic and memorable service.

U.S. Senator Carl Levin, D-Mich., gave a speech and laid the memorial reef.
U.S. Senator Carl Levin, D-Mich., gave a speech and laid the memorial reef.
The USS Silversides demonstrates its power.
The USS Silversides demonstrates its power.
Presentations of service flags and the posting of the colors also honored those lost in battle.
Presentations of service flags and the posting of the colors also honored those lost in battle.

Flea Market is huge success in Kentwood!

Local Entertainment, Our Cities
SONY DSC
Summer Reading is fun. Have to buy plenty of books at the Flea Market

You know it is summer time, when yard sales, garage sales and Flea Markets capture shopper’s attention. Recently, the City of Kentwood hosted the world’s greatest, 26th Annual, May Madness, indoor/outdoor, clean to the rafters, your junk is someone else’s treasure, get rich quick, spring cleaning, clean out your garage, Flea Market & Craft Sale! Sports equipment went into storage on Saturday May 18, as Kentwood Parks & Recreation Department hosted a flea market. Vendors were set up inside & out hawking wares ranging from books to jewelry as well as delicious baked goods. Shoppers had fun browsing through the tables looking for the special treasures they just had to have. Photojournalist Pat Moll had the opportunity to capture the event.

 

 

Books galore. I'll read this one.
Books galore. I’ll read this one.
Kentwood's Flea Market was a success.
Kentwood’s Flea Market was a success.
SONY DSC
All ages came to shop.
Shopping is fun!
Shopping is fun!
Jewelry anyone? You'll find it at the Flea Market
Jewelry anyone? You’ll find it at the Flea Market

More Than 1,000 Dads Bring Kentwood Elementary Children to School for Event

Area Education, Our Cities
Tray Clopton chats with his son, Elijah.
Tray Clopton chats with his son, Elijah. Photos from School News Network

by Erin Albanese, School News Network at Kent ISD

Kentwood Public Schools, MI —  Challenger Elementary first-grade student Omar Aganovic thought about how it feels to have his father, Sanel Aganovic, with him at school for breakfast. Omar reached out to grab Sanel’s hand across the table.

“Happy!” he said.

Sanel smiled at his son.

“Usually I can’t because of work,” he said. “We eat breakfast together enough at home, but this brings another element to it.”

The line stretched out the door as fathers, alongside their children, arrived for the first-ever Fathers-Bring-Your-Child-to-School-Day. The district’s 10 elementary schools hosted fathers who ate with their children, listened to local standout athletes about how male role models impacted their lives, and attended class with their child.

The response was even bigger than anticipated, with more than 1,000 fathers attending. At Challenger Elementary, the food ran out because so many fathers attended.

Donta’ Young, behavior specialist at Challenger and Endeavor elementary schools, planned the event as a way to emphasize fathers’ role in shaping children’s lives academically, socially and with athletics.

Many students he works with who have behavioral problems do not have fathers involved in their lives, he said.

Sanel Aganovic eats breakfast with his son, Omar.
Sanel Aganovic eats breakfast with his son, Omar.

The Impact A Father Can Have

A 2006 study, “Fathers Influence in the Lives of Children with Adolescent Mothers,” involved 134 children over 10 years and showed children with involved fathers did better emotionally and academically, had fewer behavior problems, and scored higher on reading tests.

Other studies show students are more likely to do well in school, have healthy self-esteem, and avoid high-risk behaviors if they have involved loving fathers, Young said.

“If you can change the behavior, you can shape the culture,” Young said.

Challenger Principal Mark Bea said the school has a lot of involved fathers, which is great. However, mothers are usually the ones dropping students off, so inviting fathers was a great way to recognize their importance.

“You, by being here today, are showing you’re an involved dad,” he told the gymnasium full of fathers.

Local Superstars

Leontae Couch sits with his son, Jayden, to start his kindergarten school day.
Leontae Couch sits with his son, Jayden, to start his kindergarten school day.

Fifteen college and professional athletes spoke for the event at the elementary schools.

At Challenger, retired NFL player Kevin Clemens and retired NBA player Reggie Jordan spoke about their journeys in athletics, influenced by role models.

Clemens, now a Kent County probations officer who works with juveniles, said many children he works with do not have fathers in their lives.

“I have 30 cases on my caseload and all I deal with is 29 moms and one dad,” he said. “I have to deal with children every day and when there are no male in their homes, the kids run rampant.”

He said his high school football coach was the first male role model in his life. The coach inspired him to think about college, and Clemens eventually got a scholarship to Grand Valley State University. Clemens went on to play arena football for several teams including the Grand Rapids Rampage. He played for the Seattle Seahawks and Jacksonville Jaguars.

“Never think your effect is not that strong because it is,” he said.

Jordan, who played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trailblazers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Washington Wizards, has two teenagers who attend East Kentwood High School.

“The involvement of a dad in a kid’s life helps mold them into what they’re going to be,” he said. “They are going to be dad’s, husbands, outstanding citizens. We need to grab them before it’s too late.”

West Michigan’s Military Order of the Purple Heart Remains Vigilant

Our Cities, Senior Living

by Alvin Lee Matkovich, Commander, M.O.P.H. Lamoreaux Chapter #91

 

Chapter #91 was chartered 06-October-1939. We are a veteran’s organization made up of combat wounded veterans, helping veterans and their families in need. General PHGeorge Washington originated the Purple Heart, first called Badge of Military Merit on 07-August-1782, for those who shed their blood in combat. It is the oldest of military decorations in present use in the world. It is a purple, heart shaped medal with the bust of George Washington and his coat-of-arms pictured on it.

 

We carry the name Lamoreaux proudly to honor three brothers (Don, Al, and Howard Lamoreaux from Sparta, Michigan) who made the ultimate sacrifice on different battle fields during WWII.

 

Our Auxiliary was chartered in 2008 and is very crucial to our accomplishing our objectives. It is made up of wife’s, daughters, mothers, and granddaughters of our men and women who were awarded the purple heart.

 

We have installed two Purple Heart National Monuments in the Grand Rapids area: one in Veterans Memorial Park and another at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. We volunteer at the Veteran’s Home: taking the veterans to ball games; plays; fishing; bingo; bowling: and we helped set up and assist at the model train room.

 

Some of our members go into classrooms to teach children American values and Patriotism. Our members come from all over Western Michigan, from Muskegon, Holland, Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and other cities and towns.

 

We continue to serve our country and Veterans and their families proudly, humbly, and faithfully.

 

The mission of the Military Order of the Purple Heart is to foster an environment of goodwill and camaraderie among combat wounded veterans, promote patriotism, support necessary legislative initiatives, and most importantly, provide service to all veterans and their families.

Honor Their Memory by Putting Veterans First

Our Cities,

by J. Marc Burgess, DAV National Headquarters

As Americans celebrate Memorial Day with barbecues or other festivities, we owe it to ourselves to also remember the reason for this national holiday: to honor our fallen heroes — all those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation and preserve our freedom.

Americans should also remember that the families of those we lost and those who fought and lived – many of whom suffer debilitating, lifelong injuries as a result — depend on our government fulfilling its social compact with our grateful nation by helping all those who serve to recover and lead productive, fulfilling lives.

Unfortunately, in recent years, that social compact has been frayed, as veterans and the survivors of the fallen have found themselves held hostage to partisan gridlock in Washington.

Over the past quarter-century, veterans’ appropriations bills have been passed on time on only three occasions. For the other 22 years, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has had to wait days, weeks and often months before knowing the amount of its funding. And it keeps getting worse. Over the past four years, veterans’ appropriations have, on average, been delayed for 116 days.

This has harsh, real-world implications for the lives of veterans and family members. The processing of disability, pension and survivor benefits has been delayed, leading to the unacceptable backlog in claims. Needed improvements in information technology, medical and prosthetic research and facilities construction and maintenance have been postponed or cancelled entirely. Even cemetery administration has been undermined.

This toxic cycle of gridlock, delay and hardship reached its nadir last fall during the government shutdown. Work stopped on more than 250,000 disability claims awaiting appeals, research projects were threatened and even burials at national cemeteries were scaled back.

On Memorial Day 2014, we should pledge never to let this happen again. Fortunately, we can turn our heartfelt beliefs into concrete action by urging Congress to pass the Putting Veterans Funding First Act. Sponsored by Reps. Jeff Miller (R-Fla.) and Mike Michaud (D-Maine), and by Sens. Mark Begich (D-Alaska) and John Boozman (R-Ark.), this bipartisan bill provides for advance appropriations for all VA functions, enabling Congress to pass VA appropriations bills 12 months before the advent of each fiscal year.

This is no radical plan. In fact, it merely expands the advance appropriations process that has been in place for VA health care since 2009. That’s why even the government shutdown did not prevent veterans from receiving the medical attention they need. There is simply no good reason to exclude any VA function from advance appropriations.

The Putting Veterans Funding First Act has passed the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees with overwhelming support. But the leadership of each chamber has yet to allow the bill to reach the floor for a vote. If there was ever a time to break this logjam and let this popular, urgently needed legislation move forward, surely it is this Memorial Day.

We urge those who share our conviction that America must restore its social compact with our veterans to take five minutes when business resumes on Tuesday and call Sens. Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow, and Rep. Justin Amash at (202) 224-3121. Tell them to contact their leadership and demand a floor vote on the Putting Veterans Funding First Act.

For veterans and survivors, the time for promises and words of gratitude has long past. It’s time for action. If we are to restore America’s commitment to those who sacrificed for our country , Congress must pass the Putting Veterans Funding First Act.

For more information visit: https://veterans.house.gov/HR813

Knights of Columbus Repair Headstones of Veterans

Non-Profits, Our Cities,

Knights of C

 

The Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus assembly 2210 is the patriotic degree of the Knights of Columbus and they are working on a project to repair Veteran’s headstones that have fallen into disrepair. If you know of a veteran’s headstone that is in disrepair contact Alvin Lee Matkovich at: almco@ix.netcom.com.

 

Wyoming Department of Public Safety–Saving Lives!

Local Faces, Our Cities,

Wyoming police officers

Wyoming Department of Public Safety Marks One Year Anniversary of AED Deployment with a “Save”

Recognizing that police officers can be the first to arrive on the scene of a sudden cardiac arrest, the City of Wyoming implemented a program in March of 2013 that put Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in every one of the Department of Public Safety’s patrol cars.  The program was part of the City’s plan to combine police and fire services under one Public Safety entity.

 

At approximately 8:45 p.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2014, the City’s program worked as intended when Police, Fire and Ambulance personnel were dispatched to a residence on the report of a 52-year old male not breathing.  Within just two minutes, Police Sergeant Corey Walendzik arrived on the scene, followed by Police Officers Dan Vlietstra and Kresten Green.  First on the scene, these officers began administering life-saving efforts using training and equipment that was previously available only to Fire and EMS personnel.  After confirming that the patient was not breathing and had no pulse, police personnel were able to use the AED to deliver a series of electric shocks to the patient’s heart followed by CPR until Fire Rescue and LIFE Ambulance could arrive on the scene to provide more advanced medical treatment.  As a result of a collaborative effort involving police, fire and EMS, the patient was breathing on his own with a good heart rate and pulse prior to being transported to the hospital.

 

“On these critical medical calls, minutes do count when it comes to someone surviving. Installing the AEDs in our patrol cars not only added much needed technology to our service capabilities; it put that same lifesaving technology closer to those who will need it the most.  We are extremely proud of the success of our police, fire and medical service members who worked together to help save this man’s life,” said Director of Public Safety, Chief James E. Carmody.

Wyoming Public Safety to Hold Fire Expo This Saturday

Our Cities, Upcoming Events

imagesby Erin Nemastil

 

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety Fire Service Division will hold a Fire Expo on Saturday, May 17, to showcase fire fighting tools, activities and opportunities. The public is encourage to attend this free event.

 

The Expo will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Wyoming Fire Station #3 at 2300 Gezon Parkway SW. The event will feature displays, demonstrations and interactive participation opportunities. Displays will include overviews of firefighters’ tools, hazardous materials education and public safety and EMS response within the City of Wyoming. Vehicle extrication demonstrations will be performed every half hour. Other demonstrations will include CPR and the use of automatic external defibrillators, or AEDs.

 

Participants will be able to take part in hands-on learning with Wyoming firefighters. These interactive activities will introduce personal firefighting turnout gear, apparatus and education in fire prevention and fire safety.

 

Children’s activities including fingerprinting service will also be provided for families by the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol, or RSVP. RSVP volunteers are community members who participate in public safety operations including performing vacation checks on homes in Wyoming and other community outreach activities.

Firefighters don’t just fight fires. They really do so much more to serve the community. –  Frank Verburg, Deputy Director of Public Safety Fire Services

 

The department will also be recruiting firefighters for their paid-on-call staff, in order to advance its goal to reach a contingent of 60 paid-on-call firefighters. The paid-on-call firefighters will support the fire stations on South Division Avenue, Burton Street, Gezon Parkway and the central station on 36th Street. To further attract and encourage response, City administrators have created an incentive system for paid-on-call staff who respond to fire calls.

 

“This is an opportunity for the public to see all that the firefighters do,” said Deputy Director of Public Safety Fire Services Frank Verburg. fire2

 

“It is also an opportunity for those who live and work in Wyoming to have a chance to meet the firefighters, and possibly to join the Wyoming Department of Public Safety as a paid-on-call firefighter. Firefighters don’t just fight fires. They really do so much more to serve the community. That includes medical and vehicle accident response, rescues and hazardous materials management, as well as public education and fire prevention. We need people who are looking for a real challenge and want to be a part of something much bigger than one person.”

 

The recruitment expo is a next step in implementing the City’s innovative public safety model. Other sustainable and efficient changes in public safety service delivery in the City of Wyoming include:

 

 · Establishing a peak-load staffing and deployment model for the Wyoming Fire Service Bureau

 

· Cross-training City of Wyoming Public Works employees as certified firefighters.

 

· Further developing in-house crime lab capabilities

 

· Outfitting all police patrol vehicles with AEDs to quickly respond to the most serious medical emergencies

 

 · An agreement with AMR to stage an ambulance at Gezon Station to provide faster medical response times

 

· Purchasing a quick response vehicle for medical and fire emergencies during peak load

 

 · Working towards building a staff of 60 paid on-call firefighters

 

Training opportunities are available for paid on-call firefighters. Applicants must pass a physical ability test and will be subject to a full physical with a drug test, as well as a criminal background and driving record check. Fire fighters are required to be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED. Wyoming firefighters will be performing blood pressure checks on-site.

 

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for local businesses. For more information, contact Lt. Chris Velzen at velzenc@wyomingmi.gov.

The World’s Greatest Sale is in Kentwood, Michigan

Our Cities, Recreation, Senior Living

Flea Market 2

Who wouldn’t want to be part of  the world’s greatest sale?

WHAT:  SPRING FLEA MARKET & CRAFT SALE!    The World’s Greatest, 26th annual, May madness, indoor/outdoor, clean to the rafters, your junk is someone’s treasure, get rich quick, spring cleaning, clean out your garage…Flea Market & Craft  Sale!

 

This indoor/outdoor flea market & craft sale is open to the  public for a day filled with shopping, eating, and bargains!  There  will be over 60 vendors selling their new and used items rain or shine. Concessions available! Over 60 Vendors! Flea Market & Crafts Sale open rain or shine! New & Used, Crafts and Rummage! Open to the General Public! Buyers & Sellers! Refreshments will be available. Proceeds to benefit the Senior Enrichment program.

WHEN:  Saturday, May 17, 2014   9:00am – 2:00pm 

WHERE:  Kentwood Activities Center/Veteran’s Memorial Park   355-48th St SE  Kentwood, MI 49548  Flea Market 3

VENDORS WANTED!   Vendor space is available on a preregistration basis only.Call (616) 656-5270 for Vendor information. Please preregister for your vendor lot before May 17.For information call the Kentwood Parks & Recreation Departmentat (616) 656-5270. For email inquiries contact:  beloncisl@ci.kentwood.mi.us www.yourkprd.org     Flea Market 1

Wyoming Partners with American Medical Response to Enhance Response Times for Medical Calls

Our Cities

Ambulancecolleen_piersonAs part of its ongoing focus to enhance public safety, the City of Wyoming is partnering with a private ambulance provider to improve response time for medical calls.

 

Starting now, American Medical Response has begun staging an ambulance at Wyoming Fire Station #3 at 2300 Gezon Parkway SW, which serves the “panhandle” section of Wyoming. Recognizing that most of the 911 calls coming from this area were medical in nature, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety made the Gezon station available to AMR as a primary posting location of an ambulance that will serve southwest Wyoming.

 

WKTV’s Citizen Journalism Department had a chance to interview Public Safety Director James Carmody, who was the brainchild of the move.

 

“I would see the ambulance and workers sitting and waiting in a snowstorm. ‘That doesn’t look like fun’ We had an empty bay down on Gezon and it would reduce response time and would be a less distance to travel. It just made sense,” he explained.

 

This is the first of several enhancements to the Gezon station that the City plans to make over the coming months. Within the next few weeks, Public Safety plans to reopen the fire apparatus bays and assign a ladder truck, along with seven reserve firefighters, to begin fire response service to the area. The station is currently being used for fire and police training and education programs and community events.

 

Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll, Department of Public Safety Director James Carmody and AMR General Manager Dick Whipple praised the move as a way to improve response times to medical emergencies in Wyoming and the surrounding areas.

 

“This partnership with AMR is an example of how creativity can positively impact the safety and well-being of our residents,” Carmody said. “As our public safety service model continues to evolve, we are excited to discover new ways to streamline services and provide a higher level of police and fire and emergency medical services while not increasing expenses.”

 

Carmody explained that, in the past, an ambulance would be “posted” in a specific geographical location based on the call demand. Based on time of day and day of week demands an ambulance will often be stationed in a nearby parking lot, ready to respond to calls in that area. Going forward, the ambulance assigned to southwest Wyoming will now stage at the Gezon Fire Station.

 

“When Director Carmody approached us about the possibility of this partnership, we were both excited and appreciative of the opportunity,” said Whipple. “This type of collaboration is beneficial as communities look for innovative ways to ensure responsive emergency services for their residents. It will also give the ambulance crews an opportunity to get out of their vehicle, stretch their legs for a while and keep the ambulance clear of snow ice or rain, and ready to go.”

 

AMR has served the West Michigan region since 1952. Its collaboration with Wyoming is the next in a series of step the City has implemented in the development of its new public safety model. Other sustainable and efficient changes Wyoming has made in public safety service delivery include:

 

• Developing in-house crime lab capabilities

 

• Outfitting all police patrol vehicles with AEDs to quickly respond to the most serious medical emergencies

 

• Establishing a peak-load staffing and deployment model for the Wyoming Fire Service Bureau, which allows it to have more team members in place when call volumes are higher

 

• Cross-training Wyoming Public Works employees as certified firefighters as the City works to build a staff of 60 paid on-call firefighters

 

For further information, call the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 530-7309, or visit the City website at www.wyomingmi.gov.

 

You can find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofWyoming, and on Twitter @WyomingCityHall.

Renovated Community Room Welcomes Wyoming Seniors

Our Cities, Senior Living

by Janice Limbaugh

 

The Wyoming Senior Center is now a State of the Art Bingo Facility.
The Wyoming Senior Center is now a State of the Art Bingo Facility.

After months of waiting, members of the Wyoming Senior Center were treated to an afternoon open house of their newly remodeled Community Room featuring new tables, chairs, lighting and a state of the art electronics system.

Dan Kotrch, president of the Wyoming Senior Fellowship Club, speaks at open house.
Dan Kotrch, president of the Wyoming Senior Fellowship Club, speaks at open house.

 

Wyoming Senior Center Director Molly Remenap recognized the accomplishment with thanks to the Wyoming Senior Fellowship Club and its president, Dan Kotrch.

 

“Since 1977 the Wyoming Senior Fellowship Club has had a long-standing relationship with the Senior Center. Thanks to their efforts and the leadership of President Dan Kotrch, they’ve donated $69,000 to the center,” Remenap says.

 

“This renovation will allow for more community-wide events to take place here, such as class reunions and wedding receptions.” Remenap was quick to assure the group that expanding the facility to the use of the community will not conflict with the Senior Center’s programs already in place.

“We believe in providing the best to our senior community,” Mayor Jack Poll told the room full of supporters. “We know this building will be cared for because it’s your own.” 
Scott and Kathy Maynard plan to become center members.
Scott and Kathy Maynard plan to become center members.

 

For long-time Wyoming residents Scott and Kathy Maynard, the Grand-reopening of the Community Room was just the incentive they needed to stop by and check the Senior Center out. “This is wonderful! It’s a good thing for the community,” says Kathy, adding, “I think we are finally going to become members!”

 

Although the couple winters in Texas, they agree the Wyoming Senior Center has a lot to offer them the rest of the time they spend here. “This is just what we need to meet new people, get involved and stay active! It offers socializing like you would find with a church community – every one always needs that,” she says.

Guests of the Wyoming Senior Center experienced gourmet appetizers, desserts and refreshments along with music from a string quartet from Calvin College.
Guests of the Wyoming Senior Center experienced gourmet appetizers, desserts and refreshments along with music from a string quartet from Calvin College.

Michigan elections rank sixth nationally

Our Cities

VotedLANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson announced today that Michigan ranks among the best states nationally for election administration and performance, according to a national nonpartisan research organization that studied 17 elections performance indicators in depth.

 

The Pew Center on the States released a report today that called Michigan a “high-performer” for the 2008, 2010 and 2012 election cycles, one of only seven states. The state increased its national rank in 2012 to sixth overall, largely due to the creation of post-election audits, a reform that Johnson called for after taking office. The audits review compliance with several pre-election and Election Day procedures in individual precincts. Johnson proposed post-election audits in 2011 as part of her Secure and Fair Elections Initiative and successfully worked to have them signed into law by Gov. Snyder.

 

According to the study, Michigan also has the third-highest voter registration rate in the nation. This high ranking is due in large part to the outstanding job Secretary of State offices and local clerks do in accurately and efficiently processing voter registration transactions.

 

“Thanks to the hard work of our state’s county, city and township election officials, Michigan again ranks among the best in the nation for election administration, confirming what I’ve long known,” Johnson said. “We have an outstanding elections system that we’re continuing to improve by making it even more secure and convenient for voters.”

 

Johnson also thanked Bureau of Elections Director Christopher Thomas and the bureau staff for their efforts that allowed Michigan to perform so well.

 

Johnson has called for online voter registration, and no-reason absentee voting with ID, which would have placed Michigan even higher in the Pew Report. Already the Secretary of State’s Office allows many registered voters to update their voter registration and driver’s license address online at www.ExpressSOS.com.

 

The Pew study calculated and averaged a state’s overall performance by measuring 17 separate indicators that make up the overall index. The indicators are absentee ballots rejected; absentee ballots unreturned; data completeness; disability- or illness-related voting problems; military and overseas ballots rejected; military and overseas ballots unreturned; online registration availability; post-election audit required; provisional ballots cast; provisional ballots rejected; registration or absentee ballot problems; registrations rejected; turnout; voter registration rate; voting information look-up tools; voting technology accuracy; and voting wait time.

 

The study and interactive data reports can be seen online at www.pewstates.org/epi.

“ABC” Turns the Beat Around

Area Education, Our Cities,

kathy_gray

ABC7What has 86 arms, 43 bows, and can have you tapping along to the beat in mere minutes? The ABC Orchestra at East Kentwood High School!

 

The ABC Orchestra is far from the elementary music group their moniker conjures up. ABC actually stands for “Anything But Classical.” This high school touring group is fully capable of performing the beautiful works of Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and Schubert but instead chooses to explore and perform alternate styles of music including fiddle, jazz, bluegrass, rock, and world music to the delight of music lovers wherever they play. Far from chamber music, the more than 20 member touring group incorporates an electric guitar, bass guitar, and a full drum kit.

Group tour takes students to Ireland.
Group tour takes students to Ireland.

 

This ambitious musical troupe is led by Eric Hudson who is the conductor of the Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestras at East Kentwood, as well as teaching at the middle school level. “It began back in 2007 at Pinewood Middle School, explains Hudson. “Just a handful of students hanging out and trying out different types of music.”

 

Now in its 7th year, ABC Orchestra is a zero-hour graded class meeting four days a week. As its popularity has grown, Hudson’s colleagues, Ingrid Dykeman and Anna Townsend have continued to offer ABC as an after-school activity at each of the Kentwood Middle Schools.

 

The EKHS class is unique in the state. “No one else has this curriculum,” states Hudson. There are other high school groups in Michigan, such as Fiddlers Restrung out of Saline, who focus on traditional Celtic and folk music, but no group that as boldly encompassed so many different types of music. ABC can break into Irish Medley, followed by Paint It Black by the Rolling Stones, and make the crowd tap along with the Theme from Shaft.

Because music is their passion, students go to class at 6:30 a.m. to be a part of this elite band.
Because music is their passion, students go to class at 6:30 a.m. to be a part of this elite band.

 

As ABC began performing at events such as Grand Rapids Festival their popularity grew. With each continuing year the group has come to adopt a theme. In 2004 the theme was rock music as the group planned a performance at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. They chose a jazz theme for their planned performance in the Lake Odessa Jazz Band Festival. Last year ABC expanded their set to focus on Celtic music for a trip to Ireland where they performed at the Christchurch Cathedral in Dublin, as well as in Galway, Limerick, and Spital. In the coming season the ABC musicians will focus their attention on Bluegrass and Country styles as they anticipate a trip to Nashville.

 

The commitment of these students is tremendous. Not only do they have to audition for a place in the touring group, hours are spent in rehearsal, as well as writing and rewriting music for each stringed instrument. Being a zero-hour class means each student must arrive prepared to rock at 6:30 a.m. Transportation to gigs and uniforms are dependent on parents. All performances are done on the students’ own time. It takes a great deal of time and energy from all involved to run this program.

 

“I would say 50% of my preparation for teaching is spent on ABC,” says Hudson.

ABC Orchestra performing in Ireland, one of the many venues the group has visited over the years.
ABC Orchestra performing in Ireland, one of the many venues the group has visited over the years.

 

In addition to the diverse repertoire of music, the ABC Orchestra is unique in that they use no sheet music or music stands when they perform. Every piece is memorized. This allows the musicians the freedom of movement to stomp, swing, and jump while playing, adding to their avant-garde style. In recent years the group has also added their vocal abilities to accent Irish ditties such as “Drunken Sailor” or using their hands to tap out rhythms on the wood of their stringed instruments in songs such as the African-based “Kaki Lambe.”

 

The ABC orchestra has had the privilege of playing two concerts with Mark Wood, a well-known rock violinist and founding member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Wood, who runs a Rock Orchestra Camp and travels throughout the country working with students of all ages through his “Electrify Your Strings” program has high praise for ABC.

ABC 6

 

“Kentwood Public Schools is truly one of the five best orchestra programs I have seen in this country,” exclaims Wood. The admiration is mutual as it is exciting for these young music students to have the ability to play and learn from musicians at the level of Wood.

 

ABC orchestra shows no signs of slowing down. They put out their first CD “Unpacked” in the fall of 2012 and last year released their second CD “Moving On.” In 2013 ABC graduated eleven seniors, most of those who had originally started in a middle school music room in 2007. The skills and diversity these students practice in their music studies has increased their ability to audition in college and professional music settings. As Hudson puts it, “Be it Latin rhythms, Celtic traditions, or driving rock beats, our kids know them inside and out. They are ready to play at an advanced level.”

 

ABC Orchestra is committed to community service and performs at Kentwood Public School events at little to no cost. The group is also available for performances at outside venues, as well as for clinics. For information contact Eric Hudson at Eric Hudson@kentwoodps.org.