The City of Kentwood will begin its the holiday season festivities this week with its annual tree lighting ceremony and parade, scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 2, at the city complex off Breton Avenue.
The family-friendly event of all-outdoor events will take place from 6-8 p.m., at and around the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The evening will include activities for all ages, including live music, carriage rides, a luminary walk, children’s crafts and photos with Santa, according to a Nov. 29 announcement from the city.
Entrance to the event and all activities are free.
“Many residents, including myself, look forward to Kentwood’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Light Parade as an opportunity to gather with family and neighbors to celebrate the season and spread peace and joy,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “Our annual event brings together the sights and sounds of the holiday season, making it a truly memorable experience for all ages.”
The parade will start at 6 p.m. and travel from the city’s Public Works Facility at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, north to the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE. Sections of Breton and Walma will be closed 5:50 p.m. to 6:25 p.m. for the parade.
Groups interested in participating in the parade are asked to complete an entry form online. The cost to participate is $15.
The tree lighting ceremony will follow at 6:30 p.m. in front of the library. After the ceremony, community members will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa, mail a letter to the North Pole, go on carriage rides, enjoy live holiday music and more.
Attendees also will have the opportunity to donate non-perishable food items to Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry. A list of suggested items is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
More information about the tree lighting ceremony and holiday light parade is available at kentwood.us/TreeLighting.
St. Cecilia Music Center will host award-winning musicians The Milk Carton Kids, with their “beautiful songs and entertaining stage banter,” on Thursday, Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m., kicking off the duo’s concert Trans-Atlantic tour through 21 U.S. cities and 5 performances in Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and England.
Despite the scope of the tour, The Milk Carton Kids are no stranger to Grand Rapids.
“The Milk Carton Kids were a big hit at St. Cecilia Music Center during their first visit here in 2019,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center’s Executive & Artistic Director, said in supplied material. “Their loyal fans and people who love folk and Americana music will appreciate Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale’s beautiful songs and entertaining stage banter.”
Tickets for The Milk Carton Kids are available at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.
The duo’s newest release, The Only Ones, released in October 2019, takes The Milk Carton Kids back to their roots and the core of what they are musically, and features acoustic performances without a backup band.
“With ‘The Only Ones,’ The Milk Carton Kids go back to their roots: acoustic guitars and ethereal harmonies delivering lyrics that detail all the emotions love evokes,” Americana UK said about the album. “Musical duos will inevitably be compared to those that come before, and while The Milk Carton Kids conjure everyone from Simon and Garfunkel to the O’Kanes, ‘The Only Ones’ prove they can confidently hold their own, alongside their influences.”
This return back to their roots was prompted by several changes in the lives of Ryan and Pattengale. From professional to personal, these changes provided a break from years of non-stop touring that, Ryan says in supplied material, has yielded “space outside of the band that gives us perspective on what the band is.”
In the beginning, a perfect blend
When singers Ryan and Pattengale first connected, it was a pivotal moment for both of them.
Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale, The Milk Carton Kids. (Courtesy of the band)
“For me, the striking thing about the first time we played together, even though it was just two acoustic guitars and two voices singing, was that it felt complete,” Ryan said in an interview with CBS This Morning, Saturday Sessions. Pattengale agreed: “Physically, the way that our voices blended in the air happened in a way where I had just never had that experience with another person.”
This powerful connection has led to three GRAMMY Award nominations for the duo: Best Folk Album in 2013 (The Ash & Clay), Best American Roots Performance in 2015 (The City of Our Lady), and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical, in 2018 (All the Things That I Did and All the Things That I Didn’t Do).
A few past achievements (among many) since Ryan and Pattengale began touring and performing include: performing on National Public Radio’s Mountain Stage, Daytrotter; touring with Old Crow Medicine Show and The Lumineers; having three unreleased tracks featured in Gus Van Sant’s film “Promised Land”, starring Matt Damon and John Krasinski; several TV and Radio performances; praise from Rolling Stone for the duo’s album All the Things That I Did and All the Things That I Didn’t Do, with writer Luke Levenson noting the bandmates’ life changes as significant influences in its sound.
St. Cecilia’s pandemic policy
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert. All audience members are required to wear a mask while in the building.
If you have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
WKTV has been informed by the City of Wyoming that the planned Wyoming Gives Back event planned for next week has been cancelled due to health concerns for public gatherings.
This follows an announcement this week that the Kent County Health Department is alarmed by the rising COVID-19 cases which have led to local hospitals operating at “extremely high capacity.”
The health department is also encouraging residents to “do their part” and get vaccinated and take other measures to slow the spread of the virus. Among the statistics which have alarmed health leaders are current test positivity rate of 22.8 percent, as of early this week, as ell as a 7-day average for new cases is 645.
“This is a crisis for all of us who live and work in Kent County,” Dr. Adam London, KCHD Director, said in supplied material. “The capacity for hospitals to provide care, which is exasperated by staffing shortages, is at a tipping point. We should all expect increased wait times for emergency, urgent, and primary care as well as delays in ambulance transfers and some surgical procedures until we control the spread of COVID-19 in the community.”
Among the recommendations issued by county health officials are:
Get vaccinated against COVID-19 and Influenza. “Vaccines are widely available, safe, and effective. According to our local hospital leaders, most of the individuals who are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 are unvaccinated,” according to the county health. “If more people get vaccinated, it will greatly help reduce the number of COVID-19 patients in our hospitals. We also strongly urge residents to get the influenza vaccine. If you have questions about the vaccines, talk to your health care provider and visit vaccinatewestmi.com to find a location for a COVID-19, booster, or influenza vaccine location.”
Wear your mask in public settings. “While masks are not perfect, they provide an additional layer of protection by reducing the spread of virus laden droplets in exhaled air. Masks are especially important for people who are not vaccinated, not fully vaccinated, may be infected and do not have symptoms, or have health conditions that make them more vulnerable to becoming sick if they are infected with COVID-19.”
Get tested. “To help mitigate the spread of the virus,” it is important to get tested if you have been around someone who has COVID-19, experiencing any symptom of COVID-19, before attending indoor gatherings with people above the age of 65 or with underlying health conditions, or if you have been around someone with COVID-19, get tested five days after exposure.
“I am thankful to everyone who has been following our recommendations since the onset of the pandemic,” London said this Thanksgiving week. “The current problems would be far worse if not for your actions. We are now asking for your consideration once again as we look to slow the spread of the virus, regain access to our hospitals, and continue to work to get this pandemic behind us.”
The lights are up on houses all over the place, and this week the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood begin sharing their Holiday spirits. (publicdomainpictures.net)
Some call it Black Friday — Friday, Nov. 26 — but for many in the community it is “dressing up the house for the holiday” day. And this year, the City of Kentwood is offering prizes to people who get their residences in the holiday mood.
The city is inviting residents to show off their decorating skills in its inaugural holiday light display contest, which will run Nov. 26 to Jan. 3, 2022, with the top vote-getters earning prizes, according to an announcement from the city.
“This is a fun way to get into the holiday spirit with neighbors and friends,” Katelyn Bush, Kentwood recreation program coordinator, said in supplied material. “It’s also a great opportunity for residents to tap into their inner Clark Griswold and show off their creative side while brightening the season for others in our community.”
(If you do not get the ‘Griswold’ reference … wait for it … wait for it …)
Residents interested in participating are asked to register online and then submit photos of their outdoor holiday light display. The city will post the photos on its social media platforms, where community members can vote for their favorite display.
The top three vote-getters will earn prizes and bragging rights for a year. The prizes include:
First place: Kentwood’s Clark Griswold Trophy — named after Chevy Chase’s character in the holiday favorite “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” movie — as well as a $40 gift certificate to any Kentwood Parks and Recreation program and department swag.
Second place: A $20 gift certificate to any Kentwood Parks and Recreation program and department swag.
Third place: A $10 gift certificate to any Kentwood Parks and Recreation program and department swag.
Kentwood residents may register for the contest at bit.ly/HolidayLightContest and submit photos of their display at eRecreation@kentwood.us or on social media using the hashtag #KentwoodLightContest between Nov. 26 and Jan. 3.
Imagine having 1,500 people at your Thanksgiving meal table; then imagining the traffic jam in your driveway. And, by the way, some of them may need a COVID vaccination.
Mel Trotter Ministries, working with medical partner Cherry Health and transportation partner The Rapid, have plans to serve 1,500-plus persons — in person — at a Thanksgiving Community Meal Thursday, Nov. 25, Thanksgiving Day, at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids.
While volunteer opportunities are filled, but public “sponsorship” donations are still being accepted to cover the cost of the meal. For more Information visit meltrotter.org/thanksgiving.
“We are so excited to be able to be together again, and to demonstrate the compassion of Jesus to anyone who is alone or hungry this Thanksgiving,” Dennis Van Kampen, President and CEO of Mel Trotter Ministries, said in supplied material. “Being in community is what it’s all about and we definitely missed that last year.”
Covid precautions and safety measures will be in affect and strictly followed according to CDC guidelines, according to an announcement from Mel Trotter Ministries. Temperature checks at the door, along with mandatory mask wearing at all times other than while eating will be enforced for all who attend the Community Meal.
Additionally, in partnership with Cherry Health, the event will also be offering a free Covid vaccine clinic that morning.
“For the last several months, our staff has held regular vaccine clinics at Mel Trotter,” Dr. Jenny Bush, director of pediatrics and COVID response coordinator at Cherry Health, said in supplied material. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect ourselves and our community from COVID-19, and we want people to feel encouraged to get vaccinated. We know a big part of that is meeting people where they’re at, making them feel comfortable, and making the process as quick and easy as possible.
“We hope that by offering an onsite COVID-19 vaccine clinic at this incredible event, we are able to remove barriers to care and increase vaccination rates for our neighbors experiencing homelessness and anyone in the Grand Rapids community who attends.”
Doors open at the Thanksgiving Community Meal at 10 a.m., and vaccine clinic runs from 10 a.m. to noon, with meals being served between 11 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. in the DeVos Place Convention Center, Ball Room.
While there is free parking available onsite, The Rapid and Mel Trotter Ministries will continue their partnership to provide free transit service to and from the community meal as they have in years past.
The free service will consist of two shuttles connecting South Division and portions of northwest and northeast Grand Rapids to DeVos Place. The service will begin around 10:00 a.m. and conclude around 1:30 p.m. (See map and schedule information below).
“One of the most important things we provide to the community is access,” Deb Prato Chief Executive Officer at The Rapid, said in supplied material. “While that access is often focused on employment, education, and critical services, partnerships like this that provide a free ride to a Thanksgiving meal are a great reminder that the value we provide goes far beyond day-to-day commuting.”
The Rapid’s regular fixed-routes and paratransit services are not in operation on Thanksgiving day, as part of its standard holiday service schedule. For more information on The Rapid, please visit ridetherapid.org.
The military and veteran “Welcome Home” celebration of Operation Handshake at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport this holiday season. (GR Ford Airport)
Active military members and veterans will receive a patriotic welcome home on Nov. 24 with the return of Operation Handshake at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, an event which includes patriotic activities and a new “Thank You Letter” effort.
In its sixth year, the daylong event will feature veterans groups lining the concourse exits of the airport to greet and thank military members and veterans returning to West Michigan, according to an announcement from the Ford Airport. Members of the Patriot Guard Riders and Blue Star Mothers will be present from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. to greet the honored travelers while waving American flags, offering words of thanks and singing patriotic songs.
“The Ford Airport is proud to welcome our troops and veterans back home,” Lisa Carr, public safety and operations director for the Ford Airport, said in supplied material. “It is important we recognize our service members for all that they do – and have done – for our country. As a huge supporter of active and retired military, I am especially proud of our participation in Operation Handshake.”
Operation Handshake is free and open to the public. Per federal requirements, masks must be worn at all times by airport guests ages 2 and older.
Families of military members and veterans traveling through Ford Airport on Nov. 24 are encouraged to participate in Operation Handshake and to provide flight information to Patriot Guard Riders, including arrival time. Information may be provided to Phil Pakiela via email at papapakiela@gmail.com or by phone at 616-916-3064.
“It is hard to put into words how much it means to see the expression on a veteran’s face as they are greeted by a flag line and rendered a salute in their honor,” Pakiela, captain of the Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan, said in supplied material. “So many of them have been forgotten – we don’t ever want that to happen again. We want our active-duty military and veterans as well as their families to know they are appreciated.”
New this year is Operation Gratitude, a “thank you” letter campaign that encourages airport tenants and guests to share their appreciation for deployed troops, veterans, wounded heroes, caregivers, and recruits. The airport is providing note cards to tenants this month, “collecting the messages of gratitude and delivering them to active military personnel,” according to the announcement.
Guests at the Airport on Nov. 24 will have the opportunity to write notes of thanks and drop them in a box located in the Amway Grand Hall.
“We invite Airport guests to take a moment to join us in honoring our military heroes during this season of gratitude,” Carr said.
For more information on the Ford Airport visit flyford.org.
Minogin Market, located in Mackinaw City, took over the former Bell’s Fishery in 2018. It now offers a selection of maple syrup and other food products.
LANSING — When Ziibimijwang Farm sells maple sugar at Minongin Market in Mackinaw City, it’s more than a business transaction – it represents Indigenous food sovereignty.
Further north, in the Upper Peninsula, partners Jerry Jondreau and Katy Bresette operate Dynamite Hill Farms in L’Anse.
“The way we phrase it is ‘getting back to our responsibilities,’” Jondreau said.
Social media and online sales has fueled both operations as part of a growing availability of Indigenous food resources nationwide.
“With colonization and boarding schools, a lot was ripped away from us,” said Joe VanAlstine, who is the chair of Ziibimijwang Inc. “For us to come back and reclaim that, people are just hungry for it, no pun intended.”
Minogin Market opened in 2018 in Mackinaw City’s former fish market, Bell’s Fishery.
VanAlstine and his colleagues considered how they might use the market to reclaim their Odawa Indian identity.
Located at the tip of Michigan’s mitten, Mackinaw City was historically the trading hub of the Great Lakes region. Now, it’s a gateway to the Upper Peninsula that has become a tourism hotspot.
“You can go and buy one of those dreamcatchers made in China or you can come to Minogin and buy a real one, made by a real Native American,” VanAlstine said.
Jondreau, the owner of Dynamite Hill Farms, said its origin relates more to his relationship with land as a tribal citizen.
“As Odjibwe people, it’s our responsibility to take care of this place and maintain a relationship,” he said. “You can’t do that if you’re never there and not participating, just like a personal relationship.”
Dynamite Hill Farm owner Jerry Jondreau uses traditional methods to harvest wild rice. (Photo courtesy Jerry Jondreau)
Dynamite Hill Farms was established in 2019 after Jondreau quit his teaching job at Michigan Technological University to continue tapping maple sugar and harvesting wild rice. He uses the term “business” loosely. The farm is a family function he runs with Bresette, their children and the occasional volunteer.
“We feel that’s the true way to sustainability – the small scale,” Jondreau said. “We do everything on a less official basis. People will ask questions and we’ll say, ‘You know what, why don’t you just come and camp out here for the weekend? Come out here and haul some sap with us and we’ll have some conversations.’”
As former teachers, education is at the center of everything he and Bresette do. Though Dynamite Hill products are available for purchase on Facebook, Jondreau prefers to make sales in person so he can explain the process behind the food they harvest.
“It’s not just about extraction and selling, it’s about healing and restoring,” Jondreau said. “Was there tobacco put down? Were there prayers being said to those trees when they were tapped? Those are the things that will create sustainability. Those are the things that will create healing of this land again.”
Jondreau’s alternative approach to business is what host Andi Murphy of “Toasted Sister Podcast,” a radio show about Native American food, calls “Indigenomics.”
Making a profit is often idolized in the current economic system, she said. “But in Native America, we’re always thinking about our community and making it a better place and situation. That’s the main difference.”
Building Indigenous food sovereignty by reclaiming the presence of Indigenous products in the Mackinac area and across the country is Ziibimijwang and Minogin Market’s mission, VanAlstine said. The farm also packs food boxes for tribal elders.
Additionally, Ziibimijwang partners with Indigenous chefs who use the farm products in their kitchens,VanAlstine said.
Crystal Wahpepah, the first Indigenous chef to appear on the Food Network show “Chopped,” is one of Ziibimijwang’s regulars. “She exclusively buys maple products from us. So we ship them all the way to California for her.”
The farm is also in partnership with Tocabe, a contemporary Native American restaurant in Denver. The restaurant is soon to launch Tocabe Express, a ready-to-cook meal delivery service that will include the ingredients and instructions to make the restaurant’s most popular dishes at home. A featured Tocabe Express meal is maple-rubbed bison ribs.
“In that rub they use our maple sugar,” VanAlstine said. “So you’ll get maple sugar from us and they’ll tell you where all the ingredients are from.”
Reclaiming Indigenous food is a way for VanAlstine to connect with his ancestors.
“I’m eating the same food that they did,” he said. “And that brings me closer to them, knowing that they tasted the same fish I tasted, from the same river and the same lakes. For me that’s the joy – having more of our people feel that way.”
Whether through a hands-on education approach or through nationwide partnerships, Dynamite Hill Farms and Minogin Market are growing the presence of Indigenous farming wisdom in the United States.
“Getting excited about these Indigenous flavors, that’s the most important part of food sovereignty,” Murphy said. “And that doesn’t happen without those entrepreneurs who are making it available.”
Kent County’s efforts to assist Afghan refugees being resettled in West Michigan gained a boost as the Kent County Board of Commissioners, at a Nov. 18 meeting, approved two grants to meet the health and nutritional needs of newly arriving Afghan refugees.
One grant is a $333,000 Refugee Resettlement Food Assistant Grant from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services which will be managed by Kent County Community Action (KCCA), according to an announcement from the county.
The second is a $180,000 Refugee Screening Grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity which will be administered by the Kent County Health Department (KCHD).
The health department will screen newly arriving refugees for contagious disease, review and document medical history, administer vaccinations, and provide referrals for primary care physicians, according to the announcement.
“Kent County is expecting more than 350 refugees from Afghanistan and the responsibility to provide health screenings and immunizations for these new residents falls on local public health,” KCHD Public Health Division Director Joann Hoganson said in supplied material. “These funds will allow us to provide screenings and other support services to the Afghan refugees and assist them in their transition to a new life in the United States.”
The KCHD will also provide health education services that include an introduction to the U.S. health care system along with information about nutritional healthy living and Medicaid health insurance coverage.
Kent County Community Action has been providing meal assistance to local Afghan refugees. (Supplied/Kent County)
The food assistant grant will assist KCCA in its temporary meal and housing assistance to refugees.
“I am glad that KCCA can help during this time of need,” KCCA Program Manager Rachel Kunnath said in supplied material. “I cannot imagine what these families have been through over the past few months, and it is my hope that these meals are a little taste of home that brings them comfort.”
Local resettlement agencies determine the needs of each family as meals are provided to those in temporary living quarters until permanent housing is established. To date, KCCA has prepared more over 1,000 meals which are packaged in boxes containing 20 culturally appropriate meals with four to five different varieties and pita bread.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport Director of Commercial Development Stephen Clark talks to WKTV about one of the reasons to be relaxed — and healthy — this holiday season when traveling through the Ford. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Yes, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting passenger levels to equal or exceed 2019 pre-pandemic levels this Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year’s holiday season.
But there is good news on several fronts — from an “all hands on deck” workforce at the airport, to COVID testing being available for travelers, to the local airport bucking a national trend to have crew issues causing flight delays or cancellations.
However, patience, as always, will need to be packed in your carry-on along with your tooth brush and credit card.
A recent forecast by Ford Airport management of 33,000 people traveling in and out, from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving to the Sunday after, may well rise and come close to the 35,000 travelers experienced in 2019. And it should be much the same return to flying norms form the Wednesday before Christmas Day Saturday possibly thorough New Year’s weekend Sunday.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening areas at the Ford are expected to be at full strength this holiday season. (WKTV.K.D. Norris)
But airport Director of Commercial Development Stephen Clark told WKTV there will be plenty of reasons to be festive and relaxed this holiday season at the Ford.
“When we look at the holiday season, and trying to celebrate that with our guests, it starts when you come into the facility, creating that sense of place that is West Michigan, so you will see the decorations out here,” Clark said. “But more importantly this year, we are still in the pandemic, so cleanliness is our number one priority.
“As a team, we are cleaning the areas more frequently. You are going to see a heavy emphasis on high-touch areas. And the facility feels different, we are moving the air through the facility more … certainly we are doing everything we can got create a good environment.”
And, Clark said, the Transportation Security Agency (TSA), and all the airports partners, are gearing up for the expected rush — TSA should have all security lines open during peak travel days, he said, and “that should ease one of the more anxious points for travelers, the security check point.”
Tips for travel, as always and due to pandemic
This holiday season is the first time the many people have traveled in a couple of years, Clark said, so, as a general reminder, the first tip for travel is arrive early and pack your checked bags and carry-on bags smartly.
The runway at the Ford International Airport. (Supplied)
“When you are packing your bags make sure you are keeping your medications, your car key and those items you will need right away he you get to your destination, or even come back home, with you,” he said. “Then when you come to the airport, make sure you get here at least two hours early — that is pretty common knowledge these days — but as we get to the holiday season, lines start getting little bit longer, folks start getting a little stressed out … That gives you plenty of time to get your bags checked, if you are checking them, and get through security.”
“Biggest thing we are asking is that people are packing their patience,” Clark added.
There are pandemic requirements to be dealt with as well, especially if you are traveling internationally — make sure you know the COVID requirements of your airlines and at your destination.
“We do have a COVID test site here at the airport that is available to the public, travelers or otherwise,” Clark said. “They can get that PCR Test, that is the gold standard that they will need … additionally when you come to the airport, we just ask that you pack a mask.”
And what about flight delays cancelations
While there has been a lot of talk in recent weeks about airlines needing to cancel flights due to scheduling and crew issues, and the Ford has not been immune to the problem. But there is a simple reason that it is not a big issue, even during busy travel periods — Grand Rapids’ airport is not a huge airport.
“One of the things we started seeing in the later part of the year were flight delays and crew issues. Fortunately, here at the Ford airport, we really haven’t had a ton of that,” Clark said. “That really speaks to the fact that we have so many non-stop destinations. As an airport, we have 30-plus non-stop destinations this holiday season … because we have so many non-stop flights were are not having as many crew issues because they are going right to that destination. … A lot of those issues (crew changes) are happening in major hubs.”
For more information on travel and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, visit grr.org.
Sheila VanZile, Grand Rapids resident and businesswoman, recently released her debut book, My Waterfall of Awakening: How Loss Can Bring You Home to the Life You Want — A Guided Journal, offering hope and guidance to other women through her own journey of self-discovery.
“My true calling is to share my story with women who could recite a similar journey in the hopes that by revealing the truth below the surface of a seemingly successful and satisfying life there is a very different picture,” VanZile explains on her website. “My hope is to deliver the message that you are never alone and it is never too late to live a life faithful to your true self.”
Sheila VanZile’s My Waterfall of Awakening: How Loss Can Bring You Home to the Life You Want — A Guided Journal. (Supplied)
Enduring a complex relationship with her distant, love-withholding mother, VanZile realized the impact of that relationship ran so deeply that it changed the course of her entire life.
“I always did what I should do,” VanZile said to WKTV. “I was always the good girl who did what she should.”
The author revealed that her life of “shoulds” began at age four. Having a gift for piano playing, VanZile embarked upon a path of music, majoring in piano performance in college. “I didn’t think about whether I liked it. Whether I liked it or not wasn’t the point. I was good at it, so I should do it.”
Partway through her college experience, VanZile switched her major to economics, becoming a product of the first generation of career women that resulted from the 1960’s original feminist movement.
“I got a job in insurance because they were accepting women in the professional capacity,” said VanZile.
VanZile has been successful in her career, eventually founding her own insurance agency in 2005. Even so, the businesswoman found herself dissatisfied, disillusioned with the workforce, and unfulfilled.
At age 60, the death of VanZile’s mother helped her realize she had been given the gift of time. VanZile “reclaimed her journey,” she states, and she and shares her powerful transformation in My Waterfall of Awakening in the hopes of helping other women realize that it is never too late to live life on your own terms.
When asked why she chose the written word to share her journey rather than public speaking, VanZile said, “My message is very personal; it’s not a big crowd thing. People are touched by being able to hear a story personally, and they can then use the journal to forge their own journey.”
One journey leads to others
VanZile’s journey of healing began with slowing down.
“I decided to let the universe open up in front of me and let it decide the path for me,” said VanZile. The result was more than she could have hoped for. “Life has filled in with all these things I wanted to do.”
A 12-day pilgrimage to Oregon led to hours of self-reflection about what VanZile wanted for her life. When she returned, opportunities began to present themselves.
“I had the opportunity to sell my agency — so I did,” VanZile said. “A sudden chance to buy a house in France came up — so I did. Then I was introduced to a book-writing coach.”
VanZile that writing My Waterfall of Awakening was “very satisfying” and she is “grateful for this opportunity.”
And what’s next …
The businesswoman and author plans to retire at the end of 2021 and continue to live life to the fullest — on her own terms. When asked what that might mean for her and what the future holds, VanZile said, “I don’t know.”
And she is okay with not knowing. “Friends have asked if I will move to France now. I tell them, ‘I don’t know.’”
When asked if she plans to continue writing, VanZile delivered the same response: “I don’t know. It feels like there’s a book on France somewhere. The wonderful fabric of the community there, that could be a book.”
Blogging, however, will remain in VanZile’s immediate future. Her blog (and book) can be found on her website and features lessons with a similar approach as those contained in her book, along with other subjects “as the muse strikes.”
VanZile is willing to allow her future to unfold at its own rate, remembering that she is not alone in her journey, and urges others to do the same on her website: “You know you are not alone. And we celebrate our stepping into the light. Together.”
This year’s Santa Claus Girls operation will look different than it did in 2018. But the desire to support local families in need has not changed. (Supplied/Santa Claus Girls)
The historic holiday non-profit and volunteer-run Santa Claus Girls program, which most recently operated out of Kentwood but has temporarily set up its toy shop in Grandville, will return this Christmas season after last year breaking a century-long run of helping families due to the pandemic.
The Santa Claus Girls program, shown in this undated photo, has been around for more than a century, but is changing these days. (Supplied/Santa Claus Girls)
After 112 years of service to the West Michigan community, losing its facility and unable to gather volunteers in numbers in 2020, Santa Claus girls was determined to get back to business in 2021, Tina Hudson, president of Santa Claus Girls, said to WKTV.
But things will be different — a new workplace, a compacted work schedule, a smaller number of kids and families supported, a different plan to get the gift package out to the community, and — maybe most importantly for the future — changes in how the group is funded.
“We are back this year but in a very different format,” Hudson said. “We are working out of West Michigan CDL for four days — Dec 9-12. (The group usually works months ahead of time to gather and put together gift packages). This will entail an extremely high intensity work time for us. We are fortunate, though, to at least have this time and space.”
West Michigan CDL, a Grandville truck driver training school with a well-known Commercial Drivers License (CDL) program, has allowed Santa Claus Girls to use their facility this year. But, Hudson has pointed out, they are a working facility and, so can only offer up a short period of time.
“Due to limited time constraints, we estimate being able to service approximately 2,500-3,000 families rather than our usual 5,000 to 6,000. So that means 5,000 kiddos rather than the 12,000 to 13,000 we usually do,” Hudson said, noting that they have already reached their registration limit. And, “again due to limited time and storage space, we are not able to accept donations of toys, clothing, etc. this year.”
The client families, this year, will be given a control number and pickup time— “We are not delivering, curbside pickup only,” she said.
The Santa Claus Girls are not all “girls”, as in this 2019 photograph. (WKTV)
The children who will be given gift packages will be the same ages Santa Claus Girls have always done: infant to age 12 of both genders. But due to the limited time they will not be wrapping gifts, so parents will have that option. The gifts will be bundled and placed in non-see-through plastic bags and given to the parents.
“The parents will not be coming into our building but snaking around the parking lot (in cars) to the pickup door,” Hudson said.
One other result of the change of practice this season is that the program will — actually wants to — deplete its stockpile of toys and clothes and other items. And they will then turn to their future work of finding a more permanent home, restocking their shelves and finding other means of financially supporting the program.
“We lost our storage space at Knoll (Industries in Kentwood), due to its sale and had to move out any remaining items we had after Christmas 2019,” Hudson said. “Meijer was kind enough to step up and send trucks for us to move things into and they are storing goods for us. We hope to deplete our inventory this year and find a permanent home, but so far no luck.”
And talking about “hoping” for the future, even their funding sources will need to change.
“We operate on a $200,000 budget, all donations from the community. With not working last year due to COVID our donations barely came in,” she said. “We are working with what is in a bank account and dearly hope to have donations return to us this year.
“Besides losing Knoll we also lost our longtime sponsor — The Grand Rapids Press. We are now a stand-alone charity and are praying the community steps up and helps us out.”
For more information about the Santa Claus Girls, visit santaclausgirls.org.
The City of Kentwood announced this week that Kentwood Police Chief Richard Roberts is retiring, effective Dec. 10, after a “distinguished law enforcement career spanning more than three decades.”
Roberts joined the Kentwood Police Department in 1987 as a police paramedic. During his more than 30 years with the City of Kentwood, Roberts has served in many different roles, including 24 years in supervisory and management positions, according to the announcement.
As chief, Roberts has led a team of nearly 95 personnel, including 70 sworn police officers, who “serve and protect the community with excellence,” focusing on reducing serious crime and increasing traffic safety.
“For 34 years, I have had the tremendous honor and privilege of serving this community,” Chief Roberts said in supplied material. “I am grateful to have helped guide and develop the dedicated team of the Kentwood Police Department and work with great people throughout the City. I am proud of the department’s accomplishments around technology and programs that enhance accountability and transparency and fulfill the department’s vision.”
Roberts was the first in the Kentwood Police Department to move through the ranks from patrol officer to police chief. In addition to his paramedic experience, he also served as a detective, field training officer, field training supervisor, road patrol supervisor, Staff Services Bureau supervisor and Detective Bureau supervisor. He also served on the crisis negotiating team.
Roberts was promoted to captain of the Patrol Division in December 2012, deputy police chief in August 2017 and then to chief in November 2019.
Prior to joining the Kentwood Police Department, he served as deputy corrections officer at the Kent County Sheriff’s Office and as a police officer with the City of Roosevelt Park.
Praise from mayor; planning for the future
“Chief Roberts has been a vital team player for our Police Department and our entire community for more than three decades,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “He has played an integral role in fulfilling the department’s mission to protect our residents and implementing new technology to better serve our community. While we are sad to see him go, we wish him the best as he moves into retirement and thank him for his dedicated service throughout the years.”
During his tenure, Roberts instituted a body camera program to enhance accountability and transparency, including the training and outfitting of all officers with the new technology. He also implemented the Data-Driven Approach to Crime and Traffic Safety program, which integrates location-based crime and traffic data to establish effective and efficient methods for deploying law enforcement and other resources. This has led to a reduction in crime, crashes and traffic violations, according to the announcement.
Roberts also prioritized the start of the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Program through the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police. This accreditation requires the voluntary adoption of professional standards and analysis to ensure department operations meet these standards. It is anticipated the department will receive accreditation in late 2022.
Mayor Kepley is recommending the appointment of Deputy Chief Bryan Litwin to the City Commission for confirmation to fill the police chief position. The City Commission will consider the appointment during its Dec. 7 meeting.
“I have the utmost confidence in the next generation of leadership within the department,” Roberts said. “We have always made internal leadership development a priority. I have no doubt the department is well-prepared to continue to serve the community with excellence and bring the organization to new heights.”
In retirement, Roberts and his wife, Maria, plan to travel and spend more time with family, according to the announcement.
Woodland Mall is all set to celebrate the holiday season and its traditions with special holiday shopping and festivities, starting this week with the return of Photos with Santa, an Angel Tree benefitting families and supporting the Salvation Army, and — of course — Black Friday deals looming.
“It’s exciting to see Woodland Mall transform again for the most exciting time of the year,” Alyson Presser, Woodland Mall marketing manager, said in supplied material. “In particular this year, we encourage our shoppers to shop early to ensure product availability and to exercise consideration to retail workers throughout the season.”
Santa, and more, ready for season
Santa will return to his seat in Macy’s court, from Nov. 17 to Dec. 24, to “listen to every child’s Christmas wish and can even read them a book,” according to an announcement from the mall. Reservations are encouraged but not required to have a photo taken with Santa. Digital photo packages are available with options to purchase prints and a family portrait.
There will be lots of photo ops with Santa and kids at Woodland Mall this season. (Supplied)
On Saturday, Nov. 20, the mall will host a welcome event for Santa with a parade lead by the Kentwood High School Dance Team. From 10 am. to noon, Santa will be escorted on a train alongside a holiday penguin, traveling juggler and magician. The parade route will start in the Von Maur wing, travel through the JCPenney wing and end at Macy’s court.
Beginning Nov. 22, “fur babies” — family pets — will again be welcome to visit with Santa for photos on Mondays through Dec. 20. Feathered and whiskered pets of all kinds are welcome — Santa has met dogs, cats, chickens and even goats over the years. All pets may join as long as they are kept on a leash or in a crate at all times.
Santa will again bring his friends for extra special photo opportunities. Shoppers are invited to join their favorite characters beginning Nov. 23 on Tuesdays through Dec. 14 from 4-7 p.m. Reservations are encouraged but not required. To learn which characters are visiting, please visit ShopWoodlandMall.com.
Celebrate the season for a good cause
Woodland Mall has partnered with the Salvation Army to give back to children in the community. Shoppers will find the Salvation Army Angel Tree in the Macy’s wing near the Apple Store starting Nov. 19 and running through Dec. 15.
Unwrapped gifts can be dropped off at the Mall Management Office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. After office hours, gifts can be dropped off with mall security.
And, of course, Black Friday
Woodland Mall will be closed on Thanksgiving Day to allow retail employees to enjoy the holiday with their families. The mall will reopen at 7 a.m. Friday, Nov. 26, so guests can enjoy an early start to the traditional shopping weekend.
Woodland Mall. (Supplied)
Woodland Mall continues to offer a contactless shopping experience through its Mall2Go: Contact-Free Pickup designated parking spaces.
Woodland Mall hours leading up to the holidays are Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. (But, hint to shoppers, to avoid the crowds, Woodland Mall recommends shopping Monday through Thursday when traffic is at a lighter pace.)
On Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the mall will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Woodland Mall will be closed on Christmas Day. On Dec. 26, the mall will be open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Visit ShopWoodlandMall.com for a full list of in-store deals and retailer information.
Woodland Mall appreciates shoppers’ cooperation and understanding as several retailers and restaurants enter the busiest time of the year short staffed.
The safety of all guests remains a top priority for PREIT. Woodland Mall asks all visitors to follow Kent County Health Department, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and CDC recommendations to keep the community safe and healthy.
St. Cecilia Music Center’s Acoustic Café Series continues Nov. 19 with Leo Kottke, a legendary guitarist and always a Grand Rapids favorite for his music and his often humorous storytelling.
Kottke has been awarded two Grammy nominations, a Doctorate in Music Performance by the Peck School of Music at the U of Wisconsin, and — we are told — a “Certificate of Significant Achievement in Not Playing the Trombone from the U. of Texas at Brownsville with Texas Southmost College.”
Kottke, who has been described by Rolling Stone Magazine as “so good that he didn’t need a band” will entertain the West Michigan audience with his amazing six and twelve-string guitar picking genius. Kottke who has more than 42 years of touring under his belt, nearly 30 albums to his name and an astonishing array of material to choose from, will entertain the audience with his instrumental genius and engaging sense of humor.
Tickets for Leo Kottke are available at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.
“Leo Kottke has a large fan base in West Michigan and it’s always a pleasure to bring him to St. Cecilia Music Center,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive &artistic director, said in supplied material. “Leo not only performs with genius guitar-picking precision on his 6-and-12-string guitars, he’s also a great storyteller recalling many humorous experiences.”
Remaining on the St. Cecilia folk music series are Milk Carton Kids on Dec. 2; Watkins Family Hour on Dec.16; May Erlewine on Feb. 17, 2022; Shawn Colvin on May 12; and Judy Collins on May 18.
Special pandemic policy
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert.
In areas with substantial and high transmission, the CDC recommends that everyone (including fully vaccinated individuals) wear a mask in public indoor settings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially the Delta variant, and to protect others. To that end, SCMC is requiring that all attendees wear a mask while in the building. They will continue to monitor the COVID environment and may change policies at any time if necessary.
If you have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
For more information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit SCMC-online.org.
There are many ways to honor American’s veterans on this year’s Veterans Day, Thursday, Nov. 11, privately with friends and family who are veterans, and publicly with ceremonies at several locations.
WKTV brings you a few of them:
City of Kentwood
While the City of Kentwood’s city offices will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day, there will be a Luminary Walk at Veterans Park on Friday, Nov. 12, from 5:30-8 p.m.
Located at 355 48th St. SE, the park will have approximately a half mile of pathway lit up with luminaries decorated by community members. This event is free and open to the public, but “the entire event is outside so please bundle up so you and your family can stay comfortable,” according to the city website.
Public invited to flag ceremony at local Michigan Veterans Home
(Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs)
Michigan Veteran Homes will hold statewide Veterans Day activities to honor its veteran members and those who served before them, including at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, located at 3000 Monroe Ave NE.
While the veterans home will host several “members only” events on Veterans Day, Thursday, Nov. 11, including a wreath laying ceremony in the memorial garden, the public is invited to a lowering of the flag ceremony led by the United Veterans Council of Kent County at 1 p.m.
‘Black Hawk Down’ author at GVSU
U.S. Army Rangers First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (Ret.) — whose battlefield experiences in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia led him to become an author (including the book on which the film “Black Hawk Down is based on) — will be the featured guest at a Veterans Day Celebration hosted by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Grand Valley State University’s Peter Secchia Military and Veterans Resource Center and GVSU’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies.
The Veterans Day Celebration will take place Thursday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m., in GVSU’s Charles W. Loosemore Auditorium, 401 West Fulton St., Suite 134 E, DeVos Center, Grand Rapids. For more information and to register, visit this gvsu.edu page. Free parking is available at the nearby Seward Ramp.
Gilmore Car Museum weekend of free admission to vets, active duty
To thank America’s veterans for their “endless service and dedication,” Gilmore Car Museum is inviting all active, inactive and U.S. military personnel to free admission to museum, car collection, and all its 90-acre historic campus in Hickory Corners, just outside of Kalamazoo. The special admission is available starting Veterans Day, Thursday, Nov. 11, and running through Sunday, Nov. 14.
Attending veterans and military personnel should be sure to take special notice of the 1941 Bantam BRC-40 Reconnaissance Car, which is currently on feature display in the museum’s Campania barn. Prior to Ford and Willys production of “General Purpose” vehicles that would become known worldwide as the “Jeep,” these early BRC-40s were first produced for the U.S. Army by American Bantam Car Company, in Butler, PA, and also under contract by Checker Car Company in Kalamazoo.
For questions or more information, visit GilmoreCarMuseum.org or call 269-671-5089.
Most county offices closed for Veterans Day
All Kent County offices and health department clinics will be closed on Thursday, November 11 in observance of Veterans Day, with two exemptions are: the Kent County Correctional Facility will remain open with regular hours; the Department of Public Works administration offices will be closed; however, all disposal facilities will remain open. For more information about and contact information for Kent County departments, visit accesskent.com.
After a swearing-in ceremony this week, the City of Kentwood has two new commissioners on the City Commission, and welcomed back re-elected Mayor Stephen Kepley, Commissioner At-Large Betsy Artz, City Clerk Dan Kasunic and City Treasurer Laurie Sheldon.
Clarkston Morgan and Jessica Ann Tyson were sworn in as first-time city commissioners at the City Commission meeting Monday, Nov. 8, following their election Nov. 2. They were joined by the reelected officials, who also took the oath of office for their respective positions.
Morgan is now Ward 1 commissioner representing the western half of Kentwood and Tyson is Ward 2 commissioner representing the eastern half of the city. Each seat is a four-year term.
“We are pleased to welcome Clarkston and Jessica Ann to the City Commission,” Mayor Kepley said in supplied material. “Both are highly engaged, longtime residents who bring excellent leadership skills, business experience and community connections that will be invaluable as the City of Kentwood continues its mission of providing high-quality services to foster a thriving community for all.”
Mayor Kepley and Commissioner Artz each were re-elected for a third four-year term. They were first elected in 2013. Kasunic and Sheldon each were re-elected for a four-year term. Kasunic has served as clerk since 2000 and Sheldon has served as treasurer since 2013.
Meet the new commissioners
Morgan, a city resident since 2007, previously served the City of Kentwood as a planning commissioner, member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and member of the Arts Commission.
Commissioner Clarkston Morgan (City of Kentwood)
As the founder and CEO of Ambassador Consultants LLC, he has established strategic relationships between organizations and corporations that have resulted in mutually beneficial increases in market share and funds to benefit the quality of life for families in the community, according to a city announcement. He has also launched the nonprofit Career Proactiv to empower K-12 and college students to start their own entrepreneurial platform.
In addition, Morgan serves as vice president of the Michigan Chapter of the US Minority Contractors Association and chief operating officer of W4 Construction Group. He also is chairman of the African American Leadership Council for the Christian Alliance For Orphans, working alongside national adoption and foster agencies to empower African American families to adopt children.
Commissioner Jessica Ann Tyson (City of Kentwood)
A two-time governor appointee, Tyson actively serves the community as a member of several boards, including the City of Kentwood Economic Development Corporation, Kentwood Community Foundation and Better Business Bureau of West Michigan, according to the city announcement. She is a past board member of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
Tyson brings operational business and management experience to her city commissioner role. A multi-business owner, she serves as president and CEO of JA PR Group, Pink Lounge: Dry Salt Therapy, The Beastro (a company offering fresh cuisine for canines) and The Candied Yam, an area restaurant featuring Southern cuisine.
Over the years, Tyson has received many prestigious awards, including being recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women of West Michigan.
After reviewing 14 applications for its Superintendent of Schools position, the Godfrey-Lee Public Schools Board of Education is moving forward this week with its selection process by scheduling interviews with three West Michigan educators.
The interviews will be held Tuesday, Nov. 9, and Wednesday, Nov. 10, with the interviews open to the public and the public “encouraged to attend.” Interviews will be held at the Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center, 961 Joosten St. SW, Wyoming.
The interview schedule for Nov. 9 will have Dr. Michael Burde, current Deputy Superintendent at Kenowa Hills Public Schools, scheduled for 6:45 p.m.; and Brevet Bartels, current Middle School Principal at West Ottawa Public Schools, scheduled for 8 p.m.
On Nov. 10, at 6:45 p.m., Ana Aleman-Putman, current Principal at Grandville East Elementary School, is scheduled to be interviewed.
“We were pleased with the applicant pool and interest demonstrated in the Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, especially with the large number of superintendents retiring in Michigan over the last two years and all the difficulty facing school districts during the pandemic,” Board President Eric Mockerman said in supplied material. “We believe these quality candidates may meet our needs and expectations.
“We look forward to finding out more about the candidates’ leadership abilities and what each candidate has to offer our students, staff, and community. The Board continues to appreciate the input from the public and encourages people to attend the interviews.”
According to a statement from the district, 19 educators responded to the posting with preliminary applications for the position. Five candidates eventually withdrew or did not complete the application fully. Applicants consisted of current superintendents, central office administrators, principals, intermediate school district employees, and a teacher. The position attracted interest from California, Illinois, Michigan, and Canada.
The superintendent search became necessary as Kevin Polston accepted the position of Kentwood Public Schools superintendent after serving the district for four years. Interim Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer has served the Godfrey-Lee Schools for the last several months. The process has been facilitated by the Michigan Leadership Institute.
“It is our hope to have a new superintendent in place by January 3 (2022), realizing we may have to be somewhat flexible regarding that date,” Mockerman said.
A district description made as part of the initial search process states that total enrollment is about 1,761 students with Hispanic/Latino students at about 1,398 of that total. Staff includes 123 instructional staff, 61 support staff and 13 administrators. Its most recent budget expenditures were $27,605,217.
Also, district voters approved a Godfrey-Lee Public Schools bond request in 2020 to fund a wide-ranging building, reconstruction and technology effort. The project went out to bid in October with construction slated to begin in late winter/early spring of 2022. The current construction/renovation timeline calls for all projects to be completed by early 2024.
U.S. Army Rangers First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (Ret.), whose battlefield experiences in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia led him to become an author, is also an advocate for “teaching the next generation of leaders through his experience with the atrocities of war.”
In that and many other ways, Eversmann is the perfect person to be the featured guest at a Veterans Day Celebration hosted by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Grand Valley State University’s Peter Secchia Military and Veterans Resource Center and GVSU’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies — a center named for Col. Ralph W. Hauenstein.
Hauenstein — a journalist, war hero, entrepreneur, philanthropist and so much more — was also a strong advocate for educating leaders on the impact and aftereffects of military conflict.
The Veterans Day Celebration, with Eversmann speaking, will take place Thursday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m., in GVSU’s Charles W. Loosemore Auditorium, 401 West Fulton St., Suite 134 E, DeVos Center, Grand Rapids. For more information and to register, visit this gvsu.edu page. Free parking is available at the nearby Seward Ramp.
U.S. Army Rangers First Sgt. Matt Eversmann (Ret.), now an author and speaker. (Supplied)
“In October of 1993, First Sergeant Matt Eversmann led a group of Army Rangers in a UN peacekeeping operation in Somalia,” it states in event promotional material. “Having been trapped, outnumbered, and marked for death, Eversmann’s survival and heroism earned him a Bronze Star Medal with valor device. He’s since been immortalized in the film Black Hawk Down.
“Upon returning from Somalia, Eversmann committed to teaching the next generation of leaders through his experience with the atrocities of war – not unlike our namesake, Colonel Ralph W. Hauenstein. His story highlights the importance of leadership, followership, and responsibility in our age of tribalism.”
While the Veterans Day Celebration will be a live event, the Hauenstein Center continues to offer a digital alternative for all of their events “as we consider the health and safety of our members, students, and the community.” The program is available virtually by visiting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87222394732 or call 929-205-6099 to gain access to the webinar ID: 872 2239 4732 to view the live broadcast.
In addition to members of the Hauenstein Center, all community members who are veterans or military-connected are invited to an hors d’oeuvres and drinks event at 5:30 p.m.
Eversmann — soldier and author
Eversmann is the co-author of two military-related books, The Battle of Mogadishu and Walk in My Combat Boots, and he knows what he writes about. But he is also a strong advocate for veterans rights and post-military employment and other services.
In Eversmann’s supplied biography, it states that: On October 3, 1993, Matt was placed in charge of a group of Army Rangers to lead a daytime raid against an eager enemy militia. His inspiring story of survival was immortalized in the epic film, Black Hawk Down, which recounts the harrowing experience. For his actions on the battlefield he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with valor device.
During his remaining time in uniform, he worked at the Army War College, taught at The Johns Hopkins University and was finally deployed to Iraq where he lived with the Iraqi Army for 15 months during The Surge. He remained on active duty until May of 2008, when he retired after 20 years of service.
His frustration with the typical hiring process for veterans fueled his desire to help others avoid the “veterans predicament,” where servicemen and women are overlooked because of a broken hiring system. Since his retirement from active duty, he has worked in several industries in mid-level to senior-level positions. He was an operations officer in healthcare, an executive director in a non-profit and a VP of leadership development for a data management company.
Action from 2020’s City of Kentwood Freeze Fest disc golf tournament, and pantry food drive — the weather is expected to be better this year, but … (City of Kentwood)
Rain or shine, cool or downright wintery, the City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc will again partner to offer the annual Fall Fling, a disc golf tournament and food drive set for Saturday, Nov. 13.
Community disc golfers of all skill levels are invited to bring a partner for a best-shot doubles tournament at Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Drive SE. Each participant will receive a player package at check-in with opportunities for extra prizes during the event.
On-site registration will begin at 9 a.m, but pre-registration is encouraged online at kentwood.us/FallFlingDiscGolf. The cost is $40 per team plus one canned food donation for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
A disc golf player in action from the 2019 Fall Fling event. (City of Kentwood)
“Our Fall Fling has become a popular event for disc golfers to continue playing during the fall season and join together to support a good cause,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “Our disc golf tournaments with Great Lakes Disc have helped restock Kentwood’s Little Free pantry with dozens of canned goods again and again. We are very grateful to the local disc golf community for its continued generosity and participation.”
Players will meet at 9:45 a.m. to begin the first round of the tournament.
Patty Matters food truck will be on-site with a variety of gourmet burgers, fries and dessert and soda options available for purchase.
“It’s always great to be involved with the community,” Shea Abbgy, owner of Great Lakes Disc, said in supplied material. “Old Farm Park has served as a meeting place for friends and family for many years. This event is a great way for us that have some to give to give back to those in need.”
The Kentwood Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a community service project in honor of Martin Luther King Jr, according to supplied material. The small food pantry is open to all community members year-round and is designed to fill an immediate and local need. It offers non-perishable food and personal care items. Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry. No application is required and no questions are asked.
The demand for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry has steadily increased since its opening at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE — and even more so during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To help meet the growing need, the City of Kentwood launched another Little Free Pantry this year at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
More information about the pantry, including hours and a suggested list of donations, is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
The City of Kentwood, in a city-wide vote, returned incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley to the city’s “strong mayor” leadership position in voting Nov. 2 as he defeated challenger and current Ward 1 city commissioner Emily Bridson.
With 100 percent of City of Kentwood precincts counted, Kepley defeated Bridson, 4,321 to 2,992, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. The vote total of 7,366 was 18.7 percent of the 39,460 registered voters in the city.
“Thank you to all the Kentwood residents and friends who came together to vote for unity in our community with experienced servant leadership. I am honored and humbled by your support,” Mayor Kepley said in a statement to WKTV. “Our work continues as we unify our incredibly diverse community so that all residents know they belong. I look forward to serving with the new city commission to continue to ensure a high quality of service is provided for all of our residents and business community.”
City of Kentwood mayoral candidate Emily Bridson, left, talks to a supporter at an election night event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Bridson, said she wishes the mayor the best and “hope he continues to move our city in a positive direction,” she said in a statement to WKTV.
“It has been an honor to serve as one of Kentwood City Commissioners and run for Mayor,” Bridson said. “Thank you to the residents that took the time to open their doors and share their vision for our city with me. Although my team and I hoped for a different outcome, we are proud of the work we have done and the goals for Kentwood that we have put forward.”
All City of Kentwood seats are for 4-year terms. The mayor, along with returning and new commissioners, will be sworn in on Monday, Nov. 8, at the regular City Commission meeting.
The City of Kentwood will have two new faces on the City Commission after voting Nov. 2, as Clarkston Morgan won the Ward 1 seat and Jessica Ann Tyson won the Ward 2 seat. But incumbent At-Large commissioner Betsy Artz was returned to the commission in city-wide voting — gaining the most voter support of any candidate running opposed for city positions.
All City of Kentwood seats are for 4-year terms. The returning and new commissioners will be sworn in on Monday, Nov. 8, at the regular City Commission meeting.
With 100 percent of City of Kentwood precincts counted, Artz defeated Leonica Riley Erwin, 4,505 to 2,511, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. Artz was the top voter-getter in the entire city in contested elections, as Mayor Stephen Kepley gained 4,321 votes as he was re-elected to the position.
The city-wide vote total of 7,366 was 18.7 percent of the 39,460 registered voters in the city.
Newly elected City of Kentwood City Commissioner Clarkston Morgan, center, who won the Ward 1 election Nov. 2, talks to supporters at an election-night event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
With 100 percent of their respective ward precincts counted, Morgan defeated Meochia Nochi Thompson in Ward 1, 1,989 to 1,365, in a seat currently held by commissioner Emily Bridson. And Tyson defeated Dan VanderMolen in Ward 2, 2,120 to 1,360, in a seat currently held by commissioner Tom McKelvey.
Running uncontested in City of Kentwood elections were incumbent Treasurer Laurie Sheldon, and incumbent City Clerk Dan Kasunic. Sheldon gained 6,148 votes and Kasunic gained 6,177 in citywide voting.
At-Large Commissioner
Commissioner Artz thanked the Kentwood voters in a statement to WKTV, “I appreciate your support throughout this campaign, and at the polls.
“Our City now has a Commission that will work together to get things done,” she said. “It’s time to continue our work on improving and maintaining our Parks and Trails, providing the best in Public Safety to our community, and budgeting for the future. I am thrilled to be able to serve the City of Kentwood for another four years.”
Riley Erwin, in a statement to WKTV, said “The Kentwood voters have spoken. Congratulations to Betsy Artz and all of those elected last night.
“My campaign had two goals,” she continued. “The first was to increase voter turnout. The second was to increase awareness about issues important to residents that don’t feel empowered. Those goals were accomplished. I look forward to working with our city commissioners and other Kentwood leaders to ensure every resident can reach their full potential. I encourage my supporters to stay involved and continue to communicate their desires for affordable housing, supports for small businesses, and creating a more inclusive community. I would love to see more of you run for office or volunteer on a campaign committee. Participate in community forums and surveys. Make your voice heard.
“Last, I would like to thank my family for all of the love and support they have given me. I couldn’t have made it to the ballot without their encouragement and willingness to make sacrifices with me.”
Ward 1 Commissioner
Morgan addressed all “Kentwood families, business and community leaders,” in a statement to WKTV. “Thank you! I am more than honored to receive your vote of confidence as your City Servant Leader.
“I stand here on the shoulders of great past and present city leaders, but even more, YOU, our Kentwood community,” he said. “It’s our families, businesses, households of faith and community organizations that make our city great. I look forward to seeing Kentwood reach it’s greatest potential by serving WITH our community to provide all residents a better quality of life. God bless.”
Thompson, in a statement to WKTV, said “I am so blessed to have an opportunity to run this race for Commissioner. I thank God for the journey; all the wonderful neighbors I connected with.
“This became more than Community business, it became Kingdom business for me. I was able to teach, preach and encourage along the way. I even had the opportunity to lead someone to salvation. For me, it gets no better than that. I experienced people actually rejoicing because for the first time in a long time, they felt they mattered and were being seen and heard.
“I hope we continue striving toward a more connected Kentwood, where our neighborhood feels more like family and everyone is thriving, healthy and safe! Thank you Kentwood residents for even considering me to represent you. The journey was well worth it.”
Ward 2 Commissioner
Tyson, in a statement t o WKTV, said “The residents of Kentwood have spoken. I am honored and humbled that they took the time to vote for me.
“I look forward to representing Kentwood residents in Ward 2 for the next four years. To others who supported our campaign, I am thankful that you understand how passionate I am about my community. Your contributions proved to be invaluable. I am excited to spend more time listening to and helping our residents and city remain united and strong.”
VanderMolen, in a statement to WKTV, said “I want to express a heartfelt thanks to my family, friends, and supporters for helping make this campaign a reality. It’s truly amazing what people can accomplish when they come together. I also want to congratulate Jessica Ann Tyson on her impressive victory tonight.
“Like I’ve said before, we need to stop looking at politics as a zero sum game and instead realize that while we might have different ideas or priorities, we can all still work towards the same common good. I look forward to partnering with Jessica, and the rest of the city commission, to support the residents of Kentwood in any way I can going forward.”
Voters in the Kelloggsville Public Schools district approved a $11.3 million bond proposal Nov. 2 which will allow the district to build a S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) building at the high school as well as other building projects.
With 100 percent of school district precincts counted, in both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, the bond measure was passed 634-524, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. The vote total of 1,256 was 13.4 percent of the 9,366 registered voters in the district.
The Kelloggsville Christian Reformed Church on 52nd Street was one of the polling places Nov. 2 as voters passed a Kelloggsville Public School bond measure. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
“On behalf of the Kelloggsville Board of Education, staff and students, we want to thank our community for passing the bond,” Eric Alcorn, Kelloggsville Public Schools director of human resources,” said to WKTV. “Once completed, both areas will provide space and opportunity for our students to explore their interests and to enhance learning. We cannot thank our community enough for the support.”
The goal of the funding is to “provide opportunities for S.T.E.M., robotics, and business classes,” according to a statement on the district website. The additions “would expand opportunities for our students to explore technology through an updated media center, S.T.E.M. building, and (to) participate in our robotics program.”
Passage of the bond measure would not increase residential take above the current tax rate, also according to district supplied material, “it would simply continue with the existing debt levy.”
The funds from the bond measure will allow for the construction and addition of a S.T.E.M. building at the high school complex, a new media center at Southeast elementary, continue efforts to “provide and update safe and secure entrances” throughout the district, and well as technology upgrades to “enhance instruction.”
In addition to Kelloggsville High School, the district includes Kelloggsville Middle School, Southeast Kelloggsville Elementary, Central Kelloggsville Elementary, West Kelloggsville Elementary, Kelloggsville Virtual School and the Kelloggsville Early Childhood Learning Center.
When it comes to getting young students engaged with robotics as part of their STEM technology education — including Kentwood Public Schools Red Storm Robotics program — it can’t wait for high school.
So Kentwood Public School’s middle school robotics program will send its teams, five of them, against others schools when it hosts the FIRST Tech Challenge Kentwood qualifier, hosted by Red Storm Robotics, on Saturday, Nov. 6, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The challenge will take place at the East Kentwood Freshman Campus, 6170 Valley Lane Dr. SE, and the public is invited to the free event. (There was no in-person challenge in 2020 due to the pandemic. There was a virtual challenge.)
“I’ve been impressed with the FIRST robotics programs,” Wendy Ljungren, Chief Operating Officer for Anzen Unmanned and one of the adult leader of Red Storm Robotics, said to WKTV. “The students that go through FIRST have the STEM and teamwork skills needed for our country to continue to advance.”
The FIRST Tech Challenge is a national program of FIRST Inspires where “students learn to think like engineers,” according to program material. Teams design, build, and code robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. Robots are built from a reusable platform, powered by Android technology, and can be coded using a variety of levels of Java-based programming.
This year’s tech challenge, Freight Frenzy, is presented by Raytheon Technologies and will have students race against time to transport “essential goods and explore the future of transportation,” according to supplied material.
The City of Kentwood and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) will provide a no-cost COVID-19 vaccine clinic Thursday, Nov. 4, at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
The clinic will offer COVID-19 vaccines, including booster shots, from 2-5 p.m., in the library’s Community Room.
The clinic will be open to all community members and no appointment will be necessary.
The Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be available for first, second and third doses, as well as boosters. Vaccine and booster eligibility is determined by the current CDC guidelines.
For information about COVID-19, community members may visit michigan.gov/coronavirus or call the COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136 (press 1). The hotline is available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
With Halloween now past, many see the holiday season upon us, and local vendors and crafters are gearing up to help holiday shoppers with their early shopping needs.
After widespread and disappointing cancellations in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, West Michigan crafters and vendors are excited to announce that they are bringing back their holiday craft shows this fall. And the month of November is filled with must-shop events that not only deliver handcrafted items, tasty treats, and unique gift ideas for local communities, but provide funds and support for many area school programs.
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters (BCFAB) are especially thankful to be able to host their annual craft show on Nov. 13 at Byron Center High School, as it is the largest fundraiser for their school’s fine arts programs. (For a extensive list of local craft and vendor fairs, see bottom of story.)
“All funds raised will go directly to support our students in the school district,” Kim Kohlhoff, president of Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters, said to WKTV.
All Byron Center public school fine arts programs, grades K-12, are impacted by the success of this fundraiser, Kohlhoff said, and the craft show fundraiser supplements the general budget given to each school to fund the main requirements of the fine arts programs.
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School supports the schools fine arts programs including the jazz band. (Supplied)
“Funds raised through the annual craft show help support guest artists who come in from all over the nation to teach and perform with our students, as well as help with financial support for those students who take private lessons and attend fine arts camps,” Kohlhoff said.
The ability to provide financial support to students and give them the opportunity to perform with experienced musicians are only a small part in maintaining the Byron Center Fine Arts programs.
Life skills are also a central theme in the Byron Center Fine Arts objective — “Students learn to become a better person and grow as an individual,” said Kohlhoff.
Handcrafted items are always holiday gift worthy, as these from the Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School. (Supplied, from previous year)
This year’s craft show boasts over 200 vendors and something new — food trucks. Instead of the usual concessions, several food trucks will offer a variety of food for shoppers. Stationed outside next to a protected sidewalk, food truck vendors will fill food orders that shoppers can then take into the school cafeteria to eat if desired.
“We have great community support,” Kohlhoff said of the craft show. “Vendor places are highly sought after and we have several veteran (returning) vendors who come every year, often calling the day after the show has ended to apply for a spot in the show for the following year.”
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters Craft Show will be held on Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame SW, and offers free parking. Admission fee is $3 at the door, with children 12 and under admitted for free.
Additional November craft and vendor events include:
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School supports the schools fine arts programs including the jazz band. (Supplied)
Mineman 1st Class Jacob Klok, from Kentwood, is shown onboard the USS Tulsa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Devin M. Langer)
In this photo supplied by the U.S. Navy Office of Community Outreach, Mineman 1st Class Jacob Klok, a Kelloggsville High School graduate from Kentwood, works aboard the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Tulsa (LCS 16). Minemen (MN) serve abroad ships which detect and neutralize mines, according the U.S. Navy website. Minemen also assemble and test underwater explosive devices.
The Tulsa, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to “enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” according to supplied material.
(Do you have a photo of a Kentwood or Wyoming area native serving in the military? WKTV journal would love to get the photo and a brief description. Send it to ken@WKTV.org.)
Ashley Greenway — with husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody — is a wife and mother from Holland who has tested positive for Huntington’s Disease and is an advocate for the cause though her work with the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)
When it comes to Huntington’s disease, a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, some people simply do not want to know if they have the defective gene.
According to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA), there are currently approximately 41,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease. The symptoms of HD are sometimes described as having ALS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s — simultaneously. And it has no cure.
For Ashley Greenway, a wife and mother from Holland, Mich., who has tested positive for Huntington’s disease (HD) — leading to the knowledge that it may well impact her physical and mental abilities during her prime years and that her two children are at risk — testing was the right thing to do.
In her case, knowledge was and is power: the power to speak out; the power to advocate; the power to help others now and — maybe — her children in the future.
“Someday, my kids may need to take advantage of the resources HDSA has to offer and I wanted to make sure that I did my part,” Greenway said recently to WKTV. “It’s the same feeling when I participate in medical studies for HDSA. Last week I was in Wisconsin and had a lumbar puncture done so HDSA could have spinal fluid to assist in their efforts to better understand the disease and find a cure.
“A cure may not be available in my lifetime, but perhaps my kids could receive it. It’s very rewarding just thinking that I play a small part in helping understand and cure this disease.”
Finding out, finding ways to help
After first finding out she was at risk in 2006, then researching and agreeing to be tested, she tested positive in 2012. She then also faced inward soul-searching and outward reflection of her own family.
Ashley Greenway, with husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody. (HDSA)
“At the time of diagnosis I was working outside the home and a mother already,” Greenway said. “I do believe that if I had known my prognosis prior to having kids, it would have impacted my decision on starting a family. The first thing my parent with HD said to me when I told them I was positive was ‘I’m sorry’. … I can’t imagine the guilt I’ll feel if I find out I passed this on to my kids.”
But, she points out, now there are methods available for couples at risk of HD to have kids with no HD risk.
While she declined to talk much about her HD-positive parent — who is nearing 60 year old but with no symptoms — Greenway did say was the only one in her family, out of 20 at risk members (first cousins, their children, siblings, and nephews), that has been tested voluntarily.
“No one else is open about it or wants to know,” she said.
“I used to think of that day (when she learned the test results) as the day I was given my expiration date, but now I see it as the day I became a better person,” Greenway said in supplied material. “Surprisingly, I didn’t cry. I was too in shock to process. I was trying to figure out what this meant and how I felt. I have three siblings, two nephews, and my own two children that are at risk of inheriting this horrific disease and I’m the only one who’s been tested.”
And how did she respond to knowing?
In 2013, Greenway started to get more involved in the HD community, including involvement with the Predict HD medical study out of Rochester, New York. In 2014, Ashley was involved with the documentary film Alive and Well, the film follows seven people coming to terms with the reality of living with HD.
She went back to school, graduating in 2015 from Baker College of Muskegon with an associates degree in business. In 2019, she trained for the Chicago Marathon with Team Run for HD, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic. Recently she took part in the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) #LetsTalkAboutHD Stories.
Ashley Greenway’s daughter Bailey, shown with a quilt inspired by Ashley’s work with the West Michigan Team Hope run/walk, a fundraising event for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)
She has also have become heavily involved with the annual HDSA’s West Michigan Team Hope Walk/5K Run — the West Michigan portion of HDSA’s largest national grassroots fundraising event, which takes place in over 100 cities across the U.S. and has raised more than $20 million for Huntington’s disease since its inception in 2007.
She has gained support from her family in her work as well — husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody — both with her fundraising and with her advocacy for the cause. To honor all that support, she even has made a quilt out of all her family’s and friend’s Team Hope shirts from previous years and donated it to HDSA as a silent auction raffle item.
She is now lead coordinator for the local event, and has seen the event though a rough time in this time of COVID.
“During 2020, HDSA had to cancel all of their in-person events,” Greenway said. “These events generate a lot of funds for social worker’s salaries, grants to scientists for trials, or money to families affected by HD for medical bills. Whatever the use of the funds, they were understandably lacking during the pandemic. … It was important to me that our group still meet our fundraising goal for the year.”
And, Greenway says, she leans on her HD-positive parent as she moves into the future.
“My HD positive parent is still here inspiring me to stay strong and encouraging me to get more involved in HDSA, without symptoms,” she said in supplied material. “My involvement in HDSA provides me with a sense of purpose I’ve never felt before. When HD takes me out of this world, I’ll be leaving it a better place because of how I’ve helped this HD Community.”
Huntington’s Disease Society of America
HDSA was founded in 1967 by Marjorie Guthrie, the wife of legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie. Woody died from HD complications when he was only 55 years old, but the Guthrie family legacy lives on at HDSA.
A sign at a West Michigan Team Hope run/walk, a fundraising event for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)
The DNA error that causes HD is found in a gene called “huntingtin”. This gene was discovered in 1993. Everyone has the “huntingtin” gene, but only those that inherit the mistake, known as the HD mutation, will develop HD and risk passing it on to their children.
HDSA, according to supplied material, is the “premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease. From community services and education to advocacy and research, HDSA is the world’s leader in providing help for today, hope for tomorrow for people with Huntington’s disease and their families.”
One of its current efforts involved changes to federal rules which it comes to Medicare policy through advocacy for the HD Parity Act (HR 2050/S 868) in 2021.
“Without passage of the HD Parity Act, patients with Huntington’s disease will continue to suffer the mandated 2-year waiting period for Medicare benefits after qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance,” according to an HDSA statement. “Individuals with HD have a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disorder. During those two years, patients continue to decline, and are falling through our social safety net by being denied access to Medicare when they need it most.”
The City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat community event invited trick-or-treaters to don their costumes and come to the city’s Department of Public Works building Saturday, Oct. 23, where there were long lines of families and lots of kids in search of candy.
The free event went on for hours with hundreds of families waiting to take a stroll by city police, fire and public works vehicles, as well the of community groups — all with their vehicle’s trunks decorated and stationed inside the building handing out candy and other items.
WKTV was there, to capture some of the spooky happenings and cute costumes, and we asked a few of the trick-or-treaters “What’s their favorite candy?”
In addition to collecting candy, participants had the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk. Children were encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and face coverings — and the kids did not disappoint, nor did many of their parents.
The City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department offered plenty of fun — and a few scares — for the community kids at the city’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
The City of Kentwood offered dress-up opportunity for all ages at the city’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
The City of Kentwood offered opportunity for dress-up for adults too at the city’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Kentwood Public Schools’ robotics program had a display at the City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
If you know Rodney Crowell, who will be coming to St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce Auditorium Nov. 12, you know how great a singer/songwriter he is. If you don’t, you have undoubtedly heard people that you do recognize sing his songs.
Crowell has won numerous awards, including two GRAMMYs and six Americana Music Association Awards as well as their Lifetime Achievement for Songwriter award. This last accolade resonates deeply with a man who has stacked up 15 number one hits including six of his own, and dozens of other chart-topping hits for an impressively diverse array of artists including Emmylou Harris, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Keith Urban, Bob Seger, Etta James, and the Grateful Dead.
Some of Crowell’s written classics include “Bull Rider,” performed by Johnny Cash in 1979, and “She’s Crazy for Leavin’,” co-written with Guy Clark and performed by Guy Clark in 1981. More recently, Tim McGraw performed “Please Remember Me,” written by Crowell and Will Jennings.
Often described as Nashville royalty, Crowell will be of the St. Cecilia’s Acoustic Café Series with a live performance beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.
Crowell does not dwell in the past, however, and he has an impressive list of his own recordings.
With more than 40 years of American roots music under his belt, Crowell has 18 albums to his name, with his most recent album, Rodney Crowell: Triage, released in June of this year.
Rodney Crowell in concert. (Supplied)
“This new collection of songs was written during the great political, climate and economic upheaval that has marked recent years,” it states on Crowell’s website in reference to the new album. “The noise of that chaos encouraged the songwriter to go inside for solace and answers. The result is this series of songs that contend with these themes but approach them from a place of healing love and solution. That they are being released while we find ourselves walking through a global pandemic, is a gift of perfect timing.”
On song is particularly personal to Crowell, and yet “expansive enough for everyone to relate” — “Transient Global Amnesia Blues” — as he explains on his website.
“One morning after a long walk, I asked my wife, Claudia, the same question nine times before she loaded me into the car and sped off to the hospital. The next thing I remember is being shoved into an MRI machine. Transient Global Amnesia, a benign form of amnesia that in ninety-eight percent of cases never returns, was the diagnosis — an overnight stay in the hospital the prescribed treatment.
“The next morning my daughter texted a photograph of a sunflower growing on a piece of driftwood on the Thames River. I had most of the song written before leaving the hospital at noon. Four days later I had a finished recording.”
After the Rodney Crowell concert St. Cecilia Music Center’s Acoustic Café Series continues through the fall, winter and into spring 2022. This fall, Leo Kottke is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 19; the Milk Carton Kids on Thursday, Dec. 2; and Watkins Family Hour on Thursday, Dec. 16.
“It’s so exciting to have traveling artists and live audiences back in the building,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center executive & artistic director, said in supplied material.
Special pandemic policy
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert.
In areas with substantial and high transmission, the CDC recommends that everyone (including fully vaccinated individuals) wear a mask in public indoor settings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially the Delta variant, and to protect others. To that end, SCMC is requiring that all attendees wear a mask while in the building. They will continue to monitor the COVID environment and may change policies at any time if necessary.
If you have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
For more information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit SCMC-online.org.
Police and other Michigan government employees could be sued and held liable if they hurt or kill someone while on the job, under proposed legislation working through the state legislature.
Current, qualified immunity shields government workers from lawsuits for gross misconduct or negligence while on duty.
A police reform package pushed by the state House of Representatives’ Democrats would reduce the blanket protections. They say it would allow police departments and other government agencies to more easily weed out bad apples.
“If you go over, above and beyond, outside the scope of your duties that are spelled out, there has to be some accountability,” said co-sponsor Rep. Tyrone Carter, D-Detroit, a 24-year veteran of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. “And the general public is tired of paying for lawsuits for officers for their outrageous, egregious conduct.”
Locally, Kent County’s top law enforcement official is quick to define that qualified immunity is much more than simply a policing issue, and says changes are unnecessary.
Qualified immunity “is a very complex term, but simplistically put, it is something that protects an individual from the government, an individual who is a representative of the government — it may be a police officer but it may be the sewer guy or it may be someone from the health department,” Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said in a recent interview with WKTV. “It protects them from being held liable for a decision they make if that decision is in compliance with local laws, policies and procedures of the department, and doesn’t act in a way that is irresponsible, outside of their direction.
“The consequences for taking qualified immunity away really has to do with the civil liability of the government unit. … None of that is to say the a person should not be personally responsible for a decision that is outside of their training and direction and procedures. … There is already a way to sue a government (or government individual) that is not compliant.”
Support and opposition to change is a national issue
A national survey by the Cato Institute found that 63 percent of Americans support eliminating governmental immunity.
Nationwide criticism of qualified immunity catapulted into the public eye after the murder of George Floyd who was killed by a Minneapolis policeman on May 25, 2020. Since Floyd’s death, Colorado, Connecticut, New York and New Mexico either ended or limited the protective scope of qualified immunity.
“Although qualified immunity has prevented victims of police misconduct from holding officers accountable for decades, until recently it had been a relatively obscure doctrine that was not on the radar of many non-lawyers,” said Michael Steinberg in a faculty Q&A. Steinberg, who advocates for ending qualified immunity, is a professor and director of the Civil Rights Litigation Initiative at the University of Michigan Law School.
But strong resistance to any change in the law remains.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently upheld such protection by overturning lower court decisions to remove qualified immunity in cases in California and Oklahoma.
Bipartisan police reform negotiations in the U.S. Congress ended without resolution in September, even after Democrats removed controversial changes suggested for qualified immunity.
The Michigan bills are co-sponsored by Detroit representatives and House Democrats across the state. If they are signed into law, when police officers or government officials are sued and found liable, they will have to personally write the check.
Law enforcement officials say that’s a deal breaker.
“When a municipality gets faced with a lawsuit, more times than not they look at it as a business decision on whether or not to settle,” Livingston County Sheriff Michael Murphy said.
And the insurance company or municipality writes the check, he said. “I’m a cop. I’m just essentially a blue collar worker. I don’t have a million dollar check to write.”
Qualified immunity does not mean that law officers have complete immunity for their actions, Murphy said. It has to be granted by a judge.
“This is not something that the cop or the municipality can just hold up and say, ‘Oh, hey, I work for the government or I’m a cop, I get qualified immunity.’”
Removing qualified immunity protection is currently a case-by-case decision, Steinberg said.
Under the qualified immunity defense, people injured by police or family members of those killed must prove the violation of their rights with examples from “nearly-identical” court cases, the American Civil Liberties of Michigan said in a prepared statement.
Still, police say removing any part of the qualified immunity statute is a bad idea.
“Ending qualified immunity puts police officers always at risk of having their actions judged, not by what they knew, and not judged on what the rules were today but judged upon hindsight being 20-20,” said Bob Stevenson of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police.
Murphy and Kenneth Grabowski, the legislative director of the Police Officers Association of Michigan, say they believe the current law is working fine.
“Most of this stuff is just to placate people complaining,” said Grabowski. “But it works.”
Murphy said that if people understood how difficult it is to get qualified immunity, this discussion wouldn’t even be taking place.
“I really, truly believe in my heart, that most men and women put on that uniform every day to do the right thing,” he said.
Four candidates are seeking the the 28th District Senate seat in the fall election set for Nov. 2.
The seat was vacated by Peter MacGregor last year when he took over the position of Kent County treasurer. Four candidates have put their names in the ring for the seat: Libertarian Alex Avery, Democrat Keith Courtade, U.S. Taxpayers Theodore Gerrard, and Republican Mark Huizenga.
The 28th District of the State Senate includes the City of Wyoming as well as the cities of Walker, Rockford, and Cedar Springs, For a district map, click here.
The election will be open form 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Nov. 2. Those voting by absent ballot have until 8 p.m. on Election Day to complete the ballot and return it to the clerk’s office.
In its We the People videos, WKTV invites all candidates to share why they decided to run for the 28th District seat and issues the candidate feels are important. Below, are the candidates who participated.
Keith Courtade – Democrat
Occupation: Retired UAW Skills Trades
Why did you decide to run for the District 28 Senate seat?
I feel important things are going on and I have a passion for it. I have always had a passion for it and I want to help people. I’ve been a voice for the middle class and have a passion to help people.
What are the key issues you are focused on?
The biggest issue is the right to vote. I believe all people should have the right to vote. The next one, and the one closer to Michigan, is cleaning up and protecting our groundwater. I’ve seen firsthand what happened in Flint as I was working at the GM plant there at the time. More needs to be done to fix the problem not just in the in the Flint area but all of Michigan as contaminated groundwater is a statewide issue.
Theodore Gerrand – US Taxpayers
Occupation: Electrician
Why did you decided to run for the District 28 Senate seat?
I watched the two major parties, which are dragging us down, pushing us away from the congressional process and truth. I believe we need to get back to the truth and freedom.
What are the key issues you are focused on?
I believe we need to focus on education and that we need to break free of the U..S. Department of Education and return the course of school to teachers and parents. I think the STEM program is very exciting and we need to be pushing that out more to students. We have a huge group of people who will be retiring from the trades, about a 2 to 1 radio, so we need to be supporting new people to move into the trades.
Mark Huizenga – Republican
Occupation: The current 74th District State Representative, which covers Rockford, Cedar Springs, Algoma Township along with the cities of Walker and Grandville, Huizenga owns Mark Huizenga Systems Consulting, a consulting firm, and is the managing partner for Key Green Solutions, a software company.
Why did you decide to run for the District 28 Senate seat?
I have always been involved not because of the campaigns or the politics, but because I have been asked to. My past background includes serving the state and mayoral experience with the City of Walker. I offer transparent accountability and am known to respond to all questions. I also make a point of meeting with people and talking about the issues that impact them.
What are the key issues you are focused on?
Currently there is no formula for state funding of higher education with some institutions receiving more than others. I sit on the Higher Education Committee and have been working toward creating a more equability funding system. Other issues are mental health, especial in our schools and I have worked to help launch a new hotline through the Department of Health and Human Services. Also, we need to look at gun violence.
The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
Larry Arreguin Sr. was a proud World War 2 U.S. Navy veteran involved with many veterans organizations, and was loving family man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease in the last years of his life. (Courtesy of Arreguin family)
Larry Arreguin’s sons, Aaron and Caton, after playing in the Hebe Fountain at what is now called the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids during a visit to the facility to visit their grandfather, Larry Arreguin, Sr.. (Courtesy of Arreguin family)
Larry Arreguin with his sons. (Courtesy of Arreguin family)
For many people, memories of visiting the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, previously known as the Grand Rapids Veterans Home, are bittersweet — caring people caring for a father or brother; strolling the grounds, the veterans cemetery in the distance; sitting quietly around the historic Hebe Fountain.
For Larry Arreguin, memories of his father, Larry Sr., a proud World War 2 U.S. Navy veteran and loving family man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease before he died in 2004, are forever linked to the facility and the fountain.
“The Hebe Fountain and Michigan Veterans Home in Grand Rapids played a significant role” in his father’s and his family’s history, Arreguin said to WKTV. “Both of these places own a somber and joyful piece of my heart.”
Arreguin — a Detroit resident who has worked in a staff position for the City of Detroit and the office of U.S. Rep. John Conyers, Jr., as well as serving on the board of the Michigan Alliance of Latinos Moving Toward Advancement — spoke to WKTV as the Michigan Veteran Homes GR is embarking on a long-awaited restoration campaign of the historic Hebe Fountain on its campus.
The campaign hopes to receive 100 percent of the $120,000 in funds needed by this Veterans Day, Nov 11, of this year.
“My family and I would visit my father at the Home and we would often sit with him near the fountain and enjoy the day while my children would play nearby,” Arreguin said. “Every time we were there, we tended to gravitate towards the Hebe Fountain. During the warm months, my toddlers would splash in the fountain and my father and I would sit there, laughing at how much fun they were having.”
Larry Sr., was diagnosed with Alzheimers in 2001 while he lived with Arreguin and his wife in in Detroit.
“A year before, we were fortunate to have twin boys (Aaron and Caton) join our family and was blessed to have a nanny staying with us. However, in 2002, my fathers condition worsened and another son (Cesar) arrived,” Arreguin said. “Trying to care for three babies and also an elder became too much for my wife and I.
“As we searched throughout Michigan for assistance, one place kept coming up and that was the Michigan Veterans Home at Grand Rapids. We knew there was a special wing at the facility that was designed to care for Alzheimer’s patients and after many days praying we decided to take my father there to visit. Once there, the nurses and other staff were so welcoming and pleasant that I felt confident in the quality of care that was being provided. I knew admitting him there would provide a much better quality of life than what I could back in Detroit.”
On Feb. 16, 2004, Larry Sr. passed away from complications from Alzheimers.
“He lived his life to the fullest and was always cognizant of the sacrifices made by others that served in the Armed Forces,” Arreguin said. “He did this through his work as Commander of American Legions Post 183, Chef de Gare of Voiture 946 of the Forty and Eight and his work with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts 701 and 6132.”
In his travels, Arreguin said, he often stops by the home to “reflect on the wonderful experiences” and to express his gratitude to the staff for all they did.
“Although last year when I visited, I was saddened to see the condition of Hebe Fountain, and made it a point to agitate and advocate for repair,” he said. “I’m hopeful, my boys and I can return when the fountain is restored to its previous glory and once again feel that tremendous happiness that was felt when visiting my father.”
Lee Walton, veteran resident of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, tours the Hebe Fountain at the facility with Tiffany Carr, community engagement coordinator at Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH). (Supplied)
The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
History, deterioration over the years
The fountain, designated as a local landmark by the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission in November 1990, has been adored by veteran members and visitors to the campus since it was established by J.L. Mott Iron Works in 1893.
But over the last three decades, weather and deferred maintenance has caused the fountain to erode, and it has remained inoperable since being shut off in 2019.
The first noticeable step in the hoped-for restoration process will be the dismantling of the fountain to send it to restoration experts for a much-needed refresh, set to begin this week.
The complete restoration of the Hebe Fountain will include a new water filtration system, structural repairs to the base and water reservoir and a restoration of the adjacent drinking water fountain. Any remaining funds will be dedicated to annual maintenance and landscape beautification.
“The Hebe Fountain has been part of our legacy in caring for our nation’s heroes both past and present since 1893,” Tiffany Carr, community engagement coordinator at Michigan Veteran Homes, said in supplied material. “We owe it to our members to restore this landmark to its former glory and continue to offer veterans a place to call Home that remembers and honors its history.”
The Hebe Fountain Restoration Campaign follows the opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, a new state-of-the-art facility that consists of four unique neighborhood buildings and a community center on the campus in Grand Rapids. Veteran members began moving into the new “Home” in July of this year.
Persons who wish to donate to the Hebe Fountain Restoration Project can send a check payable to Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids at 3000 Monroe Avenue N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49505.
Persons can also visit michigan.gov/mvh, click on Support MVH, followed by Donate and then Donate Online and select Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids as your donation option.
For more information or questions about the restoration project, contact Tiffany Carr at carrt1@michigan.gov or 616-365-3834.
Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) is the entity that provides day-to-day operational oversight of the state’s veteran homes on behalf of the Michigan Veterans Facility Authority (MVFA) and is a branch of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). The MVH operates the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR), the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti (MVHDJJ) in Marquette and the new Michigan Veteran Homes at Chesterfield Township (MVHCT).
When you first read anything about the Midwest-bred The Way Down Wanderers, the line “somewhere on the spectrum between Old Crow Medicine Show and Mumford & Sons” often pops up.
And while the sounds of Old Crow, an Americana string band based in Nashville, and Mumford, a British folk rock band steeped in Americana, may be contradictory in some ways, there is that bluegrass-based heart-a-beating in both. And The Way Down Wanderers play the same tune but with a unique edge.
It will be all listening to the tune, and the vocal duo solos and harmonies of Austin Krause-Thompson and Colin Krause, when The Way Down Wanderers set up at Listening Room at Studio Park in Grand Rapids Friday, Oct. 29.
The Way Down Wanderers album cover for More Like Tomorrow.
The band’s eclectic blend of roots-based sounds — from rock, folk and bluegrass, to elements of pop, jazz and classical and pop — are on full display on their latest record More Like Tomorrow, released on Sept. 10 on Soundly Music.
“I love it when the song itself dictates the sonic arrangement — the pop sensibilities or Americana we can throw in there,” Colin says in supplied material about the new release. “I think just allowing the song to exist as its own entity is really important.”
Many of the songs on More Like Tomorrow do seem to take on a life of their own, both musically and intellectually. There are stories of loss and empathy (“Codeine Rest and Loneliness”), self-improvement and acceptance (“The Wire” ), becoming a new parent (“Forever” & “Two Parts One Heart), addiction and self-forgiveness (“Parkside Drive”) the fragility of life (“Everything’s Made Out Of Sand”).
“I think more so on this record than ever, the songs are just more direct, with acute meanings in our own situations,” Austin says in supplied material. “Each’s song’s story is less broad. I think, at least for me, writing is definitely growing more and more personal.”
The Way Down Wonderers. (Supplied/Philip Hosticka)
But, like Mumford’s songs at their best, the deep thoughts are carefully wrapped in catchy, driving tunes with a wall of bluegrass/Americana sounds carrying them.
In addition to Austin (lead vocals, guitar, keys, mandolin) and Colin (lead vocals, mandolin, guitar, fiddle), the Peoria, Illinois-based quintet Way Down Wonderers include John Merikoski (drums, percussion, piano, backing vocals), Travis Kowalsly (banjo), and John Williams (electric and upright bass, backing vocals).
More Like Tomorrow is the follow up to The Way Down Wanderers’ acclaimed 2018 sophomore album illusions, which garnered high praise from The Associated Press, Rolling Stone Country and others. More Like Tomorrow was recorded and produced by David Schiffman (HAIM, Rage Against The Machine and Audioslave), who also produced illusions.
The Listening Room is a 200-seat intimate venue with top-notch sound equipment and in-seat services for drinks. It is located at Studio Park, 123 Ionia Ave, SW. Indoor shows require proof of COCID vaccination or negative COVID test within 72 hours, according to its website.
Karla Black, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Kent County Health Department, was invited to Hands on Health to discuss COVID-19 and the vaccines with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President. (WKTV)
Kentwood non-profit Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is always looking for new ways to serve the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities. And WKTV Community Media is always looking for ways to work with groups in service of its Wyoming, Kentwood and West Michigan audience.
So the two this fall have partnered to begin a new multi-media project, Hands on Health, to provide health education in a format that is accessible to the Deaf, Deaf/Blind, Hard of Hearing — as well as other community members.
The first two episodes are now available on WKTV cable channels in Wyoming and Kentwood (check out the initial schedule below and WKTV cable schedule), on the WKTV Video Podcast page, and on the social media platforms of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (D&HHS) — YouTube and Facebook.
D&HHS, according to supplied material, has served the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing (D/DB/HH) communities across West Michigan for more than 25 years. The agency began after a deaf man’s medical emergency turned nearly fatal due to the emergency services’ lack of accessibility.
“The situation shone a light on the lack of access and services for the D/DB/HH communities,” Deb Atwood, D&HHS executive director, said in printed material. “Today, our agency serves 27 counties across West Michigan, providing a wide range of services specifically for the D/DB/HH communities.
“Each day, we work toward our mission of providing equal communication access, education, and advocacy to the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing in pursuit of all life’s opportunities.
The genesis of Hands On Health
A study published in 2016 by a group of University Medical Departments found that health literacy among the deaf is alarmingly low. When compared to their hearing counterparts, deaf participants were 6.9 times more likely to have inadequate health literacy.
These disparities are caused by several factors including communication barriers, fewer opportunities for incidental learning, and especially lack of accessible information. Many within the D/DB/HH communities are not given appropriate access to information that allows them to understand or practice autonomy over their own health.
“Our agency has recognized the of issue inadequate health literacy among the D/DB/HH in the Greater Grand Rapids area and throughout West Michigan,” Erica Chapin, D&HHS community and partnership manager, said in printed material. “These issues were made alarmingly clear throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited accessible information about COVID-19 and vaccines, D/DB/HH individuals have been susceptible to misinformation and unable to make informed decisions about their health and safety.
“This situation has brought to light the lack of information on general health and wellness topics. To combat this issue, our agency is starting the ‘Hands On Health’ video series that provides health education in a format that is accessible to the D/DB/HH and other communities.”
These first two episodes feature two deaf hosts — Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President — with guest Karla Black, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Kent County Health Department, who was invited to discuss COVID-19 and the vaccines.
Hands on Health has premiered on WKTV Cable Channel 25 with Episode 1 continuing today, Oct. 21, at 5 p.m. Episode 2 will premiere Oct. 25 at 9 p.m., and continue Oct. 26 at 9:30 a.m., and Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. They may also run at different days and times; see the weekly schedule.
For more information and to donate to Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services, visit www.deafhhs.org/donate.
Hands on Health continues a discussion on COVID-19 and the vaccines, hosted by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President. (WKTV)
Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, (center in yellow vest) discusses the proposed Kent County Sustainable Business Park in Byron Center with Liesl Eichler Clark, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, (Center in orange vest) on a tour Oct. 15. (Kent County)
Following the announcement of a $4 million appropriation from the State of Michigan, the director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy last week toured the South Kent Landfill and future site of the proposed Kent County Sustainable Business Park.
Also on the Friday, Oct. 15, tour were representatives from Kent County Department of Public Works, Allegan County and Dorr Township. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) recently included a $4 million appropriation in the 2022 state budget to support necessary infrastructure improvements at the site.
Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, (in yellow vest) discusses the proposed Kent County Sustainable Business Park in Byron Center with Liesl Eichler Clark, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, (Center in orange vest) on a tour Oct. 15. (Kent County)
Approved in 2018, the Sustainable Business Park Master Plan lays out “a vision for transitioning away from landfilling waste in favor of placing value on components of the waste as feedstock for new products or fuel sources,” according to the county. The Master Plan calls for an anchor tenant that will receive the mixed waste currently going to the landfill and separate it for other future tenants to utilize.
“Kent County’s Sustainable Business Park is an important investment in sustainable materials management and growing a vibrant circular economy. This initiative puts Michiganders to work making new products from the materials residents take to their curb each week,” Liesl Eichler Clark, director of EGLE, said in supplied material. “This site visit is a chance to get a first-hand look at what’s planned with State of Michigan support for the project, and learn about the park’s potential to increase recycling, conserve natural resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
The Sustainable Business Park, planned for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Landfill in Byron Center, will be built on land that was initially purchased by Kent County to create a new landfill. The state funding will go to infrastructure improvements on the site such as utilities, roads and stormwater to prepare it for initial tenants. The first phase of infrastructure development is estimated to cost $19 million.
“The site visit by EGLE allowed us the opportunity to show how this project is moving us closer to our landfill diversion goals in Kent County,” Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, said in supplied material. “The state funding will lay the foundation for additional private investment in the entire park.”
Kent County Land for planned Sustainable Business Park, aerial shot that includes the property adjacent to the landfill, with the landfill in the background. (Kent County)
