Lexi Adams will be performing at the Kentwood Winter Concert Series on Thursday, Feb. 17. (Supplied)
Cellist and vocalist Jordan Hamilton will be performing at the Kentwood Winter Concert Series Thursday, March 17. (Supplied)
Nicholas James Thomasma will be performing at the Kentwood Winter Concert Series Thursday, March 31. (Supplied)
By WKTV Staff
After a brief scheduling delay, the City of Kentwood’s free-to-the-public Winter Concert Series will return Thursday, Feb. 17, with singer/songwriter Lexi Adams leading off three concerts on select Thursdays through the end of March at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
WKTV will record all concerts and will replay them, as scheduled, on our cable channels as well as on WKTV.org by hitting the “Watch Live” button, and also later on-demand at WKTVlive.org. Visit wktvjournal.org/wktv-on-air-schedule/ for a schedule of replays.
The series will feature three West Michigan performers who will play a mix of genres and, in keeping with the mix of musical tastes, each concert will also have a food truck outside offering a range of cuisines and available for purchase.
“With a variety of talented local musicians and food truck favorites, winter concerts offer residents an enjoyable night out during the colder months,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “We welcome all to enjoy the good food and live music in the warm comfort of the library this winter.”
The concerts will take place in the library’s Community Room from 6:30-8 p.m. Guests are welcomed to bring their own beer, wine or nonalcoholic beverages to enjoy at the show.
Also, according to the city announcement, “residents are encouraged to follow current public health guidelines to help stop the spread of COVID-19.”
The lineup of performers and food trucks is as follows:
Thursday, Feb. 17 — Singer and songwriter Lexi Adams with food from Patty Matters Food Truck. Adams, according to supplied material, will present a mix of original music and covers. “Her songs are stories of life experience carefully crafted through each melody and lyric.”
Thursday, March 17 — Cellist and vocalist Jordan Hamilton with food from Around Baking Company. Hamilton “will merge musical styles to tell stories of the human experience through a variety of genres.” A member of Last Gasp Collective and the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, he can be found performing primarily in the Midwest, where he has opened for national acts.
Thursday, March 31 — Singer and multi-instrumentalist Nicholas James Thomasma with food from El Jalapeño. Thomasma will perform a mix of Americana, folk, country and rock music. “He combines stories and songs with humor and wit for a show that can be enjoyed by all ages.”
What can and cannot be recycled in Kent County, and how do it. And what happens to everything else? WKTV Journal, working with Kent County Department of Public Works Resource Recovery Specialist Lauren Westerman, are working to look at specific consumer products and other items and give you the answers.
In this post, we look at those at-home COVID-19 rest kits — part plastic, part cardboard packaging and paper instructions, part that nasty stick you stuck up your nose and other medical materials. Maybe you want to just toss everything in the nearest trash can, but should you? Here is the lowdown from an expert:
(If you received the kit in the mail, remember to look for a recycling label on the mailer.)
Does your mailer envelope have a recycling label? (Kent County)
Remove the test supplies from the paperboard box. Flatten the box and place it into your curbside recycling cart. The paper instructions can also go into your curbside recycling cart. The box and paper will head to the Recycling Center where it is sorted out from non-paper items, baled, and transported to a local paper mill to be processed into a new paper product that can be used again.
After performing your COVID-19 at home test, throw away the swab, the wrapper from around the swab, the test card, the test card’s soft plastic pouch, and the empty plastic dropper bottle.
The only piece remaining is the hard plastic piece that (possibly) held all the various test pieces. If this hard piece of plastic has a recycling symbol on it, then it may be placed into your curbside recycling cart. The plastic will be sorted with similar rigid plastics at the Recycling Center, shipped to a facility where the plastic is flaked or pelletized, and eventually remolded into a new plastic item.
Do you have a question about a specific consumer product or other item? Contact WKTV at ken@wktv.org. Please send a photo of the product and the recycling label if available.
At the opening of Guiding Light’s Iron House, sober-living apartments, in the City of Kentwood in late January, Guiding Light Board Chair John Harrington provides opening remarks and Esther Yff-Prins, one of the Guiding Light spiritual directors, gives the blessing of the Iron House. (Supplied)
Guiding Light, a Grand Rapids non-profit that helps men struggling with addiction and homelessness to return to society, announced this week the opening of its sixth Iron House as two of its clients moved into the sober-living apartments in the City of Kentwood.
Clients, staff, board members and volunteers gathered for a private blessing and tour of the recently remodeled building on Jan. 28.
The new Iron House comes at a time of increased demand for addiction recovery services, according to the announcement. Since the beginning of 2021, Guiding Light has experienced increases in the number of inquiries and program enrollments for its Recovery program.
The opening of a new Guiding Light Iron House in the City of Kentwood. (Supplied)
Able to accommodate seven men, the four-unit apartment building increases the nonprofit’s capacity to house men “as they transition back into the mainstream of society after successfully completing the Foundation phase of Guiding Light’s Recovery program,” according to the announcement.
In total, Guiding Light can house a total of 42 men in its six Iron House locations.
The apartments are designed for community-oriented sober living and are reserved exclusively for men who have finished four to six months of intensive residential treatment that combines evidence-based practices, life-coaching, therapy, support groups, spiritual direction and other resources to equip men to stay sober and reengage with their family, friends and community.
Background on Iron House program
The Iron House model has proven to be a “key component” in setting clients up for success to achieve long-term recovery, according to the announcement. Guiding Light has found 76 percent of men who move to Iron House reach at least one year of abstinence-based sobriety.
Guiding Light Board Chair John Harrington provides opening remarks at the opening of a City of Kentwood Iron House. (Supplied)
“We want to give men the best opportunity possible for living a healthy, connected life in recovery,” Recovery Director Brian Elve said in supplied material. “That’s why we created a structure with Iron House that allows men to stay connected with the support offered by Guiding Light.
“We recognize it takes a year or more to change the physical structure of the brain and its response to addiction. Iron House allows for truly comprehensive, long-term, transformative care and we are excited to invest in our community this way.”
After completing the “Foundation” phase of recovery, Guiding Light clients who are interested in continuing their recovery journeys at Iron House are able to apply for the opportunity. If accepted, clients are able to move into an apartment once they have secured full-time employment.
In addition to abstinence-based sobriety, Iron House residents focus on honing important life skills. Residents all have jobs. They buy and prepare their own food, pay their own bills and engage with each other in a communal-living environment.
“They look after and support each other, practicing community and providing support to one another with a common goal of creating lives worth staying sober for,” according to the announcement.
Programs, goals of Guiding Light
While living more independently, residents still have access to the support and resources of the recovery program, such as the opportunity to attend classes or support groups, participate in a spiritual direction group, work with a life coach and give back to the community through service.
Not only has Iron House been a key part of helping residents maintain their sobriety, it has also generated profits to ensure Guiding Light’s programming can remain free to participants, according to the announcement.
Funds from Iron House and The Job Post, Guiding Light’s two social enterprises, benefit clients while also aiding in the financial sustainability of the nonprofit’s programs. The programs are otherwise entirely funded by donations and grants.
Founded in 1929 as the West Fulton St. Mission, Guiding Light has grown into a recovery and reengagement community designed to “help those living at society’s margins fulfill their God-given potential,” according to supplied information.
For more information about Guiding Light’s recovery program, call 616-451-0236, ext. 23 and “take a confidential first step.” Learn more at guidinglightworks.org.
This video, produced by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, as shown at the kickoff of the group’s “Expanding Equal Access: A New Home for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services” fundraising campaign.
By Phil de Haan
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
The first-ever major Capital Campaign for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services was publicly launched on January 24, 2022.
“Expanding Equal Access: A New Home for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services” is a $266,000 fundraising campaign that will allow D&HHS to become part of a large non-profit center being developed at the old South Christian High School on 68th Street in Grand Rapids, just west of a major bus line on South Division Avenue.
The project is being headed up by Special Olympics of Michigan and will see the 127,000 square foot building (which includes two gyms and a 735-seat auditorium) become home to 10 non-profits, all of which have advocacy and empowerment at the heart of everything they do.
D&HHS will join Special Olympics of Michigan, Autism Support of Kent County, Brody’s Be Café, Disability Advocates of Kent County, Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Far Out Volleyball Club, Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan/be nice, MOKA, and Thresholds in this new space.
The public launch event included remarks by Tim Hileman, president and CEO of Special Olympics of Michigan, who said: “I love days like today. It speaks to what really good organizations can do both individually and collectively. What they can do together.”
Hileman commended what he called the “great, great leadership” of D&HHS, including the staff and the board.
He added: “I love the name of your campaign. This new non-profit center truly is multiple organizations coming together to create access, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is an important part of this project.”
D&HHS Board President Rowan O’Dougherty agreed.
“Deaf people need our agency,” he said. “And Deaf people need community. That’s why I am so excited about the move here. We currently have such limited space, but when we move here those limitations will go away. We can draw our community together to socialize, to play sports, have coffee at the Café. Our Deaf senior citizens could make this a weekly activity. It’s going to be great.”
For Mary Andringa, step-mother to Chad, now a Deaf adult, the new space will continue a long legacy of D&HHS service to her family.
“D&HHS has been a rock on which Chad could build his core values and see himself as a unique individual with talents and abilities,” she said. “The people here (D&HHS staff) were pivotal to his growth and mine. He has had the advocates he needed to protect his rights, and he has been called to grow. This agency has been a conduit. Or should I say a can-do-it place. This agency always feeds back truth.”
Board Treasurer, Mickey Carolan, asks for support of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services capital campaign. (D&HHS)
Mickey Carolan, the treasurer for the D&HHS board, spoke not just about money (though he did that too!) but also about his experience growing up as the child of Deaf adults, a CODA.
“I was born into a majority Deaf community,” he said. “It’s the reason I am here today. I remember growing up and the access my parents had to communities in Detroit and Flint and Saginaw. There hasn’t been a place on this side of the state for that kind of community. Until now. This is the spot. And I hope that the energy everyone here today brought inspires you, whatever that is. Maybe it’s a gift of $1. Maybe it’s $50,000 I don’t want to limit you. But whatever it is, we are grateful.”
Earl Howell and Dr. Robert Hohendorf of Lions Club International District 11-C1 present a check. (D&HHS)
Indeed, Carolan was grateful at the event to accept a check for $15,000 from Earl Howell and Dr. Robert Hohendorf of Lions Club International District 11-C1. That gift brought the current fundraising total to just over $133,000, just over half of the $266,000 total goal for the campaign.
D&HHS hopes to start the renovation of an old science lab into its new space in March 2022, pending fundraising. If all goes well it would move to the new non-profit center in the summer of 2022.
Images of the D&HHS space and the entire facility, plus the campaign video and photos from the campaign event, are online and available to media at: deafhhs.org/capital-campaign.
Valentine’s Day 2022 falls on a Monday (Feb. 14) but the City of Kentwood has a “Sweetheart Deal” to get your “Valentine’s Weekend” started with a little outdoor fun run, a possible partnership opportunity, and support for a great community service program.
The city will host its fifth annual Valentine’s Dash 5K Saturday, Feb. 12, starting at 11 a.m., and benefitting Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which provides food and personal care items to community members in need.
Valentine’s Day-themed costumes are encouraged. While intended to be a fun run, the race will be chip timed and awards will be given for the fastest runner overall and in each age group.
An awards ceremony will follow in the library’s community room at about noon, including refreshments, candy, music and a photo booth.
“Our Valentine’s Dash 5K is a great way to kick off the holiday weekend and help foster or fuel a love for running, even in the winter months,” Spencer McKellar, race organizer, said in supplied material. “This course is great for first-time runners or walkers but will also provide a challenge to more experienced racers. All are invited to come out and join us. Bring a friend or a loved one — or meet someone new.”
Online registration is $30 until Feb. 11 and includes a long-sleeved shirt and other participant-packet goodies (while supplies last). Day-of registration is $35. Runners who sign up as a couple save $5 each. Participants who bring a nonperishable item or monetary donation for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry will be entered to win a special door prize.
Kentwood’s first Little Free Pantry opened to the community in 2017 at the Kentwood Activities Center, where it remains available year-round during business hours. The city, last year, launched a second pantry at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch. More information, including a list of suggested donations, is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Michigan’s Farm Garden, a reproduction of Lena Meijer’s home early in life near Lakeview, Michigan. The windmill is actually from that farm. (Supplied/Dean VanDis)
The legacy of the late Lena Meijer — community advocate, philanthropist and so much more — lives on in her family, in many ways in the Grand Rapids community, and, of course, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
And while Lena played a large role in the success of her family’s Midwest grocery super-center business, her life began on a humble farm near Lakeview, Michigan. And that humble beginning is on full, if slightly miniature, display at Meijer Gardens’ Michigan’s Farm Garden.
“She always spoke so lovingly of her upbringing and cherished that experience in her life,” David Hooker, President and CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, said WKTV.
Fred and Lena Meijer. (Supplied/undated)
Both Lena and her husband, late grocery entrepreneur Fred Meijer, grew up on farms. A daughter of German immigrants George and Mary Rader, Lena was born and raised on the farm her parents acquired after settling near Lakeview, while Fred’s family farm was located in Greenville.
Lena and Fred never lost the desire to share their knowledge and love of the land with their community.
“They wanted people to really understand that food comes from a farm, it doesn’t come from their grocery stores,” said Hooker.
Through this desire, the Michigan’s Farm Garden was born.
“The idea for creating Michigan’s Farm Garden was so people could understand what the farming life was like, especially in the era of the 1930s when they both grew up,” said Hooker. “The fact that they wanted to recreate that experience for people is a testament to how Lena felt about it.”
Milking cows, fresh carrots … and that windmill
At the Michigan’s Farm Garden, visitors can find a three-quarter scale replica of the farmhouse where Lena was born and raised, a barn, vegetable and flower gardens, animal pens, and bronze sculptures of farm animals scattered throughout. Patrons are invited to sit in rocking chairs on the wraparound porch, and visit and relax.
Fred and Lena Meijer at the dedication of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Michigan’s Farm Garden. (Supplied)
Another piece of Lena’s heritage she chose to share with the community is the windmill visitors see while visiting the Farm Garden. “That actual windmill came from her family’s farm,” Hooker said.
“She (Lena) learned at a very young age how to milk a cow and work the fields, and do everything that farmers do,” said Hooker.
One of Lena’s favorite stories involved milking cows. Hooker said Lena liked to joke about being so skilled at milking a cow that she could feed their cat at the same time.
“She could squirt the milk into the cat’s mouth from six feet away,” said Hooker.
Lena’s antics as a young farm girl didn’t end there.
One of the farm scene sculptures from the Michigan’s Farm Garden. The girl riding the pig, reportedly, is taken from Lena’s childhood. (Supplied/William J. Hebert)
“As a young girl, she’d ride the pigs,” Hooker said. “In fact, we have a sculpture of Lena as a little girl riding a pig out in Michigan’s Farm Garden. It’s classic.”
When it was mentioned that it seemed like Lena had some “spunk” in her personality, Hooker agreed — “Oh, she had a ton. Absolutely.”
Lena died at the age of 102 on Jan. 15. She will be buried beside her husband at Michigan’s Farm Garden, laid to rest in a place they both loved to visit in their twilight years.
“If it was the right time of year, they would pull a carrot right of the ground, wash it off, and they’d eat it,” said Hooker.
Children, learning and lots of beautiful plants
Lena’s love of gardening and plants is also revealed in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory and, especially, the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden.
“(Lena) loved kids and loved the idea of a garden dedicated to children learning about gardening and learning about how life itself would not be possible without plants,” Hooker said.
Lena Meijer at the 2017 groundbreaking of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s expansion projects. (Supplied/Anthony Norkus Photography)
The Children’s Garden promotes interactive learning and the use of all five senses with various hands-on activities for children and their families.
“Meijer Gardens is a gift to all of us as a community,” said Hooker. “This is what Fred and Lena were interested in and they gave this to us as a gift. For this gift to mean anything, come on out and visit! It’s here for everyone to enjoy.”
For more information about Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park visit meijergardens.org.
The City of Kentwood is inviting residents and other community members to share feedback on pedestrian crossings throughout the city as part of a crosswalk study.
Anyone who uses crosswalks in the city is encouraged to share feedback on which crosswalks should be evaluated through an online form due by Feb. 21.
According to an announcement by the city, the input will help the city evaluate and improve pedestrian crossings to ensure they are safe and accessible for all users.
“Community engagement is critically important to our work around pedestrian safety and accessibility,” Terry Schweitzer, Kentwood community development director, said in supplied material. “We want to hear from individuals who use our crosswalks so we can identify which ones need attention and make improvements to them. The survey is really simple and takes only a few minutes.”
Individuals who want to take the survey in a different language other than English are encouraged to call the City Clerk’s Office at 616-698-9610 for assistance. Printed surveys are also available at City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave SE.
All responses will remain confidential.
The survey offers participants the opportunity to identify a location of a crosswalk on a map, select concerns from a drop-down menu and share more information in a comment box.
The categories which will be surveyed and evaluated include:
Accessibility — Does the crosswalk accommodate individuals with disabilities who may use mobility devices such as a wheelchair, walker, cane, etc.?
Sidewalk or pavement condition — Does the physical sidewalk or roadway pavement need to be repaired or is there a lack of sidewalk on both sides of the road?
Visibility — Can a person using the crossing see oncoming vehicle traffic easily from the sidewalk?
Lighting — Does the location need lighting for nighttime walkers to use the crossing or be seen?
Signage — Does the location lack appropriate signs such as pedestrian warning and crossing signs?
Pavement markings — Is the crosswalk marked and easy to see?
Crosswalk Needed — Is a new crosswalk needed at a specific location?
For more information about the survey, visit here.
The second annual Winter Motoring Meet will return to the Gilmore Car Museum Saturday, Feb. 5, with a day of outdoor family fun in Michigan’s winter weather, plus full access to the museum’s indoor collection of more than 400 classic vehicles.
Access to the Winter Motoring Meet and related activities will be included in standard daily admission to the museum, according to an announcement from the museum.
The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet will include winter machines of all kinds. (Supplied/by Lew Verburg)
“The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet is for folks who appreciate Michigan’s Winter Motoring season, whether in their cars, 4×4 trucks, Jeeps, or snowmobiles,” Josh Russell, executive director of the Gilmore Car Museum, said in supplied material. “It’s a fun way for us to get outside and enjoy the winter season, in an outdoor environment with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy our 90-acre campus.”
The Winter Motoring Meet will include scenic rides around the snow-covered Gilmore campus in several of the museum’s antique cars and trucks, a special exhibit of vintage snowmobiles, a professional ice carving exhibition, and outdoor games.
The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet will include classic snowmobiles. (Supplied/by Lew Verburg)
A special 1-day-only exhibit of antique, vintage, and racing snowmobiles (from 1992 and older) will be on featured display at the Winter Motoring Meet. The indoor and outdoor snowmobile exhibit has been coordinated with help and support from Vintage Snowmobile Michigan — snowmobile enthusiasts from across Michigan and the Great Lakes region (facebook.com/VintageSnowmobileMichigan).
Guests will also be able to warm up by an outdoor fire, with available food and beverage options to include homemade soup, gourmet hot chocolate, winter beer, a glass of wine, or a favorite cocktail.
“If we’re lucky enough to have fresh snow on the day of our meet, guests are welcome to bring their own snowshoes or cross-country skis for a trek across our beautiful 90-acre campus,” the announcement states.
The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet will include tours in antique vehicles. (Supplied/by Josh Russell)
Free “glorified sleigh rides” through the snow-covered Gilmore campus will also be offered to museum guests, riding on bench seats in the bed of a classic Ford Model AA pickup truck, and in other classic “open air” cars and trucks from the museum’s collection.
“Guests should consider bringing their warm coats, hats, gloves, and perhaps even blankets,” the announcement states.
What can and cannot be recycled in Kent County, and how do it. And what happens to everything else? WKTV Journal, working with Kent County Department of Public Works Resource Recovery Specialist Lauren Westerman, are working to look at specific consumer products and other items and give you the answers.
In this post, we look at those annoying strings of holiday lights that no longer work. Packaging often does not have any recycling information. But what does that mean? Here is the lowdown from an expert:
Many part of the packaging for holiday lights are recyclable, but not all. (WKTV)
Holiday string lights are considered electronic waste. They cannot be recycled through single-stream or curbside recycling collection programs. Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has collection bins for holiday string lights at both North Kent Recycling & Waste Center and South Kent Recycling & Waste Center or they can be brought to our electronics recycling collection programs. After Kent County DPW collects the string lights, they are taken to an electronics recycling company where the various component parts (types of metal, wires, plastics, glass, etc.) are separated and recycled accordingly.
When you purchase new holiday string lights, there are a few different parts of the packaging to be aware of when it comes to proper disposal. If the lights come in a box, empty the cardboard box, flatten it, and place it into your single-stream curbside recycling cart. If you have any soft and flexible plastic packaging, tape, or twist-ties, place them into the garbage.
Do you have a question about a specific consumer product or other item? Contact WKTV at ken@wktv.org. Please send a photo of the product and the recycling label if available.
A scene from veterans art project supported by Kent County Veterans Services which led to the 2021 Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
The Kent County Board of Commissioners’ Veterans Millage Renewal Subcommittee, led by City of Wyoming’s (District 8) commissioner Dan Burrill, has approved and sent on to other county standing committees the details of a planned August 2022 countywide vote to continue an existing Veterans Millage first passed in 2014.
Since the millage expired in 2021, the millage request would not be a renewal but a “continuation” if approve by voters.
The decision to take the millage request to the voters would eventually need to be approved by the full Board of Commissioners, but there are two county governance standing committees, including the finance committee, which would need to discuss and give approval to first.
The Tuesday, Jan. 18, meeting at the Kent County Administrative Building was the second of the subcommittee. The meetings were open to the public, veterans and non-veterans alike.
Kent County Veterans Service office. (Supplied)
The subcommittee’s two meetings included several local veterans groups as well as the Kent County Veterans Services (KCVS) office and its associated Veterans Services Advisory Committee. The KVCS provides dedicated services to veterans of active United States military service and their dependents, under the direction of manager Martha Burkett, and is substantially funded by the millage, along with an annual Kent County budget contribution.
In November 2014, Kent County voters approved a Dedicated Veterans Millage, an eight year, 0.05 mills tax that, at that time, would raise about $1 million a year and was estimated to cost the owner of a $200,000 home approximately $5 annually, according to the county website.
Due to several factors — including the 1978, voter-approved amendment to the Michigan Constitution which included a number of provisions related to state and local taxes and now commonly known as the Headlee Amendment — the actual tax collection decreased from 0.05 mills to 0.0482 in 2021.
Statewide, 51 of Michigan’s 83 counties posted a millage dedicated to veterans in 2020.
As the COVID pandemic persists, most local venues have returned to hosting live entertainment — but with varying degrees of safety protocols in place for patrons and performers.
St. Cecilia Music Center, one of the more intimate and popular entertainment venues in the Grand Rapids area, offers concerts featuring a considerable array of musical talents and genres as well as a variety of music education programs.
And after a quiet stretch of a year and a half, they returned last fall and have a full schedule this year.
Cathy Holbrook, executive and artistic director of St. Cecilia Music Center, told WKTV that SCMC put COVID protocols in place in the fall of 2021 based on “both CDC guidelines at the time, what artists were requiring and what we, as an organization, felt would protect our audience, staff, crew and artists as best as possible.”
A CDC COVID-19 vaccination card. (CDC)
According to St. Cecilia’s website, “SCMC requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMS venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert … Home tests are not accepted. All patrons are required to wear a mask for the full duration of their time in the building, throughout the concert.”
A recent concert visit by another WKTV writer found the protocol process fairly quick and easy — a quick ID and copy of proof of vaccination from his phone.
Full descriptions of policies and requirements for attendees of St. Cecilia’s concerts can be found on their website, scmc-online.org/.
“The COVID policy we have in place is for all concerts,” said Holbrook. “Most artists are requiring these protocols, but SCMC as a venue has also adopted these for the presenting series concerts so that they do not change from concert to concert and provides the audience a consistent message (of) what is required to attend a concert.”
When asked about the response to SCMC’s requirements, Holbrook said, “While we know that there is no magic formula, we are finding that many people say this policy gave them a comfort level that it was a safe environment to come enjoy live music again.”
Grand Rapids Ballet, another West Michigan entertainment mainstay and modest-sized venue, has also returned to live, in-person performances while implementing COVID protocols in an effort to protect both patrons and performers.
A scene from a previous season work by the Grand Rapids Ballet. (GR Ballet)
“The health and safety of our staff, patrons, and community remain our highest priority,” Jessica Meldrum, marketing director for Grand Rapids Ballet, said. “To create the safest environment possible while attending our performances, we require individuals 12 years old and older to provide proof of fully vaccinated status OR a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of performance. Unvaccinated guests 11 years of age and younger will not be required to provide negative test results. All guests are required to wear a mask covering their mouth and nose while attending performances.
“Our leaders continue monitoring the COVID environment and will update policies, if necessary, adhering to the appropriate procedures as required by local health departments,” she said.
A complete overview of GRB’s safety policies can be found online at grballet.com/safety/.
Larger venues have own policies
Some venues may not have vaccination or face mask requirements but enforce safety protocols and requirements set by the visiting organizations, artists and performers.
Hilarie Carpenter, director of marketing for ASM Global – Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place & DeVos Performance Hall, told WKTV that “some organizers may have requirements in place for their particular event.”
When asked about specific requirements of VanAndel Arena, DeVos Place & DeVos Performance Hall, Carpenter replied, “We are following all protocols as required by the government, public health officials and event organizers. At this time, venues do not have a COVID vaccination/testing or face mask requirement. … Face masks are strongly encouraged for those events that do not require them.”
Carpenter encourages guests to check the event pages for each venue frequently for information on upcoming events and updates as they occur.
Grand Rapids Symphony is one of those local organizations which play at DeVos Performance Hall.
A previous season concert by the Grand Rapids Symphony at the DeVos Performance Hall. (GR Symphony)
Director of Communications for Grand Rapids Symphony Holly Okonoski said, “We have followed the guidelines of the CDC, and health department recommendations. Also, the major users of DeVos Performance Hall came together to agree on a unified set of protocols for consistency and solidarity for our audiences.”
Okonoski said the protocols for each performance are the same across the board, offering consistency for patrons. A complete outline of GR Symphony’s health and safety protocols can be found at grsymphony.org/health-and-safety.
When asked Okonoski what she would like community members to know as they look to Grand Rapids Symphony for artistic entertainment, she said, “We care very much about the health and safety of our patrons, orchestra and staff, and have implemented these safety protocols to help keep live music available for everyone.”
The City of Kentwood’s 62-B District Court announced this week that it has launched On the Road, a new program that encourages individuals with certain license-related charges to obtain a valid license, potentially avoid a criminal conviction, and helping the community have safer roads.
Launched in late 2021, On the Road eliminates hurdles for individuals who have been charged by the city with driving unlicensed or with a suspended, revoked or denied license. The program aims to help community members avoid the repeated suspensions that can result from license-related convictions and keep them from appearing on their permanent criminal record.
This helps drivers avoid Secretary of State penalties as well as the “barriers that criminal convictions can lead to in terms of employment eligibility, housing and education,” according to the announcement.
62-B District Court Judge Amanda Sterkenburg. (Supplied)
“Our goal is to create incentives for people in these situations to become licensed drivers, which will ultimately result in safer roads for our community,” 62-B District Court Judge Amanda Sterkenburg said in supplied material. “Often, we see defendants who are close to getting their license for the first time but are unable to overcome certain licensure hurdles or who are unaware their license is suspended because of an unpaid ticket. The additional charges put more distance between them and valid-license privileges.
“This program gives individuals the opportunity to conform their conduct to the law without a criminal conviction and streamline the process for them to become a licensed driver.”
State law was amended last year to create a presumption that these offenses should not be punished with jail time. Individuals are now frequently required to pay fines and complete community service, which can be difficult for individuals who do not have a driver’s license and another form of transportation.
(Michigan.gov)
Failing to complete the requirements can result in additional penalties including up to 93 days in jail, probation, fines of up to $500 plus court costs, and a misdemeanor conviction on their permanent criminal record.
With On the Road, eligible individuals can avoid this difficult situation and sanctions if they successfully complete the program.
The court’s judge will determine if a person is eligible for the program during arraignment. However, individuals whose driver’s license has been revoked due to drug or alcohol convictions, Friend of the Court, or immigration status may be ineligible.
If an individual does qualify, they must agree to accept responsibility for a civil infraction and pay a fine during a review hearing scheduled up to four months later. Leading up to the review hearing, a person must fulfill obligations to become a licensed driver. This may include paying all tickets, removing all suspensions from their Secretary of State record, paying all fees, completing a defensive driving course and passing their road or written driving test.
For more information about On the Road, visit kentwood.us/OTR or contact Court Administrator Michele White at 616-554-0715 or whitem@kentwood.us.
The City of Kentwood’s Glow in the Park event. (City of Kentwood)
Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department program coordinator Katelyn Bush and one of her Adaptive Recreation participants at 2021 The Vibe event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Everybody bonds over food — at the Kentwood Farmers Market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
The finish line at the City of Kentwood’s Valentine’s Day Dash 5K in 2020. (City of Kentwood)
Dress up is encouraged at 2019’s Trunk or Treat in Kentwood. (Supplied)
The City of Kentwood announced Jan. 25 that it will ask residents in August to consider a permanent dedicated 1 mil millage that, if approved, would support the city’s parks, trails and recreational facilities and programming.
The millage would fund improvements to all trails and parks, as well as expand and enhance programming through increased capacity in space and staffing, according to the announcement. It also would fund the construction of a new multigenerational community recreation center and park amenities on the city campus, “transforming the area around City Hall into a community gathering space.
“Since celebrating Kentwood’s 50th anniversary in 2017, we’ve dedicated significant time and effort planning for the next 50 years of community growth through collaboration with our residents and other partners,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “Available parks and recreation funding has not kept pace with increased residential demand, delaying repairs for the community today and significantly limiting future improvements.
“If approved, this millage would provide a permanent sustainable funding source to improve, operate and maintain parks, trails, and other amenities and services for generations to come.”
The proposed millage of 1 mill was recommended by parks advisory committees that included residents and other stakeholders, as well as extensive community engagement and an in-depth review of the city’s current parks, trails and programming, its projected growth and community needs.
The advisory committees also recommended the city contribute additional funds up to $22 million from other public and private sources to make the needed improvements.
The committees’ comprehensive plan was presented Dec. 7 to the City Commission, which unanimously approved the millage ballot proposal for the Aug. 2 voting day.
Kentwood has 15 parks that cover more than 400 acres and more than 13 miles of non-motorized trails that are used year-round by residents and visitors.
Numerous community events and more than 700 recreational programs are offered annually for people of all ages and abilities through the Parks and Recreation Department in the Kentwood Activities Center at 355 48th St. SE, on the City Campus, and at other locations.
Specific parks and recreation projects
According to the announcement, the proposed millage would support Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades and a variety of other improvements and developments, including (listed by location and projects planned):
Bowen Station Park — Restroom, playground equipment, signage, landscaping and other amenities.
Burgis Park — Trail and sidewalk improvements and a new drinking fountain.
City Campus — Splash pad, playground, plaza, shelters, stage, event lawn, parking, restrooms and other amenities.
Community recreation center — Approximately 50,000 square feet of year-round indoor and multigenerational programming and recreation space on the City Campus.
Covenant Park Phase 1 — Trails, sports fields, event lawn, lighting and infrastructure to support future phases.
East Paris Nature Park — Trail improvements, signage and other amenities.
Home Acres Park —Skate park improvements, shade shelters, lighting, signage, landscaping and other amenities.
Jaycee Park — New restroom/program building, additional parking, disc golf improvements and other amenities.
Kellogg Woods Park — Restrooms, softball/baseball field improvements, new sports fields, lighting and landscaping.
Northeast Park — Restrooms, playground, splash pad, landscaping and other amenities.
Old Farm Park — Parking improvements, playground, shelter and other amenities.
Paris Park — Trail improvements and signage.
Pinewood Park — Splash pad improvements, pickleball courts, a new restroom, shade shelters, landscaping and other amenities.
Rondo Street Station Park — Playground, bicycle rack and repair center, signage, landscaping and other amenities.
Stanaback Park —Playground, parking improvements, signage, pickleball courts, landscaping and other amenities.
Stauffer Station Park — Kiosk, bicycle rack and repair center, signage, lighting, landscaping and other amenities.
Summerwood Park — Playground and landscaping.
Trails — Repairs, replacement and new connections.
Veterans Memorial Park — Shelter, additional parking and other amenities.
“Our extensive community engagement and planning process has shown our community needs have grown beyond available funding,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “This has been reaffirmed by increased use of our parks, trails and recreational offerings throughout the past two years.
“The Parks and Recreation Department has exhausted current general funds, including a parks millage that expired in 2013. We have been able to make improvements only through grant opportunities, which are becoming more and more difficult to acquire. New funding is critical to support our growing community needs.”
Details of timeline, millage
If approved, the millage would be levied starting July 1, 2023, with all parks set to receive improvements to address the most immediate needs within the first five years, with all remaining improvements completed within 10 years, according to the announcement.
Trail improvements and construction planning would be prioritized in the first year, followed by ongoing trail repairs and expansion to enhance the trails for all users.
Construction of the City Campus park amenities and community recreation center would begin in the second year.
As detailed in the city’s announcement, a mill is 1/1000 of a dollar, or .001 cents. If a tax rate or millage rate is 1 mill, a resident is taxed .001 cents for every dollar, or $1 per $1,000 of the taxable value of the property. For example, for a residential home with a taxable value of $100,000, the cost of 1 mill would be $100 per year.
Highlighting lesser known works of Winslow Homer — one of the most significant American artists of the 19th Century — the Muskegon Museum of Art opened a new exhibition, “Winslow Homer: Illustrating a Nation”, last week and it will be on display through March 20.
Homer was famed for his dramatic depictions of people and nature, as well as his illustrations of day-to-day life, including the battles of the Civil War which were published in Harper’s Weekly, a New York City based illustrated magazine that extensively covered the American Civil War.
The exhibition features several of Homer’s best known images from the era, including “The Noon Recess”, “Snap the Whip”, “A Sharpshooter on Picket Duty”, and “The Dinner Horn” — a companion image to the MMA’s oil painting “Answering the Horn”. Other works in the exhibition depict illustrations of leisure, work, and the everyday lives of people, as well as dramatic scenes and circumstances.
In 1861, Harper’s Weekly assigned Homer to illustrate the events of the Civil War, which brought his work to the forefront of the nation. Homer captured the day-to-day events of the war, illustrating battles, soldiers in conflict and at rest, and the effects of the war on the families at home. Today, the Harper’s Weekly illustrations serve as a direct record of the events of the Civil War.
The Muskegon Museum of Art is located at 296 W. Webster Ave. For more information visit muskegonartmuseum.org.
The Chamber Music Society (CMS) of Lincoln Center musicians scheduled to perform include, clockwise from top left, co-Artistic Director and pianist Wu Han, violinist Aaron Boyd, violinist Danbi Um, violist Paul Neubauer, violist Timothy Riout and cellist Sihao He. (Supplied)
St. Cecilia Music Center is celebrating 10 seasons of partnership with Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and local chamber music fans will likely be celebrating Jan. 27 as the series’ second concert of the 2021-22 season, “Romantic Perspectives” will feature music of Brahms, Mahler, Dvorak, and Franck.
The Chamber Music Society (CMS) of Lincoln Center musicians scheduled to perform include co-Artistic Director and pianist Wu Han, violinist Aaron Boyd, violinist Danbi Um, violist Paul Neubauer, violist Timothy Riout and cellist Sihao He.
Wu Han and other members of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will be in concert at St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied/Lisa-marie Mazzucco)
“To hear the exquisite blend of six outstanding Chamber Music musicians performing the works of Brahms, Mahler, Dvorak and Franck will be a captivating highlight of this monumental season,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center (SCMC) executive and artistic director, said in supplied material.
The final concert of the St. Cecilia chamber music series will be March 31 and will feature George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”, as well as music by Maurice Ravel, Darius Milhaud, and Wynton Marsalis.
Tickets for CMS of Lincoln Center concerts can be purchased online at scmc-online.org or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224.
‘Romantic Perspectives’ background and program
The Romantic movement in classical music blossomed across Europe during the 19th Century, as stated in supplied material, and was “fueled by the vision of Beethoven, the poetry of Schubert, and the hyper-emotionalism of Schumann, composers tapped their inner selves, often deeply inspired by their native cultures.”
Johannes Brahms, declared to be the heir to the mantle of Beethoven, adhered to the discipline of the classical age, yet, few have ever composed more romantically and with such passion. Gustav Mahler, whose symphonies expanded music’s horizon by leaps and bounds, penned his only work of chamber music, an achingly beautiful movement, as an idealistic student.
And César Franck, the lion of French romantic composers, brought all his sensuousness and seriousness to this epic quintet, one of the literature’s most cherished masterpieces.
The program includes:
Johannes Brahms (1833 – 1897), Scherzo, WoO 2, from “F-A-E” Sonata for Violin and Piano (1853).
Gustav Mahler (1860 – 1911), Quartet in A minor for Piano, Violin, Viola, and Cello (1876)
Antonin Dvorak (1841 – 1904), Quintet in A minor for Two Violins, Two Violas, and Cello, Op. 1 (1861)
Cesar Franck (1822 – 1890), Quintet in F minor for Piano, Two Violins, Viola, and Cello (1879)
SCMC special pandemic precautions
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 72 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. Home tests are not accepted. All patrons will be required to wear a mask while in the building for the duration of the concert.
All ticket holders will be notified if mandatory mask requirements are in effect for a particular show by an artist. If you a 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 complete information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit scmc-online.org.
In World War I women were accepted into the Navy to serve in limited roles, such as the nurses depicted on this poster engaged in the rehabilitation of returnees.(Poster by unknown artist, circa 1925. Supplied)
The Naval Reserve Act of 1916 lead to formal permission to begin enlisting women in mid-March 1917, shortly before the United States entered the “Great War.” (Oil painting by Anne Fuller Abbott, 1925. Supplied)
One of the most prolific and well-recognized artists to contribute to the Navy’s recruitment campaign, especially the recruitment of WAVES, John Philip Falter created over 300 designs for Naval recruitment posters during WW II.(Oil painting for poster, by John Philip Falter, circa 1943. Supplied)
The single stripe on this WAVE’s shoulder signifies that she is an Ensign. To meet wartime needs, some members of the Hospital Corps in the enlisted ratings were appointed to the commissioned ranks of Ensign, Lieutenant (Junior grade), and Lieutenant for temporary service. (Oil painting for poster by John Philip Falter, circa 1944. Supplied)
This painting serves to depict the introduction of women to sea duty aboard ships in the US Navy. Before this only nurses had served on ships at sea. The first women to come aboard USS Sanctuary (AH-17) where line officer Lt. (Junior grade) Ann E Kerr and the first enlisted PN3 Peggy Sue Griffith. (Oil painting by George Gibson, Jr., 1973. Supplied)
Upon returning from harrowing service in the Philippines at Bataan and an evacuation from Corregidor on USS Spearfish (SS-190), Lt. (Junior grade) Ann Bernatitus of the Nurse Corps, received a hero’s welcome from her hometown in Pennsylvania, complete with parade and dinner at the local high school. (Oil painting on Canvas by Albert K. Murray, 1942. Supplied)
Capt. Joan Bynum, the Navy’s first African-American female captain, achieved that rank in 1979 in the Nurse Corps. (Pencil drawing by (enlisted petty officer) DM1 Erick Marshall Murray, 1997. Supplied)
About 37,000 American women took part in the Persian Gulf War, the largest deployment of women in history. Ten percent of these women were Navy personnel. They served on support ships — ammunition, supply, tenders, and oilers — and in Military Sealift and Combat Logistics Force vessels. Others were in helicopter combat support squadrons, construction battalions, and in a cargo-handling and port unit at Bahrain. (Oil painting by John Charles Roach, 1991. Supplied)
Seabee Power. (Oil painting by Morgan Ian Wilbur, 2016. Supplied)
Women have served in a variety of roles, and worn a variety of uniforms, in the U.S. Navy — from sailors to admirals, from Yeomen to aviators; in peacetime and in harm’s way.
And they, too, deserve a salute of honor and gratitude. President Gerald Ford, a Navy man himself, knew that fact.
“For my part, I will do everything I can to see that our service men and women continue to receive the recognition and respect that is their due,” President Ford said in 1975. “They have earned it.”
Working with the Naval History and Heritage Command, and the Naval Art Gallery, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum will open a new exhibit “Women in Uniform” Jan. 24, and public is able to visit the museum in-person with some pandemic protocols.
The exhibit, which will run through May 6, will open with a Jan. 24, 7 p.m., Zoom event featuring Rear Admiral (retired) Samuel J. Cox, Director of Naval History and Heritage Command, and his colleague, Gale Munro, Curator of the Naval Art Gallery. The two will present a program giving a brief history of the role women played in naval history and also give background on selected works from the exhibition.
(Public registration for the Zoom is available on the Ford Museum’s website at fordlibrarymuseum.gov.)
In peace and in war
The “Women in Uniform” exhibition showcases rarely displayed art from the Naval History and Heritage Command’s collection.
Women have had a continuous, and growing presence, in uniform throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, as stated in exhibit material. Whenever international or domestic events dictated the need, the Navy expanded its opportunities for women to serve.
These artworks demonstrate the wide-ranging and varied occupations women have held as they continue to push the boundaries of prospects available to them.
From a Yeoman in World War I to an aviator, from a sailor to an admiral, this exhibition features works of art that depict female Navy military personnel.
The first large-scale employment of women as Naval personnel took place to meet the severe clerical shortages of the World War I era. The Naval Reserve Act of 1916 had conspicuously omitted mention of gender as a condition for service, leading to formal permission to begin enlisting women in mid-March 1917, shortly before the United States entered the “Great War”. Nearly 600 female Yeomen were on duty by the end of April 1917, a number that had grown to over 11,000 in December 1918, shortly after the Armistice.
In years of peace, and wars — including World War II — women continued to enlist and serve in the Navy, including up to the 2000s.
About 37,000 American women took part in the Persian Gulf War, the largest deployment of women in history. Ten percent of these women were Navy personnel. They served on support ships — ammunition, supply, tenders, and oilers — and in Military Sealift and Combat Logistics Force vessels. Others were in helicopter combat support squadrons, construction battalions, and in a cargo-handling and port unit at Bahrain.
While the exhibit is open to the public, in-person, tickets must be purchased in advance, online. The museum’s COVID pandemic health and safety protocols are listed on the museum’s website.
Encountering email and phone scams has become a common nuisance in recent years, even more so as we become more online- and internet-focused as a culture. It is not unusual for consumers to discover a fraudulent email in their personal and business accounts every day as scam artists attempt to cheat them out of money or information.
When this WKTV writer was asked to research an article on prevalent scams in the community, I was suddenly inundated with stories of those who had become victims of scams. Some escaped unscathed, others did not.
WKTV recognizes the importance of community members being aware of current scams so they can protect themselves against becoming victims, and has compiled several personal narratives, from this writer as well as other residents, to raise that awareness. (Names have been changed to protect the victim’s identity.)
Seeing red flags in emails
Within the space of a few days, my personal email account received a message with the heading, “Happy New Year – Your Order ID#740217.” It did not specify what company I supposedly ordered from, but did contain the message, “This message is from a trusted sender.” The body of the email contained two links. One labeled, “You have won!! Gift inside.” The other, “Go Here.”
It immediately raised red flags as I didn’t remember ordering anything recently, and the email didn’t specify the sender. The line about it being from a trusted sender, however, made me pause for just a moment and consider that it might be legitimate — and that is what scammers are hoping for.
(Michigan Attorney General)
Next came an email titled: “Re: (smiling emoji) Your Package delivery notification ID#87946477.” Supposedly, this email was sent by USPS. However, I couldn’t see the United States Postal Service using emojis in their emails, and when I noticed that the email address the message originated from was indecipherable, it became obvious that it was a scam.
Some are harder to discern. The next email seemed to legitimately come from Best Buy, an electronics retailer. The sender was listed as Bestbuy.com, which made sense. The heading was: “Your Order #502-20201222—is still awaiting instructions!” It then instructed me to track the status of the order by clicking on the link offered.
There weren’t any misspellings or emojis to make me think twice about the validity of the sender. What did make me think twice was that I hadn’t ordered anything from Best Buy in years.
After a closer look at the email — which looked alarmingly similar to many invoices received from other online orders placed — I noticed that listed under Order Details was another listing of an order number. This one, however, contained a lowercase ‘n’ and then the degree symbol before listing the number, and ended with a right parenthesis. Those small mistakes reassured me that the email was a scam. A company as large as Best Buy would make sure those mistakes were nonexistent.
Another email appeared to be from a friend, but the sender’s email address did not match her true email address. Another claimed to be from Quicken Loans Affiliate attempting to confirm my mortgage savings package (I neither have a mortgage nor have ever used Quicken Loans) but the email address was a random jumble of letters and numbers, not a legitimate address.
Other stories, other scam attempts
We have all received emails that make us think, “Is this legitimate?” What we need to do is slow down and take a closer look before assuming they are real and clicking on links.
While scam artists use email more often than phone calls due to the online nature of our culture, phone calls are still prevalent, especially for elderly community members who may not be quite as media oriented.
Attempting to sell a SLR camera body on Marketplace, Denise was asked if she could chat to an interested buyer via Messenger audio. She agreed and was then asked to ship the camera directly to the buyer’s brother because it was a birthday gift. She was willing to do so. The buyer then asked if she would include a birthday card and a $50 gift card since it would be shipped directly to his brother, and he would not have the opportunity to do so himself; he would then reimburse her for the camera, shipping, and gift card once she showed proof of shipping.
Alarm bells went off in Denise’s head.
The buyer was insistent and talked fast, so she pretended to agree to do as he asked so she could bring the call to an end. When the call finished and Denise had time to organize her thoughts, she realized she would have lost the camera, shipping, and $50 if she had gone along with the man’s request.
Scam artists prey on their victim’s emotions and promote a sense of urgency that is hard to ignore when someone believes a family member is in trouble.
Molly’s father-in-law received a garbled call: “Grandpa, I’m in Atlanta, was in an accident and broke my jaw. I was arrested for being drunk but hadn’t had a drop … will you wire me money for my bail and attorney?”
Thankfully, Molly’s father-in-law suspected fraud and instructed the caller to phone his father, then called Molly and asked her to check with her son to make sure it was fraud and that his grandson truly did not need help.
It was fraudulent.
Amy’s elderly parents experienced the same call and “made it all the way to the bank, where the employee stopped them and explained that they must not make that withdrawal. We figured out that my nephew’s phone had been hacked. He was out of the country on a trip at the time.”
Mark received what appeared to be a legitimate phone call from a scammer who claimed to be from his bank, warning him that a scammer had tried to break into his account.
They asked him to verify his information to make sure everything was okay. The scammers listed his address and phone number (all easily accessed public information) and asked if it was correct. When he replied that it was, they asked, “And I have your social security number on my screen, can you verify that for me, please?” Once the Mark recited his social security number, the scammer said, “Yes, that’s right.”
The victim had just given enough information for the scammers to steal his identity and/or open various accounts in the victim’s name.
“They (the scammers) say it so casually that the victim often doesn’t realize they’ve just given away a vital piece of information to the victim; it almost sounds like the scammer supplied all of their info,” Mark said.
Marci relayed an experience of an elderly woman who received a call that her taxes were late, and her house would be foreclosed on if she didn’t wire funds within the hour. Fearing that she would become homeless, “the woman called a cab and told the driver why she had to hurry. He took her instead to the police department.”
The police handled the matter, and the woman did not lose any money.
What to do, where to for for help
Katie Grevious, Better Business Bureau Communications Specialist, urges residents to slow down and “think before you act.”
Even if you feel a sense of urgency or fear as a result of an email or phone call like the ones listed above, step back, take a deep breath, and search for those clues that will help you know if the message you received is, in fact, legitimate.
If you are unsure of the best way to identify if a message is a scam, visit Better Business Bureau’s website for tips on how to differentiate between authentic and fraudulent communications.
Please report scams to BBB’s scamtracker site: https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker. This allows consumers to know what is happening and protect themselves. It also helps law enforcement and other government agencies like BBB to root out the source of the scam and put a stop to it.
Every day online users are bombarded with real — and scam — communications. The trick to keeping your money and personal information is knowing the difference. (Pixere.com)
With email and phone scams on the rise in an ever-increasing online and media culture, local law enforcement and government agencies are working to educate consumers on current scams and how to protect themselves from becoming victims.
Phishing, defined as the fraudulent practice of sending messages designed to trick individuals into revealing personal information, has become one of the main conduits for fraud.
Katie Grevious, Better Business Bureau Communications Specialist, told WKTV that falling victim to a scam has become more difficult to avoid as “scammers are becoming more crafty and creative.” Grevious said that scammers use fear and a sense of urgency to prompt consumers into following their directives: “It is an emotional situation. Something is wrong, something bad is going to happen — that’s what gets people.”
The ongoing pandemic has also played a role in increasing the phishing strategy, with emails offering grants to those out of work and in need of money. In a more general sense, an increasing number of consumers have begun shopping online, providing ample opportunities for scam artists to create situations that involve an emotional response of fear and urgency.
“We don’t see it really slowing down as the pandemic continues and we become more online and internet focused,” Grevious said.
An online scam could also be as simple as clicking on a link to track an order. Scam artists often use the names of larger corporations, such as Amazon, to send emails offering a link to track an order that the consumer may not remember placing.
Grevious urges consumers to hover their computer mouse over the link, which will reveal a bar that states where it will actually take you, and even hover over the sender’s name to see the email address associated with that email. If it is a jumble of letters and numbers instead of, for example, Amazon.com, it is not legitimate. Also look at the browser — if there is a lock symbol and “https” listed there, it means it is a secure and authentic site.
“It is really important that people are vigilant all the time,” said Grevious. “Look for simple grammar and spelling mistakes. Big companies make sure everything is spelled correctly.”
Slowing down is also key to ensuring consumers don’t miss something important.
(Pixere.com)
“Think before you act,” Grevious said. “Our culture has a quick-go pace. We do a lot on our phones, so we don’t do that double-checking and hovering.”
Det. Andrew Tompkins of the Kent County Sherriff’s Office and member of the Metropolitan Fraud and Identity Theft Team agrees: “Good practice is that if you didn’t order anything or didn’t sign up for something, then it’s most likely a scam.”
Grevious also urges consumers to avoid emails that tell you to re-log into another account you may have, such as Facebook, and offer a link to do so in order to complete the instructions given. These are often ploys that will reveal your password to the sender.
“People may think it’s not important if their Facebook or Instagram account gets hacked,” said Grevious, “but a lot of people have a lot of similar passwords because it’s too hard to remember 200 different passwords to everything. Your Facebook password may offer a clue on how to get into more important accounts — like bank accounts.”
Preying on pet, gift card buyers
In 2021, one of the most common phishing scams involved buying pets online.
“People tried to buy pets online because of the pandemic,” Grevious said. “They pay for the pet through payment apps and then find out it’s a scam. The scammers will often use a random address on the website they create, so people assume it’s real. Then they show up at that address to get their animal and it’s not there.”
Buying pets online is also a place to be aware of possible cams. (Kent County District Court historic photo)
Grevious advises seeing the animal you are interested in purchasing in person beforehand, even if it involves traveling. “Legitimate businesses want to know you are a good fit for their animal. They want to see you in person.”
While email scams have become increasingly common, scams involving phone calls are still prevalent and used often in attempts to illicit money from victims.
Det. Tompkins said that one of the most common scams involves cold calls targeting people to send gift cards, claiming they are from various government agencies and that they have a warrant for the arrest of the consumer unless he/she pays to absolve the issue.
“Government agenc(ies) will never ask for gift cards to get you out of legal trouble,” Det. Tompkins said. “No legitimate business is going to ask for gift cards for services.”
Summer and winter have revealed an upward trend in scams as air conditioning and heat are turned on in homes.
“If you pay your electric bill online, and someone calls you saying they are from Consumers Energy and ask you to confirm personal information,” Grevious said, “say you will call them back and call the company from a number you know, like the number provided on the bill.”
Det. Tompkins had similar advice: “Do not give personal information or identifying information out. Don’t call the number that a person provides you over the phone, search the number for that business to call and confirm this is a real interaction.”
Some scams, however, play on the familiar. Det. Tompkins warns residents, especially the elderly, to be careful of scammers who call claiming to be family. “Scammers call elderly pretending to be their grandkids saying they were arrested and need to send money.”
When asked the standard amount lost by individual victims of scams, he said, “The typical amount of loss is under $1,000. But if the scammers target business or subject(s) that are wealthy, then the loss is in the several thousands.”
Grevious reminds consumers to remember that, “you are in control of your information and who you are talking to. Think before you act.”
Consumers are also urged to speak up if they become victims of a scam.
“The more people let us know what is happening, the more we can help,” said Grevious.
Kentwood’s 62-B court’s touch-screen kiosk, among other uses, allows individuals to check-in for court remotely and receive a text message when it is their turn to enter the courtroom. (Supplied)
The City of Kentwood has announced that the city’s 62-B District Court is now offering a new — and innovative — service kiosk to “maintain public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide better access to court services.”
The touch-screen kiosk is the first of its kind in Kent County that allows individuals to check-in for court remotely and receive a text message when it is their turn to enter the courtroom, according to the announcement.
Individuals can make payments online by scanning the QR code located on signage in front of the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE. (Supplied)
Individuals can also visit the kiosk during business hours, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday, to make payments or place court documents in a secure drop box.
Additionally, individuals can make payments online by visiting here or scanning the QR code located on signage in front of the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE.
“We are proud to be the first court in the county to offer this safe, innovative and convenient option for the community,” 62-B District Court Judge Amanda Sterkenburg said in supplied material. “The kiosk allows individuals to safely conduct business with the court, which is particularly important during the current surge of the COVID-19 pandemic, and reduces time spent waiting in line or going through security protocols to enter the facility.”
In addition to English, the kiosk’s software offers five other languages to serve the diverse Kentwood community: Arabic, Chinese (simplified), Kinyarwanda, Korean and Spanish.
The system has been operational since late December 2021 and was purchased by the court using federal pandemic support Cares Act funds.
According to the announcement, “The 62-B District Court strives to earn the public’s trust and confidence by providing a fair and just forum for the resolution of civil and criminal disputes, providing services in a professional, timely and efficient manner with respect and courtesy, educating and providing services in an understandable and user-friendly fashion, being accountable for the resources invested in the court and recognizing the changing needs of the judicial system and the people it serves.”
For more information on the new system contact Court Administrator Michele White at 616-554-0715 or whitem@kentwood.us.
The Kent County Health Department, responding to the month of January being National Radon Action Month, have a supply free radon test kits available to residents … while supplies last. (Supplied)
The Kent County Health Department recently announced that during the month of January — National Radon Action Month — county residents can gain free radon test kits while supplies last. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is leading month-long the public information effort.
“You cannot see, smell, or taste radon but the radioactive gas can kill,” the county announcement stated. “Next to smoking, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.”
Radon-caused lung cancer kills more than 20,000 Americans every year, according to the U.S. Surgeon General.
“Testing for radon is an easy and important step in protecting the health of your family,” Rusty Flewilling, Supervising Sanitarian with the Kent County Health Department (KCHD). said in supplied material. “The kit is easy to use. Simply hang a filter inside your house for a few days, then send it in a self-addressed, pre-stamped envelope for testing.”
The KCHD recommends that all homes be tested for radon every few years. Testing kits are available Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the KCHD’s main clinic location at 700 Fuller Avenue NE, Grand Rapids.
Test results will be sent to residents and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. People can use the information when deciding on how best to pursue remediation, and the State gains a better understanding of the prevalence of radon in Michigan.
For help understanding the test results, residents should contact the KCHD Environmental Health Division at 616-632-6900.
Radon occurs naturally in the ground and seeps into buildings through cracks or openings in the foundation of floors and walls. It occurs in both new and old homes. The EPA and the U.S. Geological Survey have developed a map of risk zones for the United States which can be viewed by clicking here. Kent County is typically categorized as having a moderate to high levels of radon.
The KCHD podcast “A Matter of Public Health” recorded two episodes dedicated to educating people about the issue. In the first episode, residents will learn what radon is, how prevalent it is in Michigan, and how often testing should be done in homes.
In the second episode, the discussion focuses on how to get rid of the radon, how to select a contractor, and how to avoid getting ripped off by unscrupulous contractors. Guests include KCHD subject matter experts, Michigan’s top radon expert, the President of the National Radon Safety Board, and the Better Business Bureau of West Michigan.
Jan. 12 Update: The City of Kentwood has announced that due to the frigid temperatures forecasted for this weekend, the City “has just made the difficult decision to postpone the Unity Walk planned for this Saturday.” Details of the rescheduled event will be announced once finalized.
In celebration and remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday Jan. 17, the City of Kentwood will host several events in honor of MLK on Saturday, Jan. 15, including a unity walk, a proclamation, live music, coffee and cake, and a community service effort to stock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry — which began in 2017 as a Martin Luther King Jr. Day community service project.
A painting at the Kent County Administration Office unveiled in 2018. (WKTV)
Residents of all ages are invited to gather in front of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE, at 9 a.m. for a 1-mile walk. The walk will end at Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma Ave. SE, according to a statement from the City of Kentwood.
An indoor ceremony will follow, including a proclamation that will be presented by various community members, live music, coffee and cake. The event is free and open to the public.
Canned goods and other non-perishable items will be accepted at the event to stock Little Free Pantry, for which the City of Kentwood continues to host food drives to keep the pantry well-stocked.
“We look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “We will walk in remembrance of his historic contributions leading the civil rights movement bringing needed changes to our nation and in reflection of what we all can do to honor his values today and every day.
The City of Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)
“The event also continues our MLK Day community service tradition of stocking Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry to support our neighbors in need. All are invited to join us.”
Kentwood’s first Little Free Pantry opened in 2017 at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, where it remains available year-round during business hours. The second Little Free Pantry was opened last year at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch for the community to visit during library hours.
Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry. More information, including a list of suggested donations, is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
The opening of the Kent County Department of Public Works’ Grand Rapids administrative offices, including a SafeChem Swap Shop, on Wealthy Street Jan. 6. Addressing the crowd were, from left at podium, were Cynthia Janes, vice-chair of the Board of Public Works; Emily Brieve, Kent County commissioner; and Dar Baas, DPW director. (Supplied)
Operating by the often-used “3-Rs” recycling slogan of “reduce, reuse, recycle”, Kent County Department of Public Works opened its new Grand Rapids administrative offices on Wealthy Street Jan. 6 — a facility that also includes a soon-to-open recycling center, an education center, an electronics drop-off station and not only a SafeChem drop-of station but also a “SafeChem Swap Shop”.
Maybe it should be 4-Rs, with “reimagine” added to the slogan.
Continuing its efforts exemplified by its slogan “Reimagine Trash”, with the county’s Department of Public Works (DPW) website actually being reimaginetrash.org, Kent County officials and DPW leaders held a facility ribbon cutting Jan. 6 to officially open the facility, with its returning and new offerings.
“The new administration center brings our team together and makes it easier for the community to connect with our department and services,” Dar Baas, DPW director, said in supplied material. “The facilities are designed to foster collaboration.”
And that collaboration is exemplified by the new dual SafeChem operations.
The Kent County Department of Public Works SafeChem Swap Shop includes dropped off cleaning chemicals still good for use — and free pickup by the community. (Supplied)
“The SafeChem Drop-off station and Swap Shop are a real asset for our community,” Baas said. “Not only do they keep hazardous materials out of area landfills and the environment, they also provide people free products to avoid them being discarded in the first place.”
The “drop and shop” operation is offered all five of the county-managed chemical drop-off locations, including ones in the Kentwood and Wyoming area.
The Wealthy Street Recycling and Administration Center located at 1045 Wealthy St. SW, adjacent to the Recycling and Education Facility, the SafeChem Drop-off station, SafeChem Swap Shop and electronics recycling services. The DPW offices were previously co-located with the Kent County Road Commission on Scribner Avenue and the property was sold in 2021.
All of Kent County’s SafeChem stations — there are several, with varying days and hours, including one each in the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming — allow residents to drop off household waste like cleaners, garden or garage products. The Wealthy Street location also includes a Swap Shop where products that are in good condition can be offered at no cost.
(The reopening the residential recycling drop-off station on Wealthy Street, which has been closed during construction, will be announced soon on reimaginetrash.org, according to a DPQ statement.)
For more information on the DPW’s SafeChem program, visit here.
Also opening last week, on Jan. 8, at the Wealthy Street location, was its electronics drop-off station, planned to be open for drop-off during the same year-round operational hours as our SafeChem household hazardous waste drop-off and SafeChem Swap Shop. (For more information on the list of electronics accepted for recycling at DPW facilities, as well as other local electronics recycling locations, visit here.)
Kentwood, Wyoming, Byron SafeChem site information
According to the Kent County DPW website, the Kentwood location is 5068 Breton SE, Kentwood, with days and hours November-March, Tuesdays, 2:30-4:30 p.m., and April-October, Tuesdays, 1:30-5:30 p.m.
The Kent County Department of Public Works SafeChem Swap Shop includes dropped off automotive chemicals still good for use — and free pickup by the community. (Supplied)
The Kentwood SafeChem site remained open after the closure of the city’s satellite recycling-drop off.
“A special thank you to City of Kentwood for their partnership,” the DPW website states. “We’re grateful to the City of Kentwood for hosting this SafeChem collection site.”
The Wyoming area location is 2350 Ivanrest Ave. SW, Grandville, with it open Mondays, 1-3 p.m., and Thursdays 7-9 a.m.
“A special thank you to City of Wyoming for their partnership,” the DPW website states. “We’re grateful to the City of Wyoming for not only hosting this SafeChem collection site but for staffing the SafeChem collections.”
The Byron Center location is 10300 South Kent Dr. SW, with its days and hours being November-March, Mondays, 8:30-10:30 a.m., and April-October, Mondays, 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Joshua Redman has a long list of impressive credentials on his musician resume, including being nominated for eight GRAMMY awards. But before that he had an equally impressive educational resume, including being a 1991 graduate from Harvard College after which he was accepted to Yale Law School.
But anybody who has seen him on stage, blowing his saxophone and conversing with the crowd, over the years of his now 30+ year career of playing, recording and writing music, knows he is a jazz man thorough and through.
If you already know, or are yet to find out, local jazz fans will undoubtedly get proof positive Jan. 22 on St. Cecilia ’s Royce Auditorium Stage when Redman and his trio lead off St. Cecilia Music Center’s Jazz Series as the first of three concerts in January, March and April.
And, least we forget, St. Cecilia will also debut Winterfest, a three-day winter jazz festival featuring host Christian McBride “and Friends” Feb. 24-26.
Joshua Redman Quartet (Supplied)
“We are so excited to launch four months of great jazz performances this year beginning with Joshua Redman,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive and artistic director, said in supplied material. “Joshua is one of the most talented and sought-after jazz performers around. Along with a prolific body of celebrated recordings over 25 years, Redman has worked with countless jazz contemporaries as a follow performer and bandleader.”
With the concert set to start at 7:30 p.m., tickets for Redman and his band can be purchased online at scmc-online.org or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center (SCMC) at 616-459-2224.
In addition to Redman, the SCMC Jazz Series includes Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap on March 10, and Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra on April 14. The first-ever WinterFest jazz program – three consecutive nights of jazz — will be hosted by GRAMMY-winning jazz bassist Christian McBride and feature the Christian McBride Trio, singer Cyrille Aimee, fellow bassist Edgar Meyer, and McBride’s legendary quintet Inside Straight.
Redman and his musical journey
Jazz fans can be a little prickly when it comes to their definition of the musical genre, but a supplied quote from JamBase does have a point when they say “When the conversation ensues about who is carrying on the great tradition of jazz musicianship today … if Joshua Redman’s name does not come up, the conversation is not worth having.”
The innovative saxophonist has made believers of critics and fans alike with his live performances and acclaimed recordings. One of his many-faceted musical ventures, The Joshua Redman Quartet, released an album titled “Come What May” in 2019. But his list of jazz collaborations over the years include ones ranging from McCoy Tyner to Brad Mehldau.
Joshua Redman, from a 2019 concert. (Supplied/Lisa Siciliano)
And the members for the original Joshua Redman Quartet are like a who’s who of the genre — Redman saxophone), Brad Mehldau on piano), Christian McBride on bass, and Brian Blade on drums —a group reunited to release the Grammy-nominated album “RoundAgain” in July 2020.
The son of legendary saxophonist Dewey Redman and dancer Renee Shedroff. Joshua Redman was exposed at an early age by his parents to many genres of music — the story goes — jazz, classical, rock, soul, Indian, Indonesian, Middle Eastern, and African. He was also introduced to a variety of instruments: recorder, piano, guitar, gatham and gamelan. (I had to look those last two up too … they are south Indian and Indonesian percussion instruments.)
After starting off playing clarinet at nine years old, Redman switched to what is his primary instrument, the tenor saxophone. So, of course, his stated early influences were John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, Cannonball Adderley and his father. But, the story goes, academics were always his priority and he never seriously considered becoming a professional musician until he graduated from Harvard and followed some musician friends to New York City in the 1990s.
Things just sort of rolled on from there.
He began jamming and gigging regularly with some of the leading jazz musicians of his generation — Roy Hargrove, to name just one — and five months after moving to New York, Redman was named the winner of the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition.
And things just sort of rolled on from there. Lucky us.
In addition to his own projects, Redman has recorded and performed with musicians as diverse as such as Chick Corea and The Dave Matthews Band, Quincy Jones and The Rolling Stones. And along the way he wrote and performed the music for Louis Malle’s final film “Vanya on 42nd Street “ and is both seen and heard in the Robert Altman film “Kansas City”.
SCMC special pandemic precautions
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 72 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. Home tests are not accepted. All patrons will be required to wear a mask while in the building for the duration of the concert.
All ticket holders will be notified if mandatory mask requirements are in effect for a particular show by an artist. If you a 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 complete information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit scmc-online.org.
Kent County veterans are served by many groups, including the Kent County Veterans Services and Michigan Veterans Homes at Grand Rapids. (Michigan Veterans Homes)
The Kent County Board of Commissioners’ Veterans Millage Renewal Subcommittee, led by City of Wyoming’s (District 8) commissioner Dan Burrill, held an initial meeting in December to discuss and begin action on a planned August 2022 countywide vote on the renewal of an existing Veterans Millage first passed in 2014.
The meeting included several local veterans groups but was focused on the work of the Kent County Veterans Services (KCVS) office and its associated Veterans Services Advisory Committee. The KVCS provides dedicated services to veterans of active United States military service and their dependents, with a current staff of nine full- or part-time employees under the direction of manager Martha Burkett and including six veterans who provide direct service and a contract Veteran Support Coordinator who is also a veteran.
A second meeting of the group was set for will be Tuesday, Jan. 18, from 1-3 p.m., in room 311 of the Kent County Administrative Building, downtown Grand Rapids, at 300 Monroe Avenue NW. (and not at the KCVS building on Fuller Avenue).
The meetings are open to the public, veterans and non-veterans alike, according to supplied material.
The decision to take the renewal request to the voters would eventually need to be approved by the Board of Commissioners.
In November 2014, Kent County voters approved a Dedicated Veterans Millage, an eight year, 0.05 mills tax that, at that time, would raise about $1 million a year and was estimated to cost the owner of a $200,000 home approximately $5 annually, according to the county website.
Due to several factors — including the 1978, voter-approved amendment to the Michigan Constitution which included a number of provisions related to state and local taxes and now commonly known as the Headlee Amendment — the actual tax collection decreased from 0.05 mills to 0.0482 in 2021.
Statewide, 51 of Michigan’s 83 counties posted a millage dedicated to veterans in 2020.
As the outgoing chair of the Kent County Board of Commissioners looked back on a list of the county’s 2021 accomplishments — not the least of which was being a key partner in the West Michigan’s efforts to battle the pandemic — the board selected new leaders to begin 2022.
The Board of Commissioners unanimously selected Stan Stek (District 6) as chair and Emily Brieve (District 10) as vice-chair during a Monday, Jan. 3, organizational meeting. Stek, who had served as vice-chair, takes over as chair from Mandy Bolter.
As incoming vice-chair, Brieve will lead the Legislative and Human Services Committee. Commissioner Diane Jones (District 4) will continue to serve in her role as chair of the Finance and Physical Resources Committee.
Kent County Board of Commissioner Chair Stan Stek. (Supplied)
“It is truly an honor to be chosen to lead this Board,” Stek said in supply material. “I look forward to working together to maintain our strong fiscal position, improve residents’ quality of life, enhance the overall delivery of services, and ensure continued economic growth for the region.”
And, in a statement from the county detailing some of the board’s 2021 accomplishments, the wide-ranging duties and efforts of the county board were detailed.
Financially, the board late last year approved a balanced 2022 budget of $527 million, including $454.8 million for operating expenditures, of which $16.7 million will be capital improvements. It also maintained maintained its dual AAA bond rating from S&P Global and Moody’s Investors Service — for the 23rd consecutive year.
The county also was a key player in the local effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and to distribute federal funds meant to do the same.
The West Michigan Vaccine Clinic, created in response to the need to vaccinate as many people as possible, saw Kent County, Mercy Health Saint Mary’s, and Spectrum Health develop one of the largest vaccination clinics in the country at DeVos Place — with more than 231,000 COVID-19 vaccinations administered between January and May 2021.
In addition, the county Health Department added three new mobile health units in 2021. These self- contained mobile health facilities have been used extensively to target vulnerable populations in the administration of COVID-19 and other vaccinations, HIV testing, and community outreach. To date, more than 1,000 county residents have received COVID-19 vaccinations at clinics supported by these units, according to supplied material.
Kent County Commissioner Mandy Bolter. (Supplied)
“Despite the various pressures placed on public services this past year, our Board and staff were dedicated to continuing to provide excellent service to our community,” Bolter said in supplied material. “While we continued to meet the challenges of the pandemic, we also maintained a strong focus on meeting the needs of continued economic growth.”
Other stated accomplishments, according to the county statement, included expansion and bonding of The Gerald R. Ford International Airport; the hiring of the county’s first Chief Inclusion Officer “to underscore our commitment to fully embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion in our strategic priorities and service delivery”; and establishing three new “issue-focused” subcommittees (Broadband, Judicial Resources and Veterans Millage Review).
The county also funded county Sheriff’s Office cruiser and deputy body cameras, and secured an expansion of the Chief Hazy Cloud Park into a 395-acre natural preserve along the Grand River and allow for future trail expansion to connect multiple communities.
Incoming leadership has long local history
Stek, whose District 6 includes the city of Walker and part of the city of Grand Rapids, was first elected to the commission in 2014. He is an attorney at Miller Canfield and, according to supplied material, has a long history of serving his community on various boards and committees.
Among his current and past work is serving on the Crisis Center Task Force, Dedicated Millage Committee, Kent County Community Action Board, Kent County Workforce Development Board, Lakeshore Regional Entity, Millennium Park Advisory Board, Michigan Works!, Network 180, Senior Millage Allocation Board, Substance Use Disorder Oversight Board, and Walker Citizens Advisory Committee.
Kent County Board of Commissioners vice-chair Emily Brieve. (Supplied)
Brieve, whose District 10 includes Gaines Township and part of Caledonia Township, has served in the board since 2014. She works for her family’s small business, FastoolNow.com.
She currently chairs the Board of Public Works and Community Health Advisory committees and is a member of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, Grand Rapids Public Museum, and West Michigan Sports Commission.
The cities of Kentwood and Wyoming are represented on the county board by Stan Ponstein (District 7), Dan Burrill (District 8), Matt Kallman (District 9), Monica Sparks (District 12), and Michelle McCloud (District 13). For complete information on the members of the board, and the areas they represent, visit here.
“We have a strong Board and an incredible community, and we are committed to supporting the prosperity of our businesses and residents,” Stek said. “We look forward to tackling the challenges ahead with fiscal responsibility, innovation, and collaboration.”
Construction and reconstruction will begin at Lee middle and high school this spring. One of the new projects will replace an area of the building which collapsed in 2019 with a new entrance off Havana Street, as well as a new multipurpose area. (Supplied)
Construction and reconstruction will begin at Lee middle and high school this spring, including enclosing the currently unusable interior courtyard to be used as a cafeteria and other purposes. (Supplied)
Construction and reconstruction will begin at Lee middle and high school this spring, including a new area which will include a band room. (Supplied)
Construction and reconstruction will begin at Lee middle and high school this spring, including a new area which will include a band room. (Supplied)
The long saga of a much-anticipated makeover of the Wyoming Lee Middle and High School building will move into high gear early this year as, following the final approval of a general contractor late last year, construction will begin as soon as spring weather allows.
In 2020, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools district voters voted to support a bonding proposal which would allow the district to put out bonds for about $18 million for a wide range of building and facility projects.
At the time, the district not only faced the task of modernizing portions of its middle and high school that are nearly 100 years old, it had to make repairs to a portion of the building which collapsed in 2019. But modernization and repairs are only the most obvious part of the historic and still bustling building.
“As far as the new construction, I am most excited for us to begin to make our facilities worthy of the amazing students that we serve,” Eric Mockerman, district Board of Education president, said to WKTV. “I am (also) happy that our building will be more accessible to our community in multiple ways and it will overall be easier to navigate throughout the facility. I am very excited for the addition of our new band room that will better fit the needs of the phenomenal program that will use that space.”
According to information provided by Dirk Weeldreyer, district interim superintendent, the building effort will be a two-year project, expected to be completed in the 2023-24 school year.
Construction and reconstruction will begin at Lee middle and high school this spring. One of the new projects will replace an area of the building which collapsed in 2019, shown at left. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Among the projects are the reconstructed portion of the building along Havana Street in the space where the building collapsed and was demolished. An existing entrance to the gym will be redone, and the area demolished turned into a new media center on the first floor and new classroom spaces on the second floor.
Also planned is a new cafeteria and multi-purpose space that will be built in the area that is currently the unused courtyard of the building. And there will be a new band room addition on the north side of the building.
“Our current construction timeline calls for activity on our new/rebuilt spaces to commence in early spring 2022,” Weeldreyer wrote in an email. “We will need to work from the ‘inside out’ on these new spaces, so the first thing to happen will be excavation and preparation of the interior site (inside the current courtyard).”
There will also be interior renovation work in the existing classroom spaces starting in the summer of 2022, and renovation will continue over the subsequent 18 months or more.
Staying in this New Year’s Eve — for whatever reason you care to choose — and not into college football bowl games? Want to catch some great music concerts? WKTV will replay its entire 2021 Kentwood Summer Concert Series to ring in the New Year.
Starting at 5 p.m. and running until after midnight, WKTV Community Media’s Community cable channel will rebroadcast five concerts leading off with Bootstrap Boys and running through the stroke of the New Year with The Soul Syndicate.
Don’t know some of the bands? WKTV produced previews of each (follow the links to the stories).
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown. WKTV can also be found on AT&T U-verse 99.
The Kent County Health Department announced on Dec. 29 that it is changing its isolation and quarantine guidelines for people who have tested positive or been exposed to coronavirus to align with this week’s changes in U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocol.
The CDC has stated that science now shows the majority of COVID-19 transmission happens early in the illness, generally in the first one to two days before symptoms start and the two to three days thereafter, according to the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) announcement.
“Therefore, effective immediately, the new guidance shortens the isolation and quarantine periods under certain scenarios,” according the the KCHD announcement.
If an individual tests positive for COVID-19, the new isolation guidelines, regardless of vaccination status, are for the person to isolate for five days, and a person may leave isolation if they no longer have symptoms after five days, but those people are urged to continue to mask for an additional five days.
If an individual is exposed to someone with COVID-19, the new quarantine guidelines are:
For people who are not vaccinated, or if it has been more than six months since they received the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or more than two months after receiving the J&J vaccine and have not received a booster, they should quarantine for five days followed by mask usage for five additional days.
People who have received a booster do not need to quarantine following an exposure but should wear a mask for 10 days after the exposure.
All persons who have been exposed should test five days after the exposure. A person who experiences symptoms during quarantine should be tested for COVID-19 and stay home until receiving a negative result.
“These new guidelines will mean less disruption to people’s lives and still slow the spread of the virus,” KCHD Medical Director Dr. Nirali Bora said in supplied material. “However, COVID-19 cases and deaths remain unacceptably high. We encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated and boosted as soon as possible. Anyone who is experiencing symptoms should be tested as soon as possible.”
This new guidance applies to the public and may not apply to those residing in congregate living settings, schools, or people who work with individuals in high-risk groups.
The KCHD is currently updating all its guidance and communication materials to reflect the change in the isolation and quarantine guidelines.
West Michigan has a thriving agricultural economy with miles of apples and other crops that often need to be picked by hand each fall. Thousands of migrant workers travel to Michigan each year to harvest these crops for local farmers and growers, filling approximately 100 migrant camps to capacity in Kent County.
With that influx of workers and nomad-style workforce, issues can and often do occur — not the least of which was dealing with the recent and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Local non-profit Migrant Legal Aid has been an advocate for those workers, their health and their rights, for many years, and they continued to do so in 2021.
MLA defines a migrant worker as a person who lives and works at the same place and travels seasonally according to which crops are in season. Due to poverty, language barriers, and discrimination, seasonal workers often find it hard to protect their basic human rights and dignity. This is where Migrant Legal Aid say they step in.
Many migrant workers come from such severe poverty that when they are treated unfairly, most don’t speak up, Molly Spaak, attorney for MLA, said to WKTV. “Culturally, they say they can’t complain. They don’t realize they have a voice … There is also a definite fear of deportation if they come forward.”
Problems and solutions
Undocumented workers make up approximately 50 percent of the agricultural work force. Because of this, there is anxiety among the workers that deportation would occur if they come forward when treated unfairly. A way to eliminate this apprehension is found in case law.
Farm workers at a local growing location from fall 2021. (Migrant Legal Aid)
“MLA has good case law that protects undocumented folks from irrelevant immigration questions and retaliation in the workplace,” Spaak said. “This helps them feel more comfortable coming forward with their concerns.”
Young children have often been found in the fields with their parents, helping to harvest the crops so their parents meet the daily quota mandated by the growers.
“Child labor laws absolutely apply to migrant workers and their families,” said Spaak when asked if Michigan law extended to seasonal workers. “There are now migrant daycares and Head Start programs parents can utilize. These are free to the families. Because of this, there has been a drastic decrease of children in the fields.”
Migrant Legal Aid also provides help for those suffering from domestic violence.
“The Hispanic community is very patriarchal,” said Spaak. “Because of this, DV (domestic violence) cases are always popular.”
MLA offers special visas for victims who come forward. These visas help in many ways, providing social security numbers to the victims so they have the opportunity for steady work among them.
“This gives women and men more justification and incentive to come forward,” Spaak said.
Communication, community awareness
Educating the migrant workers on their rights and the services Migrant Legal Aid offers is a daunting yet necessary task. MLA produces many social media campaigns, newsletters to the community, and press releases to the media in an effort to raise awareness.
However, there are still challenges.
Farm workers at a local growing location from fall 2021. (Migrant Legal Aid)
“Social media helps build community awareness, but not our clients’ awareness because our clients don’t always have access to social media like the general population,” said Spaak.
To develop this knowledge, MLA sends migrant advocates into camps two to three times a week during the summer and fall to pass out Migrant Legal Aid information and speak with the workers personally.
Over the past year, advocates also handed out information on COVID-19.
“Migrant housing is jam-packed with people with one kitchen and one shower—it’s impossible to social distance,” said Spaak. “New COVID-19 regulations are not always followed, and the migrant camps were a hot bed for Coronavirus. Even when the vaccines rolled out, myths about the vaccine stopped a lot of people from getting it because they were worried about what it might do to them. We had to dispel those myths.”
Though MLA does have cases of mistreatment that require court appearances, Spaak said that many issues “can be resolved extremely quickly by speaking with the growers. A lot if it is communication and language issues with the workers.”
Migrant Legal Aid works hard to educate the community about migrant workers’ needs and situations but still needs help from the public. Being a self-funded organization, MLA relies on grants, private party donations, and fundraisers to subsidize their work. Two of their largest fundraisers are annual events — Cup of Justice, a golf outing in the spring, and Harvest of Justice, a luncheon in the fall.
While seeing so many cases of injustice against migrant workers is emotionally hard on the MLA attorneys and advocates, personal migrant success stories give them hope.
“Rene Rodriguez was a migrant worker from several years ago. His parents emigrated to the United States and were a farm worker family,” said Spaak.
Rodriguez went to school, worked hard, and became a professional website designer and marketing designer.
“We (MLA) bought several photographs from him that are now hanging in this office,” Spaak said of Rodriguez. “Rene also helps us with marketing, brochures, and photos.”
To find out more about Migrant Legal Aid and how you can help MLA protect migrant workers’ legal rights, visit here.
Farm workers at a local growing location from fall 2021. (Migrant Legal Aid)
While launching a new restaurant in the middle of a worldwide pandemic may seem daunting, in West Michigan and really anywhere, Condado Tacos location on Bridge Street in Grand Rapids proved it could be done, and done in an artful way.
Like its menu, which they say is “adaptable to every diet,” Condado Tacos just had to be adaptable to Grand Rapids ever-shifting pandemic landscape — and health regulations. But Condado Tacos opening in February of 2021, during one of the pandemic’s surges, did present unique challenges for staff as they worked to get boots on the ground in West Michigan.
Tina Femeyer, general manager of the Condado Tacos Grand Rapids location, looked back on the restaurant’s first year and told WKTV that she was originally supposed to begin work the week of the Michigan statewide shut down in early 2020.
Tina Femeyer, local general manager of Condado Tacos. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“Everything got pushed back 6 to 8 weeks,” Femeyer said. “I ended up training in the Royal Oak location for four months, but they were only doing carry-out. I had to completely re-train for dine-in once things opened back up.”
Founded in 2014, Condado Tacos currently has 20 locations in Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania and Michigan. But they were committed to Grand Rapids.
“We were not certain if we were going to open at that time,” Karen Reed, Director of Off Premise Sales, said to WKTV. “There were some slight delays on parts (supply chain issues) and acquiring and confirming our liquor license were the two most challenging issues. Also, making certain we were in the position to combat and prevent COVID from spreading in the restaurant on a regular basis…It was a matter of doing whatever it would take, with a great commitment from our staff.”
And getting that staff together was high on the priority list.
Femeyer eventually moved to Grand Rapids in November of 2020 and began conducting in-person interviews.
One of the initial hires at Candado Tacos, Kentwood bartender Dan Voetberg, behind the bar. (Supplied)
“We knew we were opening at only fifty percent capacity but planned to hire full staff,” said Femeyer.
Conducting interviews while masked and socially distanced was a new experience for the general manager, but Femeyer said the process went smoothly.
Advance marketing and the use of the Indeed employment website for recruiting helped potential employees be aware of Condado Tacos and their entrance into the market.
“It appeared we had a bit of a following even prior to opening,” said Reed.
Condado Tacos art. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Condado Tacos art. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Condado Tacos art. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Condado Tacos art. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Condado Tacos art. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
The art of tacos, and a taco restaurant
As Condado Tacos planned its opening, also in the plans was showcasing local artists.
When asked what prompted the decision to make art a main feature of Condado, Femeyer said that it was always a vision of original founder Joe Kahn, and other executives of the corporation, to ensure art was a key component of each Condado store.
“The art ties back to the local community, creating a unique space that speaks to what the city is about while being consistent with menu and service,” said Femeyer. “Art is the backbone of what they (corporate) wanted to make each space.”
Femeyer also revealed that the art is the most time-sensitive part of the construction process, often beginning before heat, air conditioning, or plumbing are completed.
“They (the artists) truly are a part of the construction team,” Femeyer said. “They work all hours of the day and night after drywall is in place.”
While each store features artwork distinctive to the city’s artists, diners can also look for a variation of a gnome and ghost chilies at each location, creating a link of unity between each store.
Condado Tacos on Bridge Street in Grand Rapids. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Condado Tacos is now at full capacity, though they do offer a patio with heaters for comfort, and also heaters stationed near the entrance to the restaurant in case people would like to enjoy a cocktail or wait for a table in a less populated space.
Condado’s success in Grand Rapids comes down to two things, Femeyer said.
“Great staff. They have all been unbelievably gracious and understanding that many things were out of our (management’s) control during opening. They were very adaptable.” Femeyer said. “I think the space really speaks to how people want to dine. They want a more light-hearted, ‘come as you are’ feel, which Condado Taco speaks to. It speaks to people of all walks of life.”
But Reed added that it doesn’t end there. “Our goal each shift and every day at our Grand Rapids Condado Tacos and all of our locations, is to be very consistent in our execution along with a focus on continual improvement daily.”
Grand Rapids will not be the last Michigan location for Condado Tacos. With three locations already open in the Detroit area at the time of the Bridge Street launch, Femeyer says Condado intends to continue expanding in Michigan, with plans already in place to open a store in Ann Arbor in early 2022.
The National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators recently announced that Kentwood Public School’s Endeavor Elementary School has been nationally recognized as a Distinguished School, according to an emailed statement from KPS administration.
The honor is only awarded to two schools within the state of Michigan. Selected schools must show excellence in education as evidenced by student achievement gains.
“The team at Endeavor Elementary demonstrates excellence and tenacity in their work on a daily basis,” KPS Superintendent Kevin Polston said in supplied material. “We are extremely proud of Endeavor’s achievement and commitment to academic achievement for all students.”
Endeavor Elementary won the award for excellence in serving English Learners. Schools are recognized for their approaches to teaching and learning, professional development opportunities, individualized programs and strong partnerships between schools, parents and the community. The selection criteria for this award included the multilingual learners’ achievement on WIDA assessment and school accountability data.
“This is a whole team award. All of our staff have played a crucial role in loving and educating our multilingual learners,” Mark Bea, principal of Endeavor Elementary, said in supplied material. “From our KPS central office who provides clear direction, to our school EL program and EVERY teacher who creates the family environment and targeted instruction to make it happen; from our food service, custodial, and paraprofessionals who provide critical services, to our office and itinerant staff who offer unending support.
“Together with the efforts of students, parents, staff and a supportive community we can achieve true excellence!”
Out of the top nine Michigan schools, MDE identified two other Kentwood elementary buildings, Glenwood and Discovery, for their success with English Learners.
The Michigan Department of Education will cover the cost for travel, food and lodging for three staff members to be recognized at the National ESEA Conference. The conference, held in New Orleans, offers opportunities for staff members to learn from nationally recognized leaders and experts in education. Participants can also network with colleagues from all over the United States.
The Rev. Khary Bridgewater and Kent County Chief Inclusion Officer Teresa Branson, at left, led the Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers” and pandemic awareness gathering. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
It is no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic seriously impacts the lives of all Kent County residents regardless of race, ethnicity and faith — although current statistics make clear it impacts the unvaccinated to a more serious degree.
It is not surprising, therefore, that speakers at a Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers”, attended by county clergy, the leaders of local hospital networks, and Kent County officials, stressed three things: appreciation to frontline healthcare, the non-discriminatory nature of the virus, and the need to get vaccinated as an individual’s part in keeping themselves and their neighbors safe.
The prayer service was led by several local clergy. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
“One of the realities that we are seeing — and I just came off the hospital floor — is the fact that there is not sector or section of this community that is not being affected by COVID,” Rev. Khary Bridgewater said to WKTV at the gathering at Mercy Health Saint Mary’s downtown Grand Rapids. “Young. Old. Regardless of ethnicity. Regardless of creed … We are all in the same boat. We are all dealing with the same impact.
“Everyone is having the same sort of regrets as they struggle with this virus, particularly those at the end of life and they realize this was an avoidable situation. It doesn’t matter who you were when you get to a hospital bed. We are working very hard with every member of our community to stress the simple truth that COVID is dangerous.”
The gathering and prayer service was led by the Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, formerly known as the Kent County COVID-19 Task Force). The gathering’s stated goal was to “stand with our front-line medical workers, hospital staff and public health officials, as well as their families, who are sacrificing daily to provide the care that our community needs.”
Leading the gathering was Rev. Bridgewater, facilitator of the Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, and by his side was Teresa Branson, Kent County Chief Inclusion Officer, who as been a leader of the group since its inception. The pandemic-aware gathering was limited to local media, a few other people, and several persons remaining in their cars in the parking lot location.
The gathering also highlighted numerous churches and faith-based organizations “coming together to raise community awareness of the current situation in our hospitals; issue a public statement of commitment; and pray and bless our health care personnel and their families.”
Among the local medical leaders present were Dr. Matt Biersack, president of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s; Dr. Darryl Elmouchi, president of Spectrum Health; Kent Riddle, CEO of Mary Free Bed; and Dr. Ronald Grifka, chief medical officer of University of Michigan Health-West.
“In this season of hope, when so many workers turn to their home, their families, their traditions, remember many healthcare workers will be working around the clock taking care of their patients,” Grifka said to the gathering. “That selfless spirt embodies what we celebrate this time of the year. I ask that no matter what your beliefs, please keep our healthcare workers in your hearts.”
At a Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers”, Kent County clergy, leaders of local hospital networks, and county officials gathered. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
The Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, according to supplied information, is a group of faith-based and non-profit community leaders that have partnered with the Kent County Health Department and its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office.
“Together, they have reduced the spread of COVID-19, provided space for church vaccination clinics and informed the community about the vaccine,” according to the supplied information. But in doing so, thy have also heard “the concerns of our hospitals who are beyond capacity and our health care professionals who are weary and overburdened.”
In response to the current pandemic situation, faith leaders from across the city and the county also pledged to eliminate all non-essential, indoor gatherings; restrict essential gatherings to less than 50 people per 2,000 square feet; require all attendees at indoor gatherings to wear a mask and abide by social distancing and COVID-19 hygiene; and — maybe most importantly — to encourage all members of our community to get COVID-19 vaccination and any appropriate booster shots.
Booklovers, and those with lovers of books on their last-minute shopping list, are in for a treat as several new releases from well-known authors, as well as debut writers, are available just in time for the holidays.
And how better to get that last gift than by buying local, or making a holiday roadtrip out of it?
“There are a ton of really solid, interesting books by well-known authors, as well as those who haven’t written before,” said Tim Smith, Operations Manager for Schuler Books.
Schuler Books on 28th Avenue is a big bookstore with a small bookstore feel. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Founded in 1982 by Bill and Cecile Fehsenfeld, Schuler Books includes locations in both Grand Rapids and Okemos. The Grand Rapids location on 28th Street “offers a wide array of new and used books for adults and children, an extensive selection of book-themed gifts, and a café where shoppers can enjoy coffee and a bite to eat,” they say. And a “friendly, helpful staff contribute to the welcoming feel shoppers experience.”
And if you’re really into last minute Christmas shopping, Schuler Books invites all ages to come and enjoy the live reindeer that will be outside the store Christmas Eve.
Adding to the inviting atmosphere is the knowledge that the staff at Schuler Books have personally hand-picked each book lining the shelves.
“We have a team of buyers that meet with publishing reps (representatives),” Smith said, “and over time have curated our stock. There are core items, of course, but also items specific to each store and its location.”
Changes in readers’ tastes
Schuler’s Smith also mentioned a shift in what buyers are looking for in reading material.
“Over the past couple of years, but especially this year, it has been different because people are looking for books connected to particular current events that people are trying to understand,” said Smith. “People see the world is changing, that there are large changes happening, and people are looking to books to understand these things.”
Popular titles at Schuler Books this holiday season substantiate Smith’s observation, with several books addressing current topics prevalent in society today:
“Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem” by Amanda Gorman. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America” by Clint Smith speaks to racial understanding.
“Firekeeper’s Daughter” by Michigan author Angeline Boulley concentrates on the indigenous community.
“Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem” by Amanda Gorman incorporates a call to action for people of all ages to use their abilities to make a difference.
Other popular titles offer inspiration, humor, and a connection with nature:
“Taste: My Life Through Food” by Stanley Tucci; “The Impossible Mile: The Power in Living Life One Step at a Time” by Johnny Agar; “All Creation Waits: The Advent Mystery of New Beginnings” by Gayle Boss; “Where the Deer and the Antelope Play” by Nick Offerman; “A Carnival of Snackery” by David Sedaris; “Get Untamed” by Glennon Doyle, a companion journal to Doyle’s 2020 release, “Untamed”; “The Sentence” by Louise Erdrich.
Maybe make a day-trip shopping
If you like to do a little strolling around a small-town downtown with plenty of shopping, epilogue books, founded in July 2018 by Pat and Valerie Burkholder, is celebrating their fourth holiday season in Rockford.
Some of the staff picks at epilogue books in Rockford. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Tucked into a strip of stores just off East Bridge Street, epilogue books features a comprehensive selection of new books for readers of all ages, including several by Michigan authors.
“We try to support local Michigan authors and artists,” said Cindy Coats, bookseller at epilogue books.
Coats also said that the staff at epilogue books hand-picks each book that is placed on the shelves.
“We look at what books are projected to be top-sellers,” said Coats said, “as well as what people are asking for.”
And the staff also looks at trends: “People come in asking for books that are being made into movies, like ‘Dune’ (Frank Herbert) and ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ (Liane Moriarty),” said Coats.
Biographies and autobiographies have also proven to be a rising trend.
“People have been out of work, or not in their normal realm of work, for a year and a half and used that time to write their stories,” Coats said. “(Readers) like hearing where people came from, and especially about overcoming adversity.”
Several new releases on epilogue’s shelves cater to this topic, including “Will” by Will Smith, and “The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music” by Dave Grohl.
Pick one; all are worth reading. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“Atlas of the Heart” by Brené Brown, a self-help book that focuses on how to develop meaningful connections with the people in our lives, is another popular title this holiday season.
Cookbooks are also a top seller this year. “Lots of celebrities are now writing cookbooks,” said Coats. “Pop culture is really interjecting into food.”
The bookseller pointed to “An Unapologetic Cookbook,” written by TikTok sensation Joshua Weissman. “We can’t keep these on the shelf,” Coats said with a laugh.
Other popular titles offered by epilogue books include: “Go Tell the Bees That I am Gone” (Outlander Series, Book 9) by Diana Gabaldon; “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides; “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid; “Cat Kid Comic Club: Perspectives” by Dav Pilkey.
A new reproduction of “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” by J.K. Rowling is also dazzling shoppers with its full color illustrations and eight interactive paper craft elements.
“They are stunning,” said Coats, touching the cover as she passed by.
And say ‘“Hi” to Tommy
epilogue books’ Tommy the Bookstore Dog. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Visitors to epilogue books will most likely be welcomed by the store’s most popular member, Tommy the Bookstore Dog, a mild-mannered golden retriever who loves to interact with customers.
“People come in just to see Tommy,” said Coats. “One woman drove all the way from Lansing after seeing him on a TikTok video, just to meet him.”
And after the holidays, an upcoming event that booklovers will want to mark on their calendars is a book signing with ABC’s chief meteorologist, Ginger Zee, featuring her upcoming release, “A Little Closer to Home.” A Rockford native, Zee will be at epilogue books Jan. 15 to meet fans and sign books.
USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), with a little bit of holiday lights lit, is the home of West Michigan’s Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew King, serving active duty in the U.S. Navy. (U.S. Navy)
In peacetime and in wartime, American serviceman and women often spend their Christmas Holidays far away from home but allowing those from their hometowns to enjoy the season safe and secure.
The U.S. Navy recently sent WKTV information on two such U.S. Navy personal from West Michigan, including their well wishes for family, friends and everybody they serve yet do not know.
Sailors help maintain America’s strategic advantage at sea, everyday, including the holidays. This means they do not always get to celebrate holidays with their loved ones.
U.S. Navy Seaman Breana Leonard. (U.S. Navy)
Seaman Breana Leonard, a Hastings native serving overseas will celebrate the holidays with shipmates in Guam.
“The holidays are a time to take a break and enjoy time with friends and family,” Seaman Leonard said in supplied material. And she wants to make sure her family back home know that they are loved and missed.
“Thank you for standing by me,” Leonard said. “I love you and I miss you all.”
Leonard serves as a gunner’s mate aboard USS Emory S. Land. As a member of the U.S. Navy, Leonard, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of “a tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance,” according to the U.S. Navy announcement.
“Serving in the Navy means that I’m setting myself up for success in the future,” added Leonard.
Leonard’s brother in arms, Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew King, a Grand Rapids native, will celebrate the holidays volunteering for Catholic services at the base chapel in Yokosuka, Japan.
But he remembers a special memory from a holiday past.
U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew King. (U.S. Navy)
“For me, the holidays represent birth and new beginnings,” Petty Officer King said in supplied material. “When I was 13, my house burnt down in the fall and when the holidays came a secret benefactor donated a home to my family. If you’re reading this, thank you!”
King, too, wants family back home to know they are missed this holiday season.
“I hope everyone back home has a merry Christmas,” King said. “Despite being in Japan, the Christmas spirit spans worldwide. I would also like to thank the students and staff of Meadowbrook Elementary School for sending us care packages.”
King serves as an intelligence specialist aboard USS Ronald Reagan.
“The Navy is about maintaining peace — especially for the holiday season,” King said. “That is all I could ask for.”
Stephanie Fox, of the Navy Office of Community Outreach, contributed to this story.
The best of Kent County’s wrestlers, many of them state-ranked in their weight classes, will be on the mats at East Kentwood High School as the Falcons wrestling program hosts the Kent County Wrestling Championships Saturday, Dec. 18, with matches starting at 9:30 a.m.
In addition to the East Kentwood wrestlers, other local schools expected to attend are Wyoming, Godfrey Lee, Kelloggsville and Godwin Heights. In all, as many as 20 schools will have wrestlers on the mats.
The format, according to information supplied by East Kentwood wrestling coaching staff will have the top 16 in each weight class placed in “Championship Division” with double elimination format. The remaining Wrestlers will be placed in a “Beltline Division”. There will also be a bracket for female wrestlers.
The Championship Division will be pre-seeded based on Trackwrestling criteria including state tournament placement/qualification, regional qualification, and records.
The Beltline Division competitors are 1st or 2nd year wrestlers or the wrestlers who had a sub-.500 winning percentage the previous season.
Awards will go to teams, individual wrestlers and Most Outstanding Wrestler.
Championship finals, and third and fifth place matches will be wrestled starting at same time, 4:30 p.m.
