Tag Archives: Wyoming

Wyoming resident takes the helm of Dégagé Ministries

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boormsa
joanne@wktv.org

When Thelma Ensink decided to step down as the administrator for Calvin Christian Schools, all she knew was the calling to go back to her roots and work with the most vulderable population.

Within a few months, the Wyoming resident would discover a possible direction as Marge Palmerlee, the longtime executive director for Dégagé Ministries, had announced her plans to retire. 

“When I did hear about that position opening up, I thought this is the right fight,” Ensink said. “This is the type of organization I wanted to serve in this next chapter of my career.”

Born and raised in South Africa during apartheid, Ensink said her experiences ignited “a passion for social justice because I grew up around racial injustice.” Her family immigrated to the United States, settling in the Grand Rapids.

Ensink attend Calvin University and through a friend’s suggestion became a paramedic, which introduced her to Dégagé Ministries, where she learned the residents’ stories were not that much different form her own.

“In may ways they were living lives just like mine until there was a tragic event or maybe they served in the military and that sent their life into a very different course,” she said. “All of sudden they find themselves experiencing poverty, being without a home, being without the resources and relations to be in a stable place.”

Ensink did not forget those stories through her career which included working at a rural Ionia medical practice and serving as a teacher and administrator for Calvin Christian Schools.

Heeding the call to work with the most vulnerable population, Ensink decided to leave Calvin Christian Schools last spring.

“I just knew I wanted to work in that field, so I kind of took a step of faith, stepping away from the education world and really seeking the right opportunity,” Ensink said.

Now in the Dégagé director position for about a month, Ensink said she is enjoying the opportunity to work with the staff and volunteers. 

She admits it has been an interesting time to step into the role as many, because of the pandemic, are facing hardships for the first time.

 

“We are focused right now on the immediate needs and looking forward to when we can welcome our volunteers back and host community events,” Ensink said.

Also this past October, Degage broke ground on a new $6 million project that will expand services to the area’s homeless and low-income families. Part of that project includes a sleeping area for those who are on third shift and a recovery area for those who had surgery. 

For more on Dégagé Ministries, its projects and needs, visit degageministries.com.

Mayor Poll’s state of the city address set for Monday

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Wyoming City Mayor Jack Poll is set to give his State of the City address at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18.

Mayor Jack Poll is set to present his State of the City address on Monday. (WKTV)

Poll will be presenting his address during the city’s Council Meeting, which can be viewed on WKTV Channel 26 or livestreamed on WKTV.org or the WKTV Community Media Facebook page.

The annual State of the City address will reflect on the past year while taking a look at the future.

For more information, visit www.wyomingmi.gov.

Wyoming celebrates the season of giving

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Earlier this month, the City of Wyoming hosted its first live broadcast of the Wyoming Gives Back.

Traditionally, the event is hosted at the Rogers Plaza Mall, but due to COVID restrictions on large gatherings, the event was broadcast live from the WKTV Community Media.

The program features music from Wyoming’s San Juan Diego Academy along with holiday greetings from city staff and council members including newly elected Councilor John Fitzgerald. There is also appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The program was hosted by Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD-TV8’s Michele DeSelms.

Click on the video above to see the entire show, or click here to look at the playlist.

Happy Holidays from WKTV.

Wyoming police seeking help with Nov. 27 homicide

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,
This is one of two cars the Wyoming Department of Public Safety is seeking information about. This is a Black BMW 5 Series. (Wyoming Department of Public Safety)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the Nov. 27 homicide of Cynthia McCoy, 34 year-old mother of four children. Investigators have identified two vehicles of interest in the investigation and are asking the public for help in identifying the owner’s and/or drivers of these vehicles.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety or Silent Observer.

At approximately 12:30 p.m. on Nov. 27, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the reports of gunshots fired and a person down on the sidewalk in the 900 block of Burton St. SW.

This is one of two cars the Wyoming Department of Public Safety is seeking information about. This is a Gray Chevy Malibu with Black Rims. (Wyoming Department of Public Safety)

The initial investigation indicates that 34-year-old female was walking on the sidewalk when she was shot. The victim was transported to a local area hospital where she was was pronounced deceased. After shooting the victim, the suspect fled the area on foot. The suspect is described as an unknown race male, 5’10” – 6’2” tall, wearing a dark blue hooded sweatshirt and blue face mask.

Anyone with information on this homicide is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7366 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Photo Gallery: A look at the Wyoming Gives Back broadcast

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

  • Santa and Mrs. Claus take a moment for pictures before talking to local children. (WKTV)
  • Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms were host for the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast. (WKTV)
  • Helping out back stage were City of Wyoming’s Jennifer Stowell and Amanda Moore. (WKTV)
  • City of Wyoming’s Jennifer Stowell checks over the prizes for the raffle. (WKTV)
  • For Wyoming Gives Back 2020, the grand prize was a television. Other prizes included gift certificates and items. (WKTV)
  • The City of Wyoming’s Department of Public Works wishes everyone happy holidays. (WKTV)
  • Santa gets ready to take some calls from local children. (WKTV)
  • WKTV worked some magic to bring Santa calls to area children this year. (WKTV)
  • Local students connect with Santa and give them their Christmas lists. (WKTV)
  • Local children talk to Santa through Zoom. (WKTV)
  • Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster and offices offer their holiday greetings to area residents. (WKTV)
  • Wyoming Fire Chief Brian Bennett (far right) and his staff wishes everyone a happy holiday. (WKTV)
  • Newly elected council member John Fitzgerald wishes everyone a happy holiday. (WKTV)
  • A close up of some of the this year’s Wyoming Gives Back prizes. (WKTV)
  • San Juan Diego Academy performs during the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast. (WKTV)
  • San Juan Diego Academy performs at the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast. (WKTV)
  • Santa takes a call. (WKTV)
  • Some of the magic to bring Santa and Mrs. Claus to area children. (WKTV)
  • Mrs. Claus said she was so excited to talk to children during the live broadcast of Wyoming Gives Back. (WKTV)
  • WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms receives a special thank you gift from the City of Wyoming for helping out with this year’s Wyoming Gives Back event. (WKTV)
  • Some of the WKTV crew who helped to make the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast happen. (WKTV)

On Dec. 3, WKTV presented the first live broadcast of Wyoming Gives Back. The program was hosted by Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms and features prize drawings, a performance by Wyoming’s San Juan Diego Academy and a visit from Santa. Check out the photos to take a peek at just some of the fun that took place during the event.

Prizes, holiday fun all part of the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
The Russo family helps Kara Boorsma put toys in the Wyoming Gives Back box. This year, Wyoming Gives Back collected more than 500 toys. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

This year’s Wyoming Gives Back has been a success with more than 500 toys donated to the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree. Now the fun begins as WKTV hosts the live broadcast at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3.

During the broadcast, which can be seen on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 along with WKTV’s Facebook page and at wktv.org, prizes will be raffled. Residents were able to get raffle tickets when they donated an unwrapped, new toy. This year, area residents donated more than 500 toys, which organizers said they were amazed at the amount considering the circumstances with so many facing hardships due to COVID.

“I am grateful to our Wyoming community for their generous toy donations this year,” said the City of Wyoming Administrative Assistant Jennifer Stowell, who helps organize the annual event. “These donations will help make many local children’s holiday season brighter.”

Along with the raffle drawings, the hour-long live broadcast will feature a musical performance by Wyoming’s San Juan Diego Academy, which has performed every year at the Wyoming Gives Back. Also there will be presentations by the Salvation Army and lots of holiday fun with hosts Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms.

Despite COVID-19 challenges, Marge’s Donut Den was able to collect about 200 toys this year. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be attending as well, taking phone calls from area children and Santa will be announcing the winners of this year’s coloring contest. City staff said there were a number of entries to the first-ever coloring contest, making the final selections a tough decision for Santa.

Before the Wyoming Gives Back event, WKTV will be live streaming the Kentwood Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. This broadcast also can be seen at  WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 along with WKTV’s Facebook page and wktv.org.

Want a raffle ticket? Drop off a toy for this year’s Wyoming Gives Back

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
The Russo family helps Kara Boorsma put toys in the box located at their restaurant, Russo Pizza, 1760 44th St. SW. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Shay Russo easily admits that it seems like such a small thing, a toy underneath a tree, but to a child it “means the world.”

“But it is tough when you have to decide if you are putting food on the table or purchasing a toy,” Russo said.. And this year, with COVID and the shutdowns, it just seems tougher, she said.

It is why when the City of Wyoming called and asked if Russo’s Pizza, 1760 44th St. SW, would serve as a collection site for this year’s Wyoming Gives Back campaign, Russo and her husband Mike said yes.

There are boxes at five locations in the City of Wyoming for the annual Wyoming Gives Back campaign. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

“It may not seem like much, a toy under the tree, but to a little one it is so important,” Russo said. “They have that hope and to be able to see just a couple of gifts under the tree keeps that magical wonder alive.”

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the City of Wyoming has made the move to host a live broadcast on Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Four local businesses stepped up to be drop-off locations for area residents. Residents need to drop off toys by Nov. 30. While there, the business owner will give the person a raffle ticket for each new toy donated. Raffle winners will be announced during the live broadcast which will include musical performances, holiday greetings, and a visit from Santa.

Under the current Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order, all of the drop-off locations are open to the public. Those locations are:

Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, small toys, puzzle box-size or smaller, will be accepted at the drive-thru, all others will be by appointment only 

Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW, Monday – Saturday, 4 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Pizza Hut, 132 28th St. SW., Monday – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Godwin Plumbing & Hardware, 3703 S. Division Ave., Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Russo’s Pizza, 1760 44th St. SW, Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday 3 – 10 p.m.

“We are mostly have pick up or delivery, so we are open with people coming in to pick up their food,” Russo said. During the spring shutdown, the restaurant saw an uptick in business and Russo said she hopes that if it happens again with the current partial shutdown it will translate in more toy donations.

Marge Wilson owner of Marge’s Donut Den, another drop-off site, said she is concern that the current shutdown may have some impact on donations.

 

“The trickle down effect is starting to hit people,” Wilson said. “People are starting to focus more on the needs of their family.”

Still she was amazed by the generosity of her staff and customers who have already donated more than 200 toys, enough to fill nine boxes.

“We had this craft show just before the shutdown and one of the vendors donated about 150 toys,” Wilson said. “That and several of the staff and customers have come in with items as well.”

Marge’s Donut Den first round of collection netted in about 200 toys for this year’s Wyoming Gives Back campaign. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Last year, more than 800 toys were collected for the annual event, and with the support of the participating busi­nesses, the City raffled nearly $4,000 in prizes. Many area businesses have again donated to the raffle prizes with an array of items being offered.

 

Also this year, the Wyoming Gives Back has added a Santa’s Kids Coloring Contest. Area students will be able to submit coloring pates or drawings for a chance to win a prize. Templates can be downloaded from the event webpage. Completed coloring pages need to be returned to the dropbox or drive-thru at Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, by Nov. 30 to be entered into the drawing. 

For more information about Wyoming Gives Back, visit the event page. 

Traffic Tuesday Answer: Odd/Even Parking, Part III

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

By Officer Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

During the odd/even enforcement period of December 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020, Wyoming police officers responded to almost 11,000 calls for service. How many odd/even parking tickets were also written during that time?

  1. Less than 100
  2. Between 100 and 500
  3. Between 500 and 1,000
  4. More than 1,000
  5. I’m not sure, I’ll check back on Thursday!

Answer: More than 10,00. In addition to responding to all those calls for service and making traffic stops, there were also 1,021 odd/even enforcement tickets written last year.

The City of Wyoming’s odd/even parking takes affect Dec. 1. It is enforceable from midnight to 7 p.m. Cars are to be parked on the even numbered addresses on even numbered calendar days. On odd number days, residents may park in front of the odd number addresses. Those in cul-de-sacs may only park on the street on even numbered calendar days. Streets with “No Parking,” signs will continue to have no parking restrictions.


The odd/even parking is designed to allow the city’s snow plow trucks to be able to clear the streets after a snowfall.

Wyoming deputy manager leaves to join Consumers Energy

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Megan Sall Rydecki (Supplied)

Former Wyoming deputy manager Megan Sall Rydecki has left the city to become the new community affairs manager for Kent County for Consumers Energy.

Rydecki came back to the City of Wyoming in 2017, serving in her current role for more than three years. 

“Leaving the city of Wyoming was a tough decision but I’m so pleased I can continue giving back to Kent County in another way, helping Consumers Energy deliver world-class performance to its customers,” said Rydecki, who recently changed her name. “This region is poised for continued growth and I’m thrilled to remain a part of its future.”

In her new role, which she started today, Rydecki will serve as the  local government and community representative for Consumers Energy.

“We’re excited that Megan is joining our team in a role that is vital to the prosperity of our company and the greater Grand Rapids community,” said Josh Burgett, Consumers Energy’s executive director of community engagement. “Megan has a proven track record and brings significant experience and trusted relationships with leaders across Kent County that will allow her to both share our passion for these communities’ success and help deliver energy solutions to our customers.”


Rydecki will work alongside outgoing Community Affairs Manager Karen McCarthy, who will retire in early 2021 after more than 37 years with the company. Rydecki also has worked for The Right Place Inc., the Grand Rapids-based regional economic development organization. Kent County, including the city of Grand Rapids and surrounding communities, is the largest metropolitan area within Consumers Energy’s electric service territory.

Rydecki currently serves as chair of the Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees, co-chair of Grand Rapids WhiteWater’s Campaign Cabinet and is a board member of the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Traffic Tuesday Answer: Odd/Even Parking

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming,

By Jenni Eby
Wyoming Department of Public Safety

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the question will be posted on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday.

Question: An officer is called to an odd/even parking violation in the middle of January. When the officer arrives, there are two vehicles parked in violation of the odd/even ordinance. What enforcement action can occur, according to the ordinance?

  1. The vehicles can be given a ticket or warning
  2. The vehicles can be given a ticket or warning, and towed to the correct side of the roadway to make room for the plows
  3. The vehicles can be given a ticket or warning, immediately towed, and impounded at the owners expense
  4. I’m not sure, I’ll check back Thursday!



The answer is 1) The vehicles can be given a ticket or warning. Vehicles are not towed for a first time violation of the odd/even ordinance.


The City of Wyoming’s odd/even parking takes affect Dec. 1. It is enforceable from midnight to 7 p.m. Cars are to be parked on the even numbered addresses on even numbered calendar days. On odd number days, residents may park in front of the odd number addresses. Those in cul-de-sacs may only park on the street on even numbered calendar days. Streets with “No Parking,” signs will continue to have no parking restrictions.

The odd/even parking is designed to allow the city’s snow plow trucks to be able to clear the streets after a snowfall.

Traffic Tuesday Answer: The fines for texting and driving

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

By Officer Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the question will be posted on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday.

Texting While Driving Fines

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is currently participating in enhanced distracted driving enforcement – so this’s week’s question is about distracted driving! Did you know that texting while driving tickets get more expensive if you get more than one? For first time offenders, the ticket is a civil infraction and a $100 fine. A second offense is also a civil infraction, but the fine is increased. How much does someone pay for a second offense texting while driving ticket?

  1. $150
  2. $200
  3. $250
  4. $500



Answer: The answer is $200; the fine is doubled for the second offense.

School News Network: Getting creative in the classroom

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism,

New administrators and staff along with creative ways of teaching during a pandemic. For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.

Angelia Coleman is dean of students at Endeavor Elementary School (School News Network)

Kentwood: District welcomes new administrators, ready to ‘lead through uncharted waters’

Kentwood Public Schools added several new faces to its staff this year. So which new administrator enjoys vintage shopping? Who worked as a summer camp activities coordinator? And who is returning to the East Kentwood Freshman Campus? Click here to get all the answers.

Kelloggsville head coach Brandon Branch has many tasks prior to football practice, including equipment adjustments (School News Network)

Kelloggsville: Teacher and coach applies lessons in classroom and on field

While Brandon Branch may be Kelloggsville’s new head football coach, he is no stranger to the district or the football program. Branch has taught science and math at the high school since 2008 and has been part of the football program that entire time, ncluding as a junior varsity defensive coordinator for four years and varsity defensive coordinator for eight. He also is the varsity wrestling coach. Learn more about Branch and his football philosophy by clicking here.

Kindergarten teacher Julie Merrill thanks donors for books, foam mats and other items. (School News Network)

Wyoming: ‘I want it to look happy”

Social distancing guidelines didn’t deter teachers at Wyoming’s West Elementary from making sure their classrooms were welcoming. With a little creativity and some donations — some of which came from former students — these teachers added comfy furniture, colorful decor, shelves filled with books and bins of materials for writing, drawing and counting. Click here to learn more.

Just a month before the pandemic closed schools, Crestwood students spent three days collecting 150 pounds of cafeteria trash (all photos courtesy of school)

Kentwood: Leaving a greener footprint

Three years ago, Amelia Haywood, Charlotte VanWingen, Sammi Geurink and fellow Crestwood Middle School students approached their teacher Bobbie Fletcher with a Michigan Green School application and a vision for a more eco-friendly school. Michigan Green Schools challenges K-12 students in Michigan to achieve environmental goals to protect the state’s air, water, land and animals. To be considered for Michigan Green School status, a school must complete at least 10 out of 20 points of educational environmental activities. How did Crestwood achieve this? Click here to learn more.

Wyoming Junior High English teacher Shantel VanderGalien was named Regional Teacher of the Year for 2020. (School News Network)

Wyoming: ‘Who we are as teachers and students is essential the same’

West Michigan’s Teacher of the Year (Region 3) Shantel VanderGalien, an Wyoming Junior High English teacher, talks about virtual teaching, in-person instruction, and still having those “bombshell endings.” Click here for more.

KDL expands library branch hours, printing and scanning services

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming
KDL Kelloggsville Branch is open Monday – Thursday from 3 – 6:30 p.m. (WKTV)

Katie Zuidema
Kent District Library

Kent District Library announced expanded in-branch hours starting today, Monday, Sept. 21. Branches will return to normal published hours with one exception ­– all branches will remain closed on Sundays. Curbside pick-up is offered during open hours.

 

For health and safety reasons, KDL will continue to have guidelines in place:

·         Masks are required.

·         Private study rooms are not available for use and play spaces will be closed.

·         Patrons are asked to limit their visits to one hour. Computer use will be limited to an hour a day.

·         Returned items remain in quarantine for 96 hours.

·         The governor’s Executive Order requires KDL to limit building capacity to 25%.

·         Programs will continue to be conducted online.



KDL has also upgraded its printing and scanning services to make them more robust, intuitive and easy to use.



TBS Printing, installed at all KDL branches, allows patrons to effortlessly print documents, emails and web content from any internet enabled smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop directly to KDL’s existing printers. Print jobs can be sent to the system atkdl.org/wireless-printing.



Each KDL branch now has a ScanEZ Station, an easy to use touch screen scanning solution that can scan, save and send your documents or photos practically anywhere. The new system provides users high speed scanning and copying via a patron-friendly interface. Patrons can even restore old, faded photos and documents and translate copy to text or audio in over 100 languages.



“We see a lot of value added for our patrons with this new system, and KDL staff are excited to show patrons how seamlessly it all works,” said Trish Reid, Training Manager at KDL. “The wireless printing capability and new scanning system allows patrons to finish their tasks much more quickly and efficiently than ever before.” 


KDL is committed to offering free printing to patrons through at least the end of 2020.

The KDL Wyoming branch is open Monday – Saturday. (WKTV)

School News Network: Off and running

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , ,

Our partners at School News Network have been hard at work following the schools as they reopened for the 2020-2021 school year. Here are just some of things that took place in September. For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.

Anne Frank was Cora’s inspiration for her award-winning painting (School News Network)

Kentwood: Inspired by a young girl’s thoughts

Learn how the story of Anne Frank inspired East Kentwood ninth grader Cora Hovermale to create the wining piece for the Happy Family Anne Frank Family Art and Writing Competition hosted by Farmington Hills’ Holocoust Memorial Center. Click here.

Students sit in flexible seating arrangements (School News Network)

Wyoming: ‘A positive in a time that is somewhat negative’

Take a sneak peek at the new Wyoming High School, the central piece of $40 million in renovation and upgrades under way at the high school campus. The building located at 1350 Prairie Parkway features a spacious facility with lots of windows, collaboration spaces and project rooms. Click here for more.

Third-grade remote teacher Maggie Cherry’s car was filled almost to the brim after she put together more than 40 supply kits for her students (School News Network)

Godfrey-Lee: Supply kits for online learners help ensure student success

This fall, Godfrey-Lee teachers had the opportunity to learn from last spring’s challenges. With the entire district starting school remotely for a few weeks and some students staying remote for the semester or year, teachers put together and distributed supply kits for their students — whatever they might need for a class — to help make sure everyone can be successful at home. Curious as to what was included in those kits? Click here to find out.

Eric Alcorn (School News Network)

Kelloggsville: Sports enthusiast, music fan, family man

A familiar face to Kelloggsville Public Schools, Eric Alcorn was recently named the district’s auxiliary services director and athletic director. Alcorn is a sports lover but there is more to the former Kelloggsville High’s assistant principal. Click here to learn more about Alcorn better.

For more stories about schools in Kent County, visit School News Network at schoolnewsnetwork.org.

It’s the final countdown for the 2020 Census as the end date of Sept. 30 draws near

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

A U.S. Census worker collects information (U.S. Census Buerau)

With only a couple of weeks before the U.S. Census Bureau wraps up the 2020 Census, both the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood are making final pushes to encourage people to be counted.

The end date for the 2020 Census has been influx as the nation dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic. About a month ago, Census Bureau officials announced that since response to the 2020 Census has been good, it will conclude data collection operations on Sept. 30. Currently, the Census reports more than 90 percent of the nation has completed the nine-question census. Enumerators have been out following up with those who have not responded to the initial questionnaire.

 

The U.S. Census Bureau currently is reporting that Michigan has more than a 92 percent total response rate, of which about 70 percent was residents who self-responded to the initial questionnaire and the remaining has been responses collected through follow-up.

Total response rate numbers are not broken down by county or city such as self-response rate. For the self-response, both the cities of Wyoming and Kenwood had higher numbers for the 2020 Census then for the 2010 Census. In Kentwood, it is 78 percent for 2020 compared to 68 percent for 2010. For the City of Wyoming, it was 76 percent for 2020 compared to 66 percent in 2010.

City of Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley

Census Bureau officials contribute the higher self-response rates to a number of factors including that the 2020 Census is the first census where residents were able to fill the form out online. 

“I am delighted to be where we are, but we have to keep the momentum going to end strong,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “Time is running out. Community members can self-respond online, by phone, or by mail through Sept. 30. Census takers are visiting households that have not yet responded to help ensure everyone is counted.”

In a recent Facebook post encouraging its residents fill out the census, the City of Wyoming stated that about 20 percent of its population still needed to complete the 2020 Census. For every person who does not complete the census could result in the lost of dollars to a municipality such as the City of Wyoming from federally funded programs which use the census data to determine where billions of dollars in funding will be directed. Some of the  federally funded programs that use the census in determining allocations are community block grants, road funding, and school lunch programs. 

“While the City does not have an official percentage goal for the census, we would love to achieve a complete and accurate count to ensure Kentwood receives its fair share of vital resources for all community members,” Kepley said.

Federal funding such as Community Development Block Grants are used to help with park design and development. (WKTV)

The census also determines the number of seats Michigan will have in the U.S. House of Representatives with the state pushing to maintain its current 14 seats. On the state level, the results impact the Michigan House of Representatives. The Kent County Board of Commission also uses census data for redistricting along with cities using it for its districts. Wyoming’s City Clerk Kelli VandenBerg recently pointed out that the city tries to keep its three ward districts balanced and will take a look at the census numbers to determine if adjustments are needed.

To help encourage its residents to complete the 2020 Census, the City of Kentwood is hosting a series of 2020 Cenus pop events over the next week and half. The events run from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, at Veterans Memorial Park, 355 48th St. SE; Sept. 22 at Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Dr. SE; and Sept. 24 at Kentwood’s Covenant Park, 3724 Shaffer Ave. SE. 

“Ultimately, the success of the census depends on everyone’s participation,” Kepley said.

Traffic Tuesday Answer: Drinking and Driving

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the question will be posted on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday.

Since there is nation-wide increase in patrols for impaired drivers currently going on, we’re going to focus on drunk driving this week. Most people know that driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher is illegal. However, can you be arrested for driving with a blood alcohol level lower than .08?

  1. Yes
  2. No
  3. I’m not sure, I’ll check back Thursday!

Answer: 1) Yes. MCL 257. 625 covers “operating while intoxicated”. It specifically lists the BAC of .08, and also states that “a person, whether licensed or not, shall not operate a vehicle upon a highway or other place open to the general public or generally accessible to motor vehicles…within this state when, due to the consumption of alcoholic liquor, a controlled substance, or other intoxicating substance, or a combination of alcoholic liquor, a controlled substance, or other intoxicating substance, the person’s ability to operate the vehicle is visibly impaired.”

There are multiple validated and reliable tests that officers are trained to conduct roadside to determine impairment. These tests are not based on one’s blood alcohol content, but on how the alcohol affects a person. Someone could be impaired and unable to operate a vehicle before reaching the .08 BAC level.

Snapshots: Family fun near you this weekend

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming,

By Anna Johns
WKTV Intern




Family time is sacred time and should be protected and respected.

American Artist Boyd K. Packer (1924-2015)
The City of Kentwood “Chalk the Lot” will allow families to create their own art projects. (WKTV historic photo)

Unleash your Inner Artist at ‘Chalk the Lot’

Grab the family and head down to Kentwood’s ‘Chalk the Lot‘ event. Join the City of Kentwood’s Park and Recreation Department at the Veterans Memorial Park’s new playground in Kentwood. Participants are asked to register in advance and will be provided an assigned spot and chalk. The public is invited to view the artwork while practicing proper social distancing. The event begins Friday, Aug. 29, at noon and ends Sunday evening.

The new playground at Ideal Park(WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Pay a Visit Ideal Park

Now that Ideal Park has officially been reopened, why not spend a few hours this weekend checking out the park’s new features. There’s a new playground with all kinds of accessible items such as swims and a new whirler. A shelter provides shade for those want to relax and new bathrooms! Make sure to take photo at the butterfly for the City of Wyoming’s butterfly photo contest.


Summer Sweep 2020

You have until Sept. 7 to head down to Grand Haven for the annual Summer Sweep. Merchants are moving their summer clearance inventory to the sidewalks and offering great deals. For more information about this event you can visit downtowngh.com or follow the entire adventure on Facebook at “Grand Haven Main Street.”



Alaska’s Denali mountain form the north with Reflection Pond in the foreground. (Wikipedia)

Fun Fact: High on the Mountain Top

Some say its the Rockies and others, the Appalachian Mountains, but in truth it is the Alaska Range that has the highest mountain in the United States. The mountain that tops them all: Denali at an elevation of 20,310 feet.

City of Wyoming seeks input from residents on how to use federal funds

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The City of Wyoming is looking for its residents to tell them what to do over the next five years with more than $5 million in federal funds.

For the past couple of weeks, the city has been asking its residents to fill out a survey to help prioritize the needs they would like the federal funds to be directed toward. 

“If you are interested in housing in your community, if you are interested in economic development, if you want to know and help inform the city on how it should spend $5 million or more in community development dollars and home dollars which is federal money which comes to the city, the survey needs you,” said City of Wyoming Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt.

Every five years, the city’s Community Development staff researches and analyzes the city’s neighborhoods related to areas of problems and needs concerning low-income concentrations, persons with special needs, housing and commercial structure deterioration, recreational requirements and other neighborhood issues. Following this analysis, the city’s Community Development Committee decides on a Comprehensive Housing and Community Development Strategy to guide the use of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funds that come through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

The survey’s main focus is getting citizen’s input on how the city should prioritize the the use of these federal dollars. 

Rynbrandt said people call the city offices concerned about eviction, affordable housing and a homeowner who is not taking care of their property. 

“They want to understand how the city cares about the community and invests in them and in their property,” she said. For more than 40 years, the CDBG funds have been used for housing rehabilitation loans that have zero or three precent interest.

“These funds are honestly not about the individual, even though impacts individuals,”Rynbrandt said. “These funds are about stabilizing neighborhoods and insuring the built in environment and the public services be they homeless, be they code enforcement, are captured and invested in to ensure that long term stability of the community is successful.”

Residents input from the survey will have a direct impact as the comments go into a plan to prioritize investments such as the program to help homeowners, who income qualify, upgrade their properties so they are code compliant and helped to rehouse those who are homeless.

“That child, who may be homeless and now has a stable environment, is no longer couch surfing,” Rynbrandt said. “So what does that mean for the long term? That child is better able to prepare to be successful and is able to go to school and have educational engagement.”

The city already has received about 1,000 survey responses. They are asking residents, if possible, to fill out the survey by Aug. 31. The survey will be up after that for a little while. 

To fill out the survey, click here or visit the City of Wyoming’s Department of Parks and Recreation’s Facebook page. Due to COVID-19, the city is encouraging everyone to complete the survey online. 

Traffic Tuesday Answer: Center Lane Passing

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism,

Officer Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the question will be posted on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday.

Traffic Tuesday Question: Vehicle A is driving toward north on De Hoop, toward the police department, from 28th St. Vehicle B is behind Vehicle A, going the same direction, and would like to pass Vehicle A. Can Vehicle B use the center lane to pass Vehicle A? Check out the photo for a visual.

  1. Yes, Vehicle B can pass Vehicle A
  2. No, Vehicle B cannot pass Vehicle A
  3. I’m not sure, I’ll check back Thursday!

Answer: No, Vehicle B cannot use the center lane to pass Vehicle A.

Next Tuesday is a new question!

Traffic Tuesday: Center Lane Passing

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the question will be posted on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday.

Traffic Tuesday Question: Center Lane Passing: Vehicle A is driving toward north on De Hoop, toward the police department, from 28th St. Vehicle B is behind Vehicle A, going the same direction, and would like to pass Vehicle A. Can Vehicle B use the center lane to pass Vehicle A? Check out the photo for a visual.

  1. Yes, Vehicle B can pass Vehicle A
  2. No, Vehicle B cannot pass Vehicle A
  3. I’m not sure, I’ll check back Thursday!

Check back this Thursday to learn the answer!

Wyoming [re]Imagined sets community-driven framework for growth

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,
City of Wyoming residents ponder the question “Wyoming would be better if…” at the May 2 master plan workshop.

By Nicole Hofert
City of Wyoming

On Monday, the Wyoming City Council voted to open the 63-day public comment period for the community-driven Master Plan, Wyoming [re]Imagined. The draft plan forms a framework for future growth and reinvestment in the City of Wyoming. Upon final approval, it will inform how planning decisions are made related to land-use, infrastructure, transportation, parks, recreation, housing and more. During the public comment period, the City invites community members to review the plan and provide comments on the goals, objectives, policies, and programs it includes that will guide how the City will develop over the next 15 to 20 years.

As the blueprint for the City, the planning process for this draft Master Plan was intentionally developed to bring community voice and needs to the forefront. The City is committed to involving residents, businesses, developers, stakeholders, and workers in every step of the process. A 20-member steering committee made up of representatives from local school districts, commissions, neighborhoods, businesses, and partner agencies helped to ensure the plan is reflective of the community’s vision. Community outreach activities included workshops, focus groups, interviews, special event outreach, online questionnaires, social media, and more.

“The input we received from the community outreach initiatives formed the foundation of the plan. Our community knows Wyoming and what it wants for our future. They want to see affordable housing options, flourishing economic development, and preservation and activation of our public parks,” says Mayor Jack Poll. “This public comment period is hugely important. It gives the community a chance to come forward and tell us if the document reflects what they told us before formal adoption.”

The Wyoming [re]Imagined document explores multiple topics including a new Land Use Map,  and Special Area Plans, as well as chapters on Residential Areas, Economic Development, Community Facilities, Transportation and Mobility, and Parks, Open Space, and Recreation. Each section details what community stakeholders and residents want to see in Wyoming’s future and how the collective vision is implemented.

To view the draft plan and provide feedback, visit www.wyomingmi.gov/reimagined.

Walkable communities, city center all part of Wyoming’s proposed master plan

3-bottom, City of Wyoming
Along Porter and Lee streets is a small neighborhood node that offers retail and restaurants that residents can walk to.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Along the corner of Porter and Lee streets is an example of what the City of Wyoming residents would like to see throughout Wyoming — small commercial neighbors where residents could walk to a grocery store, restaurant or even to work.

The neighborhood node concept is just one of the outcomes after months of discussion and meetings to develop the city’s new Master Plan, which will be unveiled to the public at the Wyoming City Council’s Monday, Aug. 17, meeting. This is the council’s second on-the-road meeting which will be at 7 p.m. at the SpartanNash YMCA, 5722 Metro Way SW, right off of Gezon Parkway.

The city’s current master plan is about 14 years old and was revised about eight years ago in 2012. Since the revision, the city has implemented the first phase of its 28 West project, which included the redevelopment of the Wyoming Village Mall, now called 28 West Place and the construction of the new Hom Flats project on the old Studio 28 site.

Since May of 2019, the city has been working on a new master plan hosting meetings with residents and community leaders to discuss how they would “reimagine” the City of Wyoming. Along with those meetings, residents had the opportunity to share their input through an interactive website and surveys.

“We were very fortunate in that when COVID-19 hit, we were in the process of writing the plan so it did not have an impact on the process,” said Nicole Hofert, principal planner for the City of Wyoming. The consulting firm Houseal Lavigne Associates took all the comments to compile the draft proposal for the new master plan.

The city’s Planning Commission and city officials have been reviewing the draft proposal and have forwarded it on to the City Council, which is scheduled to approve the release of the draft to the public at Monday’s meeting.

Wyoming Mayor Pro Tem Sam Bolt talks to City Planner Nicole Hofert during the May 2, 2019 master plan workshop. The city hosted several master plan meetings. (WKTV)

What does the plan include? Residents want sense of community with the creation of walkable, mixed use districts along with the establishment of a city center.

Residents want to spend more time closer to home, Hofert said. It was noted by many that the north side of the city such as Lee and Porter streets and Burton  Street and Godfrey Avenue were designed to support such community nodes with stores, restaurants, and parts to walk to. The south side of the city, such as the panhandle, have more of a suburban feel and that future development should be encouraged to be more compact and walkable.

Another idea was a thriving, pedestrian-friendly city center that would help to attract better-quality businesses into Wyoming and diversify shopping options, particularly along 28th Street. The future of Rogers Plaza was discussed along with revitalizing the area with food truck rallies, public open spaces, a community center and a farmers’ or flea market.

Another area that residents discussed, according to Hofert, was Site 36, the former location of a General Motors plant. Suggestions for the site varied with a mix of commercial, recreational and industrial, she said, adding that most resident felt the site could be redeveloped to help attract people to Wyoming and build up the South Division area. 

The Division corridor was not addressed in this plan. Hofert noted that The Rapids’ Silver Line is conducting a study on the Division corridor which runs through the cities of Grand Rapids, Wyoming and Kentwood, all of which have been working on new master plans.

A need that was demonstrated through this master plan process was for more diverse housing, Hofert said. The city has a lot of single family homes but there is a need for multi-family spaces along with affordable housing.

There is a 63-day public comment period for the proposed draft. Hofert said due to COVID-19 staff will have to facilitate public comment while following social distancing guidelines. Plans do include small workshops to be held through the community and that would be multiple opportunities to gain comment from the public. Once the public comment period closes, the Steering Committee will review the final draft. That draft will be sent to the City Council for approval, which according to the timeline, will be in December. 

Traffic Tuesday Answer: School Buses

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By Officer Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety posts a question on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday. **Please do not post the answer in the comments, so that others have a chance to answer on their own** Note: the answer can be found on both the WKTV Journal website and in the community social media site Nextdoor.

This week’s question: You are behind a school bus, when it stops and activates its flashing red lights. What is the closest you can stop behind the bus?

  1. No closer than 20 feet
  2. No closer than 25 feet
  3. No closer than 35 feet
  4. No closer than 50 feet

Answer: You can be no closer than 20 feet from a school bus while the red lights are activated and flashing.

Traffic Tuesday: School Buses

3-bottom, City of Wyoming

Officer Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety posts a question on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday. **Please do not post the answer in the comments, so that others have a chance to answer on their own** Note: the answer can be found on both the WKTV Journal website and in the community social media site Nextdoor.

In preparation for some of our kids going back to school, we’re revisiting school bus laws!

This week’s question: You are behind a school bus, when it stops and activates its flashing red lights. What is the closest you can stop behind the bus?

  1. No closer than 20 feet
  2. No closer than 25 feet
  3. No closer than 35 feet
  4. No closer than 50 feet

Check back on Thursday to learn the answer!

Wyoming enacts sprinkling ban to protect regional water system during repair

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By City of Wyoming

The City of Wyoming has declared a Level Three Water Emergency, due to a water transmission main repair. The repair will temporarily reduce the capacity of the water system making it necessary to institute a Sprinkling Ban. This ban, which includes all outdoor irrigation, begins Tuesday, Aug. 11 at 6 a.m. within all communities served by the City of Wyoming Water System.  By following the Sprinkling Ban, water customers will help protect the water system during this emergency repair. The communities included in the Sprinkling Ban are:

  • Zeeland Township
  • Park Township
  • Olive Township
  • Blendon Township 
  • Holland Township
  • Georgetown Township
  • Jamestown Township
  • Byron Township
  • Gaines Township
  • City of Hudsonville 
  • City of Grandville
  • A part of the City of Kentwood 
  • City of Wyoming

“Water remains safe and drinkable so long as the water pressure is maintained,” says Director of Public Works Myron Erickson, “the emergency repair itself doesn’t impact water quality. However, low system pressure may impact water quality due to cross connections. That’s why it is incredibly important to follow this temporary Sprinkling Ban.”

The emergency repair will take one of the two water transmission mains out of service, reducing the capacity of the water system. Currently, the City of Wyoming water facilities are pumping at maximum rates to meet peak summer demand. With only one water transmission line active, the water system cannot maintain the high water demand caused by summer irrigation. One transmission line can meet the demand of indoor water use. If water system users don’t abide by the Sprinkling Ban, low pressure and low volumes of water are a distinct possibility.

Due to this extreme water emergency, the City of Wyoming will be issuing municipal civil infractions to any violators of the Sprinkling Ban within the City of Wyoming. The Sprinkling Ban will be in effect until further notice. 

For more information, visit www.wyomingmi.gov/SprinklingBan or contact the Wyoming Water Office at 616-530-7390 or the Wyoming Water Plant at (616) 399-6511.  Residents of the customer communities of the Wyoming Water System may also contact their respective communities’ water office.

Mentors guided Erickson down the path to becoming Wyoming’s new public works director

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming
In May, Myron Erickson became the City of Wyoming’s fifth director of its Department of Public Works. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

It was a former boss and mentor who once told Myron Erickson that he could “easily become director” of the City of Wyoming’s Department of Public Works.

“I was in my late 20s, early 30s and I really did not think much about it,” Erickson said during a recent phone interview. “I just really kept my nose to the grindstone, did a lot of different things, and one day realized I was pretty responsible for a lot.”

On May 14, Erickson officially assumed the role of director of Wyoming’s Department of Public Works.

“It was kind of a weird time,” Erickson said. “Bill [Dooley] was retiring on May 14 and we were meeting by Zoom just trying to keep our bare bones department together because we can’t just stop city services due to COVID-19.”

Originally from the east side of the state, Erickson was working on his master’s degree at Michigan State University when he landed a seasonal position at the City of Grand Rapids Wastewater Treatment Plant. When the position ended, his Grand Rapids manager said he thought his counterpart at the City of Wyoming could use Erickson’s talents.

“I did some lab work doing some experiments for the wastewater treatment process,” Erickson said. “That position ended and I needed something for my thesis and Wyoming was ‘this is something that we are interested in doing,’ so I ended up taking two six-month positions back-to-back.”

Erickson’s project was a study on the impact of the then new 1994 federal law that regulated the beneficial reuse of wastewater treatment residuals. The project was a success and resulted in operational changes at the wastewater treatment plant. More importantly to Erickson at the time, it provided him the three credit hours he needed to graduate.

With degree in hand, Erickson began looking for a job in consulting, but his friend, mentor, and the person who hired Erickson for the internship, Tom Kent, convinced Erickson to apply for an opening in the department’s industrial sewer use group.

“Tom was the guy who convinced me of what a golden opportunity working here was,” Erickson said. Not knowing how much this would impact his career, Erickson applied and got the job.

New Wyoming Department of Public Works Director Myron Erickson credits mentors in helping with his career. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

There would be other mentors who would also have an impact on the direction of Erickson’s career. Former Director of Utilities Joe Staph encouraged Erickson to become a registered professional engineer in the State of Michigan, which Erickson would need to become director, and former Public Works Director Bill Dooley, who Erickson said help him prepare for the directorship of both the utilities department and the public works department, provided “the wisdom and guidance” that has become invaluable to him, Erickson said.

So Erickson’s intention to stay for only five years, ended up being 26 as he worked his way through various positions from industrial waste monitor to depty director and finally director along with making West Michigan his home.

“I love two things about my career: the simple provision of public service and good local governance, and the ability to help and mentor others coming along behind me,” Erickson said. “More specifically, I love what Wyoming does with local government. the challenges of stretching a buck, doing more with less, finding and employing the best people who truly care about the community they serve, and solving the many technical and managerial trails we face as economically as possible all inspire me.”

And just like the mentors who encouraged Erickson along the way, he is now giving back to those coming up through the ranks.

“To young engineers and scientists coming behind me, I would advise: find a mentor, seek licensure and accreditation, give your best to your employer, treat every employee at every level with respect and recognize their contributions and never stop learning.”

Traffic Tuesday Answer: Burnouts in the parking lot

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety posts a question on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday. **Please do not post the answer in the comments, so that others have a chance to answer on their own** Note: the answer can be found on both the WKTV Journal website and in the community social media site Nextdoor.

For the next few weeks, we’re going to discuss law violations in parking lots. This week’s question: If you are doing burn outs in a parking lot, can you receive a citation?

  1. No, no citation
  2. Yes, citation for speeding
  3. Yes, citation for careless driving or reckless driving



Answer: Yes, citation for careless driving or reckless driving. The specific citation depends on the circumstances (are there people/other vehicles around, could anyone have been hurt or did anyone get hurt?)

On Tuesday, there will be a new question.

Traffic Tuesday: Burnouts in the parking lot

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

Welcome to the Traffic Tuesday question. Each week, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety posts a question on Tuesday, and the answer posted Thursday. **Please do not post the answer in the comments, so that others have a chance to answer on their own** Note: the answer can be found on both the WKTV Journal website and in the community social media site Nextdoor.

 

For the next few weeks, we’re going to discuss law violations in parking lots. If you are doing burn outs in a parking lot, can you receive a citation?

  1. No, no citation
  2. Yes, citation for speeding
  3. Yes, citation for careless driving or reckless driving

Check back on Thursday for the answer!

Wyoming Police looking for four missing children

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
The four children were last seen July 26, 2020 near the area of Prairie Park, 2250 Prairie Parkway SW.

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

UPDATE: The children have been found and have been safely returned to their guardian.

The Wyoming Dept. of Public Safety is requesting assistance in locating four children who are missing and considered endangered.

On July 26, 2020, a non-custodial parent of the children, Shannette Merriweather, a 25-year-old female, walked away with the children from their legal guardian during a supervised visit. Shannette and the children were last seen in the area of Prairie Park (2250 Prairie Parkway SW) around 3 p.m. on July 26, 2020. The investigation into the whereabouts of the children indicates that Shannette is not capable of adequately providing for them.

Descriptions of missing children:

Alana Burger – black female, 7-years-old, last seen wearing a gray t-shirt and blue jean shorts

Amina Burger – black female, 6-years-old, last seen wearing an unknown colored t-shirt and blue jean shorts

Aaliyah Burger – black female, 5-years-old, last seen wearing an unknown colored t-shirt and blue jean shorts

Skyler Merriweather – black male, 2-years-old, last seen wearing a multi-colored button-down shirt and beige pants.

Shannette Merriweather

Shannette is described as a black female, 5 feet, 4 inches tall, 115 pounds and was last seen wearing a black and pink floral shirt with black pants. Shannette does not have a vehicle and her current address is unknown.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the four children and/or Shannette Merriweather is asked to immediately contact 9-1-1 or the Wyoming Dept. of Public Safety.

New path connects Wyoming’s Frog Hollow to M-6 Trail

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , ,
Let’s take a walk: The new trail connector starting at M-6 and heading to Frog Hollow.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

A final piece to the City of Wyoming’s Frog Hollow park was completed this month when a short path connector from the park to the Fred Meijer M-6 trail was installed.

“Actually it was part of the vision when the M-6 trail was under construction that Frog Hollow would serve as a way station to those using the trail,” said the City of Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt, whose responsibilities includes overseeing the parks. “People who were biking would be able to use the restrooms or families could take a break along the trail and enjoy the park.”

The trail is located west of the park, between the tree-and-bush barrier and the Metro Health facility’s driveway at 1980 Metro Court Way.

The playground equipment at Frog Hollow. The park is designed to be universally accessible. (WKTV)

The project was delayed in that the city needed to get an easement from the property located behind the park at 1980 Metro Court SW. The building was occupied by ITT Technical Institute which closed in 2016 when the for-profit school discontinued operations. Metro Health eventually moved into the location.

The project cost about $87,201 to complete the .1 mile connector. About $62,601 was funded with Federal TAP funds from the Grand Valley Metro Council with the City of Wyoming contributing $26,160. 

“Before the connector, we really did not have a direct way for people to walk or bike to the park,” Rynbrandt said, noting most had to use the roads through the Metro Village to get to the park located at 2050 Metro Court. SW.

 

The connector also will allow access to the Spartan Branch YMCA, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, Veterans Center, Gezon Parkway and Gezon Park baseball fields through pathways located along Metro Court and Metro Way. Rynbrandt said she is working with Kent County for signage.

Constructed in 2005, Frog Hollow was designed to be universally accessible providing ramps to access higher levels among other features. The park does have a black rail fence all the way around with only one entrance and exit, which is where the restrooms are located. For more about the City of Wyoming Parks, click here. 

The Fred Meijer M-6 trail runs 9 miles parallel to the M-6/Paul Henry Freeway. The trail starts at Wing Avenue and 60th Street where the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail starts and ends at the Kent Trails at the M-6 overpass located between Byron Center and Ivanrest avenues.

After nine years, Wyoming’s K9 Dutch retires, with Kovu readying to fill his paws

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Any police officer will tell you that when you have been with a certain partner for awhile, you just know their little quirks.

So when Wyoming Officer Kelsey Eisen came to some train tracks on her first week out without her K9 partner Dutch, she missed his familiar bark.

“It was a little strange not to hear it,” Eisen said. “I was so use to it and then to go over the tracks and it not be there.”

Officer Kelsey Eisen with Dutch. (Supplied)

After nine years of service — three as Eisen’s partner — Dutch officially retired from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety on June 7. As with any officer, he was given a full send off complete with cake — doggie approved — and the final 10-42 call announcing his retirement.

“Yeah, now he gets to hang on the couch and get all the treats that he wants,” Eisen said with a laugh. This means Dutch has moved from his kennel to inside Eisen’s home while Eisen’s new partner, a two-year-old Belgium Malinois named Kovu, settles into the kennel and starts his training as the new “dog” on the force.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is one of a few area departments that has a K9 unit. Wyoming has four K9 officers, Chase who is with Officer Ryan Patterson, Azar who is with Officer Daniel Sanderson, Jett who is with Officer Chad Wells, and now Kovu who is with Eisen.

High flying’: Dutch shows off his jumping skills. (Supplied)

While a dog can be trained for a single purpose, such as tracking or narcotics, all the Wyoming K9 dogs are dual purpose meaning the animals are cross trained for narcotics, building searches, evidence recovery and people searches such as tracking suspects to missing persons.

“One of my favorite searches with Dutch is when Kent County called,” Eisen said. “They had stopped a car and the suspect had taken off on foot. They had chased him a little bit into a wooded area. They lost him and called for Dutch and I. [Dutch] started to track and he tracked probably a good 10 to 15 yards to a swamp and he started to track into the swamp. We lit the swamp up and Dutch was about a foot away from the guy submerged trying to hide.


It’s the couch life and treats

Now the only searching Dutch has to do is to locate the couch.

 

Dutch helps out collecting cans for Officer Eisen’s new partner, Kovu. (Supplied)

“My son and daughter are extremely excited that he gets to come into the house and hang out for more than a few minutes here and there,” Eisen said with a laugh. 

For the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, when a K9 dog retires, it traditionally comes home with the trainer/handler.

“I don’t know what I would do if someone said I couldn’t keep Dutch after working all those many training hours and working the road ,” Eisen said. “You literally spend more time with the dog than you do with your family. So if someone was to tell me that I couldn’t take him afterwards it would be devastating and I would be heartbroken that I couldn’t give him that special treat afterwards for how much work he has done in the city and couldn’t spoil him in retirement.”

Eisen admitted she’ll have lots of help spoiling Dutch — who had a reputation for visiting City Hall and looking for goodies — which is probably a good thing since Eisen will be spending most of her time training Kovu.

The new dog on the force

Knowing that the Wyoming Department of Public Safety would be needing to purchase another K9, the department partnered with the K-911 Foundation. The cost for a police dog is around $8,500 with the department putting in half. The other half was raised through a can drive, which due to COVID are still waiting to be returned, with the aid of the K-911 Foundation.

Kovu is the new K9 recruit and Officer Eisen’s partner. (WKTV)

After visiting with several dogs at Shadow Creek Kennels, Eisen said Kovu’s “drive and confidence is what won us over with him.”

Kovu, who originally came from the Czech Republic, spent the first two weeks bonding with Eisen, getting to know her and building a relationship of trust. He will spend eight weeks training with Eisen with the goal being for Kovu to officially go on patrol in August. Eisen added that he definitely will be ready to meet everyone at National Night Out, which, due to COVID-19, is set for Oct. 6 this year.

 

“Obviously the dog is a tool for us but he is not just a tool,” Eisen said. “He is our partner, our family. There is that special bond that goes with all the training and all the blood and sweat and tears that you work toward a partnership and it’s all about that partnership.

“It’s not just the dog that does all the work. You have to be able to read the dog and the dog has to be able to rely on you and there’s that balance and confidence working as a team to get to that goal that you want to achieve, whether it’s getting the bad guy, finding the missing person, a building search or anything else like that.”

Splash, splash: Wyoming set to open splash pads July 6

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,
The splash pad at Oriole Park will open July 6 along with the one at Lamar Park and the one at Oriole Park. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The weather has been hot which has begged the question from several people on Facebook about when the City of Wyoming’s splash pads will be open.

The City of Wyoming’s Park and Recreation Department has announced it will open its splash pads on July 6. Wyoming has three splash pads, one at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW; one at Oriole Park, 1380 42nd St. SW., and the third is at Southlawn Park, 4125 Jefferson SW.

The splash pads are open to the general public from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There will be social distancing guidelines put in place for the splash pads. More information about those guidelines will be coming soon. For more information, visit wyomingmi.gov and click on Parks and Recreation.

The splash pads at Kentwood’s Pinewood Park and Veteran’s Park are now open. (Kentwood)

Kentwood is now open

The City of Kentwood’s splash pads are open. Kentwood has two splash pads, one at Pinewood Park, 1999 Wolfboro Dr. SE, and a new splash pad at Veteran’s Park, located next to the Kentwood Activities Center at 355 48th St. SE.

The splash pads are open to the public from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Participants are encouraged to follow CDC public health guidelines, including staying at least six feet away from others not in their household. For more about the parks in Kentwood, visit kentwood.us/exploreourparks and click on City Departments and then on Parks and Recreation.

Millennium Park splash pad is now open. (Kent County)

Millennium Park is open as well

Kent County also has opened the splash pad at Millennium Park, located behind Johnson Park at 1415 Maynard Ave. SW.

 

Due to COVID-19, the Millennium Park splash pad is limited to 50 percent capacity which is about 50 people. Currently the splash pad is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. with hours reducing after Aug. 4 to 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The splash pad is located next to the six-acre sand beach at Millennium Park.

Millennium Park does have an entrance fee which is $4/adults, $3/seniors (63 and older), $2 children (ages 3 – 15) and free for children two and under. For more information, visit kentcountyparks.org.

Hand2Hand creates a win-win by helping families and keeping local restaurants busy

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

As food supplies diminished during the recent statewide Stay Home, Stay Safe order, Hand2Hand officials were left with how to secure large quantities of food to help feed the thousands of children who rely on the organization and its church partners for weekend meals.

 

“Our founder Cheryl Hondred was praying on how we could feed these families also knowing that area restaurants were deeply impacted by COVID-19 as well,” said Jodi Joseph, director of growth for Hand2Hand. “Then she had this idea and it just started to grow.”

The idea became the Win Win program where Hand2Hand was able to take matching grant money to purchase gift cards from local businesses which in turn the organization would give to families to purchase meals at the restaurant.

Lombardo’s Pizza, 2307 Lee St. SW, Wyoming, was one of the 30 restaurants that participated in the Hand2Hand Win Win program. (WKTV)

Local restaurants were asked to create meals, not including drinks, that  would feed a family of four but that the restaurant would still make a profit on, Joseph said. Gift cards would be purchased for $10, $15, or $20 and then distributed to the families who in turn could go to the restaurant to get the WinWin meal, she said.

“We were just blown away by the generous response of the community,” Joseph said. The Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation and the David and Carol Van Andel Foundation provided a $30,000 matching grant. Community members stepped up to foundations’ challenge contributing $40,000 to the program allowing Hand2Hand to raise a total of $70,000 in a short time. 

“We have given out 4,100 gift cards and have heard numerous stories and testimonies from families who were so grateful to receive a warm cooked meal from restaurants that treated them so well,” said Hand2Hand Founder and Executive Director Cheri Hondred in a wrap up video about the program.

Through the effort, Hand2Hand was able to connect with more than 30 restaurants from 17 of the 37 school districts that the organization serves.  Some of the restaurants were Two Guys Brewing, Lombardo’s, and Russ’s in Wyoming and The Candied Yam in Kentwood.

“At a very early age, my twin sissy and I experienced the pain of being hungry before we were adopted,” said Jessica Ann Tyson, owner of the Candied Yam as to why she participated in the Hand2Hand Win Win program. “Being able to partner with organizations, like Hand2Hand, gives us the opportunity to empathize and give back in a way that makes a big difference to someone. We are also grateful to keep our team working so we can continue making this food with great love to share with others.”

Wyoming’s TwoGuys Brewing also participated in the Hand2Hand Win Win program. Pictured is TwoGuys managing partnerTom Payne. (WKTV)

Nick Lombardo owner of Wyoming’s Lombardo Pizza, located at 2307 Lee St. SW, said the program did help in bringing traffic to his restaurant.

“The first couple of weeks we were down,” said Lombardo, who’s restaurant is mostly takeout and delivery. He added that the opportunity to be a part of the Win Win program gave the restaurant a chance to give back while keeping busy at the sametime. 

  

Hand2Hand, which is based in Hudsonville, partners with about 119 area churches and businesses to provide weekend backpacks to more than 8,000 area students in 206 schools. Gift cards were dispersed to families who are part of the Hand2Hand program.

Now that the Stay Home, Stay Safe order has ended, the Win Win program also has wrapped up as well. Looking back at its success, Hondred, through the Hand2Hand blog said the program really was a blessing to the families as it provided a break and a special treat to them while providing stability and income to the partnering 30 restaurants.

Wyoming hosts annual health and wellness expo Saturday

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By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

As the weather is getting warmer, we are all looking at healthier activities. One place to check that out is Wyoming Community Health and Wellness Expo set for Saturday, April 13, at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop SW.

The event, which will be from 1 – 3 p.m., will feature local health organizations that will be sharing services and local resources with community members.

“Spring is a great time to focus on health and wellness as the weather warms and outdoor activities begin,” said Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt. “This community event is a great way to connect the community with local resources focused on health and overall well-being. The Health and Wellness Expo gives everyone an opportunity to sample, explore and try something new.”

The Expo will include activities for all ages such as free blood pressure checks and yoga and Zumba demonstrations.  

If you miss the Wyoming expo, about 10 days later, the City of Kentwood will be hosting its 20th Annual Spotlight on Seniors Health & Fitness Expo, set for April 23, at the Kentwood Recreation Department, 355 48th St. SE. The free event, which is from 8:30 a.m. – noon, offers more than 70 vendors along with free breakfast and lunch. 

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you want to know

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By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

 

Quote of the Day

"It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not." 

                                                  Andre Gide

Oh, boy. No. 3,000,000
is in for a big surprise

This woman is not the 3,000,000th passenger

If you’re the 3,000,000th passenger on Dec. 5th, you’ll be feted with a surprise. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport had a total of over 2.7 million passengers served through the end of October. November and December seat totals and flight information are forecasting the three millionth passenger to arrive around 11am on Dec. 5.

 

There will also be a reception to include surprises and giveaways for passengers flying that day. More here.

 

Proof that science really exists!

This launch could not happen without science

Tuesday, Dec. 4, WKTV will be featuring the launch of the SpaceX CRS-16 Cargo Craft to the International Space Station. SpaceX CRS-16 will be filled with supplies and payloads including critical materials to directly support the science and research that will occur during the current expeditions.

 

Coverage continues on Thursday, Dec. 6, for the rendezvous and capture of the SpaceX CRS-16 at the ISS at 4:30am, with the capture scheduled for approximately 6am Installation of the cargo craft begins at 7:30am. Go here for more info.

 

 

You say “tomayto”, I say “tomahto”

Gleaves Whitney will tackle a thorny topic

We all have our differences. But the 2016 election of Donald Trump, Kavanaugh hearings, and 2018 midterm elections have stirred up deep emotions about what kind of nation America is and should be. Conservative and progressive debates over the meaning of these events have opened old wounds and created new injuries in our body politic.

 

On Wednesday, Dec. 5, Gleaves Whitney, director of the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University, will address the divide in the country, and explain why failure to resolve our most difficult challenges is not an option. Go here for more info.

 

 

Fun Fact:

The footprints on the moon will
be there for 100 million years

The Moon has no atmosphere, which means there is no wind to erode the surface and no water to wash the footprints away. This means the footprints of the Apollo astronauts, along with spacecraft prints, rover-prints and discarded material, will be there for millions of years.