Tag Archives: Wyoming

Kentwood, Wyoming leaders joined by others for annual National Night Out kick off

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City leaders and local law enforcement gathered at Consumers Energy for the annual kick off to National Night Out.

By WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Various city leaders and local law enforcement were on hand for the official reading of the National Night Out proclamation at Consumers Energy this morning.

 

The annual morning event, which was at the Consumers Energy offices, 4000 Clay Ave., have officials and officers from Rockford, Walker, Grandville, Grand Rapids, Kentwood and Wyoming.

 

Wyoming Chief Kim Koster and Kentwood Chief Thomas Hillen

Kicking off at 5:30 a.m., Consumers Energy had two of its large trucks with buckets extended above U.S. 131 to help draw attention to the annual event. Consumers Energy employees were handing out light bulbs to those traveling down Clay Avenue.

 

For the 24th consecutive year, Consumers Energy has been recognized by the National Association of Town Watch as the recipient of “National Electric Utility Award” for its participation in National Night Out 2017. National Night Out promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. Area residents are encouraged to turn their porch light on and go out and meet their neighbors.

 

More activities will be taking place later this afternoon and evening in both the communities of Kentwood and Wyoming.

 

In Kentwood, the city’s big kick off will be at Woodland Mall from 3— 5 p.m. Residents will have to opportunity to met with Kentwood police and firefighters and get an up-close look at emergency vehicles. There will be a bicycle raffle and a special visit from McGruff the Crime Dog.

 

There is about 20 different neighborhood events taking place throughout the city, several of which will have a variety of entertainment. Those with special activities are:

 

• Christ Community Church, 2400 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 5— 7 p.m., will have water slides, games, food and beverages.

 

• Wingate Apartments, 3151 Wingate Dr. SE, 5— 7 p.m., will have a dunk tank and live music.

 

• South United Methodist Church, 4500 S. Division Ave., 6— 8 p.m, will have live music, a water slide, games, hot dogs, ice cream, snow cones and punch.

 

• Faith Church, 1412 44th St. SE, 6— 8 p.m., will have face painting, music, games, hot dogs, and pop.

 

Walker Mayor Mark Huizenga, Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley, and Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss.

• Pentecostals of Kentwood, 2627 44th St. SE, 6—8 p.m., will have a bounce house, puppets, live music, games, food and beverages.

 

• St. Paul’s United Method Church and Forest Pointe Apartments, 3334 Breton Ave. SE, 6—8 p.m., will have lawn games, sidewalk chalk, basketball, food and beverages. 

 

In Wyoming, the city’s big event is the National Night Out Concerts in the Park hosted by the Wyoming Enrichment Commission. The event starts at 6 p.m. with activities and at 7 p.m. Chief Kim Koster will make a short presentation and announcing the Yellow Brick Road, dueling pianos that will feature the music of Billy Joel and Elton John.

 

The City of Wyoming has about 15 neighborhood parties ranging from small gatherings to those with an arrange of activities. Those open to the public are:

 

• Oriole Park Neighborhood Watch will host an event at Oriole Park, which is located off of 40th Street, from 6—8 p.m.

 

• South Godwin Neighborhood Watch will host an event at Southlawn Park, 4125 Jefferson Ave. SE., from 6—8 p.m.

 

• Grace University, 1011 Aldon St. SW, from 5—7 p.m.

 

Also near Kentwood Community Church will be the South Kent National Night Out event from 4—8 p.m.  The event will include a number of emergency vehicles from several area departments, food and other activities. The event will have demonstrations by the K-9 Unit, vehicle extraction demonstrations, the Kent County Sheriff’s Mounted Unit, children ID packets, a bounce house and dunk tank. The church is located at 1200 60th St. SE.

National Night Out shines a light on crime prevention by bringing neighbors together

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Area mayors and law enforcement officials will  gather for the Consumers Energy kick off for National Night Out on Aug. 7.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Once again the communities of Kentwood and Wyoming will be participating in National Night Out — this year on Tuesday, Aug. 7 — where residents are encouraged to turn their porch light on and come out and meet their neighbors. 

 

A nationwide movement started by the National Association of Town Watch in 1984, the annual event promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. 

 

“The City of Kentwood is committed to fostering a strong sense of community where neighbors look out for neighbors, which is what National Night Out is all about,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “The City’s police, firefighters, and entire leadership team encourage all to participate and to become active citizens in their neighborhoods.”

 

Various activities will be offered at several neighborhood National Night Out event.s

All residents have to do is turn their porch light on between 7— 10 p.m. to participate although many neighborhoods do much more hosting block parties that range from potlucks to an array of activities. Between the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood. there are about 35 different neighborhood parties taking place, most between 5— 8 p.m with local officers and firefighters attempting to make it to as many events as possible. 

 

The day kicks off with Consumers Energy hosting an early morning event with both Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll and Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley there along with Kentwood Police Chief Tom Hilton and Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster. The event also will be attended by officials from the Walker, Grandville and Grand Rapids communities as well as representatives from the Michigan State Police and the Kent County Sheriff’s Department.

 

Two large Consumers Energy trucks also will have buckets extended 75 feet above U.S. 131 to help draw attention to the event. which is from 5:30— 8 a.m. with a proclamation read at 7:15 a.m. Police and fire vehicles will line up in front of the Consumer Energy’s building at 4000 Clay Ave. SW.

 

City of Kentwood National Night Out Activities

 

The City of Kentwood will get its National Night Out activities started with an event at Woodland Mall from 3— 5 p.m. Residents will have to opportunity to met with Kentwood police and firefighters and get an up-close look at emergency vehicles. There will be a bicycle raffle and a special visit from McGruff the Crime Dog.

 

There is about 20 different neighborhood events taking place throughout the city, several of which will have a variety of entertainment. Those with special activities are:

 

• Christ Community Church, 2400 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 5— 7 p.m., will have water slides, games, food and beverages.

 

• Wingate Apartments, 3151 Wingate Dr. SE, 5— 7 p.m., will have a dunk tank and live music.

 

• South United Methodist Church, 4500 S. Division Ave., 6— 8 p.m, will have live music, a water slide, games, hot dogs, ice cream, snow cones and punch.

 

• Faith Church, 1412 44th St. SE, 6— 8 p.m., will have face painting, music, games, hot dogs, and pop.

 

• Pentecostals of Kentwood, 2627 44th St. SE, 6—8 p.m., will have a bounce house, puppets, live music, games, food and beverages.

 

• St. Paul’s United Method Church and Forest Pointe Apartments, 3334 Breton Ave. SE, 6—8 p.m., will have lawn games, sidewalk chalk, basketball, food and beverages. 

 

“A strong alliance between citizens and law enforcement is necessary for achieving safer neighborhoods,” said Police Chief Tom Hillen. “Members of our department are always eager to connect with residents during National Night Out as it offers a great opportunity to build positive relationships and promote open communication.”

 

For a complete list of events, visit www.kentwood.us/national_night_out.

 

City of Wyoming’s National Night Out

 

The City of Wyoming’s biggest National Night Out event is in conjunction with the Concerts in the Park series hosted by the Wyoming Community Enrichment Committee. There will be activities from 6—7 p.m. with Chief Koster making a presentation at 6:55 p.m. Then at 7 p.m. the Yellow Brick Road dueling pianos take over for a night of Billy Joel and Elton John music. The theme for the concert is super hero with everyone encouraged to dress as or where something from their favorite super hero.

 

The City of Wyoming has about 15 neighborhood parties ranging from small gatherings to those with an arrange of activities. Those open to the public are:

 

• Oriole Park Neighborhood Watch will host an event at Oriole Park, which is located off of 40th Street, from 6—8 p.m.

 

• South Godwin Neighborhood Watch will host an event at Southlawn Park, 4125 Jefferson Ave. SE., from 6—8 p.m.

 

• Grace University, 1011 Aldon St. SW, from 5—7 p.m.

 

Kent County Sheriff’s National Night Out Activities

 

The Kent County Sheriff’s Department will be part of the South Kent National Night Out event from 4—8 p.m. at Kentwood Community Church, 1200 60th Ave. SE.  The event will include a number of emergency vehicles from several area departments, food and other activities. The event will have demonstrations by the K-9 Unit, vehicle extraction demonstrations, the Kent County Sheriff’s Mounted Unit, children ID packets, a bounce house and dunk tank.

 

For more on the South Kent National Night Out event visit its Facebook page.

WKTV reviews the candidates and millage proposals for the 2017 elections

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Tomorrow, Nov. 7, is election day and residents in both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming have items on the ballot.

 

City of Kentwood

 

In the City of Kentwood, residents will be electing their city officials for the next four years. Of the six city positions up for election in Kentwood, only two are contested.

 

The first race is for the office of mayor, featuring incumbent Stephen Kepley who will be facing challenger Scott Urbanowski. Kepley was elected to the mayoral position in 2013 having served as a city engineer. Urbanowski is president and founder of Humanoid Digital, a digital media company.

 

For more on the mayoral candidates, check out the We the People Mayoral candidate article or view the September mayoral candidate forum hosted by the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.

 

The other contested race in the City of Kentwood is a 1st Ward City Commissioner seat with incumbent Jerry DeMaagd facing challenger Emily Bridson. For more on the candidates, see the We the People 1st Ward Commissioner article or view the September 1st Ward Commissioner candidate forum hosted by the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.

 

There are also four races in Kentwood that are unopposed. Those are Dan Kasunic, for clerk, Laurie Sheldon, for treasurer, Betsy Artz, for commissioner at large, and Tom McKelvey, for 2nd Ward city commissioner.

 

City of Wyoming

 

Those in the Wyoming Public School District, the largest district in the City of Wyoming, will be voting on an extension of the district’s millage for $79.5 million to be used on infrastructure projects. For a detail look at the extension and what the money will be used for, check out the WKTV Journal article by K.D. Norris.

 

Cities of the Kentwood and Wyoming: The Rapid Millage

 

The Rapid is seeking a renewal of 1.47 mills. The millage, which has been active for the past seven years, is about a third of The Rapid’s total budget of $44 million, covering about $15.5 million. For more about the millage, see The Rapid millage story by WKTV Editorial Assistant Hannah Haviland.

 

 

Government Matters: Week in review, July 17-21

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By Victoria Mullen, WKTV

Stabenow Applauds Action Requiring Release of Study to Stop Asian Carp

Sen. Debbie Stabenow

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, today applauded news that the Senate Appropriations Committee included language in the Energy and Water Appropriations bill requiring the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to release a critical study to stop Asian carp within thirty days of the bill’s enactment. The study, which will provide important guidance on how best to prevent Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes, was supposed to be released in February but has been delayed indefinitely by the Trump Administration.

 

“Today’s news is an important step toward getting the Army Corps to release this report so we can stop invasive species like Asian carp from entering our Great Lakes,” said Senator Stabenow. “This report is especially urgent given that a live silver carp was recently discovered just nine miles from Lake Michigan. There is no time to waste and I will work with my colleagues to make sure this language becomes law.”

Huizenga: We Can Protect Endangered Species and Preserve Taxpayer Dollars

Rep. Bill Huizenga

On Wednesday, Congressman Bill Huizenga testified before the House Natural Resources Committee on his legislation to modernize the Endangered Species Act. Currently, no fee cap exists for litigation pertaining to the Endangered Species Act. Because of this, taxpayer dollars designated for species protection and restoration are being used to line the pockets of litigious trial attorneys and special interests. H.R. 3131, introduced by Congressman Huizenga, brings the hourly rate for awards of fees to prevailing attorneys to $125 per hour, which is in line with litigation involving veterans, small businesses, and federal benefit claims. The Endangered Species Litigation Reasonableness Act will protect endangered species and preserve taxpayer dollars.

Stabenow, Peters Request Meeting with President Trump to Discuss Ways to Promote American Jobs and Manufacturing

As the White House continues its “Made in America” activities this week, U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) today requested a meeting with President Donald Trump to discuss ways to promote American jobs and manufacturing and end outsourcing. The Senators reminded President Trump of his promise to put forward a comprehensive plan to end outsourcing and create jobs, and they called on him to work with Congress to ensure that American jobs are not shipped overseas.

 

“Your administration declared this week to be “Made In America” week to showcase American manufacturers and American-made products,” wrote the lawmakers. “In Michigan, manufacturing is a key component of our economy. As Senators who have long supported domestic manufacturing, we share a common goal in rewarding manufacturers that make products domestically and create good-paying jobs. Thus, we respectfully request a meeting with you to discuss an economic agenda that promotes American manufacturing by preventing outsourcing and implementing strong Buy American laws.”

 

Earlier this year, U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow announced her American Jobs Agenda, which will ensure we are making products in America, closing loopholes that send jobs overseas, and holding countries like China accountable for unfair trade practices.

 

In February, U.S. Senator Gary Peters introduced the Outsourcing Accountability Act  to help consumers identify which companies are sending jobs overseas by requiring publicly traded companies to disclose their total numbers of employees by location, including by state and by country. Currently, publicly traded companies are required to disclose total number of employees, but not where they are based, making it very difficult to accurately track the number of jobs they are eliminating in the United States and moving overseas.

Huizenga Congratulates Wyoming Police Chief James Carmody on Being Named Police Chief of the Year

Chief James Carmody
Rep. Bill Huizenga

Congressman Bill Huizenga spoke on the floor of the U.S. House to congratulate Wyoming Police Chief James Carmody on recently being named the Michigan Police Chief of the Year.

 

Go here to view the video, and go here to read the story by WKTV’s Joanne Bailey-Boorsma on Carmody’s recognition.

Peters, Young Introduce Legislation to Update Environmental Sensitivity Index Maps for Great Lakes

Maps Help Assess Ecological Risks of Oil Spill & Natural Disaster; Great Lakes Maps Have Not Been Updated in Over 20 Years

 

U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Todd Young (R-IN) announced that they are introducing bipartisan legislation to update the Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps in the Great Lakes to better address habitat restoration and potential ecological impacts in the event of an oil spill or a natural disaster. ESI maps provide an inventory of at-risk coastal resources such as endangered and threatened species, sensitive shoreline habitats, and human-use resources like beaches, parks and boat ramps. ESI maps for the Great Lakes have not been updated in over two decades and are only available in a limited number of viewable formats, while maps of the East coast, West coast, and Gulf coast have been updated within the last five years and are available in more accessible, searchable and detailed formats.

 

“An oil spill in the Great Lakes would have long-term and catastrophic implications for the health of Michigan’s ecosystem and economy,” said Senator Peters, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard. “ESI maps can provide crucial insight into how oil spills or natural disasters can impact our environment, but unfortunately maps for the Great Lakes have not been updated in decades. I’m pleased to join Senator Young in introducing bipartisan legislation that will modernize these maps and help provide a better picture of what resources could be at risk so we can keep our Great Lakes safe and clean for future generations.”

 

ESI maps, which are administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), are used to document the potential ecological impacts for a range of risks to natural resources including oil spills, natural disaster planning and recovery, research, resource damage assessments, and restoration. An up-to-date ESI is necessary to correctly identify vulnerable locations and prioritize areas for protection in the event of a disaster. ESI maps in the Great Lakes have not been updated since between 1985 and 1994, depending on location.

Huizenga leads hearing on the costs of going and staying public

Capital Markets, Securities, and Investment Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga led a hearing to examine the burden that federal corporate governance policies, particularly those stemming from Sarbanes-Oxley and the Dodd-Frank Act, place on public companies. The hearing also focused on ways to ease over-burdensome regulations so public companies can better facilitate capital formation and promote economic growth.

 

Key Takeaways from the Hearing

  • The number of public companies and the number of companies going public have dramatically decreased over the last 15 years, greatly limiting the investing options for ordinary Americans.
  • Given that the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) turns 15 this year, it is appropriate for Congress to review its effectiveness and the significant compliance cost imposed on public companies, particularly for small and medium sized issuers.
  • Congress must take steps to ensure that the federal securities laws provide investors with material information, and ease burdensome regulations and federal corporate governance polices, many arising out of Dodd-Frank, to facilitate public company formation.

 

Nine Wyoming area residents to showcase work in 2017 Legacy Trust Award Collection

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This year’s Legacy Trust Award Collection will feature nine Wyoming area residents among the 143 Michigan artists who will showcase their art for a chance to be sponsored in ArtPrize.

 

For the eighth consecutive year, Legacy Trust is sponsoring a statewide art competition for adult artists with disabilities in an effort to bring their voices and vision to ArtPrize, an international art competition that draws hundredss of thousands of visitors to Grand Rapids each year. Dates for this year’s ArtPrize are Sept. 20 – Oct. 8. Artists from Ada to Zeeland, the Lower Peninsula and into the UP have submitted artwork.

 

Artists from Wyoming include:

  • David DeBoer, Head Chef, mixed media
  • Adam Reidsma, The Workshop, mixed media
  • Jill Lindgren, Dogs, mixed media
  • Ryan Oosterheart, Fishing at the Cabin, mixed media
  • Mary Helmic, Abstract Geometry, mixed media
  • Jeffery Baar, Spring is in the Air, marker
  • Carole McDonald, Sapphire, mixed media
  • Jerrilynn Anderson, Getaway Place, acrylic
  • Tyler Riley, Bird’s Eye View, acrylic

 

Four winners will be chosen – one by a panel of celebrity judges, two by public vote and one special juried award – and sponsored in ArtPrize, the world’s largest art competition.

 

The public will have a chance to view and vote for its favorite entry on Tuesday, May 23, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, located in downtown Grand Rapids. Votes can also be cast online at LTACarts.org.

 

Along with the nine from Wyoming, there are 51 Grand Rapids residents whose pieces were selected. For a sneak peek at all 143 pieces, visit the Legacy Trust Awards Collection Facebook page.

 

Winners of LTAC 2017 will be announced on May 30. Along with having their artwork entered into ArtPrize, the winning artists will each receive a cash prize of $500.  All entry fees and promotion expenses for ArtPrize will be paid by Legacy Trust, which, for the fifth year, has secured the high-profile DeVos Place venue for the winning artists during ArtPrize.

 

Metro Health hosts newly combined Kentwood/Wyoming Relay for Life event

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By Jennifer Huff

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

 

There are some big changes for both the Kentwood and Wyoming Relay for Life events: the two have combined and this year, the Relay for Life of Kentwood/Wyoming will be at the Metro Health – University of Michigan Health/

 

The signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society will be from noon to 10 p.m. Friday, May 19 at the Metro Health Village, located 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW.

 

“For the first time, we’re combining the Wyoming and Kentwood relays into one,” said event committee member Laura Smith, director of The Metro Health – University of Michigan Cancer Center. “We’re looking forward to a high-energy day that brings the community together to remember loved ones and honor survivors.”

 

Organizers of the event hope to raise at least $30,000, all of which will go to the local chapter of the American Cancer Society.

 

“Our theme is ‘We is greater than me,’” said Julie Helm, officer manager of Metro Health Ear, Nose and Throat, who also serves on the Relay for Life committee and is herself a cancer survivor. “There’s not a person you meet that hasn’t been touched by cancer, which is why this event is so important. The involvement of so many participants and organizations underscores how the fight against cancer happens on a personal level and a community level.”

 

Relay for Life events traditionally consist of teams whose members take turns walking around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a member on the track at all times to symbolize that cancer never takes a break.

 

This year, Relay for Life of Wyoming/Kentwood also invites individuals to participate, either by registering online or simply showing up the day of the event.

 

“We’re privileged to welcome the community to our campus and want to be sure there are no barriers to participation,” said Floyd Wilson Jr., chief administrative officer of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “Hosting Relay for Life is one way we can embrace our role as the hub of community wellness.”

 

The day also will feature a number of booths, games, classes, and special events at Metro Health Village.

 

“When not walking laps, participants will have plenty of opportunities for education and entertainment,” Helm says. “And even if you’re not walking, we invite you to stop by and enjoy the happenings.”

 

The day’s activities will kick off with the Kelloggsville High School Marching leading everyone on the first lap. Afternoon activities include a paint and pour canvas party at 2 p.m. with activities really getting underway around 6 p.m. with the survivor/caregiver dinner.

 

Other activities include:

 

·         The Metro Health Mammobus will be on site all day for tours and free mammography screenings.

·         A bevy of booths will be on hand, including a photo booth, cancer education awareness booth, and relaxation station featuring yoga and massage.

·         A daylong silent auction—from 1-7:30 p.m.

·         Wyoming’s Got Talent at 7:30 p.m. with a panel of judges featuring Eric Zane from WBBL FM 1340

·         A dance party with band at 9:30 p.m.

 

The luminaria lap, Relay for Life’s most moving tradition, will take place just before the dance party. Walkers will be guided along their path by hundreds of luminarias lit to remind those touched by cancer that they’re not alone.

 

The traditional survivor and caregiver reception will also take place during the event. Those interested in participating in this reception need to RSVP.

 

For the complete schedule of events, please visit the event’s Facebook page (Relay for Life of Wyoming/Kentwood).

Kentwood, Wyoming residents head to the polls tomorrow for millage proposals

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Tomorrow both residents of Kentwood and Wyoming will be heading to the polls to vote on millage proposals.

 

Residents from the two cities – along with all of Kent County – will be voting on a proposed Kent Intermediate School District Regional Enhancement Millage. The property tax increase of .9 mills would be distributed to all 20 school districts in Kent County for the next 10 years. The amount is about .90 cent of taxable evaluation. For a $200,000 home, the taxable evaluation would be $100,000 with the increase being about $90 per year.

 

 

If passed, each district would receive an additional $211 per student each year, which can be used to supplement the funding that comes from the state of Michigan. School officials have stated the funding would be used to help maintain programs, improve services and meet other needs. Each school district will be able to determine how to spend the money. For more information on the district’s plans for the money, clicking on the school’s name which will direct you to the School News Network stories. For more on the millage, click here.

 

Godfrey Lee Public Schools will receive about $450,000.

 

Godwin Heights Public Schools will receive about $500,000.

 

Kelloggsville Public Schools will receive about $470,000.

 

Wyoming Public Schools will receive about $900,000.

 

Also, the residents of Wyoming are being asked to vote for flexible funding by opening up its library maintenance millage to help with park improvements. The city is seeking about .16 of the .39 of the mill levy to help with park improvements at four parks, Ferrand, Ideal, Gezon, and Jackson. The nearly $800,000 per year raised would be use to pay a 15-year bond of $4.4 million. The cost for the average Wyoming homeowner would be about $12 a year, according to city officials. For more about the millage, visit WYParks.com.

Wyoming’s Public Safety Department hosts Citizen’s Academy for clergy and other church leadership

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The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is pleased to announce the first Citizen’s Academy for the spring of 2017. This academy is specifically designed for clergy and leadership staff from local churches. This series of presentations will describe and provide rationale for several services performed by the City of Wyoming and the Wyoming Department of Public Safety. There will be presentations about Public Safety functions followed by an open forum designed to promote meaningful discussions about community service, outreach and other issues faced by various segments of our community.

 

Members of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety have a strong desire to form meaningful relationships with the community it serves. Clergy members are important stakeholders in this process as well as valuable allies in creating a vibrant community dynamic. We hope that by working in tandem, we can develop and grow meaningful relationships built on trust based on our respective spheres of influence.

 

Schedule
Week One (May 9)

Welcome by department staff/administration, Department Mission and Accreditation (CALEA), Program goals, Outreach, Community Needs, Service Model, Explanation of Police Services, Investigative Bureau, Patrol Operations, Administrative Operations, Building Tour, Open discussion forum for input from audience.

 

Week Two (May 16)

TACT/CNT operations, K9 demonstration, Forensics Unit, Open discussion forum for input from audience.

 

Week Three (May 23)

City Administration, 62A District Court Services, Fire Administration, Firearms Simulator, Open discussion forum for input from audience.

 

If you are interested in attending, please RSVP with Sgt. Brian Look with the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Community Services Unit and fill out a short application. Sgt. Look can be contacted in person at the Department, at 616-257-9711 or email: lookb@wyomingmi.gov

City of Wyoming hosts second meeting on upcoming millage request

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Tonight, the City of Wyoming will host a second meeting to discuss the upcoming request to open up its library maintenance millage for park improvements.

 

The meeting is set for 7 p.m. tonight at the Gezon Fire Station located at 2300 Gezon Parkway SW. On the May 2 ballot, the city is requesting that .16 of the .39 library maintenance levy be used to help with park improvements. The nearly $800,000 per year raised would be use to pay a 15-year bond of $4.4 million. The bond money would be dedicated for park improvements at Ideal, Jackson, Ferrand, and Gezon.

 

According to Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt, the mill levy for the average Wyoming homeowner would be less than $12 a year.

 

For the past several years, the City of Wyoming has made facility improvements to the library which has included the revamping of the former library cafe into a public meeting space. “Over the course of the years, the city council has only actually levied that which is necessary to maintain the library,” Rynbrandt said, adding that as city officials looked ahead, they realized for the next 10 years, the library facility would not need any major renovations.

 

“So here we are not at the point where we can say we don’t need to make those significant investments in library maintenance in the next 10 years,” Rynbrandt said. “So we have a choice: can we ask the voters to recognize the maintenance needs in the park system and would they allow us the flexibility to use some of those library maintenance funds on park capital.”

 

The question before voters on May 2 is whether the city can use some of the library maintenance funds for park improvements.

 

This would not have any impact on the overall operation of the library which falls under the Kent District Library system. Operation, including materials, is covered through a KDL millage which is separate from the city’s library maintenance millage.

 

Two tornados and a flood within four years caused extensive damage at Ideal Park with the park losing many of its trees and playground equipment. Jackson Park also was impacted by the tornados but also has a need for better stormwater control along with improved security and safety. Ferrand Park is a small pocket park that has not have any major improvements in a number of years and Gezon Park is surrounded by intense residential growth with the central area of the park needing to be developed.

 

For more information about the proposal and the four parks, visit WYParks.com. The next meeting on the parks will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 29, at the Wyoming Public Library, 3350 Michael Ave. SW.

The City of Wyoming once again answers the urge to purge with its Community Clean-Up Day

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Residents unload trash into the dumpsters during last year’s Wyoming Community Clean-Up Day.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Neighbors helping neighbors. Parishioners loading up trucks. Friends helping seniors move items. These are the stories City Treasurer Nancy Stoddard collected from last year’s Wyoming Community Clean-Up Day. Stories she hopes to see repeated at this year’s event set for Saturday, April 22.

 

“We have the same goal we had last year when we put together the Community Clean Up Day,” said Stoddard, who is is part of the Looks Good Committee, one of three strategic planning committees made up of city employees. “That was to reduce blight in the City of Wyoming as well as beautifying the neighborhood. So we are excited to bring this event back to the community again, right on Earth Day.”

 

The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at a new location, North Godwin Elementary School located at 161 34th St. SW.

 

“When we first came up with this plan for these community clean ups, we looked at areas of the city that had a particular amount of complaints regarding the improper disposal of refuse and in doing so there are three areas that started to standout in the city,” Stoddard said. “So we are trying to do a clean up in each of those three areas. So this year we have switched it to that North Godwin area.”

 

Entrance to the site will be from the northbound land of Buchanan from 34th Street to the south driveway of the school. Southbound Buchanan traffic will not be permitted to turn left into the site. Traffic will exit from the site to northbound Buchanan only.

 

Stoddard noted that residents living in the area have been notified that Opal and Reiser streets will be closed on 34th Street along with the west end of 34th Street to Buchanan during the event. Residents are encouraged to enter and exit the area via Division Avenue.

 

The set up is similar to last year. Residents must bring a proof of residency or if the person is a property owner, a utility bill showing that, to enter. Upon entering, household hazardous waste and items for recycling will be collected by Kent County (for what is accepted in hazardous waste and recycling, visit the Recycle Kent website), and Salvation Army will be collecting gently-used items (for a list of accepted items, visit the Salvation Army website). The north end will have eight refuse bins from Plummer. The number of refuse bins was doubled from last year due to demand.

 

“We were ecstatic with the turnout [from last year],” Stoddard said. “Three-hundred thirty-six vehicles came through the lot that day. Fifty-one point four tons of garbage, refuse were removed from the city at that one six-hour event.”

 

There will be a charge for mattresses and box springs, $15 each, and tires, which must be cut in half, will be $10.

 

Many of the city’s employees will be volunteering their time again at this year’s event. Also, high school students may use the event toward their required community service hours needed to graduate. To do so, high students need to fill out a form with the city by 5 p.m. Monday, April 17.

 

Also, the Wyoming Public Service Center Yard Waste Drop-Off site, located at 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW, will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are no limits to the size of branches or shrubs, however, residents must unload the yard waste themselves and all containers must be removed from the facility.

 

For more information, visit the city’s website or call the treasurer’s office at 530-7284.

Wyoming seeks to open up library maintenance millage for park improvements

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

 

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

With much of the necessary updates made to the City of Wyoming’s library building, Wyoming officials are now turning their attention to its parks by asking its voters to allow the city’s dedicated library maintenance millage to be opened up to make improvements at four of its parks.

 

The proposal will go before voters at the May 2 election. It is requesting that about .16 of the .39 library maintenance levy be used to help with park improvements. The nearly $800,000 per year raised would be used to pay a 15-year bond of $4.4 million. The bond money would be used for four parks: Ideal, Jackson, Ferrand, and Gezon.

 

“From a mill levy standpoint it is less than $12 a year,” said Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt. “So it is the average cost for a homeowner in the City of Wyoming less than one cup of coffee a month.”

 

The City of Wyoming’s request is not an increase to voters but would allow the city more flexibility in using the library maintenance funds for park improvements.

 

“By being creative, by being flexible, we can meet the needs of this community without having to ask voters for an increase in millage,” said Rynbrandt, who oversees the city’s Park and Recreation Department.

 

More than $650,000 in facility improvements have been made at the library, which is located at 3350 Michael Ave. SW. Those improvements have included a new roof and the conversion of the former library cafe into a public meeting space. The library is part of the Kent District Library system, which provides for all of the materials, books, CDs, etc. Those materials are covered by the KDL millage. The city’s library maintenance millage is only for the facility and would have no impact on the operation of the library, Rynbrandt said.

 

“So here we are at the point now where we are saying that we don’t need to make significant investment in library maintenance for the next ten years so we have a choice,” Rynbrandt said. “Can we ask the voters to recognize maintenance and capital needs in the park system and would they allow us the flexibility to use some of those library maintenance funds on park capital.”

 

Every five years, the City of Wyoming meets with residents and city staff to review needs at its parks. Through that process, the city has recognized more than $23 million in park improvements. In 1994, Wyoming residents did grant a park millage which for the past 20 years the city has been able to invest and maintain the parks without an increase, Rynbrandt said.

 

However, within four years the city has had several natural disasters — a 2013 flood, and 2014 and 2016 tornados — which has created a greater need, Rynbrandt said. Highlighting some of those needs is Ideal Park, one of the four parks that would receive funding through the millage proposal. Ideal Park was severally impacted from the 2014 tornado with its playground equipment destroyed. The city was able to remove much of the debris and get the park reopened only to have the 2016 tornado cause more damage.

 

Ideal Park was closed after the 2014 tornado caused serve damage, destroy the park’s playground.

Learning from those lessons, Rynbrandt said the city recognizes that it needs to improve the security at the park along with the entrances and exits. The city also would like to replace the playground equipment as well, she said.

 

Another park is Gezon Park, located between Gezon Parkway and 52nd Street, which has had tremendous residential growth around it. A site plan was developed for the park in 1996, which needs to be reviewed, Rynbrandt said since things have changed so much around the park.

 

“We didn’t have splash pads back then,” Rynbrandt said as example of some of the changes. The south and north ends of the park have been developed, but the center of the park remains mostly open with residents asking when will the development for that area begin.

 

Also on the list is Ferrand Park, a small pocket park located off of Byron Center, that serves a very dense residential area, Rynbrandt said. The park has not had any improvements or new equipment in a number of years.

 

Jackson Park is the last park on the list. Located at 1331 33rd St. SW, this park, which at one time had a swimming pool, is in an area that was once Lake Alexandria and floods frequently. One of the goals is to improve the stormwater control along with security and safety as well as put in a restroom and improve parking.

 

For more about the millage request and the four parks, visit wyparks.com or visit wyomingmi.gov and go to Parks and Recreation.

 

It may have been warm, but WinterFest was a success

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , , , , , ,
Students participate in basketball at Wyoming Junior High School. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

The weather was unseasonably warm for Wyoming’s first WinterFest, making organizers a little nervous as to whether residents would visit the seven sites hosting activities.

Those worries were put to rest as by 9:30 a.m. the Wyoming Junior High School already was hopping with students and adults getting in some hoops in the gym, visiting booths in the halls, and snagging some breakfast and partaking in the cake walk game in the cafeteria. By 10:30 a.m., greeters estimated that they had gone through about half of its 300 bracelets that each of the seven locations received to help count participants.

Students participate at one of the WinterFest booths. (WKTV)

“We are celebrating the success of the first One Wyoming WinterFest,” said Rachel Verwys, one of the event organizers. “Through the seven locations, we believe we connected with about 1,400 people through Wyoming for a fun-filled event that connected residents to one another and to community resources.”

Put together by the One Wyoming Community Collaborative, which is made up of a collaboration of school, businesses, government, churches, nonprofits and residents to improve the quality of life in the community, the Wyoming WinterFest was considered the next step in working to bring residents, community leaders and business owners together to start the dialog of what they can do to improve their neighborhood, according to Jon Shaker, the marketing director for the salvation army Kroc center, one of the sponsors for the event.

“This is really nice for the community,” said Marilee Taken, from Beverly Reformed Church, located just down the street from Wyoming Junior High School. The church was handing out mugs, shirts, and popcorn. “It is such a wonderful idea to bring the community together for something fun and a great opportunity to meet your neighbors.”

Having grown up in the area of the Wyoming Junior High School, Elevation Church Pastor Chris Hall said he was thrilled at the opportunity to bring community members together to enjoy some fun activities – Hall’s church was providing the basketball games – and fellowship.

The vendor hall at the Wyoming Junior High School. (WKTV)

Even before the actual event, the planning process brought together more than 40 partners, businesses, nonprofits, churches, the city residents and schools, Verwys said. The idea was to have various locations opened within the city to bring the residents and organizations from that neighborhood together to start their own dialog on what they could improve their neighborhood, Shaner said. Along with the Wyoming Junior High School, The DOCK/The PIER, Vanguard Charter Academy, Calvary Church, Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center, Community Church (Godwin Heights), and Grace Bible College all participated in the Wyoming Winterfest, which was Feb. 18. Locations were open at various times with each location offering food and an arrange of activities.

Many had planned winter activities. Hall said at the Wyoming Junior High School, there had been plans to have snow sculpting, but it was changed to fun with bubbles. “We just go with the flow,” Hall said.

As to whether the warmer weather helped the event, Verwys said she was not certain, but it certainly did not impede residents from attending.

“Another goal we accomplished was the connectivity to local community resources like health care organizations such as Metro Health Hospital, the library, KSSN, and the Girl Scouts,” she said. “The service volunteers provided at each location was amazing, WinterFest provided an avenue for about 350 people to serve generating well over 1,000 hours of service.”

With the Wyoming WinterFest deemed a success, One Wyoming is back at work planning future community-wide collaborations. Verwys said up next is a community-wide Earth Day event set for April 22.

February brings popular daddy-daughter dances to both Kentwood, Wyoming

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

February has rolled in and with it the opportunity for dads to celebrate the little princesses in their lives as both the Wyoming and Kentwood Parks and Recreation Departments host Daddy-Daughter dances.

 

The Wyoming Daddy-Daughter Dance is set for Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop SW. It is set to start at 6 p.m. and run until 8 p.m. The cost to participate is $8 per person for a Wyoming resident and $12 per person for non-residents. The event is open to girls 3 – 15 years of age and their adult date.

 

To participate you must register by Thursday, Feb. 2. To register, click here or call the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department at 616-530-3164.

 

Kentwood’s Daddy Daughter Dance is the following week, Friday, Feb. 10, at the KDL Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton SE. The event is from 6 – 8 p.m.

 

Since the Kentwood event is so close to Valentine’s Day this year, the Daddy-Daughter Dance theme is a sweetheart dance. Cost is $20 per couple and $5 for each additional person. Pre-registration is required for this dance as well. To register, call the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department at 616-656-5270.

 

 

Three local students named semi-finalists in annual writing contest

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

Wyoming and Kentwood students are among the semi-finalists in the Kent District Library and Schuler Books & Music’s Write Michigan Short Story Contest.

 

More than 600 writers from across the state entered the competition with the field being narrowed down to 10 semi-finalists for each category, adult, teen, youth and Spanish. A panel of celebrity judges in each category will select the Judge’s Choice, who will receive $250, and the Judge’s Choice Runner-up Awards, each receiving $100.

 

There is also a public voting for the $250 Readers’ Choice Award. Voting runs through Jan. 31 and is at www.writemichigan.org.

 

The local semi-finalists are: Breanna Harris, a resident of Kentwood who attends Byron Center High School is in the Teen semi-finals for her piece “A Whisper.” In the youth division, Morgan VanDorp, who lives in Kentwood and attends Grand Rapids Christian Middle School, with her piece “Two Bad Ants: First Person Point of View.” From Wyoming is Yareli Paulina Gonzalez Velazquez. who attends San Juan Diego Academy. Velazquez’s piece “Cuando vine a Estados Unidos” is in the Spanish division.

 

Winners will be announced Feb. 3 and honored at an awards ceremony at 2 p.m. March 18 at KDL’s Service and Meeting Center. Mardi Jo Link, author of the memoirs “Bootstrapper: From Broke to Badass on a Northern Michigan Farm” and “The Drummond Girls: A Story of Fierce Friends Beyond Time and Chance” will be the keynote speaker.

 

The top five stories  in each age category chosen by the celebrity judges as well as the Readers’ Choice winners will be published by Chapbook Press using the Espresso Book Machine. Copies will be available in March 2017.

Wyoming Public Safety investigates domestic assault that involves a shooting

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

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety continues its investigation into a shooting of a 21-year-old suspect from Wyoming, who is now being lodged in the Kent County Jail for assault charges.

 

At 4:25 a.m. Dec. 31, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety was dispatched on an active domestic dispute that involved a shooting in the 3500 block of Goodman Avenue SW. The suspect was shot once in the shoulder. He was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The suspect has since has been lodged at the Kent County Correctional Facility and is being held on a charge of felonious domestic assault/strangulation, according to police officers.

 

After investigation at the scene, it was determined that the suspect was actively attacking/choking a 20-year-old female from Wyoming. The suspect pursued the female and assaulted a 66-year-old, also from Wyoming, who was in the home as well, according to police. The two victims were able to lock themselves in a bedroom but the suspect kicked down the door of the bedroom, according to a report from the department.

 

The suspect began to assault the two and the 66-year-old was able to retrieve a handgun and fired one shot into the suspect’s shoulder, according to the report.

 

The two victims received non-life threatening injuries.

 

The Kent County Prosecutor’s Office will review the case. The Wyoming Department of Public Safety detectives are continuing the investigation into the shooting. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

 

Wyoming resident dies in early morning crash

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Hard News,

kent-county-sheriff-badgeOn Nov. 27 at 12:50 am, the Kent County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of a single vehicle accident on 68th St. SW east of Wilson Ave SW, in Byron Township.

 

Tyler Vanderwest of Wyoming was traveling  eastbound on 68th St SW, when he lost control of his 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix and struck a tree. The 18-year-old was not wearing his seatbelt and was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

Speed appears to be a factor and the accident remains under investigation.

Wyoming police respond to a Saturday morning robbery and a car crash

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Hard News, , , , , , ,

 

city-of-wyoming-police-car

 

 

 

 

 

 

UPDATE: Person of interest in the Saturday 6:50 a.m. crash was lodged at the Kent County Correctional Facility for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) second. The person injured is in the hospital with serious injuries.

 

It was a busy Saturday morning for the Wyoming Department of Public Safety with a robbery and serious car crash taking place in the early morning hours.

 

At around 2 a.m. this morning, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the report of a robbery of a person in the area of 36th Street and Raven SW. Two suspects threatened the victim with a knife and took an undisclosed amount of cash and other personal belongings. K9 Azar and his handler began tracking the suspect while other officers established a perimeter. K9 Azar was able to flush the suspect out of several backyards and officers subsequently took the suspect into custody. He is lodged at the Kent County Correctional Facility.

 

The remaining suspect is still at large and is described as a tall, skinny black male, approximately 20 years of age. it is believed that the suspects and the victim may be known to each other.

 

Anyone with information that may lead to the identification of the suspect is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

 

At 6:50 a.m., the Wyoming Department of Public Safety was called to Chicago Drive and Wendell Avenue SW on the report of a serious crash involving two vehicles. It appears that an east bound vehicles crossed the center line and struck a west bound vehicle head on. The west bound vehicle was driven by Polita Saavedraleon, 24, from Grand Rapids. She was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the east bound vehicle is a 28-year-old male from Kentwood.

 

Officials stated that the name of the east bound driver will not be released as crash investigators are attempting to learn more details of the crash and whether alcohol and speed are a factor in the crash.

 

Wyoming Public Safety personal continue their investigations into both the crash and the robbery. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

2016 Election Results: Kent County School Boards

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kentwood Public Schools, Our Cities, Politics, , , , , ,

The unofficial election results from Kent County. Winners are in blue.

 

Godfrey-Lee School Board (2 positions)

Katie Brumley 1068

Lynn D. Velthouse 944

 

Godwin Heights School Board (3 positions)

Lee Ann Platschorre 1,595

Jan Allen 1,580

Jason Conklin 1565

Richard Hamilton Jr. 1557

 

Kelloggsville School Board (2 positions)

David L. Skinner, Jr. 2510

Gary Marihugh 2212

 

Kelloggsville School Board Partial Term Ending 12/31/2018 (1 position)

Donald E. Scott 2992, uncontested

 

Kentwood School Board (4 positions)

Mary Ann Madden  13466

Angeline M. Forton 12990

Allen Young  12905

Angela Hovermale  12322

 

Wyoming School Board (2 positions)

Lisa Manley (i) 5,016

Jessica Hanselman 4,640
Adrian Lamar 4,278

Darlene A. Yasick (i) 3,494

 

Wyoming School Board Partial Term Ending 12/31/2018 (1 position)

Thomas J. Mott 9697, uncontested

‘Tis the season for craft shows

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , , ,

7644724792_3eeaff695b_b

Halloween has not even passed but the holiday craft show season has been in full swing for about two weeks.

 

The shows are great for gift inspirations or just hang with friends and checking out the goodies. Below, we have compiled some local and popular area shows you might want to consider visiting if you have the chance.

 

 

Oct. 29

Christmas Bazaar: Breton Ridge, 2772 Pfeiffer Woods Dr., Grand Rapids. 9 am – 3 p.m.

 

Nov. 4 — 5

Beneath the Wreath, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $5. www.juniorleaguegr.com

 

Nov. 5

Arts and Crafts Show: Duncan Lake Middle School, 9757 Duncan Lake Ave., Caledonia. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. http://www..caledoniasourcecenter.org

 

Nov. 5

Jenison Christian School Fall Arts and Crafts Show: Jenison Christian School, 7726 Graceland, Jenison. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. www.jenisonchristian.org

 

Nov. 5

Arts, Crafts, and Bake Sale: St. Paul’s Church, 2560 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. More than 20 exhibitors with breakfast and lunch.

 

Nov. 11

Holiday Gift Show and Lunch: Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, 701 W. Cloverdale Rd., Hastings. 11 am-3 pm.  Seating times are 11 a.m. – noon; 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.; 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Call 269-721-4190

 

Nov. 11 — 12 

West Michigan Potters Guild 33rd Annual Fall Show and Sale: The Cultural Center at St. Nicholas, 2250 E. Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. Noon – 9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday. www.westmichiganpottersguild.com

 

Nov. 12

Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters Annual Craft Fair: Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame Ave SW, Byron Center. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Entrance fee: $2. 616-878-6600

 

Nov. 12

Christmas Holiday Craft Show: St. Mary Magdalen Breitenstein Center, 1213 52nd Street SE, Kentwood. 10 am-3 pm. www.stmmagdalen.org

 

Nov. 12 – 13

Immaculate Heart of Mary Holiday Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., 1935 Plymouth Road SE.

 

Nov. 13 – Dec. 23

LowellArts! Holiday Market: LowellArts!, 149 S. Hudson St., Lowell. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Free. 897-8545

 

Nov. 22

Winter Bazaar: Dorr Township Library, 1804 Sunset Dr., Dorr. 9 am. 616-681-9678

 

Nov. 22

3rd Annual Winter Bazaar: Hopkins District Library, 118 E. Main St., Hopkins. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.hopkins.llcoop.org

 

Nov. 27

Grand Valley Armory, 1200 44th St. SW, Wyoming, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Nov. 28 – Dec. 20

Holiday Walk and Market: W.K. Kellogg Manor House, 3700 E. Gull Lake Dr., Hickory Corners. Fridays and Saturdays, noon-5 pm. $7/adult and $5/senior & student. 269-671-2416

 

Nov. 29

Wyoming Band Boosters Craft Shows: Wyoming High School, 1350 Praire Parkway SW, Wyoming. 9 a.m. – 3 pm.

 

Dec. 3 – 4

Holiday Artists’ Market at Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE, 5 – 9 p.m.

 

Dec. 4

Kentwood Community Church, 1200 60th St. SE, Kentwood, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., more than 90 crafters, bake sale, lunch, with Purchasing with a Purpose room.

 

Dec. 6

Rogue River Artisans Fine Art & Craft Holiday Sale: Lowell High School, 11700 Vergennes, Lowell. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.lowellholidayartshow.com

Kentwood, Wyoming not surprised by uptick in voter registrations

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Election, , , , , , , , ,

A Joint Task Force Guantanamo Trooper fills out an absentee ballot for the upcoming presidential election, Oct. 8, 2008. Every JTF Trooper has the opportunity to register and vote while serving on U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay via absentee ballot. JTF Guantanamo conducts safe, humane, legal and transparent care and custody of detained enemy combatants, including those convicted by military commission and those ordered released. The JTF conducts intelligence collection, analysis and dissemination for the protection of detainees and personnel working in JTF Guantanamo facilities and in support of the Global War on Terror. JTF Guantanamo provides support to the Office of Military Commissions, to law enforcement and to war crimes investigations. The JTF conducts planning for and, on order, responds to Caribbean mass migration operations.

If you are planning to vote in the upcoming Nov. 8 election you need to have registered to do so by today.

 

As voter registration comes to its final hours, both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming are reporting — a not surprising — increase in register voters.

 

“With a national election, we always see an increase in voter registration,” said Wyoming City Clerk Kelli VandenBerg. In an average election, the City of Wyoming usually has about 48,000 — 49,000 registered voters. This year, the city has about 51,500 registered voters in 30 precincts.

 

“We always see an uptick in the national election because there is a big push to get people registered,” VandenBerg said, adding that groups often canvas events like the recent ArtPrize in downtown Grand Rapids to help get people registered.

 

Kentwood City Clerk Dan Kasunic agreed with VandenBerg stating that the national election usually brings in a higher number of registered voters. As of Friday, Kasunic could not give specific voter numbers for the city since residents are able to register at a number of locations including the Secretary of State’s office. He said registrations from other locations will be coming in over the next several days.

 

Kentwood has seen an increase in voters over the past several years. Because a precinct is only allow to have 2,999 voters, Kentwood is beginning the process to split some of its precincts to form two more. However, this will not impact the Nov. 8 election with the city maintaining its current 16 precincts for this year.

 

mail-in-ballot-17738476_108900_ver1-0_320_240As for absentee ballots, Kasunic said the city has about 3,600 and is well on its way to averaging the 4,000 — 5,000 it usually does for a national general election.

 

The City of Wyoming was more than 3,000 absentee ballots with VandenBerg saying the city is on track to hit the usual 5,000 it has had for a national general election as well. Absentee ballots can be mailed out up until Saturday, Nov. 5. Monday, Nov. 7, is the last day a person can vote on an absentee ballot in a municpality’s clerk’s office.

 

To receive an absentee ballot you must meet one of the following requirements: be 60 years or older; are physically disabled and as a result, you cannot vote on Election Day without another person’s assistance; you can not vote on Election Day because of the tenets of your religion; you can not vote on Election Day in the precinct where you reside because you are an election precinct inspector in another precinct; you are absent or expect to be absent from the township or city in which you live when polls are open; or you are confined in jail awaiting arraignment or trial.

 

You have until 5 p.m. today to register to vote as most offices close at that time. To register you need to be a U.S. citizen, 18-years-old by Election Day, a resident of Michigan and a resident of the city or township where you are applying to register to vote. To check and see if you are registered, visit www.Michigan.gov/vote.

Third pizza delivery robbery reported in Wyoming

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Hard News, , , ,

Wyoming Public Safety Department blocks off northbound Byron Center Avenue at 52nd Street.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is investigating a third robbery of a pizza delivery person that took place Wednesday, Sept. 28 in the 2100 block of Michael Ave. SW.

 

The department responded to a report of the robbery at around 10:50 p.m. on Wednesday. The victim was struck in the face with an unknown object and received minor injuries. This is the third robbery of a delivery person in the last week and the suspect descriptions are very similar.

 

In the previous cases, the suspect called a pizza place and requested that a delivery be made to a specific address. When the driver arrived to deliver the pizza the residents at the address correctly advised the delivery person that they had not ordered the pizza. When the delivery person returned to their vehicle with the pizza, a male suspect was waiting and demanded that they hand over their cash. In both cases, the suspect was accompanied by another male suspect. The victims in the first two robberies did give the suspect there case and the suspect and his accomplice fled on foot.

 

The first incident took place Thursday, Sept. 22 around 9:45 p.m. in the 1900 block of Prairie Parkway. In this incident, although no wear was seen , the suspect threatened to shoot the drive. The suspect is described as a black male, 17-20 years old, 5 feet, 9 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches, thin build, wearing long red shorts and a white tank top. He was observed wearing white gloves with an unknown pattern similar to glovers that would be worn while playing soccer. In this incident, a second suspect appeared from behind another vehicle. He is described only as a black male. Both suspects fled on foot after obtaining the cash.

 

The second incident occurred on Saturday, Sept. 26, around 11:26 pm. near Burton and Godfrey. The reliever driver was approached by the suspect when he returned to his car. The suspect demanded his money. The suspect is described as a black male, 18-25 years old, 5 feet, 8 inches, 150 pounds, wearing a dark-colored sweatshirt and blue jeans. The suspect was believed to be wearing some type of gloves. During this incident, a second suspect approached and stood near the driver during the incident. He is described as a white make, 18-25 years old, 5 feet 8 inches, 160 pounds, wearing a light-colored t-shirt and blue jeans. After obtaining money from the victim, both suspect fled on foot.

 

Department again encourages delivery drivers that find that the person who they are delivering food to stating that they did not order the food, to then wait at the front door of the residence and call police to check everything out. We also ask that members of the public to be vigilant in watching their neighborhoods and reporting suspicious persons.

 

Residents are encouraged to contact 911 should they become aware of a similar and/or suspicious situation involving the delivery of pizza or other food product. The Department’s Community Services Unit also has reached out to pizza delivery businesses within the city in order to warn them of these circumstances and to discuss additional safety practices for their delivery personnel.

 

Wyoming Public Safety personal continue with their investigation and ask the public’s assistance for information that may lead to the identification of the suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Accident on 36th Street leads to crash investigation

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Our Cities, , ,

Wyoming Public Safety Department blocks off northbound Byron Center Avenue at 52nd Street.

UPDATE: 36th Street was reopened in the evening of Thursday, Sept. 29.

 

Motorists are being asked to stay away from 36th Street for the next couple of hours due to a crash investigation at 36th and Wyoming Avenue.

 

On Thursday, Sept. 29, at approximately 2:00 p.m., the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the report of a serious vehicle traffic crash on 36th Street SW and Wyoming Avenue. The crash occurred when a west bound vehicle driven by a 79-year-old male from Wyoming turned left in front of an east bound vehicle driven by a 43-year-old female from Cedar Springs. The 79-year-old male was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.

 

The initial investigation indicates that the male driver may have been having a medical condition prior to the crash.

 

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Ease on down Wyoming’s Pumpkin Path for all kinds of goodies, fun

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

Believe it or not it is almost time for every ghost, goblin, and superhero — big or small — to ready their favorite attire in preparation for one of the City of Wyoming’s most popular events: the Pumpkin Path.

 

Yes, the annual activity that pretty much kicks of the haunting season in the city is set for Saturday, Oct. 8, at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter SW. The event is from 4 to 6 p.m.

 

“We have about 70 to 80 businesses attending who hand out a variety of items, candy, trinkets, coupons,” said Wyoming Recreation Programer Valarie Mester. “We encourage them to bring something for the kids as well as the adults because adults like things too.”

 

pumpkin-path-2011-261Because this event is free and does not require any registration, Mester said the department can only estimate on the number of people in attendance, which in the past has been around 7,000 people with about 2,000 – 3,000 being children.

 

“Most people do come in costume,” Mester said. “It is not required, but it is an opportunity to wear them earlier in the season.”

 

And perhaps no one knows costumes better than Gayle Vaartjes of Wyoming’s Kostume Room, 835 36th St. SW.

 

“Star Wars is going to be big this year,” Vaartjes said, adding that this is because of last Christmas’s release of Star Wars:The Force Awakens. “When there is a movie involved, it usually indicates if the costume is going to be popular.”

 

Another hit is the recently released Suicide Squad, with Harley Quinn, The Joker, and Deadshot being the most popular, she said.

 

“I have the Batman from the other moves and the other Jokers from the other movies as well,” Vaartjes said. “We have everything.”

 

pumpkin-path-2011-227For children, Vaartjes said Star Wars will be big along with the princesses and ninjas as well as the classics such as witches and ghosts.

 

“There are people who love Halloween,” Vaartjes said. “Just like there are some people who love Christmas and it’s their holiday and it’s a time to be someone else and just be creative.”

 

With the growth of the Pumpkin Path over the years, it is pretty apparent people do love the Halloween season. The Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department has been hosting the Pumpkin Path for about 13 years. “They used to host a Halloween party and that started to have a decline in attendance, so staff began to think about what else they could do,” Mester said. “Something that was out-of-the-box.”

 

Or at least down the path as patrons travel a paved loop through Lamar Park lined with various businesses stocked with treats to handout. Participating businesses can compete for such awards as most spirited, best costume, and best decorated pumpkin, which are judged by members of the teen council.

 

“It’s pretty neat,” Mester said. “We have had some pretty cool costumes over the years.”

 

A few tips Mester offered for those planning to attend:

 

The entrance to the free event parking is located on Byron Center Ave near where it intersects with Chicago Drive.

 

You do not need to arrive at 4 p.m. to participate. Actually, Mester said they have the first group that comes around 4 p.m. and they go through with usually a couple of more waves who come through after that. “So arriving around 5 p.m. is fine.”

 

The Pumpkin Path opens at 4 p.m. and not a second sooner.

 

For more information on this and other events hosted by the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, visit their website.

Investigation continues on Sept. 7 shooting in Wyoming

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Hard News, , , ,
Sadiq Bishara Abaker Irdris
Sadiq Bishara Abaker Irdris

Wyoming Public Safety today (Sept. 8) provided an update with additional details about yesterday’s shooting by a Wyoming Public Safety officer.

 

The suspect who was shot has been identified as Sadiq Bishara-Abaker Idris. Idris is 25 and a native of Sudan. He is believed to have been living in Grand Rapids. No additional details about Idris are available at this time, according to a release from the City of Wyoming Public Safety Department.

 

An autopsy was conducted this morning but is not yet complete pending results from a toxicology screen. The department confirmed that Idris died from a single gunshot wound but are not releasing additional details at this time due to the investigation being conducted by the Kent County Sheriff’s Department.

 

A portion of the incident was captured on dashcam, which is being reviewed by Kent County investigators and will not be released publicly at this time.

 

Kent County investigators continue to talk with witnesses and encourage anyone with information about the shooting to call the Kent County Sheriff’s Department at 616-632-6125 or to call Silent Observer at 616-744-2345 or toll-free at 866-774-2345.

 

As reported by the department in release last night, the incident began at a Wyoming gun store at approximately 5:24 p.m. when Idris, who had been looking at firearms, allegedly took a semi-automatic pistol, ran out the door and jumped on a bicycle. Wyoming Public Safety called in a canine unit, which tracked and found the abandoned bike.

 

Police searched the area and the canine unit continued to track Idris, but was unable to pick up the scent. At approximately 7:15 p.m., a witness called Wyoming Public Safety to report a man walking on 32nd Avenue SE near Eastern Avenue SE with what appeared to be a gun in his back pocket.

 

A Wyoming Public Safety officer was the first to make contact with Idris, who was on foot. The officer exited his patrol car and confronted Idris, who reached for his gun and pointed it at the officer. In defense of his own life, the officer fired his weapon, striking Idris.

 

Responding officers provided emergency medical aid to Idris, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

According to the Wyoming Public Safety Department protocol, the officer remains on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. To protect the integrity of the investigation, additional details about the suspect, the weapon involved and other information will not be shared at this time.

 

“This was an experienced officer who is a trained and seasoned professional,” said Wyoming Public Safety Director James Carmody in statement released last night. “We are grateful that he and other members of the public were not harmed [last night.]”

 

“We are following our protocol for an officer-involved shooting and are cooperating fully with the Sheriff’s Department, which is overseeing this investigation.”

WKTV offers marathon showing of Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , , ,
The Verve Pipe kicks off the Wyoming Concerts in the Park Series May 31.
The Verve Pipe kicks off the Wyoming Concerts in the Park Series May 31.

Tune in to WKTV 25 on Labor Day for our All Day “Concerts In The Park” Special.  The station will air the entire Wyoming Concerts In The Park series, featuring the bands in order of their appearance. Relive all the fun and excitement of the summer series starting at 9 a.m. and rocking all day long!

  9 a.m. The Verve Pipe            

 10:35 a.m. Big Boss Blues

12:20 p.m. Delilah DeWylde

1:15 p.m. Kari Lynch

2:50 p.m. Trilogy

4 p.m. Outer Vibe

5:30 p.m. KCC Band

6:45 p.m. Legal Immigrants

8:20 p.m. Jared Knox

10:05 p.m. The Crane Wives

11:45 p.m. Grupo Viento

Wyoming gives residents another reason to purge, this time electronics and paper

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Recycling, , , , , ,
Computers wil be accepted at the Electronics Recycling/Shredding Event on Saturday, Sept. 10.
Computers wil be accepted at the Electronics Recycling/Shredding Event on Saturday, Sept. 10.

During last spring’s highly successful City of Wyoming’s Clean-Up Day, organizers noticed a need that was not being addressed – what to do with old televisions, computers, printers, VCRs and other electronics.

 

“After the clean-up day event we began to look around to see what options were available to dispose of electronics,” said Nancy Stoddard who works in the City of Wyoming’s treasurer’s office and is chair of the Looks Good Committee which organized the April clean-up event.

 

During that process, Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR) approached the city about partnering to host an electronics recycling event.

 

“ATR has a grant for such programs and wanted to see if the city was interested in hosting such an event,” Stoddard said.

 

My Personal Credit Union also had talked to the city about hosting a paper shredding event, something the credit union has done for its members in the past. The city pulled the two programs together under the Electronics Recycling/Shredding Event which will be Saturday, Sept. 10, at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW.

 

ATR will be handling electronics. Shred-It will be on-hand to help with papers and personal documents and the Kent County Hazardous Waste will be at the site to collect medical mercury devices and exchange mercury thermometers for digital ones.

 

“Sometimes it is hard to know how to properly dispose of old electronics and personal papers that might contain sensitive information,” Stoddard said. “Partnering with ATR and Shred-It allows us to offer a safe and convenient option for disposal that is also environmentally friendly.”

 

Not all items will be accepted such as microwaves and small appliances, refrigerators or any unit containing Freon, dishwashers, washers and dryers, stoves, household batteries, light bulbs, furniture, lab or hospital equipment and biohazards. For a complete list of what will be accepted and what will not, click here.

 

To participate in the Electronics Recycling/Shredding Event, you must have a proof of Wyoming residency identification with you at the drop-off site and you must be in line by 11:45 a.m.

 

For more information about the Electronics Recycling/Shredding Event, call the city at 530-7284 or 530-7226 or visit www.wyomingmi.gov.

Wyoming works to clean up after Saturday’s tornado

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Hard News, , , , , , ,

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It’s the Monday after and residents and city officials of Wyoming continue to assess the damages left after Saturday’s tornado passed through the city.

 

The National Weather Service teams are currently surveying the damage caused and have confirmed tornado-related damage in Van Buren, Allegan, Ottawa and Kent counties. In its preliminary review, the National Weather Service has the tornado in Wyoming listed as an EF-0 which is weakest rating with winds between 65 to 85 mph. The tornados in Van Buren, Allegan and Ottawa were listed as EF-1 with winds 86 to 110 mph in the preliminary findings. The 2014 tornado that hit Wyoming was classified as an EF-1.

 

There were no related deaths or injuries from the storm just trees up rooted hitting homes and blocking roads along with a lot of debris.

 

“The teams at City Hall have been working through the weekend, answering residents’ questions, connecting them with the Red Cross, Salvation Army, etc.,” said Mary Ann Sabo with Sabo PR, the city’s public relations firm.

 

In fact, shortly after the storm, Mayor Jack Poll, in a video on the city’s Facebook page, was talking to residents and mentioned he was among the city officials going door-to-door in affected neighborhoods checking on residents. Other city staff was out clearing debris, inspecting structures and responding to medical emergencies.

 

In a statement released today, Poll said “Our Public Safety teams have done a tremendous job handling first response calls, and we so appreciate the support from Kent County and neighboring jurisdictions. Public Works, Inspections, Parks & Recreation, along with our Administrative team, have done an incredible job meeting the needs of our residents. Storm cleanup is well underway, with neighbors helping neighbors.”

 

Wyoming received helped from several departments from Byron Township, Caledonia, Cutlerville, Dutton, Kentwood, Georgetown, and Grandville.

 

Because of commitments to help clean up, Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce President Bob O’Callaghan said they have lost a few volunteers for this weekend’s Metro Cruise, but the event is expected to take place Friday, Aug. 26, and Saturday, Aug. 27 as scheduled.

 

“The city has a crisis response plan that was immediately put into play,” Sabo said. “The process is to focus on immediate needs first, then turn attention to areas like parks.”

 

Due to damage and safety concerns, five of the city parks are close until further notice. Those parks are Pinery, Lemery, Prairie, Ferrand and Buck Creek. The Parks & Recreation team is contacting those with park reservations to see if events can be relocated or rescheduled. Reservations canceled by the storm will be refunded unless the reservation was relocated to another park or facility. For reservation questions, call 530-3164.

 

As of today, Consumers Energy has restored power to all but a few homes in Wyoming. Working with the American Red Cross, a resource center has been set up at Gladiolia Elementary School, 3500 Gladiola Ave. SW today through 5 p.m. and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents may coordinate tree removal help and other issues at the center. The Red Cross will have disaster kits available as well.

 

Debris removal is probably the biggest item facing residents with the city’s yard waste center at 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW, being opened 24 hours a day through Saturday, Aug. 27. The city received kudos on its Facebook page for this with Kathy Walcott posting “Can’t say enough good things about [City of Wyoming]. Friends were amazed we dropped off over eight trailer loads of debris without paying! Thanks for stepping it up when it was needed.”

 

The yard waste center will be closed Sunday, Sept. 4 through noon Thursday, Sept. 15. Public Works crews are working on picking up debris. If you need the crew to come through your street or to make arrangements for a drop off at the yard waste center after Aug. 27, contact the Public Works Department at 530-7260. City officials are asking that all storm debris be placed behind the sidewalk and not in the public right-of-way.

 

Also the City of Wyoming is waiving the fees for building or electrical permits for storm-related repairs. Residents still must secure a permit before making those repairs.

 

Wyoming residents who need assistance that is not related to debris removal or have other storm-related questions may call call 530-7226 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Wyoming Police investigate shootings in 1900 block of Wyoming Ave. SW

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Hard News, , , ,

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

The City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety is continuing its investigation into several shots being fired early this morning in the 1900 block of Wyoming Ave. SW.

 

According to a release from the department, units were dispatched to 1900 block of Wyoming Ave. SW in reference to several shots being fired today at approximately 5 a.m.  A victim was on scene and stated he had encountered three subjects breaking into a vehicle while he was driving down the street, according to the release.  One of the suspects became confrontational. The victim began driving away and then heard the gunshots and bullets striking his vehicle.  He drove to a nearby business and called police.  Officers located several shell casings in front of this address.

 

Officers checked the area and found multiple vehicle larcenies in the area.  Officers came across several people in front of an address in the 1800 block of Wyoming Ave. SW.  According to officers, a female handed an officer a purse stating someone showed up and said it was stolen.  Officers secured the residence and took several uncooperative subjects into custody.  A search warrant was executed resulting in a handgun and several stolen items being recovered.

 

Several individuals aged 16-18 were interviewed.  Charges are pending.  Although a firearm was recovered, officers are attempting to find the actual shooter. If anyone has knowledge of this incident they are asked to call the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, 616-530-7300, or Silent Observer, 1-866-774-2345.

Going Local: Dallas Deli

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Food, Going Local, Local Business, Local Food, , , ,

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By: Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

Joanne@wktv.org

 

“Make sure to tell your friends about us,” said the blue-and-white Facebook sign above one of the tables at Wyoming’s Dallas Deli. Have no fear Dallas Deli, I shall take to the modern-day form of shouting it from the rooftops, a.k.a. Facebook.

 

Yes, our traveling troupe, Mike and joining us, Victoria, moseyed on over to 3660 Byron Center Ave. SW, home of Dallas Deli and Lions Mane barbershop (separate owners). I learned a long time ago that some of the most amazing food places are small. In fact, a friend had warned me that the seating space at Dallas Deli consisted of three tables — one that sat about six and two that sat two. Even with the warning, I was surprised how small the space was. According to owner Sam Barnes, the place started as an ice cream parlor then was a pizza parlor, before Frank and Mary Weikert opened Dallas Deli some 30 years ago. Sam and his wife Kim took over the place – along with Weikert’s original Texas-style barbecue recipes – in 2003.

 

Chili Dallas DeliWhat Dallas Deli lacks in space it certainly makes up for in food — at least my chili packed a wallop of flavor being voted best meal selection by our little group and leaving Victoria and I planning chili runs in the winter. I had the World Class Chili which was topped with the restaurant’s signature brisket, cheese and onion. With the right mixture of heat and sweet, it was perfect even for our blistery hot summer day visit. (By the way, the air conditioning was not on while we were there but the place stayed pretty cool with the door open and a breeze moving through the building.)

 

After the first bite, I really did not want to share but Mike and Victoria were being generous with their selections, so I did…a little. I did order the medium-size portion to share, but could have easily eaten it without any help.

 

This little Wyoming gem is garnering quite the reputation. Most recently, Dallas Deli was part of the Grand Rapids’ Barley, BBQ & Beats and named one of the top 12 Hole In the Wall Restaurants in Michigan by onlyinyourstate.com. “After that we had about 500 people come in in about a week. It just about killed us,” Sam said with a laugh. So let’s keep the stampede to perhaps a trot.

 

But do come because even if you can’t find a seat, take-out — along with catering — is a big part of the Dallas Deli’s business and quite honestly, I can not think of better way to saddle up and go then with a half rack of ribs. Oh heck, we’re make that full. Yippee-ki-yay!

By: Mike DeWitt

Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

 

When Dallas Deli was drawn out of the hat earlier this week for our Going Local location, I almost fainted. I love meat, I love BBQ, and I love it smoked. This is my job? Seriously!? In the words of the great Belinda Carlisle, “Ooh heaven is a place on earth!”

 

Joanne already covered the decor and atmosphere above, so let’s dive right into the only thing that matters… the food!

 

Taking a glance at the menu feels like trip through the meat market with Oprah as your tour guide… “You get a brisket, and YOU get some pulled pork, and YOU get some ribs!” How on earth am I supposed to fit it all on one plate?

 

The combo dinner isn't playing around
The combo dinner isn’t playing around

Two words, Combo Dinner.

 

The Combo Dinner comes with two different meats, two sides, and a choice of bread. The two meats can then be enjoyed with one of three BBQ sauces available at each table, Dallas Deli Mild Sauce, Sweet and Tangy, and Hot & Spice. All three have their own distinct taste and are worth a try. My meal consisted of rib tips, sausage, collard greens, baked beans and corn bread. Talk about a full house on a plate!

 

The rib tips were excellent and very rich, but I’m still kicking myself for not taking the brisket as my second meat choice. Don’t get me wrong, the sausage was good, but passing up the brisket at a BBQ joint? Rookie move, DeWitt.

 

As for the sides, the collard greens and baked beans were excellent compliments to the overall meal. While the meat and BBQ added a rich flavor, the beans and greens kept things at even keel with a consistent texture and flavor.

 

Now, about that corn bread, it was warm, full of taste, and melted in your mouth. Cornbread for me is very hit or miss and Dallas Deli hit one out of the park.

 

Dallas Deli BBQThanks to the size of the meal, I had some leftover for lunch the next day (that doesn’t happen very often) and it kept its taste upon a second serving. The corn bread tasted even better the next day, if that’s even possible.

 

Overall, Dallas Deli lived up to the hype. It’s well priced – only $12 for my whole meal – tastes great, and it feeds the beast. I will be making a second trip.

Rockets red glare are allowed, just make sure you check your city ordinance

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , , , , ,
Get a front row ticket for the Grand Rapids fireworks at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
According to the National Council on Fireworks Safety, fireworks usage is expected to be at an all-time high this Fourth of July.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

 

A few years ago, Michigan lifted the ban on consumer fireworks. All fine and dandy (as long as you’re safe and follow the rules), but it certainly is not a free-for-all when it comes to lighting them up — the state legislature allows local municipalities to put in place ordinances on when such fireworks can be used.

 

Consumer fireworks are devices designed to produce visible effects by combustion such as firecrackers sky lanterns, bottle rockets, roman candles and certain aerial shells not exceeding 1.75 inches in diameter.

 

Low-impact and novelty fireworks that are ground-based or handled devices such as wheel fountains, smoke devices, ground spinners, and sparklers, are permitted.

 

But you’ll want to check with your local municipality before you shoot off a bottle rocket or light that roman candle. In both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, consumer firework usage is restricted to the day before, the day of and the day after a national holiday.

 

Even on permitted days, there are restrictions. In the city of Kentwood, fireworks are prohibited during the hours of 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. In Wyoming, fireworks are prohibited between the hours of 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. on the day before and the day after the holiday. On the day of the holiday, fireworks are prohibited from midnight to 8 a.m.

 

Also in Wyoming, the ordinance prohibits a person from discharging or displaying fireworks on another person’s property or within 15 feet of another person’s property without the property owner’s permission. You must get a permit to discharge fireworks in a public street or right-of-way, a public park, school property or any other place of public assembly.

 

“We do get a number of complaints during times when people are allowed to set off fireworks and if they are doing it during the allowed time legally, there is not much we can do,” said Capt. Kim Koster with the Wyoming Public Safety Department. Many residents do call the department with concerns over the noise from fireworks upsetting their pets and small children.

 

“If it is endangering public safety or personal property, we are going to investigate to make sure that it is being done safely,” Koster said.

 

According to the National Council on Fireworks Safety, consumer fireworks usage is expected to hit an all-time high this Fourth of July and safety remains a top priority. One of the biggest concerns the council has reported on is an increase in injuries among youth “who have used fireworks in videos unsafely to impress friends or get a laugh.” It is unlawful for anyone under 18 to discharge or display consumer fireworks in the State of Michigan.

 

Another factor is alcohol, said Ellen Bristol, director of internal communications and public relations at Metro Health. “There is a saying that nothing bad ever happens when it starts with a salad,” Bristol said, adding that many of the firework injuries Metro Health has taken care of over the years have had alcohol involved as well. To help with promoting fireworks safety, Metro Health recently put out a blog post on fireworks safety tips.

 

The bottomline, Koster said, is to think about where you are, what you are doing and just be “considerate of your neighbors.”

 

For details on the laws in Kentwood or Wyoming, visit the respective websites.

Let the (Kids)Games Begin!

Area Education, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, Volunteers, , , , , ,

By: Mike DeWitt

Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

 

Wyoming Public Schools closed the doors last weekend and ushered in the end of the school year. This Monday, churches and volunteers from around the area will reopen the doors to Wyoming Jr. High School and welcome in over 200 kids to participate in a worldwide, faith-based movement called KidsGames.

 

The idea started over a decade ago in the Middle East and Spain to give children an experience in a sporting event over the summer. Since then, KidsGames has expanded and evolved all over the world, including right here in West Michigan.

 

“One of the founding fathers of KidsGames International, Michael Wozniak, is local here in West Michigan,” said Jack Ponstine, the founder of KidsGames in Wyoming. “There was already an event in Byron Center, so he reached out to me to get one started in Wyoming. That was nine years ago.”

 

KidsGames is a free event for children entering 1st-6th grade. It is focused on making the week as fun as possible while building strong character and building a relationship in Christ. Each night starts with the whole group (kids and volunteers) meeting in the gymnasium to talk about the mission for the year. Past years have worked with Feeding America and sending sporting equipment to low-income areas. This year, the goal is to raise money for water for Flint.

 

KidsGames Wyoming 2After the opening meeting, kids are broken into three different groups to learn about nutrition, stories from the Bible, and play experimental games with life lessons incorporated throughout. Kids are then placed into small groups for Bible Discovery Time with a small group leader.

 

Following small group, it’s time to get active again as kids can choose between many different activities or “Tracks.” The Tracks are led by volunteers and include different games, sports, and crafts. Tracks  for this year include basketball, beauty 101, crafts/scrapbooking, drama, jewelry making, karate, legos, painting 101, painting 202, soccer, and wacky science.

 

“We have more volunteers and Tracks than ever before,” said Ponstine. “We couldn’t do it without the volunteers”

 

Last year, 64 volunteers from 13 different churches helped out at the week-long event. All 64 were needed to help make the experience as positive as possible for the 181 students, from 57 different schools, that attended.

 

Things don’t look like they’re about to slow down in 2016 either.

 

“We already have over 100 that have pre-registered. That doesn’t include the large number who will register on Monday when we start,” said KidsGame coordinator Shane Buist.

 

KidsGames Wyoming 1When the week is over, Jack Ponstine hopes each family leaves having checked all four boxes:

 

1.    They had a great week with the other children and the leaders.

2.    That parents enjoyed dropping their kids off knowing the fun they were about to have and the lessons learned.

3.    A positive relationship was built with the small group leader.

4.    A strong relationship with Jesus Christ was built upon.

 

In the end, it all comes back to spreading the word.

 

“My goal is to get churches to come together to spread ministry,” said Ponstine.

 

Details about the event are below:

 

Who: 1st-6th graders and volunteers from churches throughout Wyoming
What: KidsGames: West Michigan
When: Monday, June 13 – Friday, June 17 from 6:00-8:30pm (Registration opens at 5:30 Monday night)
Where: Wyoming Jr. High School (2125 Wrenwood SW, Wyoming, MI 49509)
Why: Building character, making new friends, learning about the Bible and having FUN
Cost: FREE!

Honoring those who served: Kentwood, Wyoming host Memorial Day activities

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Upcoming Events, Veterans, WKTV Projects, , ,
Joe Rossi with his fellow Marines. Rossi is Wyoming's Memorial Day guest speaker.
Joe Rossi with his fellow Marines. Rossi is Wyoming’s Memorial Day guest speaker.

“Duty, honor, country: Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be. They are your rallying point to build courage when courage seems to fail, to regain faith when there seems to be little cause for faith, to create hope when hope becomes forlorn.” General Douglas MacArthur’s Thayer Award Speech, 1962.

 

Those words, “duty, honor, country” have become synonymous with a soldier. The motto of the United States Military Academy West Point, those words now adorn three arches at Wyoming’s Veterans Memorial Garden, located in front of the Wyoming Public Safety Department, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW. The final arch, “Country” will be dedicated at the city’s annual Memorial Day Services, set for Monday, May 30, at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Garden.

 

“Our Memorial Day Ceremony is a tribute to that service and protection,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, the city’s directory of community services. “We are grateful to have the Veterans Memorial Garden in Wyoming. It is a place where we can hold these ceremonies and where people can honor and reflect, at any time, on those who have protected and those who continue to protect our freedoms.”

 

The new memorial arch, "Country" will be dedicated at Wyoming's Memorial Day Services set for Monday, May 30.
The new memorial arch, “Country” will be dedicated at Wyoming’s Memorial Day Services set for Monday, May 30.

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was officially observed when in 1968, General John A. Logan, leader of the Northern Civil War veterans the Grand Army of the Republic, call for a nationwide day of remembrance. The date selected was May 30 since no major Civil War battles had ever been fought on that day. A 100 years later in 1968, the U.S. Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, changing Memorial Day to the last Monday in May with most communities like Wyoming and Kentwood observing it on that day. (Note: The City of Grand Rapids traditionally observes Memorial Day on May 30 no matter when that date falls in the week.)

 

Guest speaker for the Wyoming Memorial Day Services is Retired Lt. Joe Rossi, who is a candidate for judge in the 17th Circuit Court race. Rossi served 22 years as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps, including serving in Operation Desert Storm where he commended a rifle platoon of 41 Marines and one sailor. He led a hostage rescue unit and had two presidential recalls to active duty to command the Marine Corps Reserve Center in Grand Rapids, where he mobilized more than 400 Marines for service in East Africa and Iraq.

 

The rest of the program will include the Lee High School Band performing “As Heavens Were a Bell,” the Department of Public Safety Honor Guard firing a rifle salute, and Lee High School graduate and Navy veteran Bronson Sawn performing taps.

 

The city of Kentwood’s annual Memorial Day parade and ceremony also will be Monday, May 30. A parade will begin at 10 a.m. at 48th Street and Eastern Avenue, with the route proceeding west on 48th Street and finishing at the memorial at Veterans Park, 353 48th St. The American Legion Post 208 will host a ceremony at the park following the parade at around 10:45 a.m.

 

Both the Memorial Day programs from Kentwood and Wyoming will be aired on WKTV. The Kentwood Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony are set for 12:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday, May 30, with the Wyoming Memorial Day Service set for around 8:35 p.m.

 

For more on WKTV programming, visit www.wktv.org.

Big trucks and hotdogs: It’s National Public Works Week

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , ,
Kentwood Public Works Department oversees the city's recycling center.
Kentwood Public Works Department oversees the city’s recycling center.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

 

It’s the kid in all of us that watches those big machines that build and plow our roads in wonderment and a little bit of awe. Next week, thanks to two local Public Works Departments, we will all get the chance to let our inner child out.

 

In celebration of National Public Works Week, May 15 – 21, both the Kentwood and Wyoming Public Works Departments will be hosting open houses, giving area residents a chance to discover all that these departments do for the city and its residents.

 

“Road, water, sewer, recycling, household hazardous waste,” said Kentwood Public Works Director John Gordy as he listed off just some of the items area Public Works Departments take care of on a daily basis.

 

In 1960 the American Public Works Association established National Public Works Week to create a better understand of the various responsibilities of a Public Works facility in maintaining the infrastructure of its community. This includes such areas as ground maintenance, sewer and water, potholes and road maintenance, and snowplowing to list a few of the many services provided by these departments.

 

Having hosted a Public Works Week Open House for the past 22 years, the event has become one of the City of Wyoming’s most anticipated activities for families..

 

The City of Wyoming will have various equipment out at its Public Works Open House set for May 16.
The City of Wyoming will have various equipment pieces out at its Public Works Open House set for May 16.

“It has become a tradition,” said Wyoming’s Public Works Assistant Director Aaron Vis. “We have been doing it so long that people have just come to expect that we will be hosting it.”

 

Because there are several entrances into the event, its hard for staff to take attendance, Vis said, adding they estimate attendance by the number of hotdogs served.

 

Last year, the Wyoming Public Works Department went through about 1,800 hotdogs with staff estimating about 1,500 people attended the event. Vis said he expects about the same for this year’s open house which is set for Monday, May 16, from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Wyoming Public Works building, 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW. Various Public Works Department equipment will be on hand for people to explore along with a police cruiser and fire truck. Staff will be on hand to talk to visitors about equipment and projects as well as serving free beverages, chips, and, of course, hotdogs.

 

Kentwood’s Public Works Department will host its first Public Works Week Family Event with the Kent County Road Commission Wednesday, May 18 from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Kentwood Public Works building, 5068 Breton Rd. SE. Road plow trucks and construction equipment will be on hand for visitors to explore along with 20 different displays on various Public Works topics. Gorney said there also will be live demonstrations on maintenance and repair of water and sewer systems and discussions on how and why different improvements are made on roads. Kent County Public Works officials will be there to discuss household hazardous waste and how to properly dispose of such items. There also will be giveaways for children, free snacks, and yes, hotdogs.

 

According to APWA’s website, National Public Works Week has been growing with more and more municipalities participating. Besides Wyoming and Kentwood observing the week, the City of Grandville will have a display at its library as part of Michgian Week BBQ, the City of Grand Rapids will mark the entire week with a display of Grand Rapids Public Works equipment on Market Street, and the City of East Grand Rapids will host a “Touch a Truck” event starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 18.

 

 

Wyoming business marks 100th anniversary by celebrating opening of plant

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , ,
Reith-Riley officials and employees along with City of Wyoming officials and business owners gather for a ribbon cutting ceremony at Rieth-Riley.
Rieth-Riley officials and employees along with City of Wyoming officials and business owners gather for a ribbon cutting ceremony at Rieth-Riley.

How do you celebrate your 100th anniversary? How about with a ribbon cutting, cupcakes and a tour of your recently opened facility?

 

That is what Rieth-Riley Construction, Inc. did today, May 5, exactly 100 years ago to the day when Indiana civil engineer and surveyor Albert Rieth started the asphalt and concrete paving company.

 

“We have found the City of Wyoming to be amazing,” said Chad Loney, Rieth-Riley’s regional vice president for Michigan. “The city has been very generous and is very pro-business. They have bent over backwards to help us accomplish this goal.”

 

Formerly based in Ada, the company bought five Aggregate Industries locations in 2009 including the one at 2100 Chicago Dr. SW. When the economy slowed, Rieth-Riley shut the facility down but a couple of years ago, decided to move its regional operations out of Ada to the Wyoming location.

 

“We are happy to have them come back to Wyoming,” said Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll, adding that Reith-Riley is a great fit to the industrial area located along Wyoming’s Chicago Drive corridor.

 

“We have about 13 acres here,” said Rieth-Riley Area Director Kirk Breukink. Breukink said the company has actually been on the Wyoming site since November 2014, redesigning the location to make it more efficient including tearing down an existing building and constructing a new facility. Those who attended the open house and ribbon cutting on Thursday were able to tour the site along with viewing  a 10-minute video on the history of the company.

 

Rieth-Riley Area Manager Kirk Breukink accepts a plaque from
Rieth-Riley Area Manager Kirk Breukink accepts a plaque from

Started in 1916 by Rieth, the company’s focus is road construction and through its history has remained true to that providing highway construction, asphalt and concrete paving, site preparation and excavation, bridge construction, underground utilities and drainage construction, asphalt and concrete recycling, curb and sidewalk construction, mining and aggregate processing, and sand, gravel and other aggregates for construction projects.

 

Rieth’s first project was a county road in Elkhardt County, Indiana, his home state and where he founded the company. The project was $25,000 and later became known as Country Road 32. In 1918, George A. Riley became Rieth’s partner, hence the company’s name Rieth-Riley.

 

In the 1920s, the company expanded into Michigan with its first contract to lay paving on the Michigan State Trunk Line No. 11 near Sawyer in Berrien County. From there, the company grew with today there being 14 plants in the state. The Wyoming location serves as the regional office for the state and oversees operations at the Wyoming and Zeeland facilities. Breukink said the company has worked on about every major highway in the state of Michigan including 1-96, US-131, US-31 through Holland, M-6, and the M-231 bypass around Grand Haven, which helped the company earn a Michigan Asphalt Pavement Award and a National Asphalt Pavement Award.

 

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Rieth-Riley is that it is 100-percent employee owned. With the deaths of the owners, Rieth’s sons Blair, Lee, and William, it triggered the company to move toward the establishment of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 1986. Fifty percent of the company was sold to the employees at that time. In 1992, the employees bought the other 50 percent making it a fully employee-owned company.

 

“It was quite cutting edge to do that,” Loney said, adding Rieth-Riley was one of the first companies become employee owned. It also was a risk but one that appears to have done well for the business. Talking to employees, it is easy to find people who have been with the company 17, 23, 30 and more years.

 

Breukink said the company is in full swing for the construction season and is already working on various road construction contracts.

 

Approximately 80 people attended the ribbon cutting ceremony and celebration at the site. It was a mixture of employees, city officials, and local business owners.

 

 

Wyoming residents certainly purged making city’s community clean-up day a big success

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Residents unload trash into the dumpsters during the Wyoming Community Clean-Up Day.
Residents unload trash into the dumpsters during the Wyoming Community Clean-Up Day.

Of those who came, most didn’t mind waiting to dump their trash and other items at the Godfrey-Lee Athletic Field this past Saturday. They were just happy that the City of Wyoming was hosting the Community Clean-Up Day event.

 

“We’re just appreciative that the City of Wyoming did this,” said Wyoming resident Michael Donavan, who also works at Godfrey-Lee. Donavan said his family recently helped his father clean out his garage and he came with a truck and trailer full of items.

 

“The wait is not that big of deal,” said Wyoming resident Melissa Digiovanna, who had her own vehicle along with a friend’s truck full of items. “It is just super awesome that the city is doing this.”

 

Early indicators showed that the Wyoming Community Clean-Up Day was to be a success as the original story on now.wktv.org had more than 425 Facebook shares. City officials said there was a line when the event opened at 8 a.m. this past Saturday with one of the four dumpsters completely full shortly after opening.

 

The line to get into the Community Clean-Up Day at one point was backed up to where Joosten Street intersected with Godfrey Lee Avenue.
The line to get into the Community Clean-Up Day at one point was backed up to where Joosten Street intersected with Godfrey Lee Avenue.

Nancy Stoddard, who works in the city’s treasurer’s office and was part of the organizing committee, had hoped for about 300 cars. Final count was 332 vehicles  – including some small U-Haul-style trucks. About 130 of those vehicles dropped off household hazardous waste and 33 20-yard roll-offs of trash were collected. Stoddard said she was still waiting on total tonnage collected.

 

Stoddard said the committee, which was the city employee group Looks Good Committee, already has begun thinking about next year’s event which includes checking with Godfrey-Lee about possibly having the same location. “I have been checking into grant opportunities,” Stoddard said. This year’s event was unwritten by grants. Also Stoddard said next year, organizers are planning to start with eight dumpsters on the ground to help move people through faster.

 

“The area that we had this year was so spacious, we really had room for more,” Stoddard said.

 

Megan Kretz, a resource recovery specialist from the Kent County Department of Public Works and who was helping with the event, said the way the Community Clean-Up Day had been organized and laid out, it really didn’t seem like a first-time event. Cars entered through Joosten Street into the Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center’s west parking lot and curved around exiting on to Godfrey Avenue. There were several checkpoints where people could unload household hazardous waste, gently used items to the Salvation Army, recycle items and trash.

 

“It’s a wonderful event,” said Matthis Fields who was with the Salvation Army. “I love doing these type of events. It’s a beautiful day. Nice weather and I am just so glad to be here.”

 

As Fields talked, one of the volunteers walked by with a fireplace in an unopened box to put on the Salvation Army truck, which was about two-thirds full by noon.

 

“This just happens to be one of the good parts, events like these,” Fields said with a smile.