All posts by Deborah Reed

Phabies to showcase eclectic mix of original songs at Lamar Park on July 22

July 18, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michiganalternative rock, City of Wyoming, Community, Concerts in the Park, Lamar Park, Phabies, pop music, Wyoming Parks & Recreation DepartmentDeborah Reed

While many bands target one style or sound, Phabies creates songs that unashamedly cross genres (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Popular West Michigan-based band, Phabies, will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 22 at 6 p.m. with their eclectic mix of original alternative rock/pop songs.

A DIY band

The Phabies band is a direct reflection of its founder, Laura Hobson, and her refusal to be forced into one style or genre.

“I never really wanted to feel stuck or pigeonholed in any certain style or genre,” said Hobson. “I didn’t want to present as only one thing while we were still trying to figure out our sound.”

While many bands target one style or sound, Phabies creates songs that unashamedly cross genres.

The band does not shy away from creating a unique and eclectic sound (Courtesy, Phabies)

“It keeps my brain interested,” said Hobson. “I need a lot of mental stimulation to stay interested.”

Phabies not only creates their own sound, but their show sets and outfits as well – putting Hobson’s art degree to daily use and earning Phabies a reputation as a “DIY band.”

Even the band name was formed from an eclectic mix of Hobson’s personal experiences.

“It involves an old screen name, a run-in with a feral cat, a road trip to Canada, a book written by Steinbeck – there’s a lot of overlapping things that resulted in the name,” Hobson said with a laugh.

Friendship and trust

Though Phabies bears Hobson’s personal signature, the group formed in 2018 out of friendship and trust – and is stronger because of it.

The band members began as friends, and have remained close friends through the years (Courtesy, Phabies)

“I had been looking to start a band for a very long time, but I didn’t want to randomly hobble a group together that would later fall apart or wouldn’t feel exactly right,” said Hobson. “It took a long time to find my people.”

Band members Garrett Stier (guitar/bass/vocals), Joshua Holicki (drums), Max McKinnon (synth/keys), Andrew Deters (guitar) and Hobson (vocals/guitar/keys) have remained friends throughout the years, and Hobson believes that is due to the thoughtful construction of the band.

“General advice for people looking to start groups: don’t rush into it,” said Hobson. “Make sure you can really trust and feel safe with the people you’re playing with.”

That friendship and trust plays an important role in enjoying what they do.

“Every practice is fun; it never feels like work,” said Hobson. “It was really important to have a group of people that I can really laugh with and feel like my truest, freest self.”

More than just notes on a page

For Stier and Hobson, that feeling of connection and safety extends from the band to music itself.

Stier said music has been a constant source of joy for him over the last few years.

Music provides an experience unique to each individual (Courtesy, Phabies)

“It’s a place to go and be reminded that there are good things, there are things that bring people together.”

Stier went on to say that he has experienced music bringing people together in various ways through live concerts, recording albums and rehearsals with the band. The people he has met and friendships he has gained make him appreciate music even more.

Hobson associates returning to the stage time and again with facing her fears and the unknown.

“It’s knowing that you can do a hard thing or something that is scary,” said Hobson. “Every time I am done with a show, I remember that I can do it. I think that’s really important because it is scary to perform. There’s something to be said about musicians who get up there every single day and perform a new song on stage or tell a story or give away parts of themselves.”

Though Hobson has performed solo shows and appreciates the different ways she can interact with the audience during those shows, she said being part of a group makes performing less intimidating.

“All eyes split between five people is a little less scary than all eyes on just me,” said Hobson. “You are so vulnerable; it just feels safer when I’m with my friends.”

Hobson said being onstage also helps her tap into parts of herself that otherwise remain hidden.

“I think there are parts of myself that surface when I am up there that I am not in tune with off the stage. It feels like you’re tapping into something else, and I’m interested in that feeling.”

Lyricism as poetry

Hobson crafts her songs with care, putting time into both the lyrics and music.

“I like to approach lyricism as poetry, where there’s a lot of symbolism and a lot of things you could read between the lines and glean different information from if you looked for it,” Hobson said, adding that she loves how lyrics can be interpreted in the same way as paintings.

Hobson encourages different interpretations of her music by listeners (Courtesy, Phabies)

“I think the best compliment you could receive as a songwriter is somebody else’s interpretation. Even if it’s not what you intended, that’s okay. That’s what art is.”

Hobson said writing songs, like group performances, is a way to share the weight of life.

“A lot of times I will write songs to unburden myself, to share the load and get things off of my mind and disperse it. Because it’s easier to carry when it’s spread among many people.”

Simultaneously, Hobson uses her songs to help unburden her listeners.

“It feels important to remind people that they are cared for, that somebody else is considering their happiness.”

A curse…and hope

Phabies recently released their latest album, The Curse Of Caring, in June. The band has a full lineup of summer shows throughout Michigan, with hopes of out-of-state touring and recording in the fall.

“I didn’t let myself do any writing as we were pushing the album out,” said Hobson. “Now I have this backlog of energy that I’ve been furiously trying to capture on my instruments and probably will be going towards album number three.”

However, both Hobson and Stier are also focused on sharing songs from The Curse Of Caring.

“With writers or with musicians, whenever you release something into the world, it’s new to everybody else, but we’ve been holding on to these songs and working on them for the last two or three years,” said Stier. “We are really doing our best to stick with these songs and to share them.”

And the message contained within The Curse Of Caring is an important one, Hobson said. The album’s songs explore loss and grief while also holding space for happiness and joy.

Phabies’ latest album explores grief while also offering hope (Courtesy, Phabies)

“The curse of caring is that double-edged sword. If you do care for things, you’re also going to experience great sadness when things change or when you experience loss.

“But at the same time, caring is what makes us human,” Hobson continued. “In some ways, caring does often feel like a curse because those of us who care the most have the most to lose.”

The album’s last track provides listeners with an uplifting message of hope.

Phabies has released two full-length albums, Fire Seed (2022) and The Curse Of Caring (2025), as well as several EPs and singles over the years.

Hobson and Stier said they are grateful for the opportunity to record two music videos using the WKTV Community Media studio in Wyoming, and urge other artists to utilize the media station’s resources as well.

“It’s a great resource to use that exists in our community,” said Hobson.

Learn more about Phabies and their music here and here.

Concert details

Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks offer food for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab some food and enjoy the music!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

Updated Consumers Energy policy unlocks more energy bill assistance for those in need

July 14, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Economy, Environment, Finances, How-To's, Kent CountyCity of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Consumers Energy, energy bill assistance, energy savings, environment, Finances, State Emergency ReliefDeborah Reed

Consumers Energy’s electric and natural gas customers who qualify for State Emergency Relief funds may now qualify for additional assistance (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Consumers Energy’s electric and natural gas customers who qualify for State Emergency Relief (SER) funds and haven’t received the full $500 annual payment credit may now qualify for additional assistance under a new Michigan Department of Health and Human Services policy in effect immediately.

State Emergency Relief dollars help certain income-qualified customers take control of their past due energy bills up to a maximum of $500. The one-time federal funds disbursed at the state level are distributed to customers who apply and whose household income is 150% of the federal poverty level or below.

How it works

Beginning July 7, new customer applicants who haven’t received relief in Fiscal Year 2025, which ends Sept. 30, are eligible to receive the $500 per commodity cap, regardless of their past-due balance.

Previous SER recipients who haven’t reached the $500 per commodity cap can apply for the remaining amount (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Previous SER recipients who have already received funding since Oct. 1, 2024—but haven’t reached the $500 per commodity cap—can apply for the remaining amount starting July 11 through Sept. 30. These payments may result in a credit on the customer’s account.

“We’re dedicated to equity, accessibility and affordability for Michiganders who count on us for reliable electricity and natural gas,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s senior vice president, chief customer and growth officer.

“Through our various energy savings programs, energy assistance offerings and partnering with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, we support the growing needs of our customers who experience challenges paying their bills.”

This new policy could allow customers to receive an additional $250 to meet the maximum annual allocation allowed (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Under the former policy, a customer who owes $250 to keep their account active could apply and, if approved, get a credit paid back in that amount but would not have been eligible for additional relief in the same fiscal year. Under the new policy, however, that customer could now receive an additional $250 to meet the maximum annual allocation allowed of $500 if they have accumulated additional arrears.

Additional energy assistance

Last year, 540,000 customers received $38.4M in State Emergency Relief funding. In total, 137,000 families across 30 Michigan counties received some type of energy assistance.

In addition to State Emergency Relief funds, there is additional help available for anyone who needs assistance with their energy bills by calling 2-1-1, a free resource that connects people with nonprofit organizations. Customers can also visit ConsumersEnergy.com/Assistance.

To make it easier for customers to find the help they need based on their situation, Consumers Energy recently launched “My Personalized Offerings,” an easy-to-use tool that empowers customers to identify and enroll in custom payment assistance and energy management programs. The optional tool is free and available to all customers at ConsumersEnergy.com/Offers.

More resources:

My Bridges – State Emergency Relief – see if you qualify or to apply

Contact your local DHHS office here

Federal poverty level guidelines

Air quality advisory (AQI Orange) extended through July 14 in West Michigan

July 14, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Environment, Health, Kent County, medical moment, Weather, West MichiganAir Quality, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, environment, health, SEMCOG, weatherDeborah Reed

The air quality in West Michigan is currently considered unhealthy for sensitive groups (Courtesy, AirNow.gov)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

An air quality advisory is in effect for West Michigan through Monday, July 14.

According to a statement released by Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), this advisory is due to elevated levels for fine particulate matter (PM-2.5). The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) cites wildfire smoke originating from Canada.

EGLE noted that levels of particle pollution are expected to reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG, Orange AQI) through all of Monday, July 14 in southern parts of Michigan.

Sensitive groups are encouraged to take precautions.

The air quality in West Michigan is currently considered unhealthy for sensitive groups (Courtesy, AccuWeather.com)

Air pollution cause

“Wildfire smoke from Canada continues to push into Michigan on Sunday, with additional plumes expected Monday,” said Stephanie Hengesbach, Meteorology Specialist, Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

Increased fine particulate levels due to smoke were seen Sunday morning across the Upper Peninsula into the northern portion of the Lower Peninsula. The smoke continues to track east and south, expanding across the rest of the state and with additional plumes forecasted to move in on Monday.

Hengesbach said southern locations can expect levels of fine particulate in the USG to Moderate range.

EGLE recommends:

When possible, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially those with heart disease and respiratory diseases like asthma.
- Monitor for symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in nose, throat, and eyes.
Reduce or eliminate activities that contribute to air pollution, such as:
- outdoor burning;
- use of residential wood burning devices.
Keep windows closed overnight to prevent smoke from getting indoors and, if possible, run central air conditioning with MERV-13 or higher rated filters.

How air quality is measured

Air quality is an important measure identified in SEMCOG plans and programs for creating desirable communities, protecting public health, and maintaining a positive regional image for Southeast Michigan. In partnership with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), SEMCOG is now implementing a two-tiered system of Air Quality Advisories and Air Quality Alerts.

This new system is based on the EPA’s U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI).

The AQI is a scale from 0 to 500 that indicates air pollution levels. Higher values mean higher pollution and more health risks. When AQI exceeds 100, it is unhealthy, starting with sensitive groups and worsening as it rises.

There are six categories, each with a color, to easily gauge the level of health concern in communities.

Air quality advisories/alerts information:

Air Quality Advisory: Issued when ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5) or both are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) threshold. Those considered in the “USG” threshold include people with lung disease (such as asthma), children, older adults, people who are active outdoors (including outdoor workers), people with certain genetic variants, and people with diets limited in certain nutrients should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.

This is aimed to provide awareness for poor air quality, encourage people to limit activities that contribute to poor air quality, and to alert those who are especially sensitive to poor air quality.

Air quality advisories and alerts are designed to help those who can be affected by poor air quality (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Air Quality Alert: Issued when Ozone, PM2.5, or both are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy threshold or worse. This alert indicates a higher level of concern as everyone, not just sensitive groups, can be affected by poor air quality.

The Insiders: A Tom Petty Tribute Band to provide a rockin’ performance at Lamar Park on July 15

July 11, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, Concerts in the Park, entertainment, Lamar Park, rock and roll, The Insiders, Tom Petty Tribute Band, Wyoming Parks & Recreation DepartmentDeborah Reed

The local band presents a premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience with six veteran musicians and decades of combined stage and touring experience (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

“Close your eyes and you won’t know the difference. Open them and you still might be fooled.” The Insiders: A Tom Petty Tribute Band

Beloved rock and roll icon Tom Petty may have died in 2017 at age 66, his music lives on in soloists and tribute bands worldwide. One such band is West Michigan’s own The Insiders: A Tom Petty Tribute Band who will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 15 at 6 p.m..

According to The Insiders’ website, the local band presents the premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience with six veteran musicians and decades of combined stage and touring experience.

The Insiders: A Tom Petty Tribute Band (Courtesy, Jessica D. Cowles Imagery)

Growing up on rock-n-roll

The Insiders’ frontman, Max Lockwood, is a songwriter, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist who grew up listening to Tom Petty.

Max Lockwood is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist (Courtesy photo)

“My mom would play the Greatest Hits record while she worked out,” Lockwood says on his website.

“I’d sit at the top of the stairs and listen to those songs—it was my most requested CD as a young kid.”

Lockwood’s high school band frequently performed Petty songs at local shows.

“Tom Petty was part of the great American landscape to me—a legend by the time I was musically conscious. We got a great crowd reaction with Petty tunes, and people frequently commented that I sounded a lot like him.”

Lockwood’s music is a combination of rock-n-roll with folk and pop genres, and is known for heartfelt lyrics that contemplate truths of love, adversity and growth. The musician’s powerful voice, raw emotion and flair onstage draw crowds at each performance.

Honoring a legend

After Petty’s passing in 2017, Lockwood organized the tribute band by performing a benefit concert with a group of his favorite musicians. The sold-out show raised thousands of dollars for a local domestic shelter – and The Insiders was born.

There has been no shortage of demand, and the band continues selling out shows across the midwest.

“We try to honor what Mr. Petty and the Heartbreakers have done for rock and roll each night,” Lockwood says on the website. “We’re fans of the music first and foremost. These songs are woven into the fabric of the American identity.”

The Insiders are based in Grand Rapids and are available for public and private functions. Find out more here.

Max Lockwood “catches air” at a recent Lowell show (Courtesy photo)

Concert details

Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

West Michigan shows economic resilience despite months of uncertainty

July 10, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Finances, Kent County, Local Business, West Michiganeconomy, global trade, Grand Valley State University, Seidman College of Business, survey, tariffsDeborah Reed

Despite months of economic uncertainty stemming from tariff policies and ongoing global trade tensions, the West Michigan economy has remained resilient, according to data collected by a GVSU researcher (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Despite months of economic uncertainty stemming from tariff policies and ongoing global trade tensions, the West Michigan economy has remained resilient, according to data collected by a Grand Valley State University (GVSU) researcher.

Brian Long, Director of Supply Management Research at GVSU’s Seidman College of Business, said his monthly survey of local firms and purchasing managers shows the regional economy has gained unexpected strength through the summer.

Three-year highs

In fact, Long said two key metrics in his recent survey — the new orders index and production index — hit three-year highs. The survey’s new orders index measures a company’s business improvement while the production index reflects a firm’s output.

“Almost any firm with a supply chain that originates anywhere outside of the country is having trouble keeping up with the tariff wars on virtually a daily basis,” Long said.

“Fortunately, most of our respondents seem to be taking it in stride partially based on the experience gained from the COVID crisis, but almost all of them are holding up major decisions on new equipment, plant expansion, new sourcing and so forth until the trade war with their segment of the supply chain is resolved.”

Long said the short- and long-term business confidence among local firms has also remained relatively stable since a sharp drop in April, when the tariffs were first announced.

“In the industrial market…one of our survey respondents says that tariff management is becoming more routine,” Long said, adding that the respondent continues to watch tariff deadlines despite that belief.

June survey key index results of West Michigan businesses:

New orders index (business improvement): +21 vs. +14 in May
Production index (output): +28 vs. +14 in May
Employment index: 0 vs. 0 in May
Lead times index: +4 vs. +18 in May

Resource Links

More information about the survey and an archive of past surveys are available on the Seidman College of Business website.

Audio clips and a transcript of those clips are available at g vsu.edu/s/3gf.

Mel Trotter Ministries partners with Catherine’s Health Center to expand clinic services to shelter guests

July 8, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, medical moment, Mental Health, Our Cities, West MichiganCatherine's Health Center, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, community health, health, homeless, Medical care, medical clinic, Mel Trotter Ministries, West MichiganDeborah Reed

Catherine’s Health Center CEO Megan Erskine (left) shaking hands with Mel Trotter CEO Chris Palusky celebrating the joint partnership to operate a full-service medical clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Mel Trotter Ministries, the largest provider of services to people experiencing homelessness in West Michigan, announced an expansion of its partnership with Catherine’s Health Center. This expansion will result in increased health clinic services for guests staying at Mel Trotter’s shelter at 225 Commerce SW in Grand Rapids.

Catherine’s is now offering full-time medical care at Mel Trotter Ministries. This new partnership will provide 40 hours per week of comprehensive primary care services to guests, with plans to expand access to the broader Heartside community by early 2026.

The clinic will serve as a “medical home” for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering walk-in appointments and a full spectrum of services including substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), immunizations, screenings, well-child visits, diagnostic lab services, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialty care.

Additional care

In addition to primary care, Catherine’s will provide:

16 hours per week of dental hygiene services
4 hours per week of psychiatric care
40 hours per week of case management support

The entrance to the full-service clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

Bringing integrated services to the community

“We are grateful to Mel Trotter Ministries and their generous partners and donors for laying the foundation for this model of care,” said Megan Erskine, CEO at Catherine’s Health Center. “Their commitment over the past four years…has made it possible for us to expand our place-based care model and bring full-time, integrated services to this community.”

Catherine’s Health Center staff working in the full-service medical clinic. Left to right: Ollie Irwin, Mishel Pollard, Bettie DeChemin (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

Catherine’s has spent the last three years delivering healthcare directly to the unhoused in shelters, churches and encampments. The new clinic represents the next evolution of this work, complemented by a mobile medical van that will continue to provide outreach and services across the region.

“We’re extremely pleased to expand our relationship with Catherine’s Health Center so that we can deliver the best possible care to our guests,” said Chris Palusky, CEO at Mel Trotter Ministries.

“When our renovated clinic space opened two years ago, it was our goal to provide services that healed the body and the spirit of those in need of assistance. This new service agreement will help us do that by bringing a more complete spectrum of care for anyone coming to our shelter.”

Tammy Morgan of Catherine’s Health Center working in an exam room at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

The initiative goal is to provide personalized and dignified care to guests while reducing non-urgent emergency department visits and unnecessary hospitalizations. Ultimately, leaders at Mel Trotter Ministries and Catherine’s Health Center believe that improved physical and mental health outcomes will enhance housing opportunities and stability for individuals trapped in the cycle of homelessness.

Stay tuned!

The clinic expects to open its doors to anyone experiencing homelessness starting in October. An open house at the clinic is planned for Oct. 22.

To view Catherine’s Health Center upcoming events, click here.

Godwin Mercado near completion, City of Wyoming offers sneak-peek of new community space

July 7, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Culture, Going Local, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West MichiganCity of Wyoming, Community, community event space, Farmers Market, Godwin Mercado, Going Local, vendors, Wyoming Parks & Recreation DepartmentDeborah Reed

The City of Wyoming provided a tour of their new community market space, Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Cris Greer WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Kyle VanEerden, Market Manager (right), and Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The City of Wyoming provided a tour of their new community market space, Godwin Mercado, on Tuesday, July 1.

Managed and programmed by Kyle VanEerden, Godwin Mercado Market Manager, and the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the market space will support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.

Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department Director, provided a preview of the nearly completed 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility.

“The Godwin Mercado is a year-round market facility that we are looking at as a really amazing and beautiful gift to the community here in Wyoming,” said Martin.

“A lot of work has been done to get us to this point,” Martin continued, noting that the Mercado groundbreaking was held seven months ago. “It’s amazing to see the progress that has happened in the building so far.”

The Mercado will be fully operational in fall of 2025 and will soon open for community reservations and events. The full farmers market will open in spring of 2026 to allow a full season for farm vendors.

Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department staff talk with local media in Godwin Mercado’s outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Fulfilling a vital need

Not only will the Mercado provide fun and educational activities and events, market days will provide fresh and healthy food options with access to all food assistance currencies. This will fill key gaps in the area’s food system and help support the well-being of local residents.

“This is definitely fulfilling a need,” said Martin. “We’re definitely trying to fill a gap in the food system over here. There are some options of grocery stores nearby, but we really want to be able to provide fresh food options to the community right here in this neighborhood while also providing some education.”

A community hub

On the west end is the Mercado outdoor plaza, a multipurpose space that can accommodate vendors, activities and live music, seating and can be rented for community events. Electrical power is available for food trucks and other event needs.

The Godwin Mercado outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Imagine there’s live music happening, there’s a lot of community, there’s kids laughing, there’s people talking,” said Martin. “That’s what this space should feel and look like once we’re fully operational.”

Accessible from the outdoor plaza is the Mercado main entrance and lobby. Restrooms can be found immediately to the left upon entering the lobby. Down the hall is a multipurpose room that can be utilized for meetings and during events. Another small room offers appliances such as warmers, a freezer and a refrigerator with a window connecting to the main event space.

Godwin Mercado main event space (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The main event space includes automatic overhead doors and room for 20-24 vendors. Outdoor space for additional vendors is available along the building’s north wall.

Two utility rooms with storage space and a full AV setup at the east end of the building round out the market space.

Events year-round

Godwin Mercado is open all year – even during Michigan’s winter months. Eight automatic overhead doors that open and close facilitate that year-round possibility.

Large overhead doors can be opened or closed depending on weather (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“In those colder weather months, maybe you’ll see the garage doors down, maybe we’ll have a little breeze going,” said Martin. “But this gives us a great amount of space to be able to have vendors.”

A single market day will be hosted each week during the winter months. Two market days will take place during the summer months.

Planning is already in progress for both a fall festival and a holiday market. The City’s annual winter event, Wrap Up Wyoming, will also take place at the Godwin Mercado.

Restoring a previous historic Wyoming event is also under consideration.

“Wyoming historically has had a pretty significant flea market that used to take place on 28th Street,” said Martin. “We’re hoping to bring back a semblance of a flea market that will take place here.”

Intentional connections

A mural installed by the nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, will be painted by a local artist on the outer south wall of the Godwin Mercado building.

The north side of the building is equipped with two connecting paths to the surrounding neighborhood, space for outdoor vendors, seating, a play area for children, and a bike repair station.

One of the walking paths connecting Godwin Mercado to the adjoining neighborhood (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A neighborhood connecting walking path and the bike repair station site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Krashawn Martin talks about the various ways the market space connects to the community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A seating area on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Space for outdoor vendors and community/family gatherings on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The Godwin Mercado parking area connects with the Godwin Heights school athletic complex (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The City’s reconfigured trail network, its proximity to the highway and Silver Line bus route, and the walkable neighborhood location will make the Mercado easily accessible to everyone.

“We’ve tried to be really intentional with some of our neighborhood connectors,” said Martin.

Educational collaborations with local schools and organizations are also in planning stages. The goal is to provide youth with education about fresh foods, fun collaborations with the adjoining Godwin Heights school athletic complex activities, and encouraging entrepreneurial skills by bringing youth in as vendors for a special market day.

Godwin Mercado landscaping is well under way (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Martin is cognizant, however, that other local organizations provide much of what the Mercado will offer the community – and she has no intention of reinventing the wheel.

“There are a lot of programs that are doing this work already, so it’s just finding those partnerships and having this be the space that people need for the ideas they already have,” said Martin. “We really want this to be an asset to the neighborhood that’s right here around us.”

Come one, come all!

Godwin Mercado will host a free grand opening event on Saturday, Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“We are really looking at that as a huge community block party, a gift to the community,” said Martin. “We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season.”

Attendees can expect food trucks, local vendors, kids activities, live music, games, a free meal (while supplies last) and more.

Rendering of completed Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

Resource links

The Godwin Mercado full market grand opening is planned for spring of 2026. For updates, sign up for the Godwin Mercado newsletter here.

Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via an online vendor application.

For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.

The Reverend Jesse Ray to bring a rockin’ experience and original tunes to Lamar Park on July 8

June 27, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, Concerts in the Park, entertainment, Lamar Park, Music, rock 'n' roll, The Reverend Jesse Ray, The Reverend Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish BandDeborah Reed

The audience can expect a rockin’ good time as The Reverend Jesse Ray, accompanied by his Carolina Catfish band, treats attendees to new songs and fan favorites (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Ray is back in Wyoming with new songs and authentic lyrics (Courtesy, Reverend Jesse Ray)

The Reverend Jesse Ray will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 8 at 6 p.m. with his trademark rock ‘n’ roll sound. The audience can expect a rockin’ good time as Ray, accompanied by his Carolina Catfish band, treats attendees to new songs and fan favorites.

The majority of Tuesday’s Concerts in the Park show will consist of original tunes written by Ray and featuring the kind of authentic song lyrics his fans first fell in love with.

“My favorite record that I’ve ever recorded or written was Angry (2016), and I feel like I’ve gotten away from that raw, rock ‘n’ roll, fun, vintage-style energy,” says Ray.

However, the singer-songwriter has recently returned to writing those authentic lyrics. “I’m more uncompromising with the music that I want to make, and I think I’m writing some really fun stuff lately.”

In addition to Ray’s return to his musical roots is the return of Ray’s original drummer.

“Dingo is back in the fold and we’re playing together,” Rays says. “It feels magical.”

The importance of authenticity

When asked why he emphasizes authenticity in his music, Ray referred to a comment made by Justin Townes Earl, one of Ray’s favorite songwriters.

Ray’s music often reflect his life experiences (Courtesy, Aaron Rorick)

“[He said] you’re not supposed to write about things you don’t know anything about,” said Ray. “You can’t talk about it. You don’t understand it, you don’t feel it.”

Ray went on to say he ensures that even the cover songs he plays are pieces he can personally relate to – with one exception.

“‘Folsom Prison Blues’ isn’t really something that I completely identify with – that one’s just for fun,” said Ray with a laugh.

Ray’s newest album, ¡Adiós! (July 2024), dispensed with all hyperbole and cryptic lyrics, bringing a raw vulnerability to the album.

“When I did ¡Adiós! I was in a spot that I’d never been in before,” said Ray. “I was really upset, and I was a little unabashed in my songwriting, what I was singing about. For lack of a better way of putting it, I was pretty naked in ¡Adiós!.”

And though revealing his vulnerable side can be both easy and difficult, Ray’s fans say they relate to the honesty in his lyrics.

Practicing what he preaches

As with writing songs, Ray chooses to live life authentically. “I try to practice what I preach, live what I sing about.”

Characterized as an “old soul with a lead foot,” Ray can often be found zipping down the highway on his Harley or mugging for the nearest camera. But while Ray is known for going against the grain in music and in life, the musician said he does not nurture a reckless spirit or behavior.

The Reverend Jesse Ray performs at outdoor venue in Grand Haven (Courtesy, Jeff Brinn)

“I used to [live] in more of a destructive way; I used to live my life to my own detriment,” said Ray, adding that he has given up vices such as alcohol and cigarettes.

“I’m still going against the grain. I’m doing something that really isn’t supposed to work, but it’s out of this love for this life that I have right now. It’s not being rebellious for the sake of rebellion, but just living life and enjoying it.”

Bringing people together

Ray focuses on performing well so listeners enjoy the show (Courtesy, Reverend Jesse Ray)

The musician hopes fans walk away from his shows feeling good and having connected with other audience members.

“It’s fun to hear about people and different friend groups meeting up and getting to know each other,” Ray said.

“I really like bringing people together with music. I really appreciate people that come out, and I want to make it worth their while.”

To learn more about The Reverend Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, click here.

Concert details

Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

#ShopWithPurpose at the WAR Chest Boutique’s annual summer Tent Sale in Wyoming

June 25, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Culture, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Voices, Voices of FreedomCity of Wyoming, Community, Culture, Human Trafficking, non-profit, tent sale, War Chest Boutique, WAR International, Women at riskDeborah Reed

From now until Aug. 30, the WAR Chest Boutique invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale that features a wide variety of items at greatly reduced prices (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale.

From June through Aug. 30, a wide variety of items will be available under the gondolas in the boutique’s front lawn, including new and pre-owned products as well as imperfect merchandise at greatly reduced prices.

#ShopWithPurpose

Sale items are hand-crafted by at-risk women (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The retail arm of non-profit organization, Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l), the WAR Chest Boutique includes retail stores, an online boutique, and product parties held in homes, businesses and churches throughout the United States.

Specializing in hand-crafted items by at-risk women in WAR, Int’l partnering programs, each product in the online boutique and in the retail stores comes with a story card detailing personal stories of men, women, and children who have passed through WAR, Int’l programs.

WAR, Int’l seeks to help women at risk. Using culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships, WAR, Int’l provides safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more.

“Our mission is two-fold,” states the WAR Chest Boutique website. “We seek to market and sell handcrafted items made by at-risk and rescued men and women from around the world, supporting culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects, while educating our shoppers about the risks the vulnerable face in our world.”

Tent sale details

Tent Sale items include jewelry, scarves, keychains, books, bookmarks, toys, ornaments, fabric, home decor, craft supplies, jewelry-making supplies and more.

The summer months include indoor monthly specials as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Also featured during the summer months are indoor monthly specials. During June, customers can enjoy 30% off all orange-tag clearance items.

WAR Chest Boutique hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Boutique staff begin bringing Tent Sale items inside a half-hour before closing time, but customers are welcome to continue shopping indoors and outdoors until 5 p.m. During potentially stormy days, extreme heat conditions, or Mondays before the lawn service mows the grass, customers may shop Tent Sale items inside the boutique.

Shopping options are available online as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Summer exceptions to regular WAR Chest Boutique hours are June 26-27 (closed for inventory) and July 4 (closed for Independence Day).

Can’t make it to the tent sale? #ShopWithPurpose online here.

Purchases help free and empower survivors (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

All purchases from the WAR Chest Boutique help set women and children free from exploitation and slavery, and empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.

To learn more about the WAR Chest Boutique, click here. To learn more about WAR Int’l, click here.

Metro Cruise 2025 June-September Event Schedule

June 25, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Dream Wheels, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community, Metro CruiseDeborah Reed

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

June 26 – Thursday

Car Show @ Church of the Open Barn, 6421 56^th Ave., Hudsonville

(More info to follow)

June 29 – Sunday

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Antique Car & Tractor Show

The Saint Patrick Parnell Festival, 4351 Parnell Ave NE, Ada

For questions, call 616-206-7093

July 4 – Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Allendale 4^th of July Car Show

Allendale Township Park, Lake MI Drive & 68^th Street

$10 entry fee

Dash plaques to the first 100 / 17 awards

Food available

July 5 – Saturday 8 a.m – 2 p.m.

Ninth Annual Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show

Hot Rod Harley Davidson, 149 Shoreline Dr., Muskegon

Gates open at 8 a.m. (Enter via the driveway off Western Ave (to the east of Hot Rod, off Shoreline Drive)

$10 pre-registration or $20 on event day

Food trucks, Seven award categories, 50/50 and 60/40 raffles

July 5 – Saturday, 10 a.m.

Patriots Motor Show and Festival

Chief Noonday Car Park, 11899 M-179, Yankee Springs in Wayland

July 6 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Living in Freedom Car Show

New Chapel Church, 1029 4 Mile Rd NW, Grand Rapids

No entry fee

Free food, etc.

Awards and ribbons given for Best in Show and Top 10 – arrive between 10 – 10:45 a.m. for placing

July 12 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Miss Metro Cruise Meet and Greet & Car Show

Moose Lodge in Wyoming

July 12 – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Registration 8 – 9 a.m.

Annual Zeeland Show & Shine Car Show

Downtown Zeeland on Main Street

$10 entry fee

July 11, Friday evening cruise from 6-7 p.m. Line up at Zeeland Stadium, 9900 Riley St, between 5-6 p.m.

July 12 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Downtown Ada Village, 7430 River St. SE, Ada

July 13 – Sunday

Mad Dogs and Englishmen All-British Car Show

At the Gilmore

July 17-20 – Thursday-Sunday

Road America Weather Tech Vintage Weekend

July 20 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fiesta Car Show

Holland Civic Center, 150 W. 8^th St., Holland

$25 entry (cash)

Food truck and entertainment

Best of Show Award $1,000 / Additional Awards

July 23 – Wednesday, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Vintage, Classic and Muscle Car Show

Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 1286 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland

Free “Elvis” concert

No awards

No entry fee (see below)

Driver and one passenger free, additional guests $5 at gate

July 26 – Saturday, 1 p.m.

Tillema Auto Car Show

2437 Prescott St SW, Byron Center (near 84^th & Byron Center, upper parking lot of First Reformed Church)

$10 fee

Music, food and games

July 27 – Sunday, 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Coast Guard Festival Car Show

Downtown Grand Haven on Washington Avenue

Parking opens at 6 a.m.

Early registration $12 / Day-of $15

Awards 1:30 p.m.

Aug. 3 – Sunday, 4-7 p.m.

Pinups for Pups & Car Show

The Dirty Dog Bar & Grill

2411 Hall Rd, Muskegon

Aug. 8 – Friday, 5-8 p.m. (Check-in 3 – 4:30 p.m.)

MKD Classic Car Show

At the Grandville Summer Street Fare

Downtown Grandville on Chicago Drive

Registration $10 – Find the registration form online and reserve a spot

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. / Pre-Registration open until July 31)

Coopersville Car Show

Pancake breakfast 7-10 a.m. at City Hall, 289 Danforth $7

Awards at 3 p.m.

(Car cruise Friday evening: Line up at 4 p.m. at 68^th and O’Malley Drive)

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Downtown Ada Village, 7430 River St SE, Ada

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 10 a.m.

Sparta Celtic Car Show

Balyeat Field, 190 Olmstead St., Sparta

$15 entry fee

Aug. 12 – Tuesday, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Second Annual Car Show

Berlin Raceway, 2008 Berlin Fair Dr., Marne

$10 entry

Awards 7 p.m.

(No vehicle entry between 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.)

Aug. 21 – Thursday, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

15^th Annual Metro Cruise Warm-up

Fowling Warehouse, 6797 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids.

Parking is first come, first serve

Check in at registration desk upon arrival

Live music, food, K9 display, etc.

Aug. 22 – 23 – Friday & Saturday

28^th Street Metro Cruise, MAIN EVENT

Rogers Plaza, 972 28^th Street SW, Wyoming

Begins at 9 a.m. Saturday

Check schedule online, including Woodland Mall events

Aug. 23 – Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

All GM Show

Berger Chevrolet, 2525 28^th St. SE, Grand Rapids

Free T-shirt and Hat to the first 400 entries

$20 per entry

Food trucks and donuts available

Aug. 24 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Outdoor service at 10 a.m.)

Countryfest Cruise-in Car Show

Grace Lutheran Church, 2651 Shettler Rd, Fruitport

No entry fees or fundraising

Food and games available

For more info, call Tony at 231-740-7282

Sept. 1 – Monday, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Muskegon Annual Cars for Cancer, Labor Day Car Show & Sunday Night Cruise

The Lakes Mall, 5500 Harvey Street

Pancake breakfast 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Registration 7-11 a.m.

Voting 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Awards 3 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Star Customs Fall Festival Car Show, 29 N. Main St, Kent City

$15 fee

Awards 4-4:30 p.m.

Door prizes, food trucks, entertainment

Sept. 20 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Artiflex Manufacturing, 2066 Bristol Ave NW, Grand Rapids

Registration opens Aug. 12

Sept. 21 – Sunday, 3-5 p.m. (Rain date Sept. 28)

Car Show & Little Kids Car Show, 2537 S. Stone Rd, Fremont

$10 fee

Awards 4:30 p.m. – Top ten and best of show original and modified

Sept. 28 – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Poker Run Car Show & Color Tour

Montcalm Township Complex, 1880 S. Greenville Rd (7 miles north of Greenville on M-91)

The Poker run is less than 55 miles

Awards to top 80, dash plaques to first 200

Food, door prizes, raffle

For info call Bruce at 616-835-3793

iCI Nation connects police and community members during annual Wyoming Fire Truck Pull event

June 23, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Entertainment, First Responders, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Police and Fire, Recreation, West MichiganCity of Wyoming, Community, Fire Truck Pull, iCI Nation, Special Olympics, Wyoming Police DepartmentDeborah Reed

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The annual Wyoming Truck Pull took place at ResLife Church on Saturday, June 14. Coordinated by the Wyoming PD, this yearly event was a fundraiser for the Law Enforcement Torch Fun for Special Olympics Michigan.

Among the festivities was the popular fire truck pull competition. iCI Nation, a local non-profit dedicated to connecting police and community in positive ways, took part in the competition with a 10-member team sponsored by Siegel Jewelers.

The iCI Nation team consisted of local police officers, probation officers, surveillance officers, juvenile detention workers and youth. The team won a trophy for Most Money Raised for the fundraiser.

“Making history, not with our time, but our people!” said iCI Executive Director Jennifer Franson.

Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
iCI Nation founder and executive director Jenn Franson introduces the fire truck pull team (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
iCI Nation team won the trophy for Most Money Raised (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Jenn Franson (left) plays tug-of-war with a Wyoming K9 (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

iCI Nation thanks Siegel Jewelers for sponsoring their team, and the Wyoming PD for coordinating the Special Olympics fundraiser.

Empower Young Voices: The Ford Museum will host two youth leadership camps July 30 and Aug. 2

June 23, 20252-row, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local History, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, Voices, West MichiganCommunity, Dr. Richard Weld, Education, Empowerment, First Amendment, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum, Government, summer camp, YouthDeborah Reed

Dr. Richard Weld will lead students in fun and informative activities and discussions as they learn how to become engaged in their communities right now (Courtesy, GRFPM)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (GRFPM) Education Department is hosting two Empower Young Voices: Community Leadership Camp sessions on July 30 and Aug. 2. These camps are open to students grades 6-8 and free to attend, though registration is required.

Government oddities and $10,000 bills

Dr. Richard Weld, Education Specialist for GRFPM, will be leading students, plus their accompanying adults, in a three-hour program of discussion and activities as they learn about becoming engaged leaders in their community.

“These camps are going to be both informative and fun,” Weld told WKTV Journal. “We’re going to cover some of the odder things about American civic sections and the government structure that people don’t know…and who is on the $10,000 bill.”

Encouraging students to get involved in their community and empowering them to use their voices is a main goal of the Museum’s Education Department and part of their general programming. In addition to the leadership camps, the Museum hosts an annual ArtPrize Create Art in Your Community program as well as a Use Your Voice program during National Writing Month or National Reading Month.

Youth learn that they can help their communities by using their voices now (Courtesy, GRFPM)

Ideas + passion + energy = empowerment

Empower Young Voices became a reality in summer of 2024 when the Museum partnered with various organizations throughout the Grand Rapids area that were looking for activities for youth. The success of those leadership camps inspired Weld to offer opportunities for public participation as well.

“The students are our future so we wanted to get them started sooner rather than later,” said Weld. “Talk about how you can know more about your community, connect to your community and use your First Amendment rights right away – they don’t start when you turn 18.”

Many youth are already dynamically involved in the world through reading and learning. Weld believes that channeling that knowledge is how the community will engage the next generation of citizens.

“The more we engage young people now, the better they are going to be engaged when they’re adults,” said Weld.

And engaged youth are empowered youth.

“A lot of young people don’t think that anyone is listening to them,” Weld said. “But that doesn’t mean they don’t have great ideas, it doesn’t mean they don’t have passion and energy. And they are more connected to their community than they know.”

The Museum’s leadership camps provide opportunities for youth to speak up about any concerns they have regarding their community – and to be part of the solution.

Students eagerly participate in a 2024 leadership camp (Courtesy, GRFPM)

What to expect:

Camp participants can expect a museum tour as well as discussions about the structure of government, President Ford’s 25 years of service in Congress, his vice presidency and presidency, and how President and Betty Ford led by example through engagement in their own communities.

“That’s one of the things we want kids to take away from this is: lead by example,” said Weld. “Be the people you want other people to be.”

Students will learn specific examples of how they can lead and engage in their communities through school, social media and more.

“A lot of them don’t even realize how engaged they already are,” said Weld. “We talk about networking for adults, but kids have already started building their communities even when they’re young.”

How to register:

Registration for the Empower Young Voices camp sessions is required, and space is limited.

Empower Young Voice: Community Leadership Camp registration links:

About Dr. Richard Weld

Dr. Richard Weld is a graduate of Hope College (BA, Ancient Civilizations), Yale University (MA, Archaeology) and Purdue University (PhD, Anthropology).

He began his journey as a professional educator in 1995 as a technology co-teacher in Michigan public schools, before moving into museum education at the National WWII Museum. After four years teaching English as a second language at public and private schools in Japan, he returned to the museum field to work at the Smithsonian Institution National Air and Space Museum.

He is now with the National Archives, as Education Specialist at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum, located in his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Kari Lynch Band to perform June 24 at Lamar Park with new “unapologetically authentic” hit songs

June 20, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, Concerts in the Park, Kari Lynch Band, Lamar Park, Music, original music, Wyoming Parks & Recreation DepartmentDeborah Reed

Kari Lynch shares about remaining true to her authentic self as a singer-songwriter – and how that has set KLB apart in the music industry (Courtesy, KLB)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The Kari Lynch Band (KLB) is returning to Lamar Park on Tuesday, June 24 at 6 p.m. with fan favorites and new songs from their upcoming album, including a new single being released June 27.

Dubbed a “force to be reckoned with,” Kari Lynch isn’t holding back as she prepares to take the stage during Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park second summer performance. The independent artist’s unapologetic authenticity continues to shine through in original music that weaves pop-rock nostalgia with modern singer-songwriter sensibilities – while circumventing mainstream expectations.

“I’ve always done what I believe is best for a song, and I’ve always tried to stay true to the type of music that I want to make outside of what’s popular,” Lynch says. “I’m not trying to make a song go viral, I’m just trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”

The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)

Alone and imaginative

Though currently residing in Nashville, TN, the young and imaginative Lynch grew up in Clare, MI. A self-professed introvert, Lynch began writing songs and poems at the age of seven as a way to process her emotions.

“As a kid, I just felt really different,” says Lynch. “I always wanted to go off alone and be with my thoughts.”

Lynch’s parents divorced when she was four years old, and she remembers that time as confusing and emotional.

“When you’re a kid, so much of that is so hard to understand,” says Lynch. “I had these huge feelings and I didn’t know where to put them.”

So she put those feelings on paper.

“My natural thing was to go in a corner, or close the door, and sing or write a poem or song,” says Lynch. “Nobody taught me how to do it. It was very much like music chose me.”

The practice of writing has remained constant throughout Lynch’s life when there is something she is trying to understand or process.

“It’s one of the best forms of release.”

Lynch uses her natural gift for storytelling to create songs that resonate with audiences (Courtesy, KLB)

Wildly creative

Lynch’s music career began when she moved to Grand Rapids and formed the Kari Lynch Band. The band has experienced various changes over the past 15 years, but Lynch says she grateful for all of them.

“All the iterations of the Kari Lynch Band have always been the greatest guys, the most talented people,” says Lynch. “I’m so lucky that these musicians rolled into my life and I get to play music with them.”

The artist says keeping friendships and communication as top priorities solidifies KLB members into a cohesive unit.

Creating something real

For Lynch, the most important part of music is connecting with listeners (Courtesy, KLB)

Lynch has never followed mainstream expectations and believes that is why her music stands out to audiences.

Though the songwriter does think about hooks and memorable melodies, her main focus is not writing a hit song. It is writing and telling a story that is honest and real.

“I’m trying to tell the story the way that I think it needs to come out,” Lynch says. “I’m trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”

And when Lynch releases her final product, it is with zero apologies and zero disclaimers.

“When I put it out in the world, I’m just going to put it out there. I wrote it in a way that feels really good to me, and I really hope it resonates with somebody else. Because at the end of the day, it’s really all about that connection for me.”

Shaking things up

Because Lynch’s songs can be intensely personal and introspective, releasing certain songs to the public is often be a nail-biting experience for the artist.

“It’s always a little scary when you’re sharing something because it’s so vulnerable.”

However, Lynch says that she ultimately feels good about releasing songs that make her nervous because those are the songs listeners relate to the most.

“I’ve found that some of the songs I am most scared to release are the ones people really connect with,” says Lynch. “I think people need real, tangible things like that to connect with sometimes.”

For Lynch, art is not always meant to be easily digestible. “It’s meant to shake things up a bit. It’s meant to make people think a little bit differently about things or feel something maybe they’re struggling to feel.”

The trendy bus

When youth reach out to Lynch about songwriting, the artist urges them to be true to themselves – even if that means going against the flow.

“When you’re younger, you have this inclination to go with the flow and do what everybody else is doing. It’s so easy to do the thing that’s popular.”

Lynch encourages those she meets to be authentic, even if it is not popular (Courtesy, KLB)

However, Lynch continues, authenticity is what shines through.

“Sometimes it takes longer if you’re not doing the popular thing, if you’re not riding the trendy bus. But I really believe that, if you keep doing it, authenticity always shines through.”

And what you create will find an audience.

“There’s somebody out there who needs to hear what you’ve created, and only the way that you create it is going to resonate with them,” says Lynch.

“Any time you’re creating from a place of honesty, it’s going to resonate with somebody.”

Lynch went on to say that she believes people are “aching for things that are real” – herself included.

“I truly want to be myself…I want to sound like Kari Lynch. At the end of the day, trends are trends. Everything has a time, and I’d rather make music that feels timeless or feels like it’s going to stick around than go after certain production notes or drum beats that are popular right now.”

A new season of music

Lynch is excited to return to the Lamar Park stage, reconnect with fans and share new music. She hopes all concert attendees are able to immerse themselves in the moment and enjoy every aspect of the KLB show experience.

“My favorite thing about making music is truly connecting with people,” Lynch says. “That is what makes all the things about being an independent musician worth it, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to be able to do it.”

Concert details

Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, June 23

June 19, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West MichiganCity of Wyoming, Community, Feeding America West Michigan, food, health, Mobile Food Pantry, Wyoming High SchoolDeborah Reed

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS June Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, June 23 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg — WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)

Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

The Soul Syndicate to provide soulful tunes at Lamar Park performance on June 17

June 14, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, Concerts in the Park, entertainment, family-friendly, Lamar Park, Soul Music, The Soul Syndicate, Wyoming Parks and Recreation CommissionDeborah Reed

Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

It’s time to put your dancing shoes on! Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. for the first 2025 Concerts in the Park summer performance.

With their sophisticated appearance, masterful musicianship and trademark high-energy performances, the 10-member band will pay tribute to influential funk, soul and R&B artists in a soul-infused entertainment experience designed to keep the audience dancing.

“It’s always a ride playing Wyoming because the crowds are always fantastic; it’s just always fun,” says drummer Tom Taylor.

Soulful sounds from master musicians

The band delivers high-energy performances at every venue (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)

Audiences will be treated to the soulful sounds of Mike Coon on guitar and vocals, Matt Fouts on bass, John Neil on keyboard and sounds, Colin Tobin as lead male vocalist, Katie Sarb as lead female vocalist, Tim DenBesten on trumpet and vocals, Nate Hansen and Danny Giacobassi on saxophone, Jeff Carroll on trombone, Tom Taylor on drums, and Eugene Griffith as sound engineer.

No strangers to large events and festival stages, members of The Soul Syndicate deliver a unique sound and crowd-pleasing experience at every venue they visit with their carefully crafted multi-song medleys.

Though soul, funk and R&B genres are musically related with soul and funk often considered sub genres of R&B, it is only in the past five years that The Soul Syndicate has deviated from their original plan of playing pure, classic soul music.

“Eleven years ago the original idea behind the band was really more around being strictly classic soul,” says Taylor. “That late 60s Motown, Stax, Memphis, Philly soul music. We wanted to do something different, something that was unique.”

At the time, pure soul music was unique to the West Michigan area. Though many people enjoyed The Soul Syndicate’s performances, many songs were not well-known and did not generate the excitement band members were hoping for.

So they decided to change it up.

May I have this dance?

“About five years ago we started to think about becoming more of a pure dance band, adding a lot more funk elements, really keeping the popular songs but making it a little funkier,” says Taylor. “Like anything, it’s evolved from there based on audience reaction and some of the events that we started booking.”

The Soul Syndicate’s popularity soared when the band began playing their own arrangements of song medleys. Suddenly, people were coming to see them perform at multiple events and saying they liked the band’s new sound.

And those medleys, Taylor says, keep the audience on the dance floor.

“Folks don’t like breaks,” Taylor says with a laugh. “If they’re on the dance floor, they like to keep going until they get tired.”

The band may tweak the medleys from year to year, but they continue to add more to their playlist.

“We all love playing together and love seeing big crowds dancing. There’s nothing better.”

The Soul Syndicate performs at several venues throughout the year (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)

Band growth, awards and playing with stars…

Only half of The Soul Syndicate are original members of the band, but the past decade has brought plenty of growth, talent and new friendships.

“When we started, the horn section was just a trumpet and a saxophone,” says Taylor. “And now we’ve got a four-piece horn section: a trumpet, two saxes, and a trombone.”

Many band members, Taylor included, perform with other groups as well as with The Soul Syndicate. That has provided band members with opportunities to play with nationally known artists such as Hootie and the Blowfish, The Beach Boys, The Temptations, The Guess Who, Natalie Cole, Rosemarie Clooney, Elvis Presley Jr., The US Navy Commodores Band – and more.

“The longer you’ve been doing this, you make a lot of relationships and never know who you’re going to run into in different parts of the area, different parts of the country and different theaters,” says Taylor.

The band’s only original music album won a Jammie Award for Best New Artist during their first year of inception.

They chose to move away from original music, however, due to varying ideas about how important original music was to their shows and a level of audience disinterest when playing lesser-known songs.

“Original music is great but, for us, if someone doesn’t know the song, they may not dance to it,” says Taylor. “They may applaud politely, but then wait for that next well-known song.”

The Soul Syndicate performs at a previous Frederik Meijer Gardens concert (Supplied)

More than just notes on a page

For Taylor, music has always been his escape.

“It takes me away from my corporate job and lets me unwind and just play the drums and drive a large horn band,” says Taylor. “There’s nothing better than that.”

Taylor went on to say that each Soul Syndicate member relates to the feeling of escaping into music they love. And doing it together is an added bonus.

“The members of the band are great friends,” Taylor says. “We get along really well, we collaborate very well together. We all laugh, we have fun.”

And The Soul Syndicate enjoys seeing other people having fun.

“We just love making people happy. We love what we do.”

See the band perform – more than once!

The Soul Syndicate has some pretty cool swag too (Supplied)

The Soul Syndicate is available to play for weddings, corporate events and the festival stage. To reserve the band for an event, click here.

Taylor urges audiences to check out their website for additional summer events.

“Check out our website; all of our dates are posted there,” Taylor says. “We have a lot of public performances in 2025 for people to come see us, especially outdoor concerts.

“We love the support of folks coming out to see us numerous times during the summer.”

Concerts in the Park details

The weekly Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!

The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.

Kent District Library’s Summer Wonder program to take readers on a journey of reading and learning activities

June 2, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Books, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kent County, Kent District Library, Kids Activities, Reading, West Michiganbooks, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Family Fun, Kent District Library, reading, STEAM, Summer WonderDeborah Reed

Summer Wonder brings participants a spectacular summer of outdoor discovery, scavenger hunts, reading, STEAM activities – and lots of fun for everyone (Courtesy, KDL)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Summer Wonder’s “WonderFold” contains a tracking log for participants (Courtesy, KDL)

Kent District Library is taking readers on a Summer Wonder journey of reading, learning and experiencing!

The Summer Wonder challenge is designed for multiple learning styles and abilities to keep readers of all ages engaged and inspired. The program brings participants a spectacular summer of outdoor discovery, scavenger hunts, reading, STEAM activities – and lots of fun for everyone.

Summer Wonder is a great opportunity to limit the “summer slide” that negatively affects learning between the end and start of the traditional school year. Extensive research shows that children involved in summertime reading programs sponsored by public libraries are more likely to maintain their academic skills.

Participate in Summer Wonder, running from June 2 – Aug. 8, by picking up a Wonderlog at any KDL branch or signing up online at kdl.beanstack.org. It is free and includes adventures and prizes for all ages.

“Earning prizes for reading and having fun – what could be better?” said Leigh Verburg, Branch Programming and Outreach Specialist. “Summer Wonder includes stories, activities and discovery for all ages, so sign up together and let the fun begin!”

More free summer programs!

KDL offers a great line-up of free summer programs and presenters including singing, magic, animals, puppets, STEAM activities and more. For a complete listing, visit kdl.org/events.

For more information on the Summer Wonder program, visit kdl.org/summer.

Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center awarded Center of Excellence certification

June 2, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, medical moment, West Michigancommunity health, comprehensive breast care, health, Medical care, National Consortium of Breast Centers, recognition, Trinity Health Grand RapidsDeborah Reed

Trinity Health Grand Rapids is one of only 36 breast centers in the nation with this certification and one of only two in Michigan (Courtesy, Trinity Health Grand Rapids)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center was recently announced as a Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence by the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers (NQMBC).

Trinity Health Grand Rapids is one of only 36 breast centers in the nation with the certification and is one of only two in Michigan. Trinity Health Breast Center – Lakes Village in Norton Shores was also awarded this distinction.

Highest level of care

This is the highest level of recognition awarded by the NQMBC, a program developed by the National Consortium of Breast Centers. It recognizes a center’s quality performance based on several data-driven criteria, such as timeliness from biopsy to surgery, documentation of margins, genetic testing for patients, and much more.

This certification is the highest level of recognition awarded by the National Consortium of Breast Centers (Courtesy, Trinity Health Grand Rapids)

“It is always rewarding to see our hard work pay off,” said Bess Connors, MD, Medical Director, Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center.

“This award reflects years of efforts to ensure we are providing the highest level of care to breast cancer patients in West Michigan. This distinction demonstrates the commitment of our team to achieving excellence for each patient every day.”

Total care, total confidence

Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center focuses on total breast health, including all-digital mammography, genetic counseling, and the latest treatments.

“Along with Trinity Health Breast Center – Lakes Village, we are the only Michigan breast center to achieve this distinction,” said Dr. Connors.

“We want our patients to be confident in the care they receive, and this is just one way we can demonstrate that care close to home can also be world-class care. These certifications give us annual opportunities to review our work and make sure we continue to excel among breast centers nationally.”

Learn more!

Information about all services offered at Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center can be found here.

Save the Date: “CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens” art exhibition to open in 2026 at Frederik Meijer Gardens

June 2, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, design, Environment, Kent County, LANDSCAPING & GARDEN CENTERS, West MichiganArt, Art Exhibition, Chihuly, Creativity, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, natureDeborah Reed

*CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens* will transform both the outdoor gardens and indoor galleries, showcasing the artist’s dynamic range and masterful creativity (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Continuing a decades-old relationship with internationally acclaimed artist Dale Chihuly, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park announces a major exhibition of his work: CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens. The exhibit will open on May 1, 2026 and run through Nov. 1, 2026.

“We are delighted to welcome Dale Chihuly back to Meijer Gardens,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “His groundbreaking art creates unforgettable connections between nature, culture, and human creativity.

“Guests will be captivated by the dynamic interplay between Chihuly’s spectacular art and our gardens’ natural beauty.”

An immersive transformation

CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens will transform both the outdoor gardens and indoor galleries, showcasing the artist’s dynamic range and masterful creativity. The exhibition will feature monumental outdoor installations such as Chihuly’s towering glass sculptures, vibrant Reeds, and other site-specific artworks nestled within Meijer Gardens’ landscapes.

Chihuly’s “Gilded Champagne Gardens Chandelier” showcases the artist’s masterful creativity (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

Indoors, visitors will experience a varied survey of works highlighting more than four decades of Chihuly’s artistic evolution. Featured series include: Baskets, Macchia, Seaforms, Putti, Ikebana, Persians, Venetians, Cylinders and Rotolo. Each piece is complemented by original drawings offering insight into his creative process.

The exhibition promises to be an extraordinary and immersive experience for visitors of all ages, celebrating the profound impact of one of the world’s most innovative artists.

Celebrating the arts

Presented by Macatawa Bank, a Wintrust Community Bank, the exhibition runs from May 1, 2026 through Nov. 1, 2026 and is the third time Chihuly’s art has been presented at Meijer Gardens. Previous Meijer Gardens exhibitions include an indoor exhibition in 2002 and a sprawling outdoor experience in 2010.

“At Macatawa Bank, we celebrate the arts and the important role creativity and artistic abilities play in fostering strong, vibrant communities,” said Jon Swets, Macatawa Chief Executive Officer. “We’re honored to be a part of this inspiring exhibition displayed upon the beautiful backdrop of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.”

Guests will enjoy the dynamic interplay between Chihuly’s art and the Gardens’ natural beauty (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

Additional information about the CHIHULY exhibition and the permanent sculpture collection at Meijer Gardens can be found here.

*This exhibition is organized by Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in cooperation with Dale Chihuly and Chihuly Studio. The work displayed is protected by copyright, any copying is expressly prohibited.

Live music: Wyoming announces Concerts in the Park lineup

May 23, 20252-row, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Music, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West MichiganCity of Wyoming, Community, Concerts in the Park, entertainment, live music, local music, local parks, Recreation, summerDeborah Reed

Get ready for a summer of live music! (Courtesy photo)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org
May 23, 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable summer of live music! Beginning June 17, residents are invited to Lamar Park on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. for a free concert.

Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!