Category Archives: 3-bottom

TeamAgar delivers breathtaking, inspirational message at The Vibe Adaptive Rec fundraiser

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Sports, ,
TeamAgar, from left, Jeff, Johnny and Becki Agar, were guest speakers at Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs fundraiser The Vibe on Sept. 14. (Courtesy, DK Photography)



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Guest speaker Johnny Agar held everyone’s complete attention when it was his turn to take the mic at The Vibe fundraiser for Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs.



“On the road of life there are many mountains to climb, valleys to get lost in and rocky roads to forge through,” said Agar to the very attentive audience on Sept. 14. “I see you all as signposts helping others to their own finish line.”


Born with cerebral palsy, and who doctors thought would never walk, Agar continued, “I fail all the time, but to me failure is just part of the process. If I let that stop me, I wouldn’t be able to get out of bed every morning. Together, there’s no stopping what you can do.”


Check out our WKTV video of The Vibe fundraiser. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)



Agar and his parents Jeff and Becki delivered many positive, inspirational messages to the audience at The Vibe, Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs fundraiser at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.



From marathons to motivational speakers … media outlets to TV commercials

Johnny, who uses a wheelchair, and his dad Jeff have competed in more than 200 races in various states, including multiple marathons, half marathons, 25Ks and more than 30 triathlons. They’ve also competed in six Ironman races where Jeff pulled Johnny 2.4 miles in a kayak, rode 112 miles on a custom tandem bike and pushed Johnny in a racing jogger during the marathon portion. In September 2022, TeamAgar completed their first full-distance Ironman in Maryland, where Johnny walked across the finish line.

“Featured on ESPN, NBC Nightly News, CBS Mornings, Today, and other media outlets, TeamAgar delivers a powerful moving message of family, faith and extraordinary courage. Their tenacity and indelible spirit have caught the attention of Olympic swimming great Michael Phelps and the sports apparel company Under Armour — so much so that UA placed them in two commercials: One with Phelps and the other with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.” TeamAgar are also accomplished motivational keynote speakers and authors. (Source, johnnyagar.com)



  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)
  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)
  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)
  • (Courtesy, TeamAgar)





After the fundraiser, Johnny and his parents shared more with WKTV.


“Does no good to have my failures bring me down”

“I like to take life one step at a time and just stay even-keeled because it doesn’t do me any good to have my failures bring me down,” Johnny explained. “The highs can sometimes look a little different for me having cerebral palsy because to an able-bodied person they may be “miniature wins” — like learning to do an everyday task such as opening a candy wrapper or brushing my teeth by myself – but to me they are huge victories. Most people can do those things without even thinking, but for me it takes a lot of effort and a lot of patience.
 


“From the day I was very young, my parents never put any limitations on me. My parents have always made sure to go the extra mile for me to make sure I have the best life possible despite my challenges. To watch them in action work so hard to help me fulfill my goals – while setting theirs aside – makes me understand how hard I need to work to let them know how thankful I am for them.”



Becki said when Johnny was born, his premature birth really turned their world upside down.



“He was our first child and as a young couple we never anticipated having any complications with his birth,” she explained. “So, when the doctors told us he had cerebral palsy and would probably never walk or talk, we were pretty jolted. Our reality had to be shifted. However, our faith had taught us to lean on God and not our own understanding. We knew God had a bigger and better plan than we could have ever imagined for Johnny, and we had to trust in that plan.



“One of the greatest things that came out of the news that Johnny had cerebral palsy was that it strengthened our resolve to raise Johnny as a typical child and to love him no matter what he could or couldn’t do. It strengthened our faith because it made us realize that we aren’t as in control as we like to think we are, and it brought our family closer together so we could work on raising this little boy to believe in his possibilities.”

“I am so proud of the man he has become”

“Now when I see Johnny encouraging others, turning his cerebral palsy into a positive rather than a negative, and using it to help encourage others and motivate others, it makes me want to burst with happiness. I am so proud of the man he has become. What a blessing it is to be able to watch your son change the trajectory of people’s lives in a positive way.”  



When raising Johnny, they decided to not make any excuses for him.

“We wanted to treat him as if he had no disability,” Jeff explained. “We weren’t in denial as we saw his challenges every day first-hand, so there was no getting away from it. We knew it would be hard for him, but we also knew life was going to be hard for him. I think that mentality helped him to believe in himself and place no limits on himself.



“Johnny has always seen himself doing things that most would have said couldn’t be done given his disability. I am really proud of the fact that he didn’t listen to any of the naysayers and kept focused on his goals.”


Watching him speak to thousands the greatest gift

“Along with that, he keeps a sense of humor and learns to roll with the punches. Now, to watch him speak to thousands of people all over the country, to help encourage them with their challenges, is one of the greatest gifts to watch as his dad.” 


Favorite TeamAgar moment?

“One of our favorite moments of all our races was crossing the finish line at Ironman Maryland,” Becki said. “We put so much time and effort into making moments like that happen. With it being our first to finish, it will always hold a special place in our hearts.”


Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and his wife Susan watching the TeamAgar presentation at The Vibe fundraiser. (Courtesy, DK Photography)



Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said he was amazed with TeamAgar’s presentation and story.



“It’s just an amazing inspirational story that gives you the vision of what can be,” said Kepley, after Johnny and his parents spoke at The Vibe. “They just give that inspiration saying, ‘If we can do it, then you can, too.'”



Kepley had much to say about the Kentwood Adaptive Recreation program as well.



“I think it’s successful because of the people running it,” Kepley said. “They see a vision, they have a passion, and that passion manifests itself in a very special way. The staff takes it personally and that’s why it is special. That’s why it’s an incredible program and has a great reputation because of the staff, their heart, their vision and because of the empowerment that they give people who participate in the program.


“As a city, we take care of Kentwood residents, but the adaptive sports program is one of those things that goes much farther than our city limits. Because all of it is being sponsored by corporations, gifts or the fundraising, we’re able to swing the doors wide open to people wherever they’re coming from … Traverse City, Lansing, (even) Florida.”


The Vibe fundraiser “A big success”

“The event was a big success with 120 guests in attendance,” said Laura Barbrick, marketing and events coordinator for Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “We raised over $7,000 between the silent auction, live auction and giving wall. Thank you to everyone who came out to support our Adaptive Recreation programs.”


Money raised at this year’s event will help purchase new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs. These offerings include active sports such as archery, kayaking, rock climbing and water skiing as well as more relaxed activities like leisure club and social events.


Kentwood Recreation Program Coordinator Ann Przybysz. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)



Kentwood recreation program coordinator Ann Przybysz said the wonderful thing about the adaptive programs is you don’t have to be a Kentwood resident to participate.



“We have people from all over West Michigan that come to participate in our programs,” Przybysz said. “A lot of people have been wanting things to do in their free time; healthy leisure opportunities, making new friends, seeing new places and just having a good time in the community.



“We serve people of all different diagnoses and abilities. We have a lot of individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities like autism, Down syndrome and we also serve people who have physical disabilities as well, maybe a spinal cord injury or spina bifida, people using wheelchairs.”



What’s the most popular program?

“Many of our programs are popular, but one of our big ones recently has definitely been our adaptive bowling program,” Przybysz said. “It’s a really positive social program that we’ve seen grow a lot. Also, our water sports programs are popular … water skiing and kayaking. Our adaptive recreation programs have been going on for 30 years and are very well established with the City of Kentwood.”


The adaptive water sports programs are popular at Kentwood Parks and Recreation. (Courtesy, DK Photography)



The emotional draw for employees

“I love getting to know the participants and their families, and hearing their stories and what lights up their lives,” Przybysz explained. “I love that we get to be a part of that … I love being able to touch peoples lives.”



Katelyn Bush, Kentwood recreation program coordinator, said it has been exciting and an honor to watch it grow, add new sports and buy new equipment.

Katelyn Bush, recreation program coordinator. (WKTV/Hayden Passig)

“The people that come to our programs are from age five to well into their eighties; all ages and really all abilities. We have programs designed for all these different needs and it’s really fun to watch them succeed in whatever it is they’re doing.



“I think when you can find something that you’re passionate about and match it to a need in the world, that’s when you’ve truly made it. When you’re having fun doing your job and you’re serving others … that’s really satisfying and fun for me.”




The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming alongside several community partners, including Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and more. Programs also are made possible thanks to the help of a strong volunteer network.

Programs are open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond. Learn more about Kentwood’s adaptive programs and current offerings at kentwood.us/adaptive.

State Rep. John Fitzgerald provided Wyoming residents direct access to important resources with first annual Senior Resource Fair

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Our Cities, Senior Living, West Michigan, , , , , ,
State Representative John Fitzgerald speaks of his commitment to help the senior community while in office (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

State Representative John Fitzgerald spoke with several community members during the Wyoming Senior Resource Fair (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

State Representative John Fitzgerald met with members of Wyoming’s senior community during the first annual Senior Resource Fair on Sept. 25.

Fitzgerald partnered with City of Wyoming Parks & Recreation and the Wyoming Senior Center (WSC) to bring resources specifically geared toward seniors into the local community.

“This was prompted by the recognition that our senior community in Wyoming is one that deserves to have attention provided to it, and services delivered right to their doorstep,” said Fitzgerald. “We really looked at what this community needs, and it is more direct services from the state. This is an opportunity for us to begin a tradition of providing these resources directly to the community.”

The Resource Fair included several community organizations that provided information, resources, goodies, and even lunch for attendees. The goal was to not only reach members of the Wyoming Senior Center where the event was held, but also the general community with resources specific to older adults in Wyoming.

“It’s very easy for older adults to slip through the cracks,” said Chad Boprie, WSC Director. “As people hit retirement age, they start to have these needs and they don’t know where to find help. By doing an event like this, [seniors] can get a lot of the resources in one place and be able to tap into those,” said Boprie.

A need for resources and compassion

The Senior Resource Fair is expected to become an annual fall event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Resident Janet Thompson attended the Resource Fair for that exact reason.

Housing, transportation, and service providers such as plumbers and electricians were among Thompson’s top priorities.

“We want to stay in our homes as long as we can,” said Thompson. “We figured we would hire what we need done, but we don’t know where to go to hire it done.”

Where to get help – and help from providers experienced with the senior community – is not always clear, Thompson continued.

“I thought maybe the [vendors] who come here are used to dealing with seniors…and might be more patient and have more knowledge,” said Thompson.

Providing knowledge and expertise

Senior Real Estate Specialist Patti Grover Gabrielse (left) works to provide seniors with customized and fair expertise (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Senior Real Estate Specialist, Patti Grover Gabrielse, participated as a vendor at the Resource Fair to help provide that experience and knowledge.

“What we do is we focus on the senior adult community,” said Gabrielse. “Of course we want to stay in our homes as long as we can, but when the time comes that we have to sell, I make sure to protect that asset and get the most amount of money for them.”

Gabrielse went on to say that there are real estate agents out there who take advantage of people who don’t know the market.

“It’s a real area of elder abuse,” Gabrielse said. “That money, whether [seniors] are going to go to assisted living or if they are going to go to family and live, every dime matters to them.”

Health and wellness education

Tina Ezell (left) of Urban League of West Michigan chats with a senior resident (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Tia Ezell with Urban League of West Michigan participated in the Resource Fair to provide information on COVID-19 and tobacco reform.

“Today we are here with information about COVID-19,” said Ezell. “We have some resources, masks, sanitizer, and literature on the vaccine and that explains things you can do to help prevent the spread of COVID.”

The Grand Rapids Urban League is also looking to end the sale of all flavored tobacco in the state of Michigan, including menthol flavored tobacco.

“[We are] doing our best to engage and educate the community that we serve about the harms of tobacco smoke, and why there is a need for tobacco reform in the state of Michigan,” Ezell said.

Grand Rapids Urban League also provides resources in regard to health and wellness education, housing resources, employment opportunities, and the Cure Violence program.

“The communities we serve are under-resourced, marginalized, and we are aware that we need to do what we can to inform them and provide whatever resources are available,” said Ezell.

A community that cares

The Wyoming Senior Center offers resources for both physical and mental health (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The Senior Center works to provide the senior community with care and resources for more than just physical recreation.

“We want to be a hub for recreational services,” said Boprie. “Within that recreation there are so many goals related to not only physical fitness and physical health, but also mental health.”

Boprie went on to say that the WSC staff often sees loneliness and depression in older adults and believes that being active and involved in social programs helps reduce that issue.

“We also offer Meals on Wheels here two days a week, so there is also the nutritional component that we can provide for people as well,” Boprie said.

“We are very fortunate to have a senior center like this in Wyoming,” said Fitzgerald, “where we can have a gathering place to have all these wonderful organizations and people who serve our senior community get right to the source, to the people who need their services most.”

Dedicated to a life of service

A member of Rep. Fitzgerald’s staff sets out complimentary lunches, provided by Meals on Wheels, for attendees (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Serving his first term representing the 83rd House District, Fitzgerald is dedicated to building policy that will solve everyday, real issues that impact West Michigan residents. His commitment to community service stems from his mother and grandmothers who devoted their lives to giving beyond themselves.

“My personal connection with the senior community began when I was a child,” said Fitzgerald. “Starting at the age of three, I delivered Meals on Wheels with my mom. I would go in there and begin to chat with those who we were delivering meals to, and hear how their day was going.

“In my teenage years, I played cards with a number of my church members who were older,” Fitzgerald continued. “Even today, I look to support our senior community in a number of non-profit ways as well.”

To learn more about Rep. Fitzgerald and his policies, visit housedems.com/john-fitzgerald.

Constituents may contact Rep. Fitzgerald via email at JohnFitzgerald@house.mi.gov, or call 517-373-0835.

ArtPrize exhibits continue to amaze visitors in final week, artists reveal stories behind their creations

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Local Business, Our Cities, West Michigan, , , ,

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The final week of the ArtPrize exhibition and competition has begun, but there is still time to view all creative works at various public venues in downtown Grand Rapids.

“Balsagrom” by Aron Balorda, as displayed at The B.O.B restaurant and entertainment venue (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

From Sept. 14 – Oct. 1, artwork from 950 artists are displayed at 150 public venues across the city.

Visitors were able to vote for their favorite works, with the top 25 finalists announced Sept. 22. The competition side of ArtPrize will wrap up on Sept. 29 at Rosa Parks Circle with a reveal of the $125,000 Public Vote Grand Prize winner.

But ArtPrize is more than just public votes and cash prizes.

“Everyone needs times of connection and belonging,” the ArtPrize website states. “The thrill of being part of something bigger than ourselves. The jubilant intersection of creativity, fellowship, and wonder.”

Founded in 2009, ArtPrize was immediately established as a cultural phenomenon by grabbing the attention of artists and art critics worldwide. Not only did this annual event provide artists an opportunity to display their creations, ArtPrize also inspired conversations and engaged imaginations.

Driftwood, rocks and agates – oh my!

Pasha Ruggles poses with “Adam” portrayed as the movie character Groot (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Pasha Ruggles, resident of Oceana County and creator of “MI-Eden,” felt that spark of imagination while on a Michigan beach with her children in 2015.

“I was on the beach with my kids and they asked me to carry some driftwood,” said Ruggles. “When I threw it in the back of my vehicle…it landed just-so and I thought, ‘That looks like a fish. I’ll make a fish out of that.’”

Ruggles shrugged and smiled. “That’s how it started. And here I am,” she said, gesturing toward the multiple creations surrounding her.

A portrayal of the tree and snake in the biblical creation story (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“MI-Eden,” which can be found outside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, is composed of wood, stones and agates from Michigan streams and lakes.

Eden’s “Adam” is portrayed by Groot, and if visitors look closely they will see an apple dangling from one of Groot’s hands.

Accompanying “Adam” are a variety of animals. “MI-Eden” also incorporates a tree and snake from the biblical account of creation.

Finding solace in nature’s artwork

A “MI-Eden” eagle appears ready to take flight (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Ruggles said that many visitors and passersby think she carved the lifelike pieces in “MI-Eden,” but the artist said she does not shape the wood she finds.

“Nature shapes it and I just put it together,” said Ruggles.

Though Ruggles admits that she fell into art “by accident,” she has also found solace in her work.

“I absolutely love it,” said Ruggles. “It’s more therapeutic than anything to me. Walking on the beach, finding the stuff. If I’m not looking for driftwood, I’m looking for rocks.”

Natural elements and mixed media

Artist Tom Gifford with his 3D mixed media creation titled “MI Light” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Muskegon resident Tom Gifford also finds beauty and peace in Michigan’s natural elements.

Gifford’s 3D creation can be found at Biggby Coffee in Grand Rapids. Titled “MI Light,” the exhibit strives to display the beauty of Michigan through various forms of art.

Two photographs Gifford took himself create the Michigan outline, while the base takes the shape of a lighthouse with a light that comes on after dark.

“I like how much of a challenge it is to fit what you think of Michigan into one piece,” said Gifford.

Gifford wanted more to portray more than just a sunset for “MI Light,” and worked to incorporate all of the state’s natural elements: cliffs, sandstone, rocky beaches and clear water.

The lighthouse base was formed from pallet wood Gifford salvaged from dumpsters and then burned with a torch to give it an antique facade.

A change in plans and sleepless nights

Gifford admitted that the photograph forming Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was only taken a few weeks prior to the beginning of ArtPrize. Not quite happy with the picture he had already picked out for the mural, Gifford took one more trip up to Pictured Rocks.

As night falls, a light will illuminate the top of the lighthouse (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

He found his perfect photo, but Gifford said that, “when I order the print, it takes weeks to get the print. So it was the Tuesday before ArtPrize and I was cutting it out and getting ready. It was a lot of last minute work.”

Gifford said that last minute work on his creations is not unusual.

“I’m not just going to get it done and over with, I’m going to put every ounce of energy I’ve got into it,” said Gifford. “It definitely takes a toll on you after a while. [There are]a lot of sleepless nights.”

Michigan memories

Gifford also created a small room in the lighthouse base just big enough for two people to stand inside. Sticky notes and pens are available so visitors can post a note of what brings light to their lives.

The entrance to the room where visitors can post their favorite Michigan memories (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“People can write their own favorite Michigan memory on the wall,” said Gifford, adding that he plans to make a collage out of all the notes once ArtPrize is finished.

Gifford says he likes hearing people inside the small room.

“They are reading stuff and laughing and having fun,” said Gifford. “It makes it nice and interactive.”

To find information on artists, exhibit locations, and to keep up-to-date on events, visit artprize.org.

Wyoming Wolves Band cultivates student leaders, redefines success

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, West Michigan, , ,
The Wyoming Wolves Marching Band performs for residents at Michigan Veteran Homes in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Band Director Shawn Gurk introduces the band to the veterans (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The Wyoming Wolves Marching Band is about more than just making music – it’s about leadership and excellence.

This reporter recently caught up to the band at Michigan Veteran Homes in Grand Rapids where they performed songs from their 2023 marching band show, Thriller, for residents and staff.

Student leadership was immediately evident as students unloaded instruments, assembled into sections, and began to warm up – all while the director stepped aside to talk with me about the band.

“We really thrive on a high level of student leadership,” said Shawn Gurk, Director of Bands at Wyoming Public Schools. “They have their responsibilities, they have their roles, and they are the ones who really make it happen.”

Redefining success

Led by directors Gurk and Kayla Cordell, the 70-member band regularly receives Division I ratings at marching, concert, and jazz festivals. But Gurk says those ratings are not what convey the band’s true success.

Drum major Chesson Oliver (second from left) steps in to play percussion during a song (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“We measure success in excellence,” said Gurk. “We do perform competitively, but our goal is to win by performing excellently. If that means we get some awards and trophies, great. But I find, as a band director, the trophies are the ones who show up every day and do the work. And that is my students.”

And those students are stepping into roles of leadership with enthusiasm.

Gurk firmly believes that leadership is not always about having a personality for it or being prone to it.

“Leadership can be taught,” said Gurk. “They might be the shyest person, but get them behind an instrument and all of a sudden there is someone different. We are seeing kids thrive.”

But Gurk continued to say that thriving is not always easy for students because they tend to be hard on themselves. However, he works to help them focus on finding what they are good at and then improving upon those things.

“[It is] a self-acknowledgment of what we are capable of, what we are doing well without being arrogant,” said Gurk. “There is a sense of humility, but it’s humility in driving to make us better.”

Finding connections and community

Chesson Oliver, drum major and a junior at Wyoming High School (WHS), said that band participation is a family tradition, but the kindness she has seen from the directors and students is what kept her going in the program.

“The people are very supportive and kind and great friends, so it’s a great place,” said Oliver.

The Wyoming Wolves Marching Band prepare to perform songs from their marching band show (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Oliver continued to say that there is a definite level of care and community in the band program.

“I don’t know everyone’s name in the band, but I can say ‘hi’ to all of them and we know who each other are without knowing each other personally. We care about each other’s well-being,” said Oliver.

That care and connection are a hallmark of the WHS Band.

“We are a band family,” said Gurk. And like all families, “we go through our ups and downs.”

Isaac Zavala, bari sax player and a senior at WHS, works to ensure that there are more “ups” than “downs.”

Band members fill the veteran homes courtyard with music (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“I try to hype up the band and pick up the energy,” said Zavala with a grin. “They call me the Hype Man. I have a lot of energy every morning, every rehearsal.”

Zavala says he makes it a point at rehearsals to ask how other students are doing.

“I always try to engage and talk to everybody,” said Zavala.

When asked why he feels compelled to make those connections each day, Zavala said his parents always taught him to be kind to others.

“They would always say, if someone feels down, pick them back up and try to give them the energy they need to have a better day,” said Zavala.

Time well-spent

The Wyoming marching band schedule begins the second week of summer to help build that family aspect (through games and bonding activities) and prepare students for the season.

But Gurk is always aware of how much time he asks the students to put into the program.

“We give the kids opportunities to be in sports, to have jobs, to spend time with their families, to rest,” said Gurk.

The directors encourage the students to focus on the time they do have in rehearsal and use it well.

A life-changing impact

A color guard member waits for the drum major to begin (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Symone Gray, color guard captain and WHS senior, enjoys the time she spends with the band.

“The people in band are the people I’m the closest to in the whole school,” said Gray.

Gray admitted that she was in a different place than usual in her life when she joined band.

“A lot of people would probably say that I’m really outgoing, but during my freshman year and beginning of sophomore year, I was very shy and kind of insecure,” said Gray. “The band helped me get to know different kinds of people in all grades, and it really put me out there more.”

Drumline captain and sophomore Rhiley VanDyken joined band in sixth grade because it helped calm her anxiety.

“It’s opposite of what it seems to be, but [drumline] really helped with my anxiety,” said VanDyken. “It was just calming, with beats and melodies of different instruments.”

VanDyken wasn’t sure about joining drumline at first. After meeting some upperclassmen in the section, however, VanDyken thought it would be a place where she could fit in.

“Last year I had the best year of my life,” said VanDyken. “I was in such a bad place before then, but drumline has been one of the biggest things that has helped me through everything.”

Giving back to the community

The veterans home is only one of many community performances from the Wyoming Bands.

Several veterans braved the morning chill to hear the band (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Visits to Vista Springs Nursing Home and Pine Oak Apartments, as well as annual performances at band camp, parades, school concerts and festivals, and local holiday craft shows are some ways the Wyoming Bands look to engage the community.

“Getting out into the community is super important,” said Gurk. “We think about those who society doesn’t necessarily care for, and about getting to older people who may not be visited.

“Music is a gift,” Gurk continued. “It’s not ours to horde, it’s a gift to the community.”

A Thriller of a show

The 2023 Wyoming marching band show is entitled Thriller, though Gurk explained the objective is a spooky narrative, not scary.

Featuring Bach’s “Toccata and Fugue”, the Halloween movie theme, “This is Halloween” from The Nightmare Before Christmas, “Spooky Scary Skeletons,” and Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” the Wyoming Wolves Marching Band show can be seen at home football games, the MSBOA Marching Band Festival on Oct. 10, and the Jenison and East Kentwood Invitationals on Oct. 21.

Patient Wishes: Making the most of every moment    

3-bottom, West Michigan
Emmanuel Hospice patient Rita Shaheen with her husband, Dan, on their lunch date. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)



By Emmanuel Hospice


They both grew up in South Dakota, but lived in different towns. When they finally met as students at the University of South Dakota – he was studying business while she was studying education – he remembered her being “so dang popular” that he hesitated asking her out.

That was nearly 50 years ago, when Dan Shaheen never could have predicted all the joy which that engaging college student would give him over a lifetime of mutual sharing and caring. And then the bitter pill to swallow: dementia that enveloped Rita over the last few years, to a point where she has trouble with walking, talking, reading and other daily affairs of living. They eventually moved her into Clark Retirement at Franklin in January 2023 for additional support.

They’d both enjoyed successful careers – Rita as a special education instructor mostly with Forest Hills schools. She retired in 2017 and the medical journey began shortly after that. Dan served as a vice president for Meijer, Inc. until retiring early in 2011, then worked part time several years delivering flowers.

He was skeptical about considering hospice care for Rita until a few months ago, when a doctor asked what he wanted for his wife.

“To keep her comfortable, out of the hospital and receiving the best care possible,” he answered.

In that moment, it was clear: Hospice would serve as a gift.

“How do you want to live?”

They chose Emmanuel Hospice for its overall commitment to patients and their loved ones, caring culture and complementary therapies designed to engage the senses and create unique, joyful experiences for both the patient and their loved ones. The nonprofit always begins with the question, “How do you want to live?” as the starting point for a dialogue that focuses on making every moment matter.

When a counselor gently asked Dan whether there was something special he might like to provide for Rita, he reminisced about their favorite pastimes.

A boat ride around the lake where they still had a cottage came to mind at first, but seemed difficult to achieve since Rita relied largely on a wheelchair and was at risk of another seizure. Similar concerns came with his other ideas.

And so the counselor suggested, “How about a luncheon for two?” and Dan thought it was perfect. 

It’s standard protocol at Emmanuel, where granting patient wishes is an important touchstone and part of their culture in answering “How do you want to live your life?”    
 

“We’ll do our best to make things happen”

“As part of that answer, we often hear patients wish for things,” says Bereavement Coordinator Katie Mayberry. “We’ll do our best to make things happen, whether it’s someone still capable of taking a trip or simple things that connect them to their past, their loved ones and their friends.

“We’re grateful when businesses and others in the community step up with donations to help out.”

And so, Emmanuel Hospice reserved the Emily Clark room at the facility Rita had moved into six months ago. Rita wore a pretty dress of blue and white with a dainty collar. She had her hair done and wore a little makeup and “looked like a million bucks,” Dan said.

Before they dined, two musical therapists, Miranda Eden and Ashley Sherwood, from Emmanuel performed songs by John Mayer and Kacey Musgraves.

Rose’s restaurant on Reeds Lake provided their catered lunches. She nibbled on a margherita pizza and Dan enjoyed walleye. Afterward, they feasted on hot fudge sundaes brought in from Jersey Junction.

Dan sat on her left. He worked Rita’s fork for her. He leaned in to wipe her chin, smiled and managed some laughs. He whispered that he loved her, and how he meant it from his own heart and the hearts of their three children, Michael, Kelly and Kaley.

And even though it wasn’t a wish steeped in drama or faraway travel or fireworks, he told her this was enough. Choking back tears, he said it was “just nice being close.”

He held the hand of the girl who nearly got away, but ended up marrying the guy willing to bide his time. Afterward, Dan brought her back to her room and sat with Rita while she peacefully took her usual afternoon nap, leaving that day with a memory that will be remembered and cherished forever.


Brighten the night at Kentwood’s Glow in the Park event; fun run, crafts, food and more on Oct. 7

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to enjoy glow-themed fun at its Glow in the Park event on Saturday, Oct. 7.

This year’s event will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 355 48th St. SE. It will feature a variety of glow-themed activities, including light-up games, crafts, a dance party, costume contest, fun run/walk, food and more. Attendees are encouraged to wear glow in the dark and brightly colored clothing and accessories.


(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



“We’re looking forward to gathering with the community to get our shine on at this special fall event,” said Ann Przybysz, recreation program coordinator. “We have a wide variety of glow-themed activities planned that will ensure a bright and fun night for all.”

The event begins at 7 p.m. with registration followed by the fun run/walk at 7:30. Participants can choose to do either a quarter mile or 1-mile run or walk along a park path that will be lit up with colorful lights and glow sticks. Following the race, community members can enjoy a glow dance party and a costume contest at 8 p.m.

Bounce house, music, light-up playground games and more

Light-up playground games and crafts, a bounce house, music and snacks will be available throughout the event, which will conclude at 9 p.m.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)




General admission for the event is $5 and includes glow supplies. For an additional $15, individuals also can get an event T-shirt that glows in the dark.

Sponsors for the event are Metronet, National Heritage Academies, Sinclair Recreation and Floor & Décor.

To learn more and register, visit kentwood.us/GlowInThePark or call 616-656-5270.

One person injured in weekend shooting, Wyoming Police Department continues to investigate

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, West Michigan, , ,
The Wyoming Police Department responded to reports of a shooting that left one Grand Rapids male hospitalized (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

By Wyoming Police Department

deborah@wktv.org

One person is injured after a shooting near the intersection of Marquette Street and Nagel Avenue SW.

At approximately 7:55 p.m. on Sept. 24, 2023, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming
Department of Public Safety responded to the area of Marquette Street and Nagel Avenue SW on
the report of a large fight. When officers arrived, they learned that a 24-year-old male Grand
Rapids resident sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The male was transported to an area hospital
in serious condition.

Wyoming Police detectives and Forensic Services Unit continue to investigate the circumstances
surrounding this incident.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives
at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

Tune in to WKTV Government 26 for upcoming special programming events from NASA TV

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Upcoming Events, , ,
WKTV Government 26 features NASA programming (Courtesy, NASA)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

On Wednesday, Sept. 27, the Soyuz MS-23 Spacecraft will return to earth carrying NASA Flight Engineer Frank Rubio, Commander Sergey Prokopyev and Flight Engineer Dmitri Petelin, cosmonauts from Roscosmos.

Roscosmos cosmonauts will return home after a year working aboard the International Space Station (Courtesy, NASA)

The trio has spent the last year working aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and are now turning their attention to their trip home. The cosmonauts recently spent time checking out the Sokol launch and entry suits they will wear inside the spacecraft.

Live coverage of the Soyuz MS-23 hatch closing begins at 12 a.m. with the actual closing scheduled for 12:20 a.m. The undocking of the spacecraft from the ISS is scheduled for 3:51 a.m. with coverage starting at 3:30 a.m.

Live coverage continues at 6 a.m. for the deorbit burn and landing near Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan. The burn is scheduled for 6:20 a.m. with the landing scheduled to take place at 7:14 a.m.

For more information on NASA TV or the International Space Station, visit www.nasa.gov.

NASA TV can be seen on the WKTV 26 Government Channel on Comcast and AT&T U-verse 99 Government Channel 99.

Lee High School to celebrate 100 years of tradition and history with Centennial Celebration Sept. 30

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Local History, Upcoming Events, , ,
Over the years, Lee Middle & High School has grown from the single front wing built in 1923 (Courtesy, Lee High School)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

The district’s K-10 Godfrey Avenue School grew from two classrooms to 12 between 1894 and 1916, and was still overcrowded with classes meeting in stairwells (Courtesy, LHS and the Godfrey-Lee Parent-Teacher Association)

In November 1923, an excited band of students, led by Principal Francis W. Marsh, left the old Godfrey Avenue School and entered the halls of the new Lee Street School for the first time.

One hundred years later, on Saturday, Sept. 30, the community and alumni will celebrate Lee High School (LHS) with a Centennial Celebration event.

“[Lee High School] has such a rich history and traditions,” said David Britten, Former Superintendent and Alumni Representative. “Even though much of that has changed, I think it’s important that the people who live there, and the people who are involved with the school district, know what some of that is in order to better understand what is going on today and why it is what it is.”

A rich history

As Wyoming’s oldest high school, and the only school still occupying its original 1923 structure, LHS represents the entire district.

Lee High School in 1949, with original front section built in 1923, east wing addition (1925), and west addition (1930) (Courtesy, Lee High School)

“The tradition is more than the 100 years of Lee High School, but the school district itself, dating back to 1857,” said Britten.

Britten went on to say that the primary focus of the celebration is to help the current community learn about the depth of history of the entire area.

“People don’t realize [LHS]’s roots, its history, is really Wyoming’s history,” said Britten.

A member of the Wyoming Historical Commission, Britten is doing what he can to make people citywide more aware of the history and traditions of the city itself.

“I made it a point while I was there (at LHS), and even since I’ve left there, to make that history visible to people, either through Facebook or presentations,” said Britten. “It gives you clarity.”

Traditions – then and now

A full-size gym with regulation court was built in 1952 at the north end of the west wind along Havana Ave and was considered one of the best basketball courts in Wyoming (Courtesy, Lee High School)

As a freshman at LHS in 1969, then serving as middle school principal, conjoined middle and high school principal, and then superintendent of Lee schools until his retirement in 2017, Britten has seen traditions come and go.

“We used to be more social as a school,” remembers Britten. “Back in our day, we had dances after every home game. It didn’t matter if it was football or basketball.”

Britten also remembers another lost tradition – socializing at soda bars.

“You could walk from school over to Chicago Drive or to Burton, and one of the drug stores would have a soda bar,” said Britten. “Now, kids are more alone. Their connection is through their phones or online video gaming, but not so much the kind of social things that we did.”

Britten believes that is why the Centennial Celebration is so important.

“The more a school district or school itself or parents can put together these kinds of celebrations, whether it’s for a 100th anniversary or something else, and bring people together, the better,” said Britten.

What attendees can expect

Centennial Celebration activities will include an all-years alumni reunion, homecoming activities, and an open house to view the progress of the reconstruction, upgrade, and remodeling of Lee Middle & High School.

In 1938, an 11-acre athletic complex was completed on Godfrey Avenue (Courtesy, Lee High School)

The traditional homecoming parade, followed by a varsity soccer match that will begin at 5 p.m., will be held on the preceding Friday.

Saturday activities will commence at Lee Field on Godfrey Avenue at 12 p.m. with the traditional homecoming football game between the Lee Legends and Eau Claire Beavers. State Representative Winnie Brinks, a former member of the Godfrey-Lee staff, will welcome fans to the stadium just prior to kickoff.

The game will include performances by the award-winning Lee High School band and other activities. At half-time, the traditional crowning of the homecoming king and queen will also feature on-field representation by several dozen past Lee High School royalty, extending back to the 1950s.

The Centennial Celebration community open house and alumni reunion will begin at 1 p.m. in the Lee High School gym on Havana Street. Aside from guided tours of the school, a substantial historical display will highlight the history of the Godfrey-Lee community since the first landowners of 1833.

David Britten and Thomas DeGennaro compiled 100 years of memories and history in a book and with all proceeds going to Lee High School (Courtesy, Lee High School)

Three hundred copies of a new 128-page book titled 100 Years at the Lee Street School by David Britten and Thomas DeGennaro will be made available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting Lee High School.

“It became a labor of love over a couple of years,” said Britten about the book. “We think it’s going to be a key part in this celebration.”

Several other activities will be ongoing until the open house/reunion ends at 5 p.m., and attendees will be encouraged to donate to a scholarship fund for Lee students.

Complimentary light refreshments will be available.

“A hundred years only comes once”

Britten urges community members to come out, enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and support LHS students by attending the football game, presentations, and performances.

“A hundred years only comes once,” Britten said with a laugh. “I’m not sticking around to plan the 200 year celebration.”

To learn more about Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, visit www.godfrey-lee.org.

Shooting on 5800 block of Christie Avenue; suspect arrested, no injuries

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kent County,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



At approximately 11:54 a.m., officers from the Kentwood Police Department, Kent County Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police responded to a residence in the 5800 block of Christie Avenue in Kentwood. A caller inside the home stated that a family member fired a shot at him while inside the residence.  


One family member was able to exit the home prior to police arrival. The victim and suspect were still inside the home when police units arrived on the scene. Officers surrounded the home and made contact with both persons that were still inside. The suspect surrendered without incident and was arrested. Shortly after, the victim was able to exit the residence. No one was injured during this incident. There is no further threat to the public.

An adult male resident of the home was arrested on an assault charge and was transported to the Kent County Correctional Facility pending charges.

The Kentwood Police Department continues to investigate this incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.  

Local Black business owners unveil heart behind their businesses in Pitch Black Grand Rapids competition Sept. 28

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Going Local, Local Business, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
The Michigan Small Business Development Center presents Pitch Black Grand Rapids, a pitch competition for Black business owners (Courtesy, MI-SBDC)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

In an effort to uplift the Black business community, the Michigan Small Business Development Center (MI-SBDC) has announced a Grand Rapids pitch competition on Thursday, Sept. 28.

The Pitch Black competition began in 2021 in response to the detrimental effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on Black-owned businesses in Muskegon County. Pitch Black is now coming to Grand Rapids and will focus on Black-owned businesses operating in Kent County.

Business owners will have a chance to present their pitch to a panel of judges for a chance at a cash prize (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

“It’s sort of like Shark Tank meets America’s Got Talent,” explained Ed Garner, West Michigan Regional Director for the MI-SBDC. “It will be on an auditorium stage in a game show style fashion.”

Twenty Black business owners were selected from a pool of applicants to be Pitch Black contestants. All contestants received pitch training in preparation for a preliminary round presentation to a panel of Black Judges.

Five to seven contestants will then be chosen as finalists and pitch for their share of $10,000 in front of a live studio audience.

“It’s our way of uplifting the Black business community and is part of our DEI initiative called Uplift Michigan™, a strategic movement designed to ensure equitable access for all diverse entrepreneurs across Michigan,” said Garner.

Bringing culture and personal awareness

Bertina Polk, owner of My Little Love Bugs Childcare LLC, applied for Pitch Black to bring awareness to early childhood education in the African American culture.

Polk remembers being teased because of the darkness of her skin, kinkiness of her hair, and her broad nose.

“It always made me wonder if I was good enough,” said Polk.

Seeing her own traumatic childhood memories repeated in following generations of children as young as preschool age bothered Polk.

Bertina Polk’s childcare business teaches children to have confidence in who they are (Courtesy, Bertina Polk)

“It hurts my heart that these babies are going to school not knowing who they are, the importance of their existence, their value, and being proud of their culture and the skin they are in,” said Polk. “I pride myself on the fact that my daycare has a strong emphasis and focus on making sure that our children know that their black is beautiful.”

Polk does this by building a daily childcare routine that focuses on self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem.

“Childhood trauma can turn into adulthood trauma,” said Polk. “Being hurtful and mean to children can ruin self-esteem in the very early stages of life.”

Whether Polk is a winner of a cash prize or not, she considers it a blessing to bring awareness to issues that young African American children encounter. She is also thankful for the opportunity to gather information that will help her grow her business.

“I’ve learned a lot after doing research about the African American culture and how it affects our children in the Early Childhood stages,” said Polk.

If Polk receives a cash prize, she plans to use it to move and expand her childcare facility.

Having located the building she wants for the new facility, Polk is already working with other agencies to provide funding for a playground, educational materials for children, as well as training for staff.

“This will give me the opportunity to grow from the family group daycare into a center, and I’ll be able to provide more services to our community and our African American children,” said Polk.

More than just a business

Reggie Macon, owner of martial arts school Battle Ground JKD LLC, joined the Pitch Black competition after it was suggested to him by a client.

At Battle Ground, Reggie Macon (center) is focused on helping women and children defend themselves (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)

“Of course, the [prize] money sounds good, but I was also intrigued by the information I could potentially get from [the competition],” said Macon. “If anything, I can get some great information on how I can move forward with the business.”

Macon’s primary objective, however, is to share his passion of martial arts with youth and women.

Macon founded Battle Ground out of a desire to keep his two daughters safe. Having recognized and researched the dangers of human trafficking, Macon is focused on using his 17 years of personal training experience to help others learn how to protect themselves.

“I started out training my daughters and training a couple of kids out of my garage, and it kind of went from a passion to something I can see myself doing as a living,” said Macon.

Battle Ground features classes for youth, women’s self-defense, strike classes for MMA boxers, and Sweat It Out Saturdays – a co-ed group of various ages geared toward participants attending with a friend or partner to gain accountability in their weight loss goals.

With countless self-defense and martial arts schools available to the public, Macon differentiates himself by being more hands-on than most.

All ages are welcome at Battle Ground martial arts school (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)

“It’s not just technique and that’s it,” said Macon. “I teach how to read body language, situational awareness, how to create separation to escape in certain instances, and how to build confidence in oneself to know that just because I know how to fight doesn’t mean I have to. I can walk away confidently enough to know I won’t have to cause any harm.”

During the course of the Pitch Black competition training, Macon feels the information contestants have received has been helpful in showing how and what they can apply to their businesses.

“It’s been great information throughout the competition.”

Macon hopes to purchase more safety equipment for the gym if he wins a cash prize, and also to increase marketing for Battle Ground.


“Hopefully Battle Ground will be a household name pretty soon,” Macon said.

Showcase and competition details you don’t want to miss

A business and resource showcase will be held before the competition (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Prior to the Pitch Black competition there will also be a business and resource showcase featuring all 20 contestants as well as selected organizations that support Black-owned businesses.

The competition and showcase will take place Thursday, Sept. 28 in Loosemore Auditorium at Grand Valley State University’s DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton Street in Grand Rapids. The showcase opens at 5 p.m. and the competition begins at 6:30 p.m.

Three cash prizes will be presented by the Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at GVSU. The Grand Prize is $5,000, with a 2nd place prize of $3,500, and a 3rd place prize of $1,500. The prize money can be used for any legitimate business purpose.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration is encouraged due to space limitations. All audience members are asked to dress in casual black attire.

For more information or to register, visit https://michigansbdc.org/pitch-black-gr/.

Frederik Meijer Gardens plants the seed for their 25th annual chrysanthemum exhibition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, design, Kent County, LANDSCAPING & GARDEN CENTERS, West Michigan, , ,
Chrysanthemums & More! showcases thousands of blossoms in an artful Autumn Tapestry (Courtesy, Johnny Quirin)

By Lauren Konsdorf

WKTV Contributor

Chrysanthemums & More! is underway with its 25th annual exhibition (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

Thousands of blossoms span 158 acres at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park during their 25th annual chrysanthemum exhibition.

Blossoming flowers and phenomenal sculptures may seem like all there is to see at Frederik Meijer Gardens, but their annual Chrysanthemums & More! event is now underway displaying thousands of blossoms in artful tapestry.

“View artfully manipulated patterns of chrysanthemums and enjoy a multitude of textures provided by ornamental cabbage, kale, pumpkins, grasses, gourds, and more,” said Steve LaWarre, Vice President of Horticulture.

A mum column stretches high in a multi-colored display (Courtesy, Peter McDaniel)

From Sept. 15 through Oct. 30, florists and civilians from all over Michigan can enjoy the fall air and take part in the largest exhibition of its kind showcasing chrysanthemums, fall foliage and family-friendly activities.

At home in art and nature, many florists in attendance are showing off their skills while weaving a floral tapestry entitled Autumn Tapestry throughout the Gardens.

Amy Gorman, floral manager and wedding coordinator at Horrocks Market located in Kentwood, participates yearly in the event.

“It’s free advertisement,” Gorman said. “We make a beautiful arrangement for them to display throughout the week.”

Gorman’s involvement in floral design first began in high school, and she has worked in floral ever since. For Gorman, it was more than just taking a class.

Gorman’s Chrysanthemums & More! design consists of many different colors; rose, peach, orange, burgundy, and black.

The Glow Garden is a fun evening event for visitors (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

Designs for this event are inspired by geometric patterns, uncommon color combinations, and the repetition of formal garden styles. Each flower has been hand-picked to create the tapestry.

The Grand Entry Garden, Welcome Center, and Gunberg and BISSELL Corridors showcase the tapestry and plantings among the horticulture staff and florists.

Exhibition programs include Fashion and Nature, Sept. 24 from 2-3 p.m.; Weaving with Nature, Oct. 1 from 2-3 p.m.; Fall Family Day, Oct. 7 from 1-4 p.m.; Hallowee-ones, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; and much more.

Enjoy the crisp fall air outdoors and attend the must-see exhibition Fredrik Meijer Gardens has to offer!



Lauren is a senior at Central Michigan University and is studying Broadcast and Cinematic Arts with double minors in Journalism and Communications. She is a radio host for a specialty show on 101.1 The Beat, and is Promotions Video Editor for WCMU Public Media. She loves animals, community service, being on camera, and hopes to become a lifestyle reporter or host after college.

Veterans History Project at GVSU helps veterans process and share military experiences

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Local Faces, Local History, Veterans, West Michigan, , ,
James Smither (left) interviews World War II Navy veterans David “Goldie” Goldsboro and Sid Lenger (Courtesy, WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Capturing information and details not officially recorded anywhere else is a job James Smither, Professor of History and Director of the GVSU Veterans History Project (VHP), has undertaken for 15 years.

With well over 1,000 military veteran interviews under his belt, Smither continues to seek out anyone who was in military service from World War II onward who are willing to share their experiences, whether they have seen combat or not.

“If you have been in the U.S. military, we want to talk to you,” said Smither.

All ages of veterans welcome

WWII Navy veteran Don Morell spoke with Smither in 2018 (Courtesy, WKTV)

Smither said he has noticed a trend of veterans wanting to make sense of their military experiences approximately 40 years after the conflict.

“WWII veterans really began talking a lot about it in the 80s, Vietnam vets mostly in the past 20 years,” said Smither. “But a lot of the (veterans) who have been through Iraq or Afghanistan, for a lot of them it is probably still too soon.”

Many recent veterans also don’t consider their experiences as part of history, or consider what they did as important.

“They don’t think of what they did as being part of history, but when I get them, it’s great because they remember a lot of stuff,” said Smither. “And those who say they ‘didn’t really do anything,’ after a few questions, it quickly becomes apparent that a story is there.”

More than just fact-finding

But Smither views the VHP as more than just a fact-finding mission.

“We see our job as giving veterans a way of telling their story, and telling it in the way they want to tell it,” said Smither. “The whole story, or as much as they want to tell.”

Air Force veteran Mike Sutton shared his military experiences with Smither in 2019 (Courtesy, WKTV)

Smither said that veterans are not required to talk about things they don’t want to talk about. They have full control over their own content.

“We do our best to make it as easy for them as possible, and to treat everybody and their stories with respect,” said Smither. “For a lot of them, they are working through their experience. Sometimes I am the first person they have told the whole story to.”

Interviews range from veterans who have previously held back from talking about their experiences, and some who have told bits and pieces but never tried to put their entire story together.

Smither said that veterans appreciate talking to someone who understands military language and with reasonable knowledge of wartime events because the veterans often remember things but don’t know why those things happened (the context of the situation) or how they wound up that particular situation.

Gaining background information from Smither, or having him bring a different perspective, has often helped veterans find clarity.

“People who haven’t talked about it, I can help them tell their story,” said Smither. “And even people who do talk about it sometimes, I can help them put it together and make sense.”

Smither has encountered veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) who have said the interview process was helpful and that they found peace and healing by telling their stories.

“You help them get control over their stories, and [for] some of them, it helps them process the trauma,” said Smither.

A view rarely seen

Capturing veterans’ experiences yields multiple benefits.

“On a basic level, it’s a teaching tool,” said Smither. “You can imagine what warfare is like, but unless you are in it yourself, you tend to have a more abstract or sanitized view of the reality of how bad it is. It doesn’t ever really sink in.”

Hauenstein Center GVSU Ford Museum Veterans Day 2021 (Courtesy Photo)

With the VHP interviews, viewers get a very different picture of a soldier’s experience than would be portrayed in journalistic reports and official records.

“There’s this whole layer of human experience that you get in these interviews that doesn’t have a place otherwise,” said Smither.

Another value to the VHP’s interviews is preservation of historical information.

“There is a huge amount of historical information out there that gets lost if you don’t [record it] that can help people get a better understanding of reality,” said Smither.

Fully invested in a career path he never saw coming

“I originally trained as a conventional European historian,” said Smither. “I was the Renaissance Reformation guy at Grand Valley when I got there in 1990. But I always had an interest in military history and developed a course in military history.”

In 2003, Smither was contacted by an oral historian working with a local group to establish a military museum. The intent was to record interviews with local veterans and post them online in conjunction with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project.

Grand Valley State University Professor James Smither, head of the GVSU Veterans History Project, has dedicated 15 years of his life to telling veterans’ stories (Courtesy, GVSU Veterans History Project)

The hope was to “catch up” with World War II veterans before they were all gone.

“I met [the oral historian] in the summer of 2003, and a couple of months later he had me onstage with four DDay veterans, helping them tell their stories in front of a live audience,” said Smither.

One of those veterans was Ralph Hauenstein, part of Eisenhower’s intelligence staff.

When the museum group folded in 2005, Smither – as chairman of the GVSU History Department – was tasked with continuing the interviews and archiving all completed interviews. Smither knew a lot of background facts about the veterans’ stories and realized he could apply that knowledge.

Things really began moving in 2007 when Smither was contacted by the Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission. They offered to help recruit veterans for interviews and recommended WKTV Community Television to help with the recording process.

Since 2008, Smither has completed over 100 veteran interviews at WKTV.

“I have been all over the place for interviews, but WKTV has been a regular home for the project and does good quality studio shoots,” said Smither.

WKTV General Manager Tom Norton said, “WKTV Community Media is pleased to have played a role with Dr. Smithers, GVSU, and the Library of Congress for all these years, and to be the resource for recording the oral history of our veterans.”

A life-changing experience

Being part of the Veterans History Project has had a profound effect on Smither.

“On a basic level, doing this transformed my own career,” said Smither. “When I was doing 16th French history, there was always something missing. I was never quite sure what it was. I didn’t have a really good feel for the significance of what I was doing.

Veterans’ stories have a lasting impact (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

“Then,” Smither continued, “when I started working with veterans, I realized that this is what I’m supposed to be doing.”

Smither has also noticed he now has a form of PTSD.

“You absorb a lot of the trauma and psychological damage that these people suffer because you are listening to the telling of these harrowing stories,” said Smither. “You are living it while they are telling it to you.”

Smither admitted that some things he once found appealing, such as action/adventure movies and game simulation warfare, are no longer of interest to him.

“It does take its toll in a certain sort of way, and changes your perspective on certain things,” said Smither.

But Smither has no plans to back away from helping veterans tell their stories.

“If we don’t record these things and make them available, then all of that knowledge and all of that information is lost,” Smither said. “What (veterans) did, did matter.”

If you are a veteran and would be willing to share your experiences, please contact James Smither at: smitherj@gvsu.edu or 616-331-3422.

Reducing the risk of falls for older adults at home

3-bottom, City of Kentwood
Physical therapist Peter Vander Weide (right) is working with participant Anwar on steps in the extensive rehab gym at Care Resources. (Courtesy, Care Resources)



By Care Resources

It happens in the blink of an eye.

And before you know it, you’re part of the club to which nobody wants to belong: someone who’s suffered a fall.

At Care Resources, physical therapist Steve Vanderkamp knows only too well how quick and dangerous it can be for older adults living in their homes to incur falls, some of which land people in the hospital – or worse.

“It happens more often than people think, or would like,” he says, noting that people 55 years and older especially are more likely to suffer a fall because their capacities are diminishing – vision, reaction time, strength, flexibility and cognition.

Data from multiple sources confirms one in five falls results in a serious injury, and that yearly, some three million older adults visit U.S. emergency rooms to be treated for falls. More than 75% of falls occur at or close to home, but according to Vanderkamp, some of those can be avoided by taking preventive measures.

What follows are considerations he says can make all the difference:

Make the light right. Too many older adults don’t have adequate lighting in place, especially at night, when they’re prone to visit the bathroom. As an inexpensive safety measure, leave a light on, or use on a night light or motion-sensor light. Also, don’t travel dark areas where you might trip on clutter – books, magazines, toys, trash – where a well-placed light might otherwise illuminate.

Clear pathways. Again, rid pathways of clutter. Avoid decorating with throw rugs, which are likely to bunch up and cause a trip. And by all means, don’t lay electrical cords across travel areas. Instead, route cords behind furniture and secure them along walls.

Add safety measures to stairs and steps. Don’t skimp on strong stair railings, wherever you have steps. To differentiate stairs from landings, put some strong, brightly colored tape at those transitions.

Be mindful of beds and baths, too. Consider grab bars in shower and tub areas, and next to toilets. Invest in a bathtub bench that extends over the edge of the tub and onto the adjacent floor, so you can sit and pivot out of the tub. Using a hand-held shower head can make it easier to stay seated while showering. Resort to a non-skid rug to soak up water as you exit the tub or shower.

In the bedroom, keep a lamp handy next to your bed. And even though those satin sheets and sleepwear might feel nice, they can be slippery and contribute to a fall while attempting to stand.

Use walking aids. If you have poor balance, don’t be too proud to use a cane or walker, and keep it handy. “I talk to some people until I’m blue in the face about the need for them to use their walker,” Vanderkamp says. People often resort to risky furniture or “wall walking,” placing their hands there to assist in locomotion.

It’s also a good idea to assess your entire property – what’s risky in the garage or other outbuildings, as well as sidewalks, decks and anywhere else you walk. During winter, take extra precautions to keep walkways clear and dry of ice and snow.

As for ladders and step stools, use with extreme caution. Where you have cupboards, arrange it so items you use most often are between hip level and eye level, reducing your need to bend down or elevate yourself.

Assistance with fall prevention is a service provided by Care Resources as a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, which is funded by Medicare and Medicaid. If you’re worried about you or a loved one falling, call Care Resources at 616-913-2006 or visit CareResources.org to learn more.

Minority-led ballet company Ballet 5:8 to present BareFace dance production in Grand Rapids Oct. 7

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , ,
Ballet 5:8 will present the dance production BareFace at the DeVos Center for Arts and Worship during Hispanic Heritage Month (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

BareFace is a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling.

Ballet 5:8, a female and minority-led Chicago ballet company, will present BareFace at the DeVos Center for Arts and Worship during Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 7 at 7:00 p.m.

The complexities of human existence

Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

Rubio Slager’s choreography portrays the power of human connection and relationships (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

The dancers embody the complexities of human existence, peeling away societal expectations to confront their true selves. Through Rubio Slager’s innovative choreography, the journey of self-discovery unfolds on stage, inviting audiences to reflect on their own identities and the masks they wear.

The power of human connection and relationships takes center stage in BareFace. Just as Cupid and Psyche longed for each other, the dancers’ movements intertwine and interact, portraying the intricacies of love, longing, and the universal desire for connection.

“With technical precision and graceful beauty,” writes Kathy D. Hey from Third Coast Review, “the talented artists of Ballet 5:8’s dance company convey a range of emotions, from moments of grief and longing to lighter moments of comedy.”

A captivating story that embraces the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity, BareFace challenges us to confront our own masks and delve into the rawness of our emotions. Set in the Grecian fairytale world of Glome, the production captivates with its cinematic storytelling, sweeping stage pictures, and gliding sets.

A lasting impact

BareFace showcases Rubio Slager’s choreography that, as described by D’onminique Boyd-Riley from See Chicago Dance, “Flows like chimes, leaving an enduring impact long after the wind has passed. The performance is nothing short of phenomenal.”

Dancers rehearse a previous Ballet 5:8 production. (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

The athletic prowess of Ballet 5:8’s dance artists, along with the work of costume designer Lorianne Robertson, scenic designers Sarah L. Freeman and Great Lakes Scenic Design, and projections by Sarah L. Freeman and Julianna Rubio Slager, bring this full-length story ballet to life.

Artistic Director, Co-Founder and Chicano Resident Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager co-founded Ballet 5:8 in 2012. She is known for engaging audiences in discussions of life and faith through exquisite choreography, and for empowering minority women to command space in the professional ballet scene.

Since its founding in 2012, Ballet 5:8 has presented more than 45 critically acclaimed ballets, engaging and captivating communities in Chicago, the Midwest and across the nation.

For more information about Ballet 5:8, visit Ballet58.org and connect on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.

Ticket pricing and links

Tiered single tickets are available ranging from $15 to $45 based on seating and available online at: https://www.ballet58.org/calendar/bareface-gr. Specific children, student and senior ticket prices are available. For groups of 10 or more adults, patrons can use the code: B58GROUP to redeem $5 off each ticket.

The Rapid seeks community input on public general transportation needs

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kent County, Local Business, West Michigan, , , ,
An online survey and in-person events are scheduled as part of transit master planning process (Courtesy, The Rapid)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The TMP will help build a community-led transit system (Courtesy, Thriving)

The Rapid is asking for community input on the future of transit as part of its Transit Master Plan (TMP).

Titled “Thriving: A framework for the future of connectivity,” the TMP seeks to identify what the public needs from The Rapid and general transportation in both the short and long term.

Individuals can participate through an online survey or by attending an in-person community engagement workshop from now until Dec. 8. This feedback will help The Rapid strategically build a community-led transit system for the next 20 years.

The survey, along with additional information, can be found at www.transitthriving.org.

Everyone in the region is encouraged to participate, regardless of whether they use public transportation or not. The study area for this project extends well beyond The Rapid’s service zone with the intent to garner feedback from individuals who currently don’t have access to The Rapid.

Public transportation users as well as non-public transportation users are invited to participate in the survey (Courtesy, Thriving)

“As our region grows, so does the need to expand transit options,” said The Rapid CEO Deb Prato. “We need to create a plan that outlines how public transportation will meet the needs of all our residents. Gathering feedback from everyone, both users and nonusers, is crucial to the success of this plan.”

There will be an in-person open house event Thursday, Oct. 19 at Rapid Central Station, 250 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, Grand Rapids. There will be three sessions: 7 to 9 a.m., 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m.

Once the public engagement period ends on Dec. 8, The Rapid and TMP project consultants from internationally recognized firm AECOM will develop the roadmap for implementing, improving and potentially expanding transit options in the future.

Wyoming Police Department invite community to utilize public comment portal

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, West Michigan, ,
Local community members are invited by Wyoming PD to provide commendations or concerns via public comment portal (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Wyoming Police invite members of the community to utilize the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) public comment portal.

CALEA offers agencies information to support continuous improvement and pursue professional excellence (Courtesy Photo)

CALEA Accreditation is a coveted award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence, and competence. The community and police department can take pride in their department, knowing it represents the very best in law enforcement.

Anyone wishing to provide comments regarding the agency’s compliance with CALEA standards, engagement in the service community, delivery of public safety services, and overall candidacy for accredited status, may provide comments to CALEA through the following Public Comment Portal:

https://cimrs2.calea.org/811

Comments can be in the form of commendations or concerns. The overall intent of the accreditation process is to provide the agency with information to support continuous improvement, as well as foster the pursuit of professional excellence.

All comments made through the portal will be sent directly to CALEA. Submitters will receive acknowledgment of their submission.

Anyone wishing to leave comments and have them sent directly to Wyoming Police should use the non-emergency number 616-530-7300, appear in person at the police department, or use the online Police Department Contact Form.

Sunday Night Funnies competition draws large crowds for standup comedians

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Local Business, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , ,
The 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition is in full swing and is packing the house (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

The 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition at Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) is delivering weekly standup comedy routines and drawing large crowds.

From here, there, and everywhere

Located at Woody’s Press Box inside the Spectrum Entertainment Complex, SNF is a free admission weekly standup comedy show that is geared toward featuring comedians from around the Midwest. However, Brian B. has had several comedians travel from out of state to participate.

Kingpin of Comedy previous winners (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)


Brian B. remembers comedians driving up from Alabama just to do the show. “They did it for the trip experience. I picked up a woman at the airport who flew in from New Jersey to do the show,” Brian B. added.

SNF regularly draws comics from Detroit, Chicago, and Toledo, with the Kingpin of Comedy competition featuring a comedian from Canada.

Brian B. said many comics are willing to do a routine “for the stage time and to perform before a good-sized audience. It’s a very low-key, low-budget kind of thing.”

Voting system encourages audience participation

A comedian himself, Brian B. opens each show and serves as emcee.

With only three more quarterfinal rounds, the competition will soon be moving into three weeks of semifinals, with finals taking place Sunday, Oct. 29.

Sunday Night Funnies’s 2022 Kingpin of Comedy winner Seth Lee holds his winnings (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

The Kingpin of Comedy winner will be determined with a voting system, so the audience is encouraged to participate.

Audience members are given a ballot at the beginning of the show – the only requirement is that they vote for three comics, “no more, no less.”

This helps ensure that the comics work to win over the entire audience, not just friends they bring along, Brian B. explained.

As for comedic content, Brian B. said adult situations and swearing do occur.

“It’s not a clean comedy show, and I don’t bill it as that,” said Brian B.

“I don’t censor the comics,” Brian B. continued. “That is a slippery slope and I won’t do that. [Content] is subjective – you don’t know what offends people and what doesn’t offend people.”

Filling a comedic void

Brian B. began SNF to fill a gap for local comedians.

“At the time, the only place local comics could get face-time was Dr. Grins, and that was only on Thursday nights,” Brian B. said. “They’d get three-minutes of time and could only perform every three months. There was a void that needed to be filled for local comedians.”

That void has been filled with approximately 1,200 different SNF comics over the years.

Sunday Night Funnies presents the 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition, now in full swing (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

The SNF stage has found a home at several different locations since its inception in 2008, with the first being in Douglas, MI. Shortly after, however, Brian B. wanted to bring the show closer to home.

He approached Bob Sullivan, who was owner of the Radisson Hotel on Ann Street in Grand Rapids at the time. A partnership was born, and SNF took the stage for eight years.

When the hotel changed ownership, all entertainment was disbanded and Brian B. was once again on the hunt for a stage.

While having lunch at Spectrum Entertainment Complex, Brian B. began exploring and found Woody’s Press Box. Thinking it would be a good place for a comedy club, Brian B. approached the owner and SNF resumed in February 2018.

Audience attendance was slow-moving at first, with a recent uptick in numbers as former audience members realize the show is still in Grand Rapids, just in a different location.

Comics are also flocking to the stage, with 91 comedians participating in the opening round of Kingpin of Comedy.

“I don’t want to leave anyone out who wants to be in it, so the opening round was 14 weeks long,” said Brian B.

Brian B. works to encourage novice comedians, especially those who are unsure about participating in competitions.

Brian B.’s response: “Just do it. It’s still stage time, so you still get to get up before an audience, and – who knows – you might hit right with the audience and advance.”

Don’t miss out – be “in the know”

SNF is located at 5656 Clyde Park SW, Wyoming (between Meijer and Craig’s Cruisers), and the show begins at 8:30 p.m. Doors open one hour before start time, and food and drinks are available for purchase.

Watch the SNF Facebook page for updates and announcements about start times, comedian participation, and competition results.

To find out more about SNF, visit these sites: GRTV, YouTube, Facebook.

Up north folk rock band, Troll for Trout, to perform at Valley Field Sept. 16

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
Troll for Trout will take the stage at Valley Field on Saturday, Sept. 16 (Courtesy Photo)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Troll for Trout, an “up north folk rock band” will be at Valley Field (Sullivan Field) Saturday, Sept. 16.

The vintage ball park is hosting a Back to the 90’s Ballpark Jam festival-style show that will feature several musical artists.

Kicking off at 2:30 p.m. and running until 10 p.m., the show will consist of continuous music, beer, food trucks and of course – fun!

Troll for Trout will play alongside Papa Vegas, Domestic Problems, Knee Deep Shag and Craig Griffith. Between band acts, guests will be treated to solo performances by Adam Mikrut, Glen Danles, Ed Dupas, and more.

Troll for Trout is celebrating their 30th anniversary of colorful musical history. Over the years, the Michigan band has earned a diehard following and generated an impressive array of recordings.

“Troll for Trout and our music has always been about a lifestyle,” Michael Crittenden, founding member and chief songwriter, says on their website. “It’s that excited feeling of leaving work early on a beautiful Friday afternoon and pointing your vehicle North where there’s no schedule. It’s about finding and reconnecting with the peace that resides in all of us, but gets buried by the day to day grind.”

“Reboot” is a benefit for the restoration of Valley Field. A portion of the proceeds will also go toward the GVSU Aris Hampers Broadcasting Scholarship.

Tickets are available via Troll for Trout’s website at www.troll4trout.com.

Circle Theatre’s “Sweeney Todd” — A wonderfully tasty musical extravaganza

3-bottom, Entertainment,
(Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



By Colleen Pierson

WKTV Contributor



“Sweeney Todd” is a Sondheim Masterpiece. It is a highly challenging project that is haunting, powerful and thrilling. Go see Circle Theatre’s production running now through September 23.



In my opinion, I have never heard some of the most beautiful voices in community theater on one stage. Ever. It is not one to miss.

Let’s set the scene: An infamous tale, “Sweeney Todd,” (played by Cory Schutter) an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge (Nate Reynolds) who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Todd to Mrs. Lovett, (Emily Diener) a resourceful proprietress of a failing pie shop, above which he opens a new barber practice with the closest shave in town. Mrs. Lovett’s luck sharply shifts when Todd’s thirst for blood inspires the integration of a special ingredient into her meat pies that has the people of London lining up and dying for. The carnage has only just begun!


Sweeney Todd (played by Cory Schutter) and Mrs. Lovett (Emily Diener). (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



The musical first appeared on Broadway in 1979 and was categorized by Sondheim as a “dark operetta.” That means a huge percentage of the score — probably about 80 percent — and storytelling is sung throughout.

And where does one find the voices in West Michigan to handle this challenging music that needs a very highly skilled cast?

Kudos to directors Carrie McNulty and Scott Patrick Bell for doing just that. There is not one ordinary voice onstage. All are extraordinary. No weak links. Each and every role is gorgeously sung in perfect characterization. The cast members are worthy of being in the Broadway talent pool. Sure, I am gushing, but the range of voices and challenges of the music leads to such a theatrical and glorious treat to experience by an immensely talented cast. A definite treat for the ears.  

Cory Schutter: “much variety and intensity … and impeccable singing”

Cory Schutter, taking on the role of Sweeney Todd, does so in a vicious, desperate and intimidating manner. At the same time, he was both vulnerable and volatile. There was much variety and intensity in his performance and he sang impeccably.

A “wow factor” in Emily Diener’s voice

Emily Diener portrays Mrs. Lovett with such delightful charm, charisma and humor. She mastered the craft with her comedic timing.  Such a wow factor in her voice with so many challenging songs to portray.

Sweeney Todd’s daughter Johanna, played by Maddie Vanderwell, has an angelic voice. A soprano voice with a beautiful lightness and wonder that perfectly matched her innocence. I was in awe of her talents. She dueted so effectively with young sailor Anthony Hope played by Alex Weiss.

It is very difficult to find a young boy with a soprano range to take on the role of Tobias Ragg. Directors gave the role to Meaghan Gietzen, who proved extremely believable with great depth to portray this important role. Witnessing her descent into madness was chilling. 

I appreciated being in an intimate theater setting that Circle Theatre provides on Aquinas College’s campus. Being up close and personal to hear every piece of sung and spoken dialect, experience the lighting design of Catherine Marlett Dreher and see the costume details provided by costume designer Jess Luiz was captivating. The staging of when Todd kills his clients and then sends their bodies directly through a chute into the pie shop’s bakehouse was always done effectively. Perfectly timed out.

Sometimes the actors were blocked to use the aisles of the theater to come onstage and then they got very close to us through inventive direction — making it feel so intimate and intense.

It was a challenge brilliantly handled by cast and crew of the final production of the season. Go see “Sweeney Todd.” For more info: circletheatre.org. 

Community Cat Crew: Advocating for outdoor cats

3-bottom, Pets/Animals, West Michigan
Two of the founders of the Community Cat Crew, J.J. LaBelle (left) with Manchego and Kendi Helmus with Shiner Bock. Both kittens are bottle-babies. (Courtesy Photo)



By Janet Vormittag

WKTV Contributor


One of the goals of the Community Cat Crew is to stop spring from being known as kitten season.

Five women founded the cat rescue and advocacy group in January 2022. The director is Kendi Helmus of Hudsonville, but she doesn’t want to take credit for starting the group.

“I told her if she tackled it I’d be her right-hand woman,” said J.J. LaBelle who lives in Eastown. “We wouldn’t have done it without her. She had the passion and we supported her.” 

Other founders include Trish Keyzer and her daughter Syd Keyzer of Grandville and Erin O’Keefe of Jenison.

“We share the workload,” Helmus said. Each woman works with a network of foster homes in her area and works to find homes for the cats and kittens in their care.

“We have kittens in homes from Sparta to Zeeland,” LaBelle said. The group has close to 25 foster homes. The group became a 501(c)3 in April 2023.

Two meanings

Helmus explained that the group’s name has two meanings. First, they’re dealing with community cats — outside cats who have no owners, the community is their home. Second, they want to educate people in the community about the importance of getting the cats spayed/neutered to stop the birth of unwanted litters of kittens.

“Eighty percent of kittens in shelters come from community cats,” Helmus said.

Spring is kitten season

Anyone involved in cat rescue soon learns that spring is when rescues and shelters are overwhelmed with kittens. 

“It took years to educate people to fix their personal cats. Our mission is to educate people to fix community cats,” LaBelle said.

Before starting Community Cat Crew, the women volunteered for local rescue groups.

Their focus is TNVR, trap-neuter-vaccine-return. They live-trap outside cats and have them spayed/neutered and vaccinated before returning them to where they were caught. If the cats are friendly they place them in foster homes and find them new homes. If they come across kittens, they’re also placed in foster homes where they can be socialized before being put up for adoption.

Helmus’ passion is trapping cats. She got her start in rescue when as a teenager she found a litter of kittens and snuck them into her bedroom closet. When she showed one to her mother, she learned the kitten had fleas. Her parents soon discovered she had a closet full of flea infested kittens. She was allowed to keep one kitten who she named Gus.


“He was my first rescue kitty,” she said.

With a husband and three children, Helmus’ time is precious. Part of what she does for the group is record keeping.


“I’m a spreadsheet queen,” she said with a laugh.

LaBelle loves to care for bottle babies — newborns who don’t have a mother. “They’re my passion,” she said. She falls in love with each one of them, but knows they’re only with her temporarily. “I’m a huge believer that goodbye is the goal,” she said, but she admits saying goodbye to kittens she raised is bittersweet. “They go and it makes room for new residents.” 

LaBelle grew up on a farm and taming feral barn kittens was an ongoing passion. When she was older she spent two years transporting close to 100 cats and kittens from her mother’s farm in the Upper Peninsula to Grand Rapids to get them spayed/neutered and rehomed.

She usually has 12 to 18 fosters plus a dozen or more bottle babies.


“For six months I don’t sleep,” she said.


She works at Schmidt”s Animal Hospital in Walker and can bring the babies to work to care for them.

Funded through adoption fees and fundraising

The group is funded through adoption fees and fundraising. “TNVR is expensive and you’re not getting a return, but it has to be done,” Helmus said.

Members of the group attend various events including farmer’s markets to educate people about the importance of spaying and neutering community cats and to sell craft items to raise funds. This year they’ve partnered with GR8 Food Trucks to staff their beer tent at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids.

One of their needs is volunteers to staff events and to make items they can sell. They also would appreciate monthly donors.


“A small commitment on a monthly basis — something we can count on — makes the work a little easier,” LaBelle said. They also have an Amazon Wish List.

Last year, which is the year the group started, the women TNR’d 93 cats and had 140 adoptions. Their goal was to double those number in 2023. At the end of July they had trapped 93 cats and had close to 180 adoptions.

“We’re moving in the right direction, but we have a long way to go before spring isn’t considered kitten season,” LaBelle said.

For more information or to contact the Community Cat Crew: admin@communitycatcrew.org, www.communitycatcrew.org. You can also follow them on Facebook.

Wyoming Police Department investigate multiple shootings over weekend, one fatality

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, West Michigan, , ,
Wyoming Police Department investigates shootings on Sept. 8 and 9, 2023

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The Wyoming Police Department responded to shooting events on Friday, Sept. 8 and Saturday, Sept. 9 that left two people injured and one person dead.

A shooting that left one person injured in the 3800 block of South Division Ave on Sept. 8 is being investigated by the WPD.

At approximately 9:15 p.m. on Sept. 8, 2023, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming
Department of Public Safety responded to the 3800 block of South Division Ave on a report
of a person shot. When officers arrived, they located a 53-year-old male Grand Rapids area
resident suffering from a gunshot wound. The male was treated by medical personnel on scene
and transported to an area hospital in serious condition.

Wyoming Police Department (Courtesy, Deborah Reed, WKTV Staff)

There is no suspect information available at this time.

One person is dead and another injured after a shooting in the 3100 block of Woodward Ave SW on Saturday, Sept. 9.

At approximately 12:30 a.m. on Sept. 9, 2023, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the 3100 block of Woodward Avenue on a report of shooting with two individuals shot. When officers arrived, they located two juvenile male Wyoming residents suffering from gunshot wounds.

One male was treated by medical personnel on scene and transported to an area hospital in serious condition. The other juvenile is deceased.

Individuals involved in this incident have been located and interviewed by investigators.

Wyoming Police detectives and Forensic Services Unit continue to investigate the circumstances
surrounding both shooting incidents.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives
at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

“Garden Guru” Alysia Babcock to teach modern conservation, natural beauty with native plants Sept. 16

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Environment, Kent County, LANDSCAPING & GARDEN CENTERS, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
Native plants flourish in Andrea Belden’s urban garden (Courtesy, Andrea Belden)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Native plants not only beautify yards and natural habitats, they increase safe havens for pollinators and decrease effects of climate change.

A trillium flower flourishes in its natural habitat (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com, Nicholas A. Tonelli)

Friends of Buck Creek and Alysia Babcock, “The Garden Guru,” are hosting a free public event to teach the “hows” and “whys” of inhabiting land without damaging it.

“Gardens with native plants provide habitat for many organisms such as pollinators, birds, and small animals,” states Babcock on The Garden Guru Kzoo website. “These pocket gardens are safe havens that help reverse the effects of climate change. We need pollinators for our food crops, birds to distribute seeds, and small animals to keep garden pests at bay resulting in healthy viable plants.”

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 16, Babcock will give an hour-long presentation titled “Cleaning Our Watershed and Beautifying Your Property with Native Plants” at Grandville Kent District Library. This presentation will teach how to beautify personal properties while cleaning stormwater and providing food and shelter for pollinators.

“I have always been an advocate for nature and find nature’s beauty everyday,” said Babcock on her website.

Native plants and flowers provide a natural habitat for many organisms (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

An Advanced Master Gardener, Conservation Steward and Master Naturalist, Babcock also has a Master’s Degree in Education, and is part of a newly formed Strike Team with the Rockford Sustainability Committee. Babcock is also the owner of The Garden Guru Kzoo LLC, a company dedicated to designing and implementing garden makeovers that specialize in native plants.

“I’d say [that] using native perennials in a landscape is a win-win-win-win,” said Martha Stout Vermeulen, founder and former President of Friends of Buck Creek-Michigan (FOBC). “Less money, less work, more beauty, healthier habitat.”

Vermeulen went on to explain that in the first year, native plants “sleep,” growing deep, water-cleansing roots. The second year they “creep,” beginning to beautify, and the third year they “leap” to their full glory.

Daisies come in several shapes, sizes, and colors (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

“Since caterpillars are a primary food source for our dwindling bird population, nibbled leaves mean the garden is doing its job,” said Vermeulen.

Native plants will be available for purchase after Babcock’s presentation.

Parking is available on the south side of the KDL Grandville Branch. The building is wheelchair accessible.

For more information or questions, contact Martha Stout Vermeulen at seasister8@gmail.com.

12th annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest inspires creativity in all ages

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kent County, Kids Activities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , ,
What’s Your Story: Write Michigan’s annual short story contest provides a chance for all ages to be published and win money (Courtesy, Kent District Library)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Michigan writers of all ages are invited to enter the 12th annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest. 

Kent District Library is pleased to present this annual contest that drew 1,250 entries in 2022. The Write Michigan contest offers separate categories for youth, teens and adults. Winning entries will be published, and the top writers will receive cash prizes. 

“This contest gives writers the opportunity to reach their goal of getting published,” said Katie Zuidema, Marketing Communications Specialist at KDL. “Not only do writers have the chance to win $500, but their story could also be available to the masses on bookstore and library shelves across the state.”

Winners of the Write Michigan contest will be published and earn cash prizes (Courtesy, Kent District Library)

Stories can be submitted at writemichigan.org through Thursday, Nov. 30. Details include a 3,000-word maximum length; $10 entry fee for ages 18 and above, free for 17 and under; current Michigan residents only; all entries must be submitted online. 

Three cash prizes will be given in each of the three categories ― Judges’ Choice ($500), Readers’ Choice ($250) and Judges’ Choice Runner-up ($250). The top ten stories in each category will be reviewed by a panel of judges comprised of published authors, editors, professors and literary agents. A public vote will determine the winners of Readers’ Choice.

Gary Schmidt, multiple award-winning author and Michigan resident, will be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Write Michigan awards ceremony in March. Schmidt will also be writing the foreword to the anthology, which is published by Chapbook Press. 

“Write Michigan is truly a statewide effort,” says Josh Mosey, one of the organizers of the contest. “Kent District Library couldn’t put on the short story contest without our partners, including Schuler Books, Michigan Learning Channel, Capital Area District Library and Canton Public Library.”

Those who enjoy reading stories are encouraged to sign up to be a volunteer story reviewer at writemichigan.org/volunteer. 

Those interested can join an online community of writers through Facebook (facebook.com/WriteMichigan) and Instagram (@write.michigan). Get encouragement, writing tips, challenges and more while you plot out your award-winning short story.

Kent District Library is offering a programming series geared towards writers and aspiring writers, covering topics like getting published, freelance writing, self-editing and creating compelling characters. For more details, including dates, times and locations, visit writemichigan.org/writers-conference.

For more information on Write Michigan, visit  writemichigan.org.  

Kentwood to host The Vibe Fundraiser for adaptive recreation programs on Sept. 14

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


The City of Kentwood is inviting community members of all ages to The Vibe, an annual celebration and fundraiser to enhance the city’s adaptive recreation programs set for Thursday, Sept. 14.

The tropical backyard party will run from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. It will include food, cocktails, live music, a silent auction, adaptive equipment displays and more.

The evening also will feature guest speakers Johnny and Jeff Agar, who compete as TeamAgar. Johnny, who has cerebral palsy, and his father Jeff are a father-son team who compete in endurance races together. Jeff helps Johnny until the last mile when Johnny gets up and walks across the finish line with his walker.


Jeff Agar (far left), son Johnny Agar (middle) and wife/mom Becki. (Courtesy, TeamAgar)


Father-Son team have competed in more than 200 races

Johnny, who uses a wheelchair, and his dad have competed in more than 200 races in various states, including multiple marathons, half marathons, 25Ks and more than 30 triathlons. They’ve also competed in six Ironman races where Jeff pulled Johnny 2.4 miles in a kayak, rode 112 miles on a custom tandem bike and pushed Johnny in a racing jogger during the marathon portion. In September 2022, TeamAgar completed their first full-distance Ironman in Maryland, where Johnny walked across the finish line.

“Johnny Agar and his team have achieved incredible things and serve as an example of the great impact adaptive recreation can have for an individual and a community,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood parks and recreation director. “We are delighted to have Johnny share his story and give community members a chance to learn more about the power of adaptive recreation.”

Community members are encouraged to dress casually for the event. Tickets are $40 per person and can be purchased online at kentwoodvibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.

Money raised at this year’s event will help purchase new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs. These offerings include active sports such as archery, kayaking, rock climbing and water skiing as well as more relaxed activities like leisure club and social events.

“The City of Kentwood is pleased to offer a wide range of activities with something for all interests and abilities,” said Ann Przybysz, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator. “These programs give individuals an opportunity to safely participate in activities in an adapted way, allowing them to build connections, confidence and new skills along the way.”


(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming alongside several community partners, including Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and more. Programs also are made possible thanks to the help of a strong volunteer network.

Programs are open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond. Learn more about Kentwood’s adaptive programs and current offerings at kentwood.us/adaptive.

Natural burials provide environmentally friendly, cost effective option for laying loved ones to rest

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Health, Kent County, West Michigan, , , ,
A wicker casket can be an environmentally friendly alternative (Courtesy, Ridgeview Memorial Gardens)

By Rachel Rickman

WKTV Contributor

When researching options for her husband’s burial in 2019, Stephanie Edwards believed natural burial fit perfectly with Tom’s life and his love of nature.

“I believe that Tom would have appreciated the ecologically friendly process of this burial,” said Edwards in a Green Burial Council testimonial about her husband’s burial at Penn Forest.

A family chooses to bury their loved one in a shroud at Ridgeview Memorial Gardens (Courtesy, Ridgeview Memorial Gardens)

Throughout preparation for the burial, Edwards also found the process to be one of healing.

“Funerals have always been traumatic for me, but this was a beautiful, healing experience,” Edwards said after Tom’s burial was complete.

What happens with our bodies after death is often discussed among loved ones, and available options are growing in number.

While not always a comfortable conversation topic, it is an inevitable occurrence, so why not have some say in the matter?

Familiar traditions and a new (old?) alternative

Embalming/burial and cremation are two familiar and popular traditions. However, a new option is a natural or green burial, which was recently approved in Michigan but only in certain cemeteries and locations.

In West Michigan, the only currently approved green burial location is Ridgeview Memorial Gardens in Grandville.

Proponents of green burials highlight minimal environmental impact, cost effectiveness, and peaceful, natural settings.

In total, Michigan has 14 designated green burial areas. More cemeteries are adding or looking to add a natural burial section as they grow in popularity. So why don’t more cemeteries offer this option?

“Because they’re more labor intensive,” says Ron Zartman, Executive Director of Ridgeview Memorial Gardens and member of the Green Burial Council.

Zartman explains that he has been contacted by other municipalities about adding a green burial option, but they find the labor-intensive aspect to be an obstacle.

Burial types and their environmental impact

A traditional burial involves a casket and vault made from concrete, creating little maintenance after the burial. With a natural burial, it is necessary to maintain and service the grave site three or four times as the earth settles.

Wood caskets and cremation containers are often used for natural burials (Courtesy, Ridgeview Memorial Gardens)

A green burial allows for natural decomposition as opposed to dealing with chemicals involved in the embalming process. Keeping embalming fluids and chemicals used on traditional burial sites—such as herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers—out of the equation lessens negative impact on the environment.

In a natural burial, even headstones are considered. While headstones have traditionally been made from imported stones such as marble, designated green burial sites are required to use stone native to the area. Using local stone guarantees all aspects of the site retain their natural integrity.

Embalming, while often still a popular option, is not required in Michigan, though it can be deemed necessary for purposes of transportation or in other specific circumstances.

During the embalming process, a body is drained of blood and those fluids are exchanged for embalming chemicals such as formaldehyde, which delays the body’s natural decomposition process. The practice of embalming has been around a long time—think Ancient Egypt and mummies—but it was popularized during the Civil War as a way to transport bodies home over a long distance.

Natural burials, in contrast, have been “the way the human race handled burial before embalming,” said Zartman.

Before the growing popularity of natural burials, cremation was considered a more natural and less environmentally impactful method of handling a body. However, cremation does carry an environmental footprint because it releases CO2 and other chemicals into the environment.

Costs and requirements

Many people associate death with a casket. However, Michigan law does not require a casket for burial or cremation.

Due to cost, caskets can often be one of the biggest expenses of a funeral.

Be sure to check with cemeteries about their burial requirements (Courtesy, Ridgeview Memorial Gardens)

Zartman stated that the “average funeral in Michigan runs $8,500, but people easily put $10,000 into a burial. Even cremation can be expensive.”

If cost is a consideration, know you have options when choosing a casket, and question if a funeral home or crematory service pressures you into purchasing one.

While you are not required to have a casket for burial, you will need to check with your chosen cemetery about their “container” requirements.

Zartman said that cost is a big factor in why people choose a natural burial. Natural burial services can cost as little as $3,200 compared to higher costs associated with other options. Alleviating more expensive items such as a vault and casket lowers the total cost considerably.

“80% come in cardboard boxes—cremation containers,” said Zartman. However, there are other biodegradable green burial containers available, such as wicker caskets.

Each state has their own rules and regulations when it comes to how a body is handled after death. Whether you or a loved one have chosen cremation, embalming and burial, or natural burial, there are specific guidelines to adhere to.

If you are looking for more information about green burials in Western Michigan for you or a loved one, Zartman is ready to answer your questions.

“Families need help,” Zartman said. “They need sound advice.”

Discussing what to do with your body or the body of a loved one after death is not a comfortable subject, but knowing your options and the costs associated can save a lot of stress during an emotional time.



Rachel Rickman is a freelance writer, editor, and former university English Instructor with a BA, MA, and MFA focused on writing. She grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but currently resides in Rosarito, Mexico with her husband and son. Much of her work focuses on “narrative recipes”—personal essays with recipe/cooking ideas.

Rachel’s work can be found on her blog: jezebelstable.com; Instagram: aroundthetablerr; and Patreon: www.patreon.com/AroundtheTableRR.

Care Resources explores benefits to elderly residents with a tai chi class

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Kent County, Senior Living, West Michigan, , , , ,
Maria Goosen, CTRS leads seniors in a Tai Chi class at Care Resources (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Care Resources in Grand Rapids recently offered a tai chi class to Day Center visitors ages 55 and older as a way to promote healthy living.

“Tai chi is a form of exercise that originated in China and has become extremely popular throughout the world,” said Maria Goosen, a certified therapeutic recreational specialist (CTRS) who led the tai chi class. “It incorporates slow, simple, repetitive and low-impact movements that can be easily modified so that anyone can participate.”

A tranquil environment

Maria Goosen, CTRS, leads a Tai Chi class (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The small exercise class took place in a room that featured a screen portraying peaceful nature scenes, low lighting, and soft music.

“Tai chi is often referred to as ‘meditation in motion’ because it focuses on your breath as well which helps to clear your mind,” said Goosen. “This allows for a multitude of emotional benefits such as decreased stress, anxiety and depression and enhanced well-being.”

Slow stretches gradually progressed into a sequence of tai chi movements that participants were able to complete sitting or standing, whichever was most comfortable to them.

Goosen says the benefits of tai chi are lengthy: improved balance, improved strength, improved hand-eye coordination, improved sleep quality, increased blood circulation and decreased risk of high blood pressure.

“It is a research-based intervention that has the capability to improve health in older adults,” said Goosen.

That is critically important to Care Resources, a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE®, which is funded by Medicare and Medicaid. The innovative community-based program for people 55 years and older promotes healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement.

The tai chi class is one of dozens of programs offered each month to participants.

Seniors warm up their muscles before a Tai Chi class at Care Resources (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Goosen helped physically guide participants’ movements if asked, but urged them not to do any tai chi moves that would cause pain. “Listen to what your body is telling you,” said Goosen.

The tranquil atmosphere of the class was sporadically broken by soft laughter over participants’ self-proclaimed “creaking bones” and lack of coordination.

“Your bodies appreciate when you move them,” Goosen told the participants. “Be thankful and grateful for all that your body does.”

Bingo…and good friends

Pamela Miller, a tai chi class participant, has been coming to Care Resources five days a week for the past four years.

“I’ve got a lot of pluses about this place,” said Miller with a firm nod when asked if she enjoyed coming to the Day Center.

Playing Bingo, singing with “Diane the Shower Lady,” shopping in the Bingo Room, spending time with friends, and singing karaoke are only a few things Miller enjoys while at the Day Center.

Pamela Miller, a regular at the Care Resources day center, has made close friends during her visits (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

And Miller’s definition of enjoyment is simple: “All I want is a good card to play Bingo.”

Miller has also forged lasting relationships and good friends at the Day Center, one being a gentleman who recently passed away.

Miller and her friend sat beside each other for years, looked out for each other, and went to events together before he died. Miller was thankful that her friend’s wife contacted Miller so she could go to his room and say goodbye before he passed.

“I know I’m not the only one who misses him,” said Miller.

Another good friend loves to paint, and Miller enjoys watching her create works of art.

Comfort and encouragement

Also very important to Miller is talking to the military veterans who come to the Day Center and offering comfort when she can.

“I’m there for them,” said Miller. “I see how they suffer. And they have suffered a lot.”

When asked what Miller’s favorite thing to do is at the Day Center, she answered without hesitation: “Encourage other people.”

Care Resources offers a day center, clinic and pharmacy in its 36,000-square-foot building at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave SE that provide a wide range of health care services as well as opportunities that promote socialization, build community and offer respite to caregivers.

Monarch butterflies will be celebrated and released at John Ball Zoo on Sept. 9

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Environment, Kent County, Kids Activities, Pets/Animals, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
Monarch butterflies play an important role in supporting our natural environment (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)

By John Ball Zoo

deborah@wktv.org

Monarch butterflies will be released into the wild at John Ball Zoo on Saturday, Sept. 9 as part of a wildlife conservation celebration.

During Monarch Day at the Zoo, butterflies will be released at one hour intervals amid family-friendly events designed to teach participants why the butterflies are so important. Butterfly releases will take place at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Monarch Day at the Zoo will feature several family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn about the butterflies (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)

“We are so excited to welcome guests to experience the wonder of releasing monarch butterflies into the wild so their population can improve, and they can migrate to wintering grounds in Mexico,” said Dan Hemmann, area curator at John Ball Zoo. “People of all ages can enjoy the events of Monarch Day while learning about why this species is so important.”

From 9 a.m.-6 p.m., John Ball Zoo is offering fun, family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn about monarch butterflies and how pollinators help support our natural environment. Characters including Mirabelle, Rapunzel, Tinkerbell and Fawn will be present throughout the day to help spread the message on conservation efforts everyone can take to contribute to a healthy environment for pollinators.

Events also include story time with Circle Theatre at 11 a.m., as well as an aerial performance provided by Gemini Circus from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Monarch Day will also feature live music by Kohns from 4-6 p.m., face painting, and animal activities throughout the day.

Tickets are available online or at the Zoo. 

Ford International Airport Finalist for Best Small Airport by USA TODAY

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel,
The community is invited to vote online through Oct. 2. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport. )



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been named a reader’s choice finalist for the best small airport by USA TODAY.

The public is invited to cast one vote per person, per day at 10best.com/awards/. The voting period will be open until Monday, Oct. 2 at 11:59 a.m. The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards highlight top-notch attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations.

Nominees for the 10Best are chosen by a panel of relevant experts, including editors from USA TODAY and 10Best.com, expert contributors and industry sources. 10Best.com provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel content of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.  

“Over the last several years, we have invested significantly to improve our guest experience,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson said. “From our front-of-house facelift to the expansion of Concourse A, we want to ensure guests flying through the Airport begin their travels in comfort and return home in style.

“Our success is largely based on the tremendous community support we receive, which makes this nomination incredibly meaningful to us. We hope everyone will visit USA TODAY and cast their vote to make the Gerald R. Ford International Airport the best small airport in the country!”

The Airport is undergoing a number of significant investments into its infrastructure, part of Elevate, a $500 million program to accommodate passenger growth and the largest capital expansion initiative for a small hub airport in the country. These investments include:

  • Concourse A expansion, a $110 million project to accommodate passenger growth. Phase 1 opened to the public on June 16, the concourse added eight new gates, expanded gate space to accommodate larger aircraft and introduced new concession and retail concepts, among other amenities.
  • Federal inspection station, which will enable the Airport to offer nonstop international commercial passenger flights in the future.
  • Consolidated rental car facility, a $156 million project that will offer additional transportation accommodations to travelers visiting West Michigan and include an enclosed walkway from the terminal. This project broke ground in May 2023 with an expected completion date in 2025.
  • Air traffic control tower relocation, with siting efforts completed, this project will now transition to the design phase in 2023.
  • Additional parking capacity to accommodate increased guest traffic.
  • Terminal enhancement project, which is a proposed plan to further extend the front of the terminal to add a checked baggage inspection system to streamline the post-ticketcounter journey for baggage, decrease processing time and increase capacity.

Solar Power: Small businesses, non-profits turning to solar to meet needs, bottom line

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Recycling, West Michigan
In August 2020, WKTV Community Media converted to solar power with 252 solar panels generating enough electricity to power 17 homes. (WKTV)




By K.D. Norris

WKTV Contributor



Individual homeowners seeing the advantages of solar energy, both financially and socially, is not new. Often, big industry, and big electric suppliers such as Michigan’s Consumer Energy, are “all in” on solar power and have the large-scale fields to prove it.

But for small to medium businesses looking at their bottomline, and non-profits looking to have their financial resources better spent, turning to solar has to make dollars and sense.

And more and more it is a viable option — financially and socially — for medium sized businesses such as Southwest Michigan’s Lakeshore Die Cast, Inc., Grand Rapids non-profit Hope Network and even WKTV Journal’s Wyoming home at WKTV Community Media.


“Sunrise Over Solar” at Lakeshore Die Cast, Inc.. (Courtesy, Lakeshore Die Cast, Inc.)




Adam Schaller, vice president and day-to-day manager of the Schaller family-owned Lakeshore Die Cast of Baroda, told WKTV that the financial opportunities presented by his business going significantly solar was first and foremost a business decision.

But he and the business — employing 20-30 employees, and producing aluminum and zinc die castings — also are looking to the future as well as the bottomline.

“Sustainability and resilience are important to our company and us,” Schaller said. “As a generational business we think in larger term time scales and if there is some chance we are affecting the climate for future generations we should err on the side of caution and do what we can to leave the world a better place for future generations.”

Lakeshore Die Cast began its effort to go solar in 2019 and now has two solar installations, a 150 Kilowatt (kW) electric power producing array completed in 2020 and a 1.25 megawatt (MW) array completed in 2022.

“The installations take almost zero maintenance, aside from cutting the grass around them which I was doing anyway,” Schaller said. “They work when it’s cloudy and all year long.”



Lakeshore Die Cast’s solar field in Baroda, Mich., from summer 2022. (Courtesy, Lakeshore Die Cast, Inc.)




The amount of energy arrays such as Lakeshore Die Cast’s will generate is “well known,” Schaller said, and the NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) has a calculator (https://pvwatts.nrel.gov/) where businesses can figure out how much a proposed array will generate.


The installer on both of Lakeshore Die Cast’s projects was Harvest Solar in Jackson, Mich.

“They did a great job on both projects with helping me understand and connect with people to figure out how to get projects of the size that I have installed,” Schaller said.

Non-profit organizations seeing solar advantages, too

Hope Network, through its own vision and a $3,655,547 grant from the State of Michigan, also is planning a solar future through its Solar PV and Battery Storage project.

The locally-based charitable non-profit “strives to provide educational, spiritual and healthcare assistance to high-need individuals and communities throughout Michigan,” according to its Jan. 5, 2023 grant application

“Unfortunately, Hope Network doesn’t always have the infrastructure to support their charitable operations,” according to the grant application. 

Hope Network’s Lowell location is an approximately 100,000 square-foot campus home to 50 individuals, and the administration is “burdened” with high energy costs and power outages “largely due to their antiquated equipment.” Currently, the campus utilizes 248,800 kWh of energy annually, and all of it is purchased through Consumers Energy. 

“This contributes to exorbitant energy costs,” according to the grant application, but the project is expected to “reduce energy costs, uphold energy security, and nearly eliminate carbon emissions.”

In 2022, Hope Network hired Johnson Controls to provide a preliminary study about the financial and environmental impacts of installing solar PV and battery storage. The study reported the potential cost savings to be nearly $790,000 in electric bill savings over 25 years. It would also decrease carbon emissions by 284,057 pounds annually, roughly a 99 percent reduction.

“We will use operational savings to expand community-based programming to serve our area,” according to the grant application. “A dollar that we save through this solar project is a dollar that we will reinvest back into our community through increasing supportive services, continuously improving our infrastructure, and expanding our educational offerings.”


Solar boxes at WKTV at 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW Wyoming. (WKTV)


WKTV becomes a solar powered facility

WKTV Community Media, its office as well as its broadcast operation, is now a literal solar powered facility with the majority of its energy being supplied by solar. The non-profit has 252 panels on its roof and with the advancement in solar technology, panels are now able to even generate power in full moonlight.

Since its solar installation in September, 2020, WKTV has saved 463,641.59 lbs. in emissions, equivalent to planting 3,503 trees. WKTV is expected to see a return on investment in 10 years.


Solar panels atop the WKTV roof at 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW Wyoming.(WKTV)



“Since 1974, WKTV has been a leader in our community,” said Tom Norton, WKTV General Manager. “The technological availability of renewable energy is a perfect fit for our organization, and is a great example of our commitment to our community.”

Solar a big part of energy providers’ future

The move to expanded solar power generation and use, on a statewide scale, is led by the state’s largest energy supplier, Consumers Energy, which currently has three large-scale “solar gardens,” one at Western Michigan University, one at Grand Valley State University, and one in Cadillac.

“Consumers Energy is all-in on solar,” Josh Paciorek, Consumers Energy spokesperson, said to WKTV. “We’re adding more clean, renewable, solar-generated electricity for Michigan as part of our Clean Energy Plan. In addition to its environmental benefits, solar is increasingly cost competitive with other fuel sources.”

Consumers Energy currently generates about 4 percent of its energy from solar, Paciorek said. But “as part of our clean energy plan, you’re going to see an aggressive increase of solar generation between now and 2040 … we’re also seeing more and more of an interest in solar from customers.”

The City of Grand Rapids is one customer. The city installed solar at their Water Filtration Plant, and according to Paciorek the reasons were twofold: it made financial sense and it’s part of an effort to power the city with clean energy. 

Finding solar financing; finding grants

While Hope Network is starting its solar energy journey through a state grant, Lakeshore Die Cast needed a business partner to go solar. Enter Michigan Saves, which states it is  “the nation’s first nonprofit green bank.”

Michigan Saves, based out of Lansing, “is dedicated to making clean energy improvements easier for all Michigan consumers,” Lateshia Parker, Michigan Saves director of marketing and communications, said to WKTV. “Through affordable financing and other incentives, Michigan Saves connects borrowers to a network of skilled contractors for energy efficiency, geothermal and solar installation projects.”

From 2010 through June 2023, Michigan Saves has financed 1,714 solar projects, with 1,681 being residential and 33 commercial, according to Parker.

“Michigan Saves believes an equitable transition to a carbon-free Michigan where everyone has access to the benefits of clean energy and climate-resilient solutions is possible,” Parker said.

The Hope Network’s state grant was part of a $50 million series of low-carbon energy infrastructure enhancement and development grants approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission and announced in June of this year.

Another Grand Rapids area organization receiving a grant was $5 million to Kent County for its Kent County Bioenergy Facility at the Kent County Sustainable Business Park in south Kent County.


(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



Buy-back rules, battery issues and more

There are two ways individuals, and small businesses and non-profits, can partner with Consumer Energy to turn to solar: the Solar Gardens enrollment program and the Distributed Generation program.

According to Consumer Energy’s Paciorek, customers who enroll in Solar Gardens pay about $10 a month to support solar projects and receive bill credits based on electricity generated by the gardens.

Many residential and business customers, however, use their solar power investments to “sell back” unused energy to Consumers Energy through its Distributed Generation program.

“When customers become part of the Distributed Generation (DG) program, the energy they generate will decrease their need to buy electricity from us, and we will also credit them for any extra energy they produce,” Paciorek said. “It’s good for the planet, and their energy budget, too. I’d note that we recently voluntarily doubled the size of our DG program.”

At Lakeshore Die Cast, which uses Indiana Michigan Power as its electric supplier, Schaller is comfortable with the current buy-and-sell power contract with his power company. But he wished there were better technology to allow him to store generated power as well.

“We operate on a standard tariff agreement with them where we buy inflow power we need and sell back extra power we make at wholesale market pricing,” Schaller said. But “we do not have any battery storage capability at this time. While there have been some large utility batteries installed in other places in the county, there isn’t much in the way of commercial sized battery installations in the market yet.”

For more information about Lakeshore Die Cast Inc., visit lakeshorediecast.com.

For more information about Michigan Saves, visit michigansaves.org.

  

Local poet Becci Schumaker overcomes adversity, finds solace and healing in the written word

3-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, West Michigan, , , , ,
Throughout her life, Becci Schumaker found solace in poetry (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Grand Rapids resident and poet Becci Schumaker has always been drawn to words and the power within them – so she made words her refuge during difficult times.

Though she classifies herself as an introvert and a loner, Schumaker’s soft voice and kind countenance are the hallmark of a woman who navigated hardships and reached her dreams despite opposition.

Writing poetry was one of those dreams.

Falling in love with words

Becci Schumaker looks through her collection of poems (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“I love working with words,” said Schumaker. “I think words are fascinating. Words can be serene but they can be powerful, they can be enigmatic. It just opens up a whole new world.”

Writing poetry has been part of Schumaker’s world since she was 12 years old.

Coming from an emotionally and physically abusive family background, Schumaker immersed herself in reading and writing to escape the real world.

“It was a means of escape for me,” Schumaker said as she gently touched a binder containing several pages of her written works. “That was my safe place.”

Overcoming struggles and hardship

Words did not come easily for Schumaker at first.

In first grade, a teacher noticed Schumaker struggled with reading and provided extra instruction. By third grade Schumaker was reading college-level works.

“I haven’t stopped reading since,” said Schumaker with a smile.

Young Schumacher was immediately drawn to the genre of poetry, the words and prose a direct contrast to her hostile home environment.


Becci Schumaker’s poems have been published in several compilation poetry books (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Schumaker said she is grateful for the stable presence of an aunt and uncle with whom she spent summers while growing up.

“If it wasn’t for me having that Christian background through them, and getting my morals and values of what a good person is supposed to be, I don’t know if I would have even done this,” said Schumaker, touching the stack of poetry books in front of her.

Schumaker later took an evening American Literature class, writing a short story that her teacher urged her to publish.

However, Schumaker had to put her writing on hold as she focused on raising her four children, working two jobs for several years to support her family.

Reigniting the flame

Meeting her husband Don reignited Schumaker’s creative spirit, and she once again picked up her pen and put it to paper.

“I’ve actually woken my husband up in the middle of the night, jumping out of bed to grab pencil and paper and start writing,” said Schumaker with a grin.

“I will get a thought and will have to write,” Schumaker continued. “Nine times out of ten, the result is a poem.”

When she noticed an ad about submitting original poems to a poetry contest, Schumaker thought she would give it a try. “I Love You Lord” became Schumaker’s first published work of poetry, printed in 1997 under the name Becci Campbell. The poem was included in a Poetry Guild compilation titled By the Light of the Moon.

Everything around Schumaker inspires her writing.

At church, the pastor’s words sparked Schumaker’s imagination and she completed a poem within minutes titled “The Trinity,” now published in Forever Spoken.

Challenged by her husband to write a poem about something as ordinary as a card game, Schumaker immediately put pen to paper. The subsequent poem, “Cards,” can be found in the poetry book Memories of Tomorrow.

With several published works under her belt – the most recent being Schumaker’s poem titled “Carpet of White” in 2022 – the local poet continues to write.

Submission of her poem “The Lonely Man” is next for Schumaker’s publication goals. The poem stems from personal experience of her husband’s struggle with rehab and the beginnings of dementia.

A legacy of words

Becci Schumaker reads one of her poems aloud (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

When asked how many poems she has written over her lifetime, Schumaker responded, “Oh gosh, probably hundreds and hundreds.”

When asked if she ever threw one of her written works away, Schumaker quickly replied, “I keep them all. Even if I don’t think it’s good, I’ll fold it up and tuck it away somewhere. Maybe someday I’ll go back to it, and reread it, and write it a different way.”

Though she loves poems, Schumaker said her main reading genre is science fiction, and her favorite movies are “ones that put you on the edge of your seat.”

Schumaker freely acknowledges the incongruity between the lighter, lyrical prose of her written works and the darker genres of her favorite movies.

“Even though I like those kinds of movies, [poetry] is my stress relief, my go-to outlet that brings me into the light,” said Schumaker, looking at the binder of poetry. “This is my sanity.”

A powerful responsibility

The power that words contain is always at the forefront of Schumaker’s mind, especially words wielded with harmful intent.

“People don’t realize words really do hurt,” said Schumaker, admitting that, at 71 years old, she still struggles with hurtful things spoken to her as a child. “The scars are there forever.”

“I have had to survive on my own since I was sixteen,” Schumaker continued. “You learn about life. That’s what a lot of this writing is.”

The poet regularly encourages people to carry a notebook and write down any idea that comes to them.

“You never know what’s going to come of it,” said Schumaker, gesturing toward her own poems laid out before her.

Staying active and looking ahead

Along with writing, Schumaker stays active by participating in mission trips with her church and volunteering for WKTV Community Media.

“I’ve got to be doing something, and this gave me an outlet,” said Schumaker about WKTV, adding that she fell in love with the camera work at the station.

When asked what is next for the active poet, Schumaker shrugged. “From here, we’ll see what life brings,” she said with a smile.

Care Resources helps older adults enjoy health and wellness activities in Day Center and at home

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan
Participant Janice smiles as she looks at produce growing in a raised garden bed. As a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE, Care Resources utilizes a holistic approach in developing a comprehensive care plan unique to the physical, mental, emotional and social needs of each participant.(Courtesy, Care Resources)



By Care Resources


“If you don’t use it, you lose it.”

So says Garth Falkins, a recreational therapy manager for Care Resources, addressing not only the services Care Resources provides older adults at its Day Center at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, but also what activities it can help those same participants enjoy in their own homes.

Care Resources is a community-based program for qualifying adults 55 years and older that promotes healthy independent living – physically, socially and emotionally – to help prevent nursing home placement.

“Our ultimate goal,” says Falkins, who’s been in place at Care Resources since 2006, “is to keep people at home and provide health and wellness options to them and their families throughout their lifespan. While they may end up in skilled nursing care, our goal is to keep them out for as long as possible.”

So, what does that look like?

  1. Exercise: A physical or occupational therapist might develop in-home exercise routines for participants to do alongside therapy or restorative programs in the Day Center. These might include stretches and other activities designed to improve flexibility, range of motion, cardiovascular health and handling the daily affairs of living.
  1. Nutrition: Care Resources provides access to dieticians who can provide education on balanced diets and eating habits within their homes. This may include tips on how to purchase and prepare food to improve the nutritional value of meals.
  1. Socialization: Care Resources assesses social needs and abilities within the home in order to make recommendations about out-of-home social opportunities available through the Day Center or other community sources. Technology also can be used to provide in-home activities such as listening to music or audiobooks, playing digital games and more.

“Our interdisciplinary team clinicians go in and assess a person’s need, and we go from there,” Falkins says. “We cover all the disciplines: physicians, therapy, nursing, dieticians, nursing and social work, to name a few.”

That includes communicating with participants by video chat, or setting them up with others who have like interests and are able to connect digitally.

“We want to increase their activity levels, and there is no limit.”

Falkins also notes that health and wellness goals are established early on, during the standard intake process that helps the organization gauge participants’ financials, their living conditions – “anything that helps us create a unique program specifically tailored to their needs” – taking into account beliefs, physical abilities, cognition, emotional needs, medical needs, etc.

“From a social standpoint, we rely on our assessments to build our Day Center calendars and activity programs for when participants visit us, but also look at potential interventions that we can add or put into their home to continue to socialize and enjoy high quality of life,” Falkins says. “This can include arts and crafts, experiences revolving around horticulture, religious activities, movies, music and more.”

Falkins stresses that Care Resources employees work as a team to accomplish this, relying on one another to take note of things a person enjoys, then “work together to create the best plan and programs to meet a person’s needs.”

The result?

“In the end, our participants are experiencing an increased sense of belonging,” Falkins says. “We’re enhancing their mental health as well as their physical health, and improving quality of life for them and for their loved ones.

“We’re bringing healthy alternatives into an environment they know to be comfortable and safe. In doing so, we’re keeping them happy and healthy in their homes, a place all of us want to remain for as long as we possibly can.”

More information about Care Resources is available at CareResources.org.


Kentwood to Host Food Truck Festival on Sept. 9 featuring 30 food trucks, live music and a beer tent

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Local Food, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


The City of Kentwood and GR8 Food Trucks are partnering to host the summer’s second Food Truck Festival with more than 30 food trucks, live music and a beer tent for community members to enjoy.

The free-to-attend community event will run 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9 in the parking lot of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard. L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.

“We look forward to inviting the community to gather and experience delicious food and drinks from local vendors and great sounds from local musicians,” said Kentwood Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo. “Whether you’re looking for a refreshing beverage, remarkable food or upbeat music, we have something for everyone to enjoy.”

 
 

(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



There will be a wide variety of food options available for purchase. Prices will vary by vendor. Participating food trucks include:



“This event gives our local food trucks a fantastic opportunity to show the community their delightful drinks and delicious dishes,” said Alan Tomlinson, president of GR8 Food Trucks. “We’re looking forward to a day filled of community and cuisine.”

Live music will start at 11 a.m. with Nathan Walton, followed by DJ Snax, Thirsty Perch Blues Band and Innuendo. Attendees will hear everything from soul and blues to rock and hip hop.

This year’s diamond sponsors are Macatawa Bank and NN Autocam.

There is construction along 52nd Street SE that may impact the route community members take to the event. A detour map is available here and a parking map is available here.

For the latest event information, visit kentwood.us/FoodTruckFestival.

Arbor Circle receives grant from Steelcase Foundation in support of children’s mental health

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Arbor Circle teams up with Steelcase Foundation in a common goal to help West Michigan communities (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Arbor Circle works to remove barriers and meet the mental health needs of children, their parents, and their caregivers (Courtesy, Arbor Circle)

Arbor Circle is celebrating a recent $100,000 grant from Steelcase Foundation in support of a 2-year project focused on mental health support for children and families.

As communities continue to recover from the ongoing effects of the pandemic, isolation and lack of consistency has had a significant impact on the social and emotional development of children. The last few years have spotlighted several inequities.

The impact of the pandemic on social determinants of health paired with access to resources such as housing, employment, healthcare, and education have created major challenges and disruptions in the lives of families – specifically communities of color and those in poverty.

Help is on the way

One of Michigan’s most comprehensive providers of mental health counseling, substance use treatment, and family services, Arbor Circle serves thousands of individuals and families each year. With deep roots in West Michigan, Arbor Circle collaborates with local resources to address needs in the community.

Steelcase Foundation connects resources with people by providing grants to nonprofit organizations focused on cultivating thriving communities through education and quality learning experiences.

Together, these two organizations have a common goal.

Removing barriers for a healthier life

Arbor Circle works to remove barriers and meet the mental health needs of children, their parents and caregivers where they are.

A variety of support services will be delivered to the community through the grant (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com

The Steelcase Foundation funds will support services throughout the community, including skill building for parents and caregivers, support for children in meeting both developmental and educational milestones, and specialized mental health support.

“We are deeply grateful to partner with The Steelcase Foundation in this way, and are honored to work together in ensuring that children and families have the tools they need to thrive,” said Kristin Gietzen, President and CEO of Arbor Circle. “We are energized by this support and see great potential in the multi-generational and community-focused approach woven into this project.”

To learn more about Arbor Circle’s children and family services, visit https://arborcircle.org/help/children-families/.

374K without power in Michigan after severe storms – safety tips for weathering a power outage

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Utility companies work to restore power to over 374K customers after severe storms sweep through Michigan (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Widespread damage extends over Michigan after severe storms and suspected tornados tear across the state on Aug. 25.

75-mph winds left 374,000 Michigan utility customers without power on Friday, Aug. 25, from Grand Rapids to the southeast side of the state.

The storm damaged structures, took down trees and power lines, and resulted in closed roads for several hours.

The Grand Rapids National Weather Service reported that officials will be in the field Friday to conduct damage surveys on tornadoes suspected in central Kent County and northeast Ingham County.

Consumers Energy and DTE Energy have reported that crews are out and working to restore power.

What to do until power is restored

Storms took down trees, power lines, and damaged structures (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Power outages can cause food spoilage, water contamination, disrupt communication and transportation, and prevent use of medical devices. Loss of power can also restrict consumer access to ATMs, banks, grocery stores, and other services.

Here are some safety tips provided by ready.gov in case of power outage:

  • Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you, and go to a community location with power if heat or cold is extreme.
  • Keep freezers and refrigerators closed to prevent food spoilage.
  • Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
  • Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges – power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.
  • Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
  • Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

Generators can be helpful when the power goes out, but it is important to know how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and other hazards.

  • Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.
  • Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you, your family and pets.
  • Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.
  • Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
  • Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Follow US National Weather Service Grand Rapids Michigan for continual updates.