At the young age of seven, Samantha Perry was a “lucky” traveler on a small private plane which made a lasting impression.
“My dad was working for a fastener company and a large automotive organization needed an emergency part that was causing a production outage, and his company rented a small private plane to fly him from Michigan to Chicago to get the required part,” said Perry, who is on GE Aerospace’s cybersecurity team and president of the Great Lakes Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI). “It was because I tagged along with him in that plane that I caught the ‘bug’ for aviation, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
“While open to all genders, our initiative is designed to expose school-aged females to the aviation industry and spark inspiration about the career opportunities available in aerospace.”
Since becoming president, Perry’s highlights have included bringing Girls in Aviation Day back to Grand Rapids, expanding the chapter board to increase collaboration, and creating strong partnerships with other midwest WAI chapters (and partner organizations) to expand the reach of their professional network.
“Many Women in Aviation International Chapters across the globe host a Girls in Aviation Day event,” Perry said. “The Great Lakes Chapter has held about seven events since inception. However, this is our second year hosting the event with capacity to facilitate larger-scale attendance.”
Girls in Aviation Day set for Sept. 20 at Avflight. (Courtesy, Luke K/PistonFly)
Girls in Aviation Day Details
Time/Date: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20 Location: AVFLIGHT, 4211 Cassard Ln., Grand Rapids Featuring: –Stem activities –Themed crafts –Static displays –Airfield tours –Scavenger hunts
The Mission
“Women in Aviation International is the largest nonprofit organization that envisions a world where the sky is open to all, and where aviation and aerospace dreams are possible without barriers,” said Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “The WAI Great Lakes Chapter is building an inclusive, diverse and global aviation and aerospace industry – starting here in the Great Lakes Region.”
Members vary in age and career stage, from high school senior to retirees.
“In our chapter, some members are corporate pilots (business jets), some are airline pilots, some are certified flight instructors,” explained Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “We have some non-flying occupations too, including, aircraft mechanics, airport operations officers, flight dispatch personnel, trip schedulers, line technicians, aircraft management staff, aviation authors, avionics manufacturers, aerospace engineers, FAA employees, and more.”
“Goal is to increase female representation”
“There is a significant gender gap in most aspects of aviation, and our goal is to increase the female representation in all aerospace occupations. While there are certain aspects of aviation that have larger female populations (flight attendants, for example), other occupations (engineering and maintenance, for example) could benefit from increased diversity.”
Tuyen has been missing since Aug. 10, 2025, and her disappearance was just recently reported to police. She is considered at risk due to likely not having access to medication prescribed to her.
Tuyen is an Asian female with black hair and brown eyes. She stands approximately 5 feet tall with a slim build.
Tuyen was last seen in the area of Clyde Park Avenue and 32nd Street SW. She does not have access to a vehicle and would likely be walking. No description of her clothing is available, and a recent picture of her is featured at the beginning of this article. Her intended destination is unknown.
Wyoming Police continue to search for Tuyen and are requesting assistance from the public.
Anyone who may have seen Tuyen since Aug. 10 or who might have information regarding her whereabouts is asked to contact the Wyoming Police Department at 616-530-7300, Detective Ana Armstrong at 616-530-7332, or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
Twenty-five representatives from various organizations gathered at Neland Avenue Church to collaborate and share about local efforts to safeguard our youth (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Jennifer Franson, Founder and Executive Director of iCI Nation (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Wyoming resident and founder of iCI Nation, Jennifer Franson, is dedicated to strengthening communities by building relationships and trust between local police and community members. This mission is achieved through the work of iCI Nation on a daily basis.
Franson hosted an informal meet and greet in August with Kent County Juvenile Services (KCJS), the Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) South Service Area and various nonprofit organizations in the South Service Area.
The idea was born from an iCI Nation Lunch N Learn event in March featuring KCJS and the GRPD.
“I learned about Juvenile Services and how they are changing their system, looking to be much more reformative with kids, and looking to change and work with the community in new ways,” said Franson.
Knowing KCJS staff would benefit from knowing more about resources and nonprofits already available in the community, Franson began doing what she does best – forging connections.
“We want them to be able to learn about all of you,” Franson said during the meet and greet introduction, “but also, we’re going to learn about each other. If nothing else, this is encouraging for us to see and learn all the good that’s happening in our city.”
Creating partnerships
Twenty-five representatives from various organizations gathered at Neland Avenue Church to collaborate and share about local efforts to safeguard our youth.
“We are all here because we are all protecting and serving the city,” said Franson. “You guys are invested physically, mentally [and] financially in protecting and serving the city.”
Awareness of community resources allows for multiple avenues of reform (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Jana Forner, Captain of the Grand Rapids Police East Service Area, echoed Franson’s sentiments, saying that being aware of services available in the community helps law enforcement determine whether a situation is best resolved with reformatory action, connections to resources or enforcement action.
“Bringing everyone together regularly helps you serve the community, us serve the community, and then create partnerships to help our communities,” said Forner. “In this case, juvenile justice. This is just the first step in making sure we all can collaborate now and in the future.”
Intentional and focused efforts
Chris Burgess, Community Probation Supervisor for Kent County, highlighted several areas of reform currently happening in the court system due to juvenile justice reform legislation passed in 2023 by the Michigan State Legislature. The legislation gave courts increased opportunities to incorporate community-based services that are research-driven, evidence-based and culturally appropriate.
Intentional programming and positive interactions help keep youth on the right path (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
“Programs that qualify underneath those different labels and documents are really what the state is looking for to evolve our kids in the community and provide rehabilitative services and potential alternatives for those kids so that we don’t keep them in detention,” said Burgess.
The court’s efforts have become much more intentional and focused on putting forward principles and programming that generate quality interactions and help youth build skills to cope with certain aspects of life, find resources, navigate the decision-making process and be solution-oriented.
After-school and evening programming that provide positive activities and interactions are essential to helping youth stay on the right path.
(Left to right) Chris Burgess, Frank Briones, Sandra Vanderhyde and Cara Lemmen (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Frank Briones, Program Director for Kent County Juvenile Services, develops this programming through collaborations and partnerships with community businesses and organizations. But developing relationships with our youth, Briones said, is the most essential component.
“Trust, rapport, and respect is big for us in building those relationships with our kids. Having that trust, having that rapport is huge.”
Protecting and serving…together
Building relationships and trust, Franson said, is vital for any reform to be successful.
“This is our government partnering with you because they want to better serve everybody and call out the value in everybody – even our troubled youth,” said Franson. “The system isn’t perfect, but we’re here and excited to partner with them.”
Building relationships and trust is vital in generating change (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Among those looking to provide positive life-changing resources and programming and help eliminate barriers for youth were representatives from several local nonprofits.
Information and resources offered by these nonprofits can be found at the links below:
GRPD Captain Jana Forner (left), Jenn Franson and Amanda Afman (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
For Franson, the identity of a city is not one of perfection.
Looking at event participants, Franson said, “It’s this. It’s people who [say]: ‘We are a community, we’re a family and we’re going to do what we can, even sacrifice ourselves, our time, our talents, our treasures to benefit the city and everybody.’
“This really calls out the value of everyone…and I thank you all for protecting and serving together to make this city great.”
West Michigan is experiencing a new landmark in hospitality with the grand opening of Villa Bar & Banquet and its exclusive downstairs venue, The Dungeon (Courtesy, WKTV)
West Michigan is experiencing a new landmark in hospitality with the grand opening of Villa Bar & Banquet and its exclusive downstairs venue, The Dungeon.
The official celebration began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in partnership with the Grand Rapids Chamber and the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 3594 Chicago Drive SW in Grandville. The public grand opening was held Friday, Aug. 29.
Owners Manoj Mulki and Nina Mahesh have transformed the venue into a world-class destination while honoring its legacy (Courtesy, WKTV)
Reimagined and transformed
Formerly home to the beloved GrandVilla Restaurant which closed in 2020, the property has been reimagined through a multi-million-dollar, three-year renovation. Owners Manoj Mulki and Nina Mahesh have transformed the venue into a world-class destination for events and entertainment while honoring its legacy by reviving the name The Dungeon for its lower-level bar and lounge.
“Our vision was to create a venue that blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication,” said co-owner Manoj Mulki. “Villa Bar & Banquet is more than just a space—it’s an experience where people can gather, celebrate and create memories that last a lifetime.”
Villa Bar & Banquet: Elegance Elevated
With the ability to host seated events for up to 300 guests, Villa Bar & Banquet is designed for weddings, corporate galas, cultural celebrations and milestone occasions. Guests will enjoy ample complimentary parking, elevated décor and an ambiance that seamlessly blends warmth with luxury.
Villa Bar & Banquet will set the stage for unforgettable gatherings (Courtesy, WKTV)
Every detail has been carefully curated to set the stage for unforgettable gatherings.
The Dungeon: A Speakeasy Reimagined
Descending into The Dungeon, guests are transported into a sultry speakeasy atmosphere where locally sourced flavors, a custom mixology program and immersive design come together. With its mysterious yet refined vibe, The Dungeon promises an unmatched nightlife experience.
The Dungeon promises an unmatched nightlife experience (Courtesy, WKTV)
The lounge will be open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, offering both locals and visitors a destination unlike anything else in the region.
Nearly 65,000 children in West Michigan are at risk of hunger. Roughly 834 school buses filled with kids are dropped off at home each weekend with a risk of having little to no food for 68 hours.
Local officials, volunteers, Hand2Hand staff and Consumers Energy representatives all gathered to celebrate the new electric van donated by Consumers Energy (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Local nonprofit, Hand2Hand, works to eliminate that 68-hour gap by mobilizing schools, churches, organizations and individuals to provide a backpack of nutritious food over the weekend and extended school breaks. Food sent home consists of breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner items and often a recipe card.
Consumers Energy recently donated a new all-electric van to Hand2Hand through their electric vehicle program to assist in the nonprofit’s food deliveries.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
On Aug. 26, Hand2Hand celebrated the EVan (aptly christened Evan) donation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and volunteer food packing event – the first packing event of the 2025-26 school year.
Jeff Myrom, Director of Electric Transportation Customer Programs at Consumers Energy, said the van went to a great cause. “Helping kids who need more food, more nutrition, so they have successful lives is incredibly important.”
A mission of hope
Jodi Joseph talks about the impact and hope Hand2Hand food bags give local children in need (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Beyond physical nutrition, the Hand2Hand food provides hope for students experiencing hunger.
“If we can nourish that student through the weekend, then they can come to school ready to learn,” said Hand2Hand Executive Director Jodi Joseph. “They can know that there is a community here that sees them, that cares for them; it’s more than just food.”
This year, Hand2Hand will serve up to 15,000 students in 280 schools throughout 45 school districts in West Michigan.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt, Superintendent of Hudsonville Public Schools and Hand2Hand board member, attended Sandy Hill Elementary where Hand2Hand first began serving 19 students in 2008.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt talks about the community need for food assistance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Our kids have a lot of access to things, but there are families that are in need,” said VanderJagt, adding that nearly one hundred students are considered homeless in Hudsonville.
“Watching our students [receive the backpacks], their eyes light up…it impacts them more than you’ll ever know.”
Hand2Hand recognizes that every family’s story is different, with some families signing up for a short time while others sign up for longer. No matter the time frame or reason for the need, the nonprofit exercises discretion regarding student/family identities with each bag discreetly placed in student lockers without volunteers ever knowing student names.
A mission of efficiency
Jeff Myrom talks about Consumers Energy’s electric vehicle initiatives (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Evan the EVan” is the second all-electric van donated by Consumers Energy, with an anticipated 22 more to be donated across West Michigan over the next year and a half.
“As part of PowerMIFleet, we’ve been looking for fleets that serve income-qualified customers,” said Myrom, adding that electric vehicles cost approximately half per mile to operate than a gasoline vehicle.
“We’ve dedicated some funding to ensure that we can help them purchase those vehicles and the charging infrastructure that they need, so they can continue to operate as efficiently as possible.”
Myrom went on to say that the mission of Hand2Hand stood out to the Consumers Energy community affairs team for multiple reasons.
“The kids are excited to take those backpacks home, they love having the food on the weekends…and that’s just a win for everyone,” said Myrom.
“And when those kids also get to see an electric vehicle and understand the technology of the future, we hope it inspires them and keeps them on their journey as they continue to learn.”
It takes a village
Joseph said Hand2Hand is grateful to be part of the Consumers Energy electric vehicle initiative.
Hunger exists in every community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We cannot do this work without having a fleet, without having the tools that we need to do the work,” said Joseph. “By adding this van, it increases our fleet by 50%.
Joseph went on to say that Hand2Hand will serve any school, no matter the number of students in need.
“Hunger exists in every community; it doesn’t matter the zip code,” said Joseph. “We go into a school if there is one student that needs [help], or we go into a school that has 400 students that need it. We really concentrate on the student.”
While the Hand2Hand staff numbers 22, over 4,000 people help fulfill the nonprofit’s mission.
“We really couldn’t do this without the entire community helping us,” said Joseph.
Over 4,000 volunteers help make Hand2Hand’s mission a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Community support is vital to making Hand2Hand’s mission a success (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Ottawa and Kent counties are Hand2Hand’s largest distribution areas.
“We couldn’t even wash the van today for the ribbon-cutting because it was out in the field, it was already out delivering food,” said Joseph. “That’s just a testament to how this van is really going to bless our community and our families and our kids.”
Hand2Hand is expanding to the Forest Hills school district this year, as well as adding more students in their current school districts.
How you can help!
Community packing events take place each week. Volunteers are welcome and can find more information on the Hand2Hand website.
Food packing events happen weekly to ensure students have enough food (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
And while it takes volunteers to do the work, Joseph said, it also takes finances.
Those wishing to donate to Hand2Hand can do so online and also via Venmo. Those who wish to visit the Hand2Hand building with a check and a friendly hello are also welcome.
“We know the work that we’re doing here is impactful. It’s making a tremendous difference,” said Joseph.
Consumers Energy EV resources
Those thinking about obtaining an electric vehicle can visit consumersenergy.com/EV details and rebate offers. Businesses considering an electric vehicle for their fleet can reach out to PowerMIFleet at consumersenergy.com for rebates and professional guidance.
EVs operate at half the cost per mile of a gasoline vehicle (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City of Kentwood is inviting community members of all ages to The Vibe set for Thursday, Sept. 11. It’s the ninth annual celebration and fundraiser to further enhance Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs.
The backyard party will run from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Kentwood Library Courtyard – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. It will include food, cocktails, live DJ, a silent auction, giving wall and more.
The evening also will feature guest speaker Bill Barkeley, who is a deaf-blind adventurer, motivational speaker and advocate living with Usher’s Syndrome – a rare condition that causes progressive hearing and vision loss.
Community members are encouraged to dress casually for the event. Tickets are $45 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 through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.
As a co-founder of No Barriers USA, he has led and participated in life changing expeditions around the world. Expeditions include climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, hiking the Camino de Santiago and completing the Boston Marathon as the first deaf-blind runner. Bill works globally to inspire individuals of all abilities to overcome barriers; his presentations challenge audiences to build a life without limits through resilience, innovation and community.
“Bill Barkeley is a true inspiration and champion for adaptive recreation,” said Val Romeo, Parks and Recreation director. “We’re proud to welcome him to Kentwood and look forward to the insight and encouragement he’ll share with our community.”
Kentwood’s The Vibe fundraiser. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Event Schedule:
6 p.m. – Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, mingle and browse silent auction and giving wall
6:30 p.m. – Mayor Kepley and City staff speak
6:40. p.m. – Check presentation by Mary Free Bed Orthotics, Prosthetics and Bionics for the Limb Loss Awareness 5k
6:45 p.m. – Guest speaker Bill Barkeley
7 p.m. – Dinner, entertainment, desserts, cocktails, bid on silent auction and the giving wall
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.
“Our goal is to offer something for everyone,” said Shelby Henshaw, Kentwood’s Facilities Operations Supervisor. “By adapting activities to meet different needs, we help individuals safely engage, socialize and gain new skills in a supportive environment.”
The Giving Wall at The Vibe Fundraiser 2024. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming alongside several community partners. Programs also are made possible thanks to the help of a strong volunteer network.
Kathy Fletcher, mother of April, a program participant who has Spina Bifida, spoke on their experience with the adaptive programs: “Kentwood programs allow her to do the activity, but they don’t do it all for her. The fact that she recognizes that she can do something, she is not limited by her chair.” Her daughter, April Fletcher, added that she “likes to go fast, because it’s fun and they don’t have to just hang out in the wheelchair.”
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.
Former WKTV intern and aspiring filmmaker Alex Bernhardt makes waves with his work on Roger Rapoport’s recently released World War II film, “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Real world experience definitely counts along with a college degree.
After graduating in 2022 from Ferris State University with a degree in television and digital media production, Alex Bernhardt worked an internship at WKTV Community Media.
Hands-on experiences as a WKTV intern
Alex Bernhardt honed several skills during his internship at WKTV (Courtesy, Alex Bernhardt)
He worked in many WKTV departments alongside Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director, and Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director/GM.
Bernhardt filmed and edited for many WKTV programs, including Friday Night Highlights, featuring local high school basketball. He also created videos for WKTV Journal stories, handled a portion of general news reporting and interviewing, promotional and sponsor events, and assisted with a documentary.
While at WKTV, Bernhardt became comfortable going to a location, setting up a camera, putting microphones on people, adjusting lighting for maximum exposure and learning how to deal with the ins and outs of video production.
“I really enjoy editing,” said Bernhardt, noting stringing together footage, reviewing it and putting it together represents his strongest work.
First stop at WWMT in Kalamazoo
His WKTV internship, especially becoming comfortable with a camera, along with his college education of course, helped Bernhardt land his first professional job at WWMT News Channel 3 as a videographer/news editor.
“A lot of the day-to-day news coverage I would end up doing helped me prepare for that position,” Bernhardt said.
After leaving WWMT in July 2024, Bernhardt moved back to his hometown of Muskegon and joined his family to work at The Corner, an innovative community center in downtown Muskegon in a former church building. Many organizations and groups rent the renovated space (www.facebook.com/thecornermkg/) and his two entrepreneurial sisters operate small businesses from the facility.
Enter Roger Rapoport and “Old Heart”
Roger D. Rapoport, author, movie producer, activist, journalist. (Courtesy, photo)
Bernhardt connected with Roger D. Rapoport, a family friend and successful writer and publisher and now an independent filmmaker. He ended up working on Rapoport’s film “Old Heart,” about an Army veteran who defies his family and flies to the Netherlands 60 years after World War II to find the love of his life. The film is based on Peter Ferry’s novel.
Bernhardt gathered the raw footage shot each day for review by Rapoport and editors, assisted with sound, lighting and camera setup, and underwent a “lot of gophering back and forth” to get footage.
WKTV’s Greer is not surprised by Bernhardt’s success.
“It’s no wonder Alex is out in the world making a name for himself not only handling editing, audio and marketing on the set of ‘Old Heart,’ but also playing the role of the farmer in the film,” Greer said. “Alex was a very dedicated, hard-working college intern at our station, who never said no to a challenge.”
Alex Bernhardt, left, as the Farmer in “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
“Old Heart” has heart
To date, “Old Heart” has screened before 130 audiences across the country and accumulated worldwide acclaim.
Accolades include Best Feature from an Adapted Screenplay at the Marina Del Rey Film Festival in Los Angeles, Best Editor (Gene Gamache) and Best Actress (Eva Doueiri) in the Sweden Film Awards, and Best Composer (Garth Neustadter) at the Auguri Film Festival in Naples.
Auguri Film Festival director Olga Sandi described “Old Heart” as a film of rare sensitivity and craftsmanship that weaves together themes of love, loss and resilience across generations.
“Ultimately, “Old Heart” is more than a love story—it’s a meditation on memory, identity and the endurance of human connection,” said Sandi in the review. “With its exceptional direction, stunning cinematography and strong production, it firmly establishes [Kirk] Wahamaki and [Leslye] Witt as filmmakers with both vision and heart.”
“Old Heart” is based on Peter Ferry’s acclaimed novel (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Currently, the film is set to play in Coldwater, Mich., at 12 p.m. on Sept. 24 at the NCG Theater. This event is sponsored by Southwestern Behavioral Health with the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs.
Rapoport said several more “Old Heart” screening events are pending, including five upcoming events in the Netherlands in late September. Updates on “Old Heart” screening dates and locations can be found here.
WKTV fosters community connections through innovative media (Courtesy, WKTV)
Still young…and still aspiring
What’s next for Bernardt besides building up the venue at his family venture?
He hopes to work on other films and enjoys projects like “Psycho Ape: Part II – The Wrath of Kong,” a “super low budget, fun to make, all action and no plot” film. He said “Old Heart” was Rapoport’s fourth movie and he hopes to work with him on future films.
Alex Bernhardt as he worked on “Psycho Ape 2: The Wrath of Kong” film.
“I plan to collaborate with Roger on any future projects he may have, film-related or otherwise,” said Bernhardt. “He is one of West Michigan’s most prolific producers, and he seems to really appreciate my effort.”
When asked what advice he would give to aspiring young filmmakers, Bernhardt gave a tongue-in-cheek reply: “Don’t look at me! I’m still young and aspiring!”
The Ford Presidential Foundation has officially launched the FORD50 Campaign, a $12 million national fundraising initiative. This initiative honors the 50th anniversary of President Gerald R. Ford’s time in the Oval Office (1974-1977) by expanding its civic education programs across Michigan and the nation.
The campaign announcement at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum featured Foundation trustees Mike and Steven Ford, sons of President and Mrs. Ford; Douglas DeVos, co-chair of Amway Corporation and co-chair of the FORD50 campaign; Marc Halsema, founder of Jaclise International and co-chair of the FORD50 campaign; and Gleaves Whitney, executive director of the Ford Presidential Foundation.
The campaign has secured $10 million in charitable commitments and now seeks public participation in raising the final $2 million to fund the educational programming expansion.
Trustee Steve Ford, son of Gerald and Betty Ford, addresses the crowd at the FORD50 Campaign announcement on Aug. 25 (Courtesy, Ford Foundation)
A living reminder
The FORD50 Campaign is a bold commitment to engage and inspire three key audiences — school-aged youth, college-aged and young adults, and lifelong learners — through programming that champions the values President and Mrs. Ford embodied: cooperation, bipartisanship, civil discourse, patriotism, decency, and integrity.
“In a time of deep national division, the legacy of President and Mrs. Ford offers a much-needed example of character-driven leadership,” said Whitney. “With the support of the FORD50 Campaign, we can bring their ideals to new generations and build a future rooted in civic responsibility and mutual respect.”
The campaign envisions a renewed commitment to the Ford’s role as a civic gateway — a place that inspires learning, dialogue, and participation. This effort reflects President Ford’s belief that public service and integrity are essential to a healthy democracy.
“The Ford is more than a museum,” said Steven Ford. “It’s a living reminder of how courage, humility, and conviction can guide a nation. My parents believed in America and its people, and with this campaign, we honor that faith by investing in our future.”
Local scout Calvin Davis speaks with the media about the impact that the programming at the DeVos Learning Center has had on him and his quest to become an Eagle Scout exactly 100 years after Gerald Ford attained this prestigious scouting rank (Courtesy, Ford Foundation / Aug. 25, 2025)
The FORD50 campaign’s 5-year plan (2026-2030) will include programs such as:
Building the Next Generation of Civic Leaders
Expanding in-person K–12 engagement by more than 200% (3,500 in the 2024-25 to 8,500 students a year) through DeVos Learning Center programs, Scouting America and Girl Scouts initiatives, and class visits to the Museum.
Launching statewide and national virtual programming aligned with Michigan social studies standards, making Ford-inspired learning accessible to high school teachers everywhere in the state.
Creating high school leadership cohorts that will prepare 1,500 students to step into roles of service and civic impact.
Doubling participation in the national Student Writing Challenge, awarding more than $7,000 in scholarships each year to inspire young voices.
Empowering Young Adults to Lead with Character
Expanding our free, virtue-based leadership program for congressional staffers in Washington, D.C., strengthening ethical decision-making in the heart of policymaking.
Launching a Lansing legislative staffers program to foster bipartisan dialogue and build principled leadership in Michigan’s capital.
Developing a high school leadership program in West Michigan to heighten civic knowledge and inspire students to pursue lives of public service.
Providing civic education opportunities rooted in President and Betty Ford’s character to organizations that help us reach new communities and demographics.
Growing the reach of our weekly Observer newsletter, offering thoughtful, nonpartisan essays that reinforce democratic norms, virtuous leadership and patriotic service.
Funding from the FORD50 campaign will help the Ford Foundation increase their work with college students, including those in the Ford Fellows program at the University of Michigan. (Courtesy, Ford Foundation)
Modernizing the Ford Civic Legacy for Lifelong Learners
Launching a regular, globally streamed podcast where influential voices tackle the pressing issues, big ideas, and perennial principles Ford championed.
Featuring headline-making speakers—leaders and changemakers shaping today’s civic conversations—to carry Ford’s civic message through livestreams, partner networks, and more.
Staging marquee events in cities across America with powerhouse partners like the National Constitution Center and the Carter Center.
Ninety-eight comedians are now down to 42 as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition continues its quarterfinal rounds.
The competition began May 11 with its first of fourteen qualifying rounds. Six quarterfinal rounds will run Aug. 17-Sept. 21 with three semifinal rounds held Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and Oct. 19. Competition finals will be held Oct. 26.
Previous Kingpin of Comedy competition winners (Courtesy, Brian B.)
How it works
Seven comedians are given eight minutes to perform in each round. The line-up of comedians is random, with the order drawn as the show progresses.
Audience members are given a ballot before the show begins. After the last competing comedian of the night performs, the audience picks three comedians they feel should advance to the next round. Ballots are counted while a non-competing comic performs for the audience. Comics moving on to the next round of the competition are announced at the end of the show.
Prizes galore!
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Wyoming!” says Brian B., Founder and MC of the SNF.
The SNF Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a large check for $500 (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and Midtown GR, and prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex. The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy, personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt, and will headline the SNF 2026 LaughFest performance.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
The Kentwood Police Department responded to a fatal single motor vehicle traffic crash that occurred at 2:42 a.m. Tuesday at 44th St. SE and Kalamazoo Ave. SE.
The vehicle was traveling on 44th St. when it exited the roadway and crashed into a metal support pole. The driver was the only occupant of the vehicle and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
It is unknown if alcohol or drugs were factors. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Traffic Unit at 616-656-6560. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
This week of remembrance is an opportunity to express gratitude to the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation and ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten (Greatest Generation Day Flyover 2020 – Courtesy, GGCC)
A heartfelt tribute to the Greatest Generation will take place in Grand Rapids, MI during the week of Sept. 1-7. This event marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and honors the millions of veterans and citizens who made sacrifices to ensure a world free of oppression.
This week of remembrance is an opportunity to express gratitude to the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation and ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten.
“People that are of the greatest generation are 98 years or older, so we don’t have much time to have them with us and be able to honor them anymore,” said Brian Hauenstein, Co-Chair of the Greatest Generation Celebration Committee. “I see this as our last opportunity.”
What to expect
Though the first Greatest Generation Celebration (GGC) in 2020 attempt had to be severely modified due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2025 Celebration is slated to produce a full line-up of events.
General MacArthur signing aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2, 1945 (Courtesy, GGCC)
GGC signature events include an Honor Parade and Wings of Honor flyover on Sept. 1 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in downtown Grand Rapids; a Bell Ringing Ceremony on Sept. 1 at 8:08 p.m. to commemorate the official end of World War II; a Victory Celebration at the Air Zoo on Sept. 6 from 6-9 p.m.; Perspectives on the Greatest Generation lecture series featuring keynote speakers Rick Atkinson, Garrett Graff, Sir Antony Beevor and Susan Eisenhower on Sept. 2-4; and more.
A free pop-up exhibit of Greatest Generation photographs and artifacts will also be open to the public in the Ford Museum lobby from Aug. 23-Sept. 7.
Among the artifacts featured will be a mess hall table from the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, a piece of the USS Missouri that was gifted to Hauenstein’s grandfather from Washington, numerous West Michigan-made relics, and several stories of local heroes.
“We can come and pick them up,” said Hauenstein. “Ride Your Way is a partner in this, and they are willing to go anywhere in West Michigan to pick people up, bring them to the parade and bring them back home.”
Trolley buses and World War II era vehicles are available for veterans to sit in during the parade. After the parade, veterans will be taken to a VIP tent to relax and visit with parade attendees.
Hauenstein urges veterans and their families to consider attending. “I know that everybody that goes there will just feel a lot of love.”
Leading the parade as Grand Marshals are two World War II veterans, Eugene Khorey, age 99, of the 86th “Blackhawk” Infantry Division and Maxine Lay Boeve, age 101, a trailblazing wartime machinist.
Keeping legacies alive
“The parade that never happened.” Grand Rapids never held an end-of-war celebration parade. Instead, residents took to the streets and cheered – 1945 (Courtesy, Robinson Studio & GR History Center)
The Greatest Generation Celebration Committee is led by Joel Westphal, Deputy Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum and Professor of Global History at GRCC, Co-Chairs Brian Hauenstein and Neil Kirby, and honorary chairmen Hank Meijer and former Secretary of Energy, Spencer Abraham.
Hauenstein joined the GGC Committee because he believes in the importance of keeping the legacies of the Greatest Generation alive.
Hauenstein’s grandfather, Ralph W. Hauenstein, was Eisenhower’s Chief of Intelligence of European Theater of Operations and well-known in the Grand Rapids community. His legacy lives on in many ways, but Hauenstein said his grandfather’s legacy must also live on through him.
“I’m honored to do that, and this is one other way to do that,” said Hauenstein.
Group of boys carrying a sailor on their shoulders while walking down Monroe Avenue and celebrating the end of World War II – 1945 (Courtesy, Robinson Studio & GR History Center)
Hauenstein went on to say that a big focus of the GGC is connecting the youngest of our generations to the World War II Greatest Generation heroes.
Throughout his life, Hauenstein’s grandfather recounted the time he escorted a Civil War veteran around Grand Rapids in 1920.
“He spoke about what an amazing experience that was, to spend a day with this Civil War hero,” said Hauenstein. “That helped to shape him, who he was.”
Recognizing the impact that encounter had on his grandfather, Hauenstein arranged for the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Daughters of the American Revolution to participate in the Honor Parade.
“We’re hoping that we can get them to engage with the Greatest Generation while they’re there and create that similar mark on their future lives,” Hauenstein said.
How you can get involved!
Hauenstein says the GGC Committee has not had difficulty identifying volunteers for the weeklong celebration, nor identifying organizations to provide financial backing. In fact, over 30 organizations have stepped forward to offer assistance.
The GGC Committee is seeking 1930-1941 era drivable vehicles for the Honor Parade (Courtesy, Pat Moll)
“We’ve been very fortunate,” says Hauenstein. “There is such a lineup of organizations that have made a decision to support [this].”
Hauenstein said the GGC Committee has approximately 20 Greatest Generation era (1930-1941) vehicles being showcased in the parade, but would welcome more.
“We want this to be a 1945-style parade,” says Hauenstein. “You will see a 1941 Studebaker, a Wildcat [airplane], things like that. We know they’re out there…and we want them in the parade.”
Those with vehicles from the Greatest Generation era can contact the GGC Committee at ggcelebration25@gmail.com.
Those who would like to honor a family member from the Greatest Generation with a tribute board can visit the GGC website for details. Tribute boards will be carried in the Honor Parade by volunteers.
The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado on Saturday, Aug. 16 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and free community event.
Senator Hilary Scholten (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin cut the ribbon, officially opening Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The warm summer morning began at 10:30 a.m. with statements given by State Representative John Fitzgerald, U.S. Senator Hilary Scholten, City of Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin.
“The Godwin Mercado is a project that embodies the best of what our community can achieve when we come together with purpose and vision,” said Mayor Vanderwood. “It is a true honor to stand here today as we officially open the Godwin Mercado.”
Support from the community helped make Godwin Mercado a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Krashawn Martin echoed Mayor Vanderwood’s remarks, saying the marketplace would not have been possible without broad community support.
“My heart is beyond happy to see so many smiling faces, so many different pieces and pockets that really build the community that is Wyoming,” said Martin. “I’m so honored to be a tiny piece of making this beautiful space come together.”
Placemaking in action
Managed and programmed by the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility community event space will provide year-round usage opportunities to local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.
Godwin Mercado is recognized as Wyoming’s new gathering spot for the community (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Market days will also help fill key gaps in the area’s food system, helping support the well-being of residents in the Godwin Heights area and the entire Wyoming community.
Representative Fitzgerald expressed the value Godwin Mercado brings for this generation as well as future generations.
“This is placemaking in action for this community,” said Rep. Fitzgerald. “It’s going to bring attention, good attention, to this community. I cannot be prouder of the City of Wyoming and its investment in this space.”
After the ribbon cutting, community members gathered for several free activities, including a meal, games, face painting and live music, all provided by Wyoming food and artisan vendors.
Local Kona Ice provided refreshing treats (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Free face painting was enjoyed by both children and adults (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A free meal was served to all in attendance (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Large garage doors allow for easy access to and from the Mercado indoor event space (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Wyoming Police let children explore department vehicles (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Playing with bubbles is a must for all ages (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Wyoming firefighters and police officers chatted with event guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Celebration attendees enjoyed live music (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Rep. John Fitzgerald (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin visit with celebration guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The outdoor plaza was filled with fun, family-friendly activity while the main indoor event space allowed seating and shade for those eating or simply needing a break from the sun.
A thread of connection
An unveiling of the colorful mural on Godwin Mercado’s outer south wall also took place.
The Godwin Mercado mural tells the history of the City through “story stacking” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Installed by local nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, and painted by Filipina street muralist and visual anthropreneur Venazir, the mural is a testament to Wyoming’s history, resilience and spirit – and was inspired by a game of Jenga.
“I was playing Jenga with my friends, and then I thought of stacking all the bits and pieces of who was Wyoming, who is Wyoming,” Venazir told WKTV Journal.
As Venazir researched the City’s history, she recognized the importance of not only the Godwin Mercado space, but what the significance and impact of revitalizing that space means to the community.
Titled “Stacked Stories” and “Building Balance,” the mural’s stacked images reveal the many facets of Wyoming’s lifespan while giving a poetic nod to the layered narrative of Godwin Heights and Wyoming and emphasizing the balance between past and progress.
Mural artist Venazir continued working on the mural during the celebration (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Another prominent element of the mural is a red thread weaving through the images.
“The red thread is the most symbolic element in my work,” said Venazir. “It’s this unifying element that I use across all of my murals.”
Since 2017 in the Philippines, Venazir’s red thread has been weaving a tapestry of stories internationally as she explores the intricate relationships between human traditions and the ever-changing landscapes that shape them.
“It stitches us [together] in ways that we couldn’t even imagine,” said Venazir. “My journey as an artist is to visualize the process that there is a red thread that guides us. That thread stretches and tangles, but it is never broken.”
Learn more about Venazir and her dynamic art here.
An educational avenue
Godwin Mercado will not only provide fresh food options and space for events, it will also collaborate with local schools and organizations to host educational activities.
(Courtesy, Godwin Heights)
Chad Conklin, Superintendent of Godwin Heights Public Schools, said school staff and students are excited about the opportunities Godwin Mercado offers.
“What this building is going to bring with the agriculture – it’s going to be fantastic,” Conklin told WKTV. “We’re looking at ways to be able to incorporate our own curriculum within it and hopefully support that through our science classes.”
Conklin also appreciates the increased accessibility the Mercado parking lot provides for the adjoining Godwin Heights athletic complex activities.
Helping our city thrive
Sen. Hilary Scholten said Godwin Mercado will play an important role in helping support small businesses and local entrepreneurs in West Michigan.
“Close to 99% of businesses in the State of Michigan are considered small businesses,” said Senator Scholten. “That is what makes our economy so beautiful and so diverse.
“Places like the Mercado are going to continue to support those small businesses and help them to thrive.”
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Resource links
The Godwin Mercado full market grand opening is planned for spring of 2026. For updates, sign up for the Godwin Mercado newsletter here.
The Mercado provides various options for residents to embark upon their own personal entrepreneurial journeys. Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via a vendor application.
For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.
Watch this short clip to hear what City of Wyoming officials have to say about the opening of Godwin Mercado! (Courtesy, Tom Norton WKTV)
Whether you’re shopping for elementary-school kiddos or college-bound young adults, Woodland Mall is your one-stop destination for students of all ages.
“Having the right clothes, accessories and supplies can go a long way for boosting students’ confidence and comfort heading into a new school year,” Senior Marketing Director Lisa Wolstromer said. “For the 2025 back-to-school season, we’re seeing interest in both fashion and function. Popular items include updated denim styles, athleisure wear, sneakers, beauty, skincare products and tech essentials.
“With retailers offering everything you need and great food and beverage options to enjoy along the way, you can make a fun day out of back-to-school shopping at Woodland Mall.”
Enjoy a smoother experience prepping for school with Woodland Mall’s shopping guide:
Step into the school year with footwear from Aldo, Kids Foot Locker, Snipes, Vans and Zumiez:
Get fresh kicks for the first day, from Nike Air Force 1s to classic Vans slip-ons.
With trendy sneakers, athletic shoes and backpacks, grab exclusive styles perfect for gym class, after-school sports and campus walks.
Zumiez. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)
Shop style staples at Aerie, American Eagle, H&M, Hollister and Urban Outfitters:
Find outfit essentials for tweens, teens and college students, such as graphic tees, denim, layering pieces and on-trend accessories.
An A+ campus fit should balance comfort and style.
Find fall layers and outerwear at Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle, H&M and The North Face:
Lightweight jackets, hoodies and seasonal layers are perfect for chilly mornings and classroom comfort.
Pick up a blazer and similar polished jacket for high school and college presentations.
Grab backpacks and school gear from Barnes and Noble, Claire’s, Journeys and Journeys Kidz:
Fun items and accessories like hair clips, lip glosses and locker decorations can personalize the school experience.
Stay organized with notebooks, planners and other school supplies, and stay hydrated with colorful drinkware you’ll take with you everywhere.
Journeys Kidz. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)
Stay connected with tech and study tools from the Apple Store and Cricket:
Look for student and educator discounts on MacBooks, iPads and more, and don’t forget must-have accessories like headphones, styluses and portable chargers.
Consider data plans for staying connected on the go.
Stock up on self-care and dorm essentials from Bath & Body Works, Lush, Macy’s, Sephora and Von Maur:
Get first-day ready with makeup, hair tools and skincare kits, along with body mists and aromatherapy to beat stress.
Feel put together with must-have beauty products and organizers for your locker or dorm room.
Charleys Philly Steaks and Mango Thai. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)
Fuel up while you shop – stop by Auntie Anne’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Mango Thai, Red Robin and Starbucks:
Take a study break or refuel during your shopping trip with a coffee, smoothie or snack.
Treat the kids (and yourself) to dinner and dessert for completing your back-to-school checklist!
The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)
The City of Wyoming is inviting the community to celebrate the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado marketplace on Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event that Krashawn Martin, Director of the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, describes as a community block party.
“We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season,” said Martin at the July Godwin Mercado sneak-peek event.
A ribbon cutting will take place at 10:30 a.m. followed by free family-friendly activities, food and drinks from local vendors, live music, lawn games, face painting and more.
The warm evening air was filled with the upbeat and energetic tones of Motown Thursday when RocknSoul took the stage at the Kentwood Summer Concert Series.
Based out of the Detroit area, RocknSoul brought the Motown sound to their performance behind City Hall. It also was Throwback Thursday at the Kentwood Farmers Market, where a variety of food trucks and vendors were on hand.
“We play a little bit of everything,” said vocalist and bass player Robert Joiner. “From Motown, to R&B, Dance, Blues and some jazz. The fans really like Motown and we play a lot of the 60s, 70s and 80s Motown and dance music.”
Featured songs include artists like The Temptations, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson.
As a group, RocknSoul has been together for a few years, but individually, the members have 20-to-30 years of professional music experience each.
Joiner, who retired after 30 years with the City of Detroit Police Department, spent 18 years playing with the Blue Pigs, a band comprised of City of Detroit Police officers who gained a large following.
The band’s lead guitar, Charles Hawkins, was a member of Black Merda, a rock band from Detroit that was active from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s. Black Merda produced a number of albums during that time period and also played psychedelic soul, funk rock and blues rock.
“Charles has played with Eddie Kendrick and David Ruffin,” Joiner said. “He also had a stint playing with Edwin Starr from War. He’s played with a lot of big names during his career.”
Keyboardist and saxophone player Kevin Armstrong has also played with a variety of musicians and Paul Sikorski brings a wealth of experience as the band’s drummer.
The band features variety in its vocals as Joiner and Armstrong both handle about 40 percent of the vocals apiece, while Hawkins sings vocals on about 20 percent of the songs. Sikorski also has been known to step in as a vocalist at times.
The band primarily performs in Southeast Michigan, but also makes plenty of trips into Ohio. This week’s concert in Kentwood was the band’s first performance in West Michigan.
Myths and misconceptions surrounding hospice have caused people to delay accessing supportive end-of-life care they’re entitled to – or skip it entirely.
Melissa Wedberg, vice president of community relations at Emmanuel Hospice, is passionate about dispelling these myths and empowering individuals to take advantage of hospice services earlier on.
“If you have Medicare or private insurance, hospice is a benefit you have a right to when you’re medically eligible,” Wedberg said. “We are not hastening death; we are bringing support. Delaying hospice can lead to unnecessary pain, suffering and potentially even loss of time with loved ones. After finding out what hospice is – and is not – families wish they’d called sooner.”
Hospice is not giving up. According to Wedberg, this is the biggest mental and emotional barrier that exists not only for patients, but for families and even for some physicians, too.
“Hospice is not about resigning to the disease process or age; it’s about refocusing goals,” she explained. “When someone doesn’t have curative options left, we focus on enhancing quality of life. At Emmanuel, we start with the question, ‘How do you want to live?’ Hospice means gaining support during a difficult time rather than going through it alone.”
Hospice is not just for your last days or hours. Individuals can be on hospice for months or more, especially when enrolling sooner than later. There are many diagnoses that make you eligible.
“It might surprise people to learn that someone on hospice is not necessarily someone who looks like they’re dying,” Wedberg said. “You may have seen a hospice patient and not even known it because they were out at a grocery store or attending a ball game. Hospice care is helping that individual live how they want to live for the time they have left.”
Hospice does not hasten death. “Hospice care is a way for people to live more comfortably for longer,” Wedberg said. “In fact, we believe hospice is more about living than dying. We work tirelessly to provide life-giving opportunities that make every moment matter.”
Studies have found hospice patients may actually live longer due to better quality of life and symptom management than those with similar illnesses who are not receiving end-of-life care.
Hospice will not make you change doctors. “You can keep your primary care provider, or you can choose to have your care overseen by the hospice medical director,” Wedberg said. “What’s important for patients and families to know is they remain in control when they sign on. We offer support and solutions; you can decide if or how you want to accept them.”
Hospice will not take away your medications. A hospice nurse will work with a patient’s doctor to determine which medications are necessary to maintain comfort, but “if a patient wants to continue a medication they’re taking, they’re generally able to do so,” Wedberg said.
Hospice is not a refusal of all medical treatment. While choosing hospice means a focus on quality of life over curative measures, that doesn’t mean all medical treatments stop.
“With the exception of cancer treatment or dialysis, it’s rare patients have to give up treatment, especially when it’s for symptom management,” Wedberg said.
Hospice will not administer pain medication regardless of need. Some believe hospice will immediately use heavy pain management, such as morphine or opioids, no matter the situation. There is also the myth that these medications will hasten death. Both are not true.
“We only treat pain if pain exists,” Wedberg said. “And we’re going to treat it at the appropriate level for each individual only to relieve discomfort and improve their quality of life.”
Additionally, patients are empowered to use other therapies and services, such as massage therapy, acupuncture, essential oils and more, alongside or instead of medication to manage their symptoms, depending on their wishes and goals.
Hospice is not a place. Hospice is rarely an actual location that people go to, but rather a service that comes to you wherever you call home.
Hospice is not a one-time decision. “If for any reason you don’t want hospice anymore, you can stop at any time and there’s no penalty,” Wedberg said. “You can leave and come back. You can switch providers. If a miracle treatment or clinical trial becomes available, you could take it. But in the meantime, if you’re eligible for hospice, why not get that support in place?”
One person is injured following a shooting in the 3700 block of South Division Avenue.
At approximately 1:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug.4, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers located evidence indicating that multiple shots had been fired; however, no victim was found at the scene.
A short time later, an adult male victim arrived at a nearby hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. He is currently listed in stable condition. At this time, no arrests have been made. Detectives from the Wyoming Police Department, along with members of the Forensic Science Unit, are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300, or to report anonymously through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345, 1-866-774-2345, or online at www.silentobserver.org.
Cars aren’t just timeless works of art – they are vehicles for lasting memories. Care Resources hosted an antique car show for its participants, ages 55 years and older, to reminisce about and enjoy on Thursday, July 31.
Seniors reminisced about cars they had in their younger years (Courtesy, Care Resources)
Grand Rapids Antique Car Club showcased 12 antique cars in the parking lot of the nonprofit’s Grand Rapids day center. Participants had the opportunity to admire the fleet of automobiles, connect with local car enthusiasts and take a trip down memory lane.
And those memories, said Recreational Therapist Megan Bollo, are what make the program so special.
“This event allowed participants to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise and reminisce about the “good ‘ole times,” said Bollo. “All of which contribute to their physical and mental well-being.”
The car show also promotes intergenerational socialization (Courtesy, Care Resources)
Bollo went on to say that the event went well, with many smiles and laughs along the way.
“Our participants love interacting with car owners of all ages – it brings out a lot of joy and fond memories.”
One participant who worked on cars as a hobby in the past enjoyed looking at the engines and talking with the owners about the work they had done to restore the vehicles.
Laughter and smiles were in abundance during the car show (Courtesy, Care Resources)
Care Resources
The antique car show was just one of the many programs the Care Resources team organizes to meet the mental, social and physical needs of the older adults it serves as a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, also known as PACE®. This innovative community-based program, funded by Medicare and Medicaid, promotes healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement.
Slight declines in memory and cognition are typical with aging, but there are scenarios that call for further assessment. (Photo Courtesy, Care Resources)
You’re about to leave and realize you’ve lost your keys again. You just put muffins in the oven and second guess whether you added salt. You are mid-conversation and just can’t seem to find the right word.
Is this the start of dementia?
“We’ve probably all known someone whose gone through dementia, and it’s so hard to see them not be the person you used to know,” said Laura Hall, associate clinical director at Care Resources. “So, when we have any trouble as we age, our first thought is, ‘Oh, no. Do I have dementia? Am I declining?’ And that’s valid. Seeking support and testing can help you know what you’re experiencing.”
While memory loss and other cognitive changes can be difficult to diagnose, Hall says word finding or taking longer to communicate or think of things are classic examples of normal aging.
“As we age, it takes longer to process information,” Hall said. “We get more easily distracted with noise and other things going on that makes it harder to focus and multitask. Some short-term memory challenges can be normal as well, especially with any lack of sleep or fatigue.”
She says slight declines are typical, but there are scenarios that would call for further assessment.
“If the forgetfulness is long-lasting or ongoing, especially in short-term situations, such as failing to remember a conversation you recently had, that’s a notable change,” Hall said. “The need for more help with daily activities of living such as cooking would be another sign. Not being able to find your cookware, follow a recipe or operate the stove are some more dramatic examples.”
Memory changes often progress slowly, so we don’t always realize for ourselves when they’re happening. Friends and family can be a great resource for noticing if someone is having a harder time, but Hall recognizes it can be uncomfortable to approach a loved one about memory concerns.
“Some people don’t want to acknowledge there might be an issue, but it is OK to bring up the subject,” Hall said. “You can share your concern they’re not remembering things like they used to and suggest talking to someone. Offering to go with them to a visit with their provider can be helpful.”
Now the big question: Is there anything we can do to prevent or delay cognitive decline? Hall says staying active and social are the best things you can do for your mental health and cognition.
“A lot of age-related cognitive decline is preventable,” Hall said. “Getting out of the house, interacting with other people and learning new things can make a huge difference. It can be as simple as learning how to knit or play pickleball or talking with friends on a new topic.”
At Care Resources, eligible adults 55 years and older can get involved in new activities and socialize through the day center while having their cognitive health closely monitored, including testing every six months. Spending time at Care Resources can also provide important respite to caregivers. If you or your loved one could use some extra support, call 800-610-6299 or visit CareResources.org for more information.
The state of Michigan has a long and rich tradition of producing outstanding acoustic-based music and this week’s performance of the Kentwood Summer Concert Series features a homegrown West Michigan band that’s adding to that legacy.
Roosevelt Diggs, a four-man band that has been perfecting its craft since 2008, takes the stage Thursday at 7 p.m. on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. A versatile band, Roosevelt Diggs blends country, blues, rock and roll, folk and blue grass into a melting pot of true Americana music.
There also will be food trucks on hand as concertgoers are encouraged
to come early and check out the Kentwood Farmers Market next door
in the parking lot behind Kentwood City Hall from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
“We are kind of a melting pot,” said Logan Duddles, who with his brother Levi Duddles is one of the two vocalists of the group. “None of those individual genres label us exactly. You can use Americana to encapsulate us, but it’s a struggle to categorize our sound down to one thing. We have a lot of elements of American music in our style.”
Along with providing vocals, Logan Duddles also plays acoustic guitar while brother Levi is on the electric guitar.
“We share the vocals,” Logan said. “We don’t look at it as our having one lead vocalist. There are certain songs that I sing and certain songs that he sings.”
The band also includes Jon Shears on upright bass and Jeff Leitch on drums.
Roosevelt Diggs. (Photo Courtesy, Jeff Brinn)
Logan and Levi have been making music together since a young age back in Reed City. They connected with Shears in 2008 to form the band, while Leitch came on as a drummer three years ago.
17 years and counting
Since forming in 2008, Roosevelt Diggs has made steady progress. Initially, the band had a goal of being able to play local shows and maybe cut an album someday. In the past 17 years, the band has soared beyond initial expectations and continues to add to its legacy.
“Our goals were pretty low starting out,” Duddles said. “At first, we just wanted to be able to play a few shows. Our goal was to work hard and practice every day and get a little better. Through the years, we looked at it as we wanted to be better as a band than we were three months ago. We’ve been able to release four albums and have been able to play at some amazing venues and some great festivals around the state.”
The band’s first album came out in 2012, followed by ones in 2014, 2018 and 2023.
WYCE Jammie Award Winners
The growth and success of Roosevelt Diggs is evident in the albums it produces. Their 2018 album (Better Days) and 2023 one (Reverie) were both WYCE Jammie award winners.
Among the venues the band has played are Frederik Meijer Gardens, the Wheatland Music Festival and the Hoxeyville Music Festival.
“We feel very fortunate through the years to have played at some amazing venues and festivals,” Duddles said. “We have played at some places that have definitely been on our bucket list.”
Right out of the phone book
Along with a unique style, Roosevelt Diggs also has a unique name. Similar to the Michigan rock band Greta Van Fleet from Frankenmuth who came up with their unique name when a relative mentioned the name of a local resident, Roosevelt Diggs came up with their name from a similar local angle.
“Way back before cell phones kids use to do prank calls on the phone,” Duddles said. “One day we went through the phone book and we saw the name Roosevelt Diggs and that name stuck with us. Years later when we needed a name for the band we remembered the name Roosevelt Diggs. We were looking for something different and it just stuck.”
The band is looking forward to Thursday’s concert in Kentwood and promises an entertaining and energetic show for concertgoers.
“We play high-energy shows,” Duddles said. “We get into our performances. We dig in and don’t just go through the motions. We have fun and make it a good time and give the fans as good a show as we can.”
Concertgoers will also be treated to a broad range of music.
“We play a lot of different music,” Duddles said. “Some bands just sound the same. We pull in a lot of different genres. There will be something everybody will like and hopefully more than just one. It’s a lot of different genres all melting together to produce some great music.”
The City ofKentwood is inviting community members to participate in National Night Out events throughout the city on Tuesday, Aug. 5.
National Night Out is an annual event celebrated across the country that seeks to promote community-police partnerships and encourage residents to connect with their neighbors, community leaders and local police and fire personnel.
In partnership with the Kentwood Police Department, Woodland Mall will host a free public event from 3 to 5 p.m. Community members can explore a police cruiser and Special Response Team truck and try on police vests and hold shields in the mall’s outdoor plaza area between Red Robin and The North Face at 3195 28th St. SE. A KPD K-9 officer and dog will be on-site to teach attendees about a K-9 unit’s role in law enforcement.
The event also features special appearances by superheroes as well as face painting, balloon twisting, a photo station and giveaways.
Kentwood National Night Out. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“National Night Out is one of the many ways the Kentwood Police Department strengthens relationships and demonstrates our commitment to serving all who live, work and visit our city,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “We are looking forward to connecting with both longtime and new residents during these fun, casual citywide events.”
There also will be over 10 neighborhood events throughout the evening featuring a variety of food and activities, including games and appearances by McGruff the Crime Dog. At these events, community members of all ages also will have an opportunity to connect with Kentwood police officers, firefighters and leaders as well as explore and learn about police cruisers, fire engines and other emergency response vehicles.
Kentwood National Night Out. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“We welcome all opportunities to engage with community members, which is essential to effective public safety,” Kentwood Fire Chief Brent Looman said. “Events like National Night Out help our firefighters and residents come together as a community and get to know one another better.”
National Night Out was started in the 1980s by an established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention associations and volunteers across the country.
Learn more about Kentwood’s National Night Out events at kentwood.us/NNO.
Community members interested in hosting a National Night Out neighborhood block party are encouraged to reach out to Kentwood Police Officer Brooke Lowe at 616.656.6564 or loweb@kentwood.us.
Several Kent County organizations have partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host mobile pantries each month.
Below is a list of mobile food pantry locations open to the community. Each listing consists of date, time, location and drive-thru or walk-thru designation.
Though the selection of food varies each month, a variety of fresh and frozen items are always available at the mobile pantries.
Mobile food pantry schedule for July 21 – Aug. 19:
Popular West Michigan-based band, Phabies, will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 22 at 6 p.m. with their eclectic mix of original alternative rock/pop songs.
A DIY band
The Phabies band is a direct reflection of its founder, Laura Hobson, and her refusal to be forced into one style or genre.
“I never really wanted to feel stuck or pigeonholed in any certain style or genre,” said Hobson. “I didn’t want to present as only one thing while we were still trying to figure out our sound.”
While many bands target one style or sound, Phabies creates songs that unashamedly cross genres.
The band does not shy away from creating a unique and eclectic sound (Courtesy, Phabies)
“It keeps my brain interested,” said Hobson. “I need a lot of mental stimulation to stay interested.”
Phabies not only creates their own sound, but their show sets and outfits as well – putting Hobson’s art degree to daily use and earning Phabies a reputation as a “DIY band.”
Even the band name was formed from an eclectic mix of Hobson’s personal experiences.
“It involves an old screen name, a run-in with a feral cat, a road trip to Canada, a book written by Steinbeck – there’s a lot of overlapping things that resulted in the name,” Hobson said with a laugh.
Friendship and trust
Though Phabies bears Hobson’s personal signature, the group formed in 2018 out of friendship and trust – and is stronger because of it.
The band members began as friends, and have remained close friends through the years (Courtesy, Phabies)
“I had been looking to start a band for a very long time, but I didn’t want to randomly hobble a group together that would later fall apart or wouldn’t feel exactly right,” said Hobson. “It took a long time to find my people.”
Band members Garrett Stier (guitar/bass/vocals), Joshua Holicki (drums), Max McKinnon (synth/keys), Andrew Deters (guitar) and Hobson (vocals/guitar/keys) have remained friends throughout the years, and Hobson believes that is due to the thoughtful construction of the band.
“General advice for people looking to start groups: don’t rush into it,” said Hobson. “Make sure you can really trust and feel safe with the people you’re playing with.”
That friendship and trust plays an important role in enjoying what they do.
“Every practice is fun; it never feels like work,” said Hobson. “It was really important to have a group of people that I can really laugh with and feel like my truest, freest self.”
More than just notes on a page
For Stier and Hobson, that feeling of connection and safety extends from the band to music itself.
Stier said music has been a constant source of joy for him over the last few years.
Music provides an experience unique to each individual (Courtesy, Phabies)
“It’s a place to go and be reminded that there are good things, there are things that bring people together.”
Stier went on to say that he has experienced music bringing people together in various ways through live concerts, recording albums and rehearsals with the band. The people he has met and friendships he has gained make him appreciate music even more.
Hobson associates returning to the stage time and again with facing her fears and the unknown.
“It’s knowing that you can do a hard thing or something that is scary,” said Hobson. “Every time I am done with a show, I remember that I can do it. I think that’s really important because it is scary to perform. There’s something to be said about musicians who get up there every single day and perform a new song on stage or tell a story or give away parts of themselves.”
Though Hobson has performed solo shows and appreciates the different ways she can interact with the audience during those shows, she said being part of a group makes performing less intimidating.
“All eyes split between five people is a little less scary than all eyes on just me,” said Hobson. “You are so vulnerable; it just feels safer when I’m with my friends.”
Hobson said being onstage also helps her tap into parts of herself that otherwise remain hidden.
“I think there are parts of myself that surface when I am up there that I am not in tune with off the stage. It feels like you’re tapping into something else, and I’m interested in that feeling.”
Lyricism as poetry
Hobson crafts her songs with care, putting time into both the lyrics and music.
“I like to approach lyricism as poetry, where there’s a lot of symbolism and a lot of things you could read between the lines and glean different information from if you looked for it,” Hobson said, adding that she loves how lyrics can be interpreted in the same way as paintings.
Hobson encourages different interpretations of her music by listeners (Courtesy, Phabies)
“I think the best compliment you could receive as a songwriter is somebody else’s interpretation. Even if it’s not what you intended, that’s okay. That’s what art is.”
Hobson said writing songs, like group performances, is a way to share the weight of life.
“A lot of times I will write songs to unburden myself, to share the load and get things off of my mind and disperse it. Because it’s easier to carry when it’s spread among many people.”
Simultaneously, Hobson uses her songs to help unburden her listeners.
“It feels important to remind people that they are cared for, that somebody else is considering their happiness.”
A curse…and hope
Phabies recently released their latest album, The Curse Of Caring, in June. The band has a full lineup of summer shows throughout Michigan, with hopes of out-of-state touring and recording in the fall.
“I didn’t let myself do any writing as we were pushing the album out,” said Hobson. “Now I have this backlog of energy that I’ve been furiously trying to capture on my instruments and probably will be going towards album number three.”
However, both Hobson and Stier are also focused on sharing songs from The Curse Of Caring.
“With writers or with musicians, whenever you release something into the world, it’s new to everybody else, but we’ve been holding on to these songs and working on them for the last two or three years,” said Stier. “We are really doing our best to stick with these songs and to share them.”
And the message contained within The Curse Of Caring is an important one, Hobson said. The album’s songs explore loss and grief while also holding space for happiness and joy.
Phabies’ latest album explores grief while also offering hope (Courtesy, Phabies)
“The curse of caring is that double-edged sword. If you do care for things, you’re also going to experience great sadness when things change or when you experience loss.
“But at the same time, caring is what makes us human,” Hobson continued. “In some ways, caring does often feel like a curse because those of us who care the most have the most to lose.”
The album’s last track provides listeners with an uplifting message of hope.
Phabies has released two full-length albums, Fire Seed (2022)and The Curse Of Caring (2025), as well as several EPs and singles over the years.
Hobson and Stier said they are grateful for the opportunity to record two music videos using the WKTV Community Media studio in Wyoming, and urge other artists to utilize the media station’s resources as well.
“It’s a great resource to use that exists in our community,” said Hobson.
Learn more about Phabies and their music here and here.
Concert details
Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks offer food for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab some food and enjoy the music!
The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.
The mid-summer air will be full of hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s this Thursday as Sunchaser takes the stage for this week’s concert of the Kentwood Summer Concert Series.
A band of veteran musicians from the West Michigan area that formed in 2021, Sunchaser is a five-piece group that plays a wide variety of musical styles from rock to country, blues, R & B and more.
This Thursday’s concert is set to begin at 7 p.m. and last until 8:30 on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. It also will be Backyard Barbeque Night at the Kentwood Farmers Market and plenty of farm-fresh goodies will be available. There also will be food trucks on hand as concertgoers are encouraged to come early and check out the Kentwood Farmers Market which takes place next door in the parking lot behind Kentwood City Hall from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Sunchaser has experience playing at many different venues around West Michigan, from outdoor concert series, clubs and restaurants, private and corporate events and local veterans’ halls where they enjoy playing for veterans. This Thursday’s show will be the first time the band has performed at the Kentwood concert series and the group is excited about the opportunity.
“We are really excited about playing at the Kentwood Concert Series for the first time,” said Rusty Benmark, a guitarist and vocalist with the group who has over two decades of experience performing in classic rock and blues bands in the Grand Rapids and Lansing areas. “We are looking forward to putting on a great show and hope that everyone will enjoy themselves.”
Concertgoers can expect an energetic performance with a variety of musical genres from the 60s, 70s and 80s. The band plays hit covers from those decades by such notable artists as Eric Clapton, Bob Seger, The Eagles, Credence Clearwater Revival, Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels, Dwight Yoakum and The Rolling Stones to mention a few. Sunchaser’s eclectic song catalog also includes Motown covers of Marvin Gaye & The Capitols as well as classic rock hits of Stevie Nicks, Fleetwood Mac, The Zombies, Linda Ronstadt and the B52s.
Sunchaser. (Photo Courtesy, Sunchaser)
“We pride ourselves on our diversity and our set list/catalog that spans multiple decades,” Benmark said. “We play a wide variety of different genres. We have a lot of diversity in the band and the members of our band also play multiple instruments. We also have a variety of different vocalists so there is a lot of variety in our performances.”
The diverse musical background and experience enables the band to cover a wide-range of styles. The musical diversity is one of the things the group believes is their biggest asset and the group constantly tries to push the envelope into different areas.
“The feedback from audiences has been very positive,” Benmark said. “Audience members often comment that there’s a little something for everyone in our set list.”
The group counts four solid vocalists in its lineup and having multiple lead singers enables the group to cover a variety of styles.
Along with Benmark, the group includes Bob Seif, the founding member of the band who plays guitar, keyboards, percussion and vocals. Seif has been playing and singing music in the Grand Rapids area since he was seven years old.
The band formed during the pandemic “Music is the best therapy, period,” Seif said. “The only good thing to come out of the Covid pandemic for me was our band.”
Barb (Bobbi) Bean is one of the lead vocalists and also plays the keyboard. Bean has over 30 years experience performing in local and regional musical groups both big and small.
Pat Gil plays the bass guitar. Gil has been playing the bass guitar for over 30 years in various bands around the Midwest.
“We like to make our audiences happy,” Gil said. “We pick a lot of groove-oriented songs to get people moving. Our unofficial slogan is, ‘We play it, you shake it.’”
Mike Danielson is the drummer for the group and also a vocalist. Danielson began drumming at the age of 10 and started playing in his first band in the seventh grade.
“I have always liked many styles of music,” Danielson said. “I have played in different style bands to hone my experience in that style. Music has been an important part of who I am for my entire life and has been so therapeutic for me and many friends along this journey.”
The band is a tight-knit group that enjoys performing and making music with each other.
“We really enjoy what we are doing,” Benmark said. “We are pretty tight friends and that shows up on stage. We have a lot of fun and also add some humor to our shows. We want our audience to really enjoy the performance.”
Along with playing popular covers, the band also plays some deeper cuts and some music that audiences may not have heard in a while.
“We like to find some things that are not covered by a lot of bands,” Benmark said. “Our concerts are not all the same songs. You hear a different sound due to our versatility and having people playing different instruments and different vocals.”
Consumers Energy’s electric and natural gas customers who qualify for State Emergency Relief funds may now qualify for additional assistance (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Consumers Energy’s electric and natural gas customers who qualify for State Emergency Relief (SER) funds and haven’t received the full $500 annual payment credit may now qualify for additional assistance under a new Michigan Department of Health and Human Services policy in effect immediately.
State Emergency Relief dollars help certain income-qualified customers take control of their past due energy bills up to a maximum of $500. The one-time federal funds disbursed at the state level are distributed to customers who apply and whose household income is 150% of the federal poverty level or below.
How it works
Beginning July 7, new customer applicants who haven’t received relief in Fiscal Year 2025, which ends Sept. 30, are eligible to receive the $500 per commodity cap, regardless of their past-due balance.
Previous SER recipients who haven’t reached the $500 per commodity cap can apply for the remaining amount (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Previous SER recipients who have already received funding since Oct. 1, 2024—but haven’t reached the $500 per commodity cap—can apply for the remaining amount starting July 11 through Sept. 30. These payments may result in a credit on the customer’s account.
“We’re dedicated to equity, accessibility and affordability for Michiganders who count on us for reliable electricity and natural gas,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s senior vice president, chief customer and growth officer.
“Through our various energy savings programs, energy assistance offerings and partnering with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, we support the growing needs of our customers who experience challenges paying their bills.”
This new policy could allow customers to receive an additional $250 to meet the maximum annual allocation allowed (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Under the former policy, a customer who owes $250 to keep their account active could apply and, if approved, get a credit paid back in that amount but would not have been eligible for additional relief in the same fiscal year. Under the new policy, however, that customer could now receive an additional $250 to meet the maximum annual allocation allowed of $500 if they have accumulated additional arrears.
Additional energy assistance
Last year, 540,000 customers received $38.4M in State Emergency Relief funding. In total, 137,000 families across 30 Michigan counties received some type of energy assistance.
In addition to State Emergency Relief funds, there is additional help available for anyone who needs assistance with their energy bills by calling 2-1-1, a free resource that connects people with nonprofit organizations. Customers can also visit ConsumersEnergy.com/Assistance.
To make it easier for customers to find the help they need based on their situation, Consumers Energy recently launched “My Personalized Offerings,” an easy-to-use tool that empowers customers to identify and enroll in custom payment assistance and energy management programs. The optional tool is free and available to all customers at ConsumersEnergy.com/Offers.
The local band presents a premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience with six veteran musicians and decades of combined stage and touring experience (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)
Beloved rock and roll icon Tom Petty may have died in 2017 at age 66, his music lives on in soloists and tribute bands worldwide. One such band is West Michigan’s own The Insiders: A Tom Petty Tribute Band who will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 15 at 6 p.m..
According to The Insiders’ website, the local band presents the premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience with six veteran musicians and decades of combined stage and touring experience.
The Insiders’ frontman, Max Lockwood, is a songwriter, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist who grew up listening to Tom Petty.
Max Lockwood is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist (Courtesy photo)
“My mom would play the Greatest Hits record while she worked out,” Lockwood says on his website.
“I’d sit at the top of the stairs and listen to those songs—it was my most requested CD as a young kid.”
Lockwood’s high school band frequently performed Petty songs at local shows.
“Tom Petty was part of the great American landscape to me—a legend by the time I was musically conscious. We got a great crowd reaction with Petty tunes, and people frequently commented that I sounded a lot like him.”
Lockwood’s music is a combination of rock-n-roll with folk and pop genres, and is known for heartfelt lyrics that contemplate truths of love, adversity and growth. The musician’s powerful voice, raw emotion and flair onstage draw crowds at each performance.
Honoring a legend
After Petty’s passing in 2017, Lockwood organized the tribute band by performing a benefit concert with a group of his favorite musicians. The sold-out show raised thousands of dollars for a local domestic shelter – and The Insiders was born.
There has been no shortage of demand, and the band continues selling out shows across the midwest.
“We try to honor what Mr. Petty and the Heartbreakers have done for rock and roll each night,” Lockwood says on the website. “We’re fans of the music first and foremost. These songs are woven into the fabric of the American identity.”
The Insiders are based in Grand Rapids and are available for public and private functions. Find out more here.
Max Lockwood “catches air” at a recent Lowell show (Courtesy photo)
Concert details
Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!
The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.
When it comes to summertime pests in Michigan, the pesky mosquito is generally thought of first. While that annual nuisance is prevalent again this year, another pest is making a comeback and taking its toll on Michiganders.
Like the mosquito, ticks are another summertime culprit that feasts on humans and spreads its own varieties of disease.
Tick-borne diseases, particularly Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, are increasing across the state of Michigan.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Lyme disease cases have increased 168% over the last five years. Michigan recorded 1,215 cases of Lyme disease in 2024, as compared to 452 cases in 2020. Anaplasmosis cases in Michigan have seen an almost fivefold increase over the last five years, with 82 cases in 2024 compared to 17 in 2020.
Lyme disease most common one in Michigan
Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is the most common tick-borne disease in Michigan. (Michigan Health and Human Services) Anaplasmosis, caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, is the second most common tick-borne disease and cases are increasing, particularly in the northern parts of the state.
Blacklegged ticks. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
“Preventing tick bites is the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease and anaplasmosis,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the MDHHS. “If you find a tick attached to your body, promptly remove it. Monitor your health, and if you experience fever, rash, muscle or joint aches or other symptoms, or if you suspect a tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, consult with your medical provider.”
Key Points from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
*Infected ticks are found most commonly in forested areas in the northeastern, north-central, and mid-Atlantic states, and in smaller areas within Pacific Coast states. *Lyme disease bacteria causing human infection in the United States are spread to people by blacklegged (Ixodes) ticks. *In general, infected ticks must be attached for more than 24 hours to transmit infection; prompt tick removal can prevent transmission.
Roughly 75% of Michigan Counties have a known risk for Lyme disease according to the latest map published by the Michigan.gov. Menominee and Dickinson Counties in the Upper Peninsula ranked first and second in the state for most confirmed cases of Lyme Disease. However, closer to home, Kalamazoo County was fourth, Ottawa County seventh and Allegan County is eighth in number of confirmed cases.
Unlike many other diseases, there is currently no vaccine to guard against Lyme Disease.
“There is a Lyme Disease vaccine for dogs,” said Dr. Maria Diuk-Wasser, a professor of ecology, evolution and environmental biology at Columbia University, who is researching the spread of ticks and which parts of the country tend to harbor disease-carrying ticks. “There is a vaccine in the works that is scheduled to come out in a couple of years. There used to be a vaccine for ticks, but it was taken off the market due to poor sales about 20 years ago.”
The early symptoms of Lyme disease, according to the Mayo Clinic, are fever, headache, extreme tiredness, joint stiffness, muscle aches and pains and swollen lymph nodes. Signs and symptoms of tick-borne disease typically begin one to two weeks after a bite, often after being in wooded or brushy areas where ticks commonly live. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can decrease the risk of serious complications.
Classic Lyme disease rash. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
According to Health and Human Services, both Lyme disease and anaplasmosis are transmitted by Ixodes scapularis, commonly known as the blacklegged or deer tick. The blacklegged tick is well-established in parts of Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and has been expanding its range over the years.
The MDHHS is encouraging Michigan residents to take steps to avoid tick bites while enjoying the outdoors. Protect yourself against Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases by following these tips.
*Avoid tick-infested areas that harbor them like grassy, brushy and wooded areas. Individuals should walk in the center of trails to avoid contact with overgrown grass, brush and leaf litter on trail edges. Dogs and cats can encounter ticks outdoors and bring them into the home. Talk with your veterinarian about the best tick prevention products. *Apply an EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin. Treat clothes before going out to forested areas or hiking with permethrin, which kills ticks on contact or buy clothes that are pre-treated. Do not use permethrin directly on skin. *Always check for ticks on yourself and your animals after being outdoors, including in your own yard. Inspect all body surfaces carefully and remove attached ticks carefully with tweezers. *Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors, preferably within two hours, to wash off and more easily find ticks. Wash clothing in hot water and dry on high heat to kill ticks.
For more information on Lyme disease and other tick-borne conditions, or how to submit your tick and/or photo of a tick, visit Michigan.gov/Lyme.
Despite months of economic uncertainty stemming from tariff policies and ongoing global trade tensions, the West Michigan economy has remained resilient, according to data collected by a GVSU researcher (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Despite months of economic uncertainty stemming from tariff policies and ongoing global trade tensions, the West Michigan economy has remained resilient, according to data collected by a Grand Valley State University (GVSU) researcher.
Brian Long, Director of Supply Management Research at GVSU’s Seidman College of Business, said his monthly survey of local firms and purchasing managers shows the regional economy has gained unexpected strength through the summer.
Three-year highs
In fact, Long said two key metrics in his recent survey — the new orders index and production index — hit three-year highs. The survey’s new orders index measures a company’s business improvement while the production index reflects a firm’s output.
“Almost any firm with a supply chain that originates anywhere outside of the country is having trouble keeping up with the tariff wars on virtually a daily basis,” Long said.
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Fortunately, most of our respondents seem to be taking it in stride partially based on the experience gained from the COVID crisis, but almost all of them are holding up major decisions on new equipment, plant expansion, new sourcing and so forth until the trade war with their segment of the supply chain is resolved.”
Long said the short- and long-term business confidence among local firms has also remained relatively stable since a sharp drop in April, when the tariffs were first announced.
“In the industrial market…one of our survey respondents says that tariff management is becoming more routine,” Long said, adding that the respondent continues to watch tariff deadlines despite that belief.
June survey key index results of West Michigan businesses:
New orders index (business improvement): +21 vs. +14 in May
The sweet sound of traditional Celtic music will create an atmosphere of Saint Patrick’s Day in the middle of summer as the Kentwood Summer Concert Series welcomes On The Lash to the stage Thursday night.
The band features traditional Irish/Scottish music that it personalizes with its original voices. On The Lash not only provides new takes on classical Irish songs and Celtic music, but also features original songs in the traditional Irish/Scottish standards.
This Thursday’s concert is set to begin at 7 p.m. and last until 8:30 on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. It also will be Bike Night at the Kentwood Farmers Market as local bike organizations are featured. There also will be food trucks on hand and concertgoers are encouraged to come early and check out the Farmers Market next door from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Kentwood Farmers Market. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
This week’s concert will have you in the mood to drink some Cream Ale or Stout while listening to some relaxing Celtic melodies.
On The Lash provides a local flavor to the Celtic music it plays as the band, which has been together for three years, is comprised of former Western Michigan University students who have West Michigan roots.
“We’ve been together for three years as a band, but we’ve known each other for a decade,” said John Robey. “We met in college at Western Michigan where we were all music majors. I grew up playing Irish and Scottish music and a couple of the other members also played this type of music.”
Robey plays the fiddle in the band which also includes Patrick Harson on guitar, Joel Myers, mandolin, and Elizabeth June, vocals and flute.
“Eizabeth is the star,” Robey said.
The band performs year-round, but is at its busiest during March, November and December. They play at concert venues during the fall and winter months and venture to outdoor festivals during the summer and early fall.
“We play a very exciting blend of classical Irish and Scottish music,” Myers said. “We play some covers of Irish and Scottish-style songs and we also have our own original music.”
Along with their performances, the band also spreads their knowledge of traditional Celtic music throughout the community.
“We also do a fair amount of work with schools teaching Irish/Scottish music and putting on workshops,” Robey said. “We like teaching Irish/Scottish music and presenting it to newcomers who want to know more about it.”
The group is excited about the upcoming show in Kentwood and looks forward to performing the Irish/Scottish variety of music to this week’s concertgoers.
“We are looking forward to playing in Kentwood,” Myers said. “It will be a really fun show. We will be playing some of the traditional staples along with some other really good Irish/Scottish music. We will also be playing some of our own songs. We bring a lot of energy and the people at the show will have a good time.”
The band will play some covers of some of the traditional Irish jigs and reels and also will cover some traditional Irish/Scottish bands of the 1970’s and 80’s including Silly Wizard, a Scottish folk band that formed in Edinburgh in 1970. Silly Wizard was one of the more popular Scottish folk bands of the 1970’s and 80’s.
On The Lash also will do some covers of The Paul McKenna Band, which is one of the top folk bands to come out of Scotland in the last 20 years.
To get a taste of what On The Lash has to offer the band has just released their first album currently available on Spotify. The five-song album is called Fireside and a preview can be found on the band’s website onthelashband.com.
Most of the music on the album is from the traditional Irish heritage that is the primary influence of the band.
Catherine’s Health Center CEO Megan Erskine (left) shaking hands with Mel Trotter CEO Chris Palusky celebrating the joint partnership to operate a full-service medical clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
Mel Trotter Ministries, the largest provider of services to people experiencing homelessness in West Michigan, announced an expansion of its partnership with Catherine’s Health Center. This expansion will result in increased health clinic services for guests staying at Mel Trotter’s shelter at 225 Commerce SW in Grand Rapids.
Catherine’s is now offering full-time medical care at Mel Trotter Ministries. This new partnership will provide 40 hours per week of comprehensive primary care services to guests, with plans to expand access to the broader Heartside community by early 2026.
Mishel Pollard of Catherine’s Health Center standing in the hallway at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
The clinic will serve as a “medical home” for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering walk-in appointments and a full spectrum of services including substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), immunizations, screenings, well-child visits, diagnostic lab services, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialty care.
Additional care
In addition to primary care, Catherine’s will provide:
16 hours per week of dental hygiene services
4 hours per week of psychiatric care
40 hours per week of case management support
The entrance to the full-service clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
Bringing integrated services to the community
“We are grateful to Mel Trotter Ministries and their generous partners and donors for laying the foundation for this model of care,” said Megan Erskine, CEO at Catherine’s Health Center. “Their commitment over the past four years…has made it possible for us to expand our place-based care model and bring full-time, integrated services to this community.”
Catherine’s Health Center staff working in the full-service medical clinic. Left to right: Ollie Irwin, Mishel Pollard, Bettie DeChemin (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
Catherine’s has spent the last three years delivering healthcare directly to the unhoused in shelters, churches and encampments. The new clinic represents the next evolution of this work, complemented by a mobile medical van that will continue to provide outreach and services across the region.
“We’re extremely pleased to expand our relationship with Catherine’s Health Center so that we can deliver the best possible care to our guests,” said Chris Palusky, CEO at Mel Trotter Ministries.
“When our renovated clinic space opened two years ago, it was our goal to provide services that healed the body and the spirit of those in need of assistance. This new service agreement will help us do that by bringing a more complete spectrum of care for anyone coming to our shelter.”
Tammy Morgan of Catherine’s Health Center working in an exam room at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
The initiative goal is to provide personalized and dignified care to guests while reducing non-urgent emergency department visits and unnecessary hospitalizations. Ultimately, leaders at Mel Trotter Ministries and Catherine’s Health Center believe that improved physical and mental health outcomes will enhance housing opportunities and stability for individuals trapped in the cycle of homelessness.
Stay tuned!
The clinic expects to open its doors to anyone experiencing homelessness starting in October. An open house at the clinic is planned for Oct. 22.
To view Catherine’s Health Center upcoming events, click here.
Kyle VanEerden, Market Manager (right), and Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City of Wyoming provided a tour of their new community market space, Godwin Mercado, on Tuesday, July 1.
Managed and programmed by Kyle VanEerden, Godwin Mercado Market Manager, and the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the market space will support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.
Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department Director, provided a preview of the nearly completed 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility.
“The Godwin Mercado is a year-round market facility that we are looking at as a really amazing and beautiful gift to the community here in Wyoming,” said Martin.
“A lot of work has been done to get us to this point,” Martin continued, noting that the Mercado groundbreaking was held seven months ago. “It’s amazing to see the progress that has happened in the building so far.”
The Mercado will be fully operational in fall of 2025 and will soon open for community reservations and events. The full farmers market will open in spring of 2026 to allow a full season for farm vendors.
Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department staff talk with local media in Godwin Mercado’s outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Fulfilling a vital need
Not only will the Mercado provide fun and educational activities and events, market days will provide fresh and healthy food options with access to all food assistance currencies. This will fill key gaps in the area’s food system and help support the well-being of local residents.
“This is definitely fulfilling a need,” said Martin. “We’re definitely trying to fill a gap in the food system over here. There are some options of grocery stores nearby, but we really want to be able to provide fresh food options to the community right here in this neighborhood while also providing some education.”
A community hub
On the west end is the Mercado outdoor plaza, a multipurpose space that can accommodate vendors, activities and live music, seating and can be rented for community events. Electrical power is available for food trucks and other event needs.
The Godwin Mercado outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Imagine there’s live music happening, there’s a lot of community, there’s kids laughing, there’s people talking,” said Martin. “That’s what this space should feel and look like once we’re fully operational.”
Accessible from the outdoor plaza is the Mercado main entrance and lobby. Restrooms can be found immediately to the left upon entering the lobby. Down the hall is a multipurpose room that can be utilized for meetings and during events. Another small room offers appliances such as warmers, a freezer and a refrigerator with a window connecting to the main event space.
Godwin Mercado main event space (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The main event space includes automatic overhead doors and room for 20-24 vendors. Outdoor space for additional vendors is available along the building’s north wall.
Two utility rooms with storage space and a full AV setup at the east end of the building round out the market space.
Events year-round
Godwin Mercado is open all year – even during Michigan’s winter months. Eight automatic overhead doors that open and close facilitate that year-round possibility.
Large overhead doors can be opened or closed depending on weather (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“In those colder weather months, maybe you’ll see the garage doors down, maybe we’ll have a little breeze going,” said Martin. “But this gives us a great amount of space to be able to have vendors.”
A single market day will be hosted each week during the winter months. Two market days will take place during the summer months.
Planning is already in progress for both a fall festival and a holiday market. The City’s annual winter event, Wrap Up Wyoming, will also take place at the Godwin Mercado.
Restoring a previous historic Wyoming event is also under consideration.
“Wyoming historically has had a pretty significant flea market that used to take place on 28th Street,” said Martin. “We’re hoping to bring back a semblance of a flea market that will take place here.”
Intentional connections
A mural installed by the nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, will be painted by a local artist on the outer south wall of the Godwin Mercado building.
The north side of the building is equipped with two connecting paths to the surrounding neighborhood, space for outdoor vendors, seating, a play area for children, and a bike repair station.
One of the walking paths connecting Godwin Mercado to the adjoining neighborhood (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A neighborhood connecting walking path and the bike repair station site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Krashawn Martin talks about the various ways the market space connects to the community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A seating area on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Space for outdoor vendors and community/family gatherings on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The Godwin Mercado parking area connects with the Godwin Heights school athletic complex (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City’s reconfigured trail network, its proximity to the highway and Silver Line bus route, and the walkable neighborhood location will make the Mercado easily accessible to everyone.
“We’ve tried to be really intentional with some of our neighborhood connectors,” said Martin.
Educational collaborations with local schools and organizations are also in planning stages. The goal is to provide youth with education about fresh foods, fun collaborations with the adjoining Godwin Heights school athletic complex activities, and encouraging entrepreneurial skills by bringing youth in as vendors for a special market day.
Godwin Mercado landscaping is well under way (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Martin is cognizant, however, that other local organizations provide much of what the Mercado will offer the community – and she has no intention of reinventing the wheel.
“There are a lot of programs that are doing this work already, so it’s just finding those partnerships and having this be the space that people need for the ideas they already have,” said Martin. “We really want this to be an asset to the neighborhood that’s right here around us.”
Come one, come all!
Godwin Mercado will host a free grand opening event on Saturday, Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We are really looking at that as a huge community block party, a gift to the community,” said Martin. “We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season.”
Attendees can expect food trucks, local vendors, kids activities, live music, games, a free meal (while supplies last) and more.
Rendering of completed Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Resource links
The Godwin Mercado full market grand opening is planned for spring of 2026. For updates, sign up for the Godwin Mercado newsletter here.
Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via an online vendor application.
For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.
Makenna Diller, a registered dietitian with Care Resources PACE®, talks with Vicki S. about the importance of hydration during the hot summer months and how fruits can help. (Photo Courtesy, Care Resources)
There’s nothing quite like summer in Michigan, but the heat waves that come with it can be dangerous, particularly for older adults and other vulnerable populations.
Registered Dietitian Makenna Diller with Care Resources, a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, says older adults are at increased risk for heat-related health problems for several reasons.
Stay hydrated
“The biggest concern for all of us when it comes to really hot days is making sure we are staying hydrated,” Diller said. “It is especially important for older adults, who are more likely to have health concerns or medications that impact their ability to keep cool.
“Additionally, the body’s triggers for thirst diminish as part of the natural aging process. That combined with memory issues or other cognitive changes may make it more difficult to remember to drink water.”
Diller says the trigger for thirst is the last step in terms of our bodies telling us we need water, so don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Having a plan in place to ensure ongoing fluid intake is key. Regular reminders from caregivers and loved ones can help.
Add flavors
Diller also encourages finding ways to make drinking water more enjoyable by adding flavors, such as cucumber or lemon.
“It is important to keep getting fluids, and that doesn’t always have to mean just water,” Diller says. “Fluids can come from anywhere. There are a lot of foods we can incorporate that support hydration. Think of any fruit or vegetable that’s juicy or watery when you bite into it.”
Add fruits and vegetables for fluid intake
Diller says melons, lettuce, celery, grapes, berries, oranges and pineapples are all great options that can count toward your daily fluid intake.
“Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can be a win-win for getting that fluid component, but also great vitamins and minerals,” she adds.
How meals are prepared on hot days also is important. Diller recommends avoiding the use of ovens and stoves, which can really heat up a home.
“Find meal prep ideas online that use alternative kitchen equipment and personalize them to your own tastes,” Diller says. “That may look like a microwave, air fryer or pressure cooker, anything that can put off less heat, but still result in a substantial meal. Searching for ‘air fryer recipes’ or ‘summer pressure cooker ideas’ is a great way to get the creativity going.
“Consider buying foods that are already pre-cooked in the store, such as rotisserie chicken and canned veggies or beans. Salads and cold sandwiches also are great options that have the added benefit of being easy to prepare and personalize with different ingredients.”
Whenever considering dietary modifications, Diller recommends getting specialized guidance. She says dietary health plans should be customized to individuals’ specific health needs, lifestyle, age and tastes as well as cultural background and financial situation.
“With a dietitian, you can get the most up-to-date research and medical nutrition therapy recommendations that are relevant for your specific situation,” Diller says. “If you aren’t enrolled in a program like Care Resources, your primary care provider may be able to make a referral.”
Nutrition counseling is one of many services for adults 55 years and older provided by Care Resources. For more information, call 800-610-6299 or visit CareResources.org.
10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Carnival with rides and games for all ages at City Hall. Wristbands for the carnival will be available for purchase Wednesday, July 2, until Thursday, July 3 for $20 at City Hall and the Kentwood Activities Center.
4 to 10 p.m. – Evening Celebration at City Hall with community booths, food trucks, a beer tent and live music – all leading up to FIREWORKS at DUSK.
Community members are encouraged to bring credit and debit cards to the event since all activities and many vendors are cashless. Find all the details, including parking and volunteer information, at kentwood.us/July4.
“Our Parks and Recreation and Public Works departments begin planning months in advance to make Kentwood’s Fourth of July Celebration a memorable event for all,” Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo said. “From the morning pancake breakfast to the evening fireworks, this celebration is a great opportunity for our community to come together, have fun and honor the holiday.”
Check out the Kentwood Summer Concert Series Lineup for July From 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday through Aug. 14 there is live music from local bands. Bring a blanket or chair and watch the performances on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE.
Kentwood Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Food trucks will be on-site with food and beverages for purchase each week. Concertgoers may also bring their own food and beer or wine. Get there early and explore the Kentwood Farmers Market from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot behind City Hall.
July’s lineup includes four performances: July 10 – On the Lash, performing traditional Celtic music. Food trucks include Freddy Franks, Los Pinches Tacos and Dakiddd Bar-B-Que & Catering. July 17 – Sunchaser, a five-piece band playing rock, country, blues, R&B and more. Food trucks include Taquero Mucho, Falafel Truck, Boujee Bowls and Taste of Toya’s World. July 24 – Grupo Fierro, performing energetic norteño and tejano music. Food trucks include Kory’s Antojitos, Around Baking Company, Frostbite Shaved Ice and Patty Matters. July 31 – Roosevelt Diggs, performing a blend of folk, country, bluegrass, blues and more. Food trucks include Freddy Franks, Tamales Mary, Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ and Dolce Mini Cakes. Please note: There’s no concert or Farmers Market on July 3. For more information about the concerts, go to Kentwood.us/MarketsAndMusic.
Shop Local at the Kentwood Farmers Market through Aug. 21 The 11th season of the Kentwood Farmers Market runs through Aug. 21. You can find fresh produce, baked goods, tea, craft items and more from a variety of local vendors from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Thursday behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Food trucks also are on-site each week.
Kentwood Farmers Market. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Summer Food Programs
Free lunches for children and some adults are available again this summer through Kent District Library’s Gather 2 Grow program, a partnership with Feeding America West Michigan. Kids ages 0-18 and individuals who are younger than age 26 and have a disability can enjoy a nutritious lunch from noon to 1 p.m. Monday-Friday through Aug. 29 at KDL – Kentwood (Richard L. Root), 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Learn more at kdl.org/lunch.
In addition, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is starting its annual SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) program, providing eligible households with $120 per child to purchase nutritious groceries. This initiative ensures kids have access to healthy food while school is out, bridging a gap in food security for thousands of kids in Michigan. Learn more and apply here.
The Kent District Library (KDL) Kentwood Branch Library. (WKTV)
Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Events The Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch will offer a variety of programs this month, including: KDL Lab Experience: Creature Power: Thursday, July 3, 10-11 a.m. Explore the amazing world of creatures big and small as we dive into fun animal activities. Ruff Readers: Tuesday, July 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. This unique read-aloud program in partnership with West Michigan Therapy Dogs Inc. pairs kids with a trained therapy dog and their handler. Kids read their favorite book and the pooches curl up, listen and enjoy. Eric Litwin – Pete the Cat Family Concert: Tuesday, July 15, 10-11 a.m. Join Eric Litwin, the original author of the “Pete the Cat” series as well as the author of “The Nuts and Groovy Joe,” for a groovy time of song singing, guitar strumming and picture taking. Chasing the Aurora Below the 45th Parallel: What It Takes to Catch the Northern Lights: Tuesday, July 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join Melissa Kaelin, founder of Michigan Aurora Chasers and author of “Beyond the 45th Parallel,” to discover how to view the northern lights. Learn how an aurora is created and the best methods for predicting an aurora display.
Also, check out KDL’s Author Talks, online conversations in which authors of interesting, popular, informative and compelling books share more about their work, their writing process and the things that inspire them. These conversations are led by passionate readers from the Library Speakers Consortium, and they offer a chance for attendees to ask questions about their favorite authors and topics. Learn more at kdl.org/authortalks. Find a full list of KDL events at kdl.org
Home Lead Inspections Get ahead of lead: Homeowners who live in a home built before 1978 can get free paint, dust and soil lead testing through Kent County Community Action. Learn more and apply for the Kent County Lead Evaluation and Reduction program by visiting gettingaheadoflead.com/kclear.
The Kentwood Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at 4:47 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, at Jaycee Park (1088 Gentian Dr. SE).
Upon arrival, officers located shell casings, along with damage to a vehicle. At this time no injuries were reported, and no suspects have been arrested.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department at 616-656-6580. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
