From now until Aug. 30, the WAR Chest Boutique invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale that features a wide variety of items at greatly reduced prices (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming invites the community to shop with purpose at their annualsummer Tent Sale.
From June through Aug. 30, a wide variety of items will be available under the gondolas in the boutique’s front lawn, including new and pre-owned products as well as imperfect merchandise at greatly reduced prices.
#ShopWithPurpose
Sale items are hand-crafted by at-risk women (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The retail arm of non-profit organization, Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l), the WAR Chest Boutique includes retail stores, an online boutique, and product parties held in homes, businesses and churches throughout the United States.
Specializing in hand-crafted items by at-risk women in WAR, Int’l partnering programs, each product in the online boutique and in the retail stores comes with a story card detailing personal stories of men, women, and children who have passed through WAR, Int’l programs.
WAR, Int’l seeks to help women at risk. Using culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships, WAR, Int’l provides safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more.
“Our mission is two-fold,” states the WAR Chest Boutique website. “We seek to market and sell handcrafted items made by at-risk and rescued men and women from around the world, supporting culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects, while educating our shoppers about the risks the vulnerable face in our world.”
Tent sale details
Tent Sale items include jewelry, scarves, keychains, books, bookmarks, toys, ornaments, fabric, home decor, craft supplies, jewelry-making supplies and more.
The summer months include indoor monthly specials as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Also featured during the summer months are indoor monthly specials. During June, customers can enjoy 30% off all orange-tag clearance items.
WAR Chest Boutique hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Boutique staff begin bringing Tent Sale items inside a half-hour before closing time, but customers are welcome to continue shopping indoors and outdoors until 5 p.m. During potentially stormy days, extreme heat conditions, or Mondays before the lawn service mows the grass, customers may shop Tent Sale items inside the boutique.
Shopping options are available online as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Summer exceptions to regular WAR Chest Boutique hours are June 26-27 (closed for inventory) and July 4 (closed for Independence Day).
Can’t make it to the tent sale? #ShopWithPurpose online here.
Purchases help free and empower survivors (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
All purchases from the WAR Chest Boutique help set women and children free from exploitation and slavery, and empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.
To learn more about the WAR Chest Boutique, click here. To learn more about WAR Int’l, click here.
While hospice is often associated with death, Melissa Wedberg with Emmanuel Hospice will tell you it’s more about living. (Photo Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
It may be surprising to learn that’s the first question Emmanuel Hospice asks every new patient. Isn’t hospice about dying?
While hospice is often associated with death, Melissa Wedberg will tell you it’s more about living, especially at Emmanuel Hospice, where she serves as vice president of community relations. With more than a decade in the hospice industry, Wedberg has spent years dispelling this and many other myths.
Despite having roots in the U.S. dating back to the 70s, there remains a lot of mystery about hospice. Common questions Wedberg hears include: What is hospice and who’s eligible? How does hospice work? How is hospice paid for?
The medical definition of hospice is holistic care and support for people who have been given a physician prognosis of six months or less to live, but Wedberg encourages anyone with a serious illness to learn about hospice services sooner than later. The six-month prognosis is a guideline, not a guarantee or definitive timeline.
“Individuals can be on hospice for months or even years,” Wedberg says. “Studies show hospice care can actually increase life expectancy.”
Hospice focuses on enhancing quality of life through comfort care, symptom management and emotional and spiritual support. Some providers provide those basics and so much more, as Emmanuel does with its patient wish program and complementary services such as music and massage therapy.
You don’t need a physician referral to start the process. Wedberg stresses that anyone can inquire about hospice and be evaluated for eligibility.
“If anyone is interested in hospice care, we can do an evaluation,” she says. “A hospice physician gives the first certification, then the primary care provider can either agree or disagree that, based on our assessment, this person has a life-limiting illness that qualifies them.”
Patients must also elect to forgo curative treatments. To be clear, this decision does not involve hastening the end of life, but rather focusing on living more comfortably.
“It is important you have goals of care that align with the goals of hospice,” Wedberg clarifies. “That is to say, you no longer want to take great measures to prolong your life, that you accept your disease process for what it is and just want to be comfortable and happy in the time you have left.”
But what does that look like? Wedberg says when Emmanuel Hospice asks, “how do you want to live,” people often talk about the little things in life that matter most.
“We hear a lot about what is important to people, such as making family memories, remaining connected to their faith community, eating their favorite meals and doing activities that bring them joy,” Wedberg says. “Our team will design a care plan around the things patients want most.
“Many people also tell us they don’t want to have the trauma and the drama of medical care anymore. They don’t want to go back and forth to emergency rooms or doctor offices getting poked and prodded rather than doing what they enjoy in the safety and comfort of their home and with their loved ones.”
Another important detail most people don’t know: You have choices.
“We are really fortunate in West Michigan to have a lot of options when it comes to end-of-life care, but not every provider offers the same services or operates in the same way,” Wedberg says, encouraging people to visit Medicare.gov to compare ratings. “You can call and interview multiple providers before you make a decision. It’s important to find one that’s a good fit for your needs.”
What about the cost? The good news is hospice care is often completely paid for by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance carriers. Most commercial plans also have some form of coverage. For individuals who are uninsured, pro bono care may be an option.
“Pro bono is not the standard in our industry,” Wedberg adds. “But as a faith-based nonprofit provider, it is Emmanuel Hospice’s position that if someone needs and wants end-of-life care, the cost should not be prohibitive. Everyone deserves a good end of life.”
Kari Lynch shares about remaining true to her authentic self as a singer-songwriter – and how that has set KLB apart in the music industry (Courtesy, KLB)
The Kari Lynch Band (KLB) is returning to Lamar Park on Tuesday, June 24 at 6 p.m. with fan favorites and new songs from their upcoming album, including a new single being released June 27.
Dubbed a “force to be reckoned with,” Kari Lynch isn’t holding back as she prepares to take the stage during Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park second summer performance. The independent artist’s unapologetic authenticity continues to shine through in original music that weaves pop-rock nostalgia with modern singer-songwriter sensibilities – while circumventing mainstream expectations.
“I’ve always done what I believe is best for a song, and I’ve always tried to stay true to the type of music that I want to make outside of what’s popular,” Lynch says. “I’m not trying to make a song go viral, I’m just trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”
The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)
Alone and imaginative
Though currently residing in Nashville, TN, the young and imaginative Lynch grew up in Clare, MI. A self-professed introvert, Lynch began writing songs and poems at the age of seven as a way to process her emotions.
“As a kid, I just felt really different,” says Lynch. “I always wanted to go off alone and be with my thoughts.”
Lynch’s parents divorced when she was four years old, and she remembers that time as confusing and emotional.
“When you’re a kid, so much of that is so hard to understand,” says Lynch. “I had these huge feelings and I didn’t know where to put them.”
So she put those feelings on paper.
“My natural thing was to go in a corner, or close the door, and sing or write a poem or song,” says Lynch. “Nobody taught me how to do it. It was very much like music chose me.”
The practice of writing has remained constant throughout Lynch’s life when there is something she is trying to understand or process.
“It’s one of the best forms of release.”
Lynch uses her natural gift for storytelling to create songs that resonate with audiences (Courtesy, KLB)
Wildly creative
Lynch’s music career began when she moved to Grand Rapids and formed the Kari Lynch Band. The band has experienced various changes over the past 15 years, but Lynch says she grateful for all of them.
“All the iterations of the Kari Lynch Band have always been the greatest guys, the most talented people,” says Lynch. “I’m so lucky that these musicians rolled into my life and I get to play music with them.”
The artist says keeping friendships and communication as top priorities solidifies KLB members into a cohesive unit.
Creating something real
For Lynch, the most important part of music is connecting with listeners (Courtesy, KLB)
Lynch has never followed mainstream expectations and believes that is why her music stands out to audiences.
Though the songwriter does think about hooks and memorable melodies, her main focus is not writing a hit song. It is writing and telling a story that is honest and real.
“I’m trying to tell the story the way that I think it needs to come out,” Lynch says. “I’m trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”
And when Lynch releases her final product, it is with zero apologies and zero disclaimers.
“When I put it out in the world, I’m just going to put it out there. I wrote it in a way that feels really good to me, and I really hope it resonates with somebody else. Because at the end of the day, it’s really all about that connection for me.”
Shaking things up
Because Lynch’s songs can be intensely personal and introspective, releasing certain songs to the public is often be a nail-biting experience for the artist.
“It’s always a little scary when you’re sharing something because it’s so vulnerable.”
However, Lynch says that she ultimately feels good about releasing songs that make her nervous because those are the songs listeners relate to the most.
“I’ve found that some of the songs I am most scared to release are the ones people really connect with,” says Lynch. “I think people need real, tangible things like that to connect with sometimes.”
For Lynch, art is not always meant to be easily digestible. “It’s meant to shake things up a bit. It’s meant to make people think a little bit differently about things or feel something maybe they’re struggling to feel.”
The trendy bus
When youth reach out to Lynch about songwriting, the artist urges them to be true to themselves – even if that means going against the flow.
“When you’re younger, you have this inclination to go with the flow and do what everybody else is doing. It’s so easy to do the thing that’s popular.”
Lynch encourages those she meets to be authentic, even if it is not popular (Courtesy, KLB)
However, Lynch continues, authenticity is what shines through.
“Sometimes it takes longer if you’re not doing the popular thing, if you’re not riding the trendy bus. But I really believe that, if you keep doing it, authenticity always shines through.”
And what you create will find an audience.
“There’s somebody out there who needs to hear what you’ve created, and only the way that you create it is going to resonate with them,” says Lynch.
“Any time you’re creating from a place of honesty, it’s going to resonate with somebody.”
Lynch went on to say that she believes people are “aching for things that are real” – herself included.
“I truly want to be myself…I want to sound like Kari Lynch. At the end of the day, trends are trends. Everything has a time, and I’d rather make music that feels timeless or feels like it’s going to stick around than go after certain production notes or drum beats that are popular right now.”
A new season of music
Lynch is excited to return to the Lamar Park stage, reconnect with fans and share new music. She hopes all concert attendees are able to immerse themselves in the moment and enjoy every aspect of the KLB show experience.
“My favorite thing about making music is truly connecting with people,” Lynch says. “That is what makes all the things about being an independent musician worth it, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to be able to do it.”
The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)
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.
Kentwood Police Officers were dispatched to a potential shooting in the 200 block of 48th St. at 8 a.m. Wednesday, June 18.
During the investigation it was determined that an altercation between a 19-year-old male and 17-year-old female subject took place. The male suspect fired one round at the female which did not strike her, and then fled the scene. Several hours later the male suspect contacted and met with Kentwood Police Department Detectives. He has since been lodged at Kent County Correctional Facility on related charges. No injuries were reported and there is not an ongoing threat to the public.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
The City of Kentwood is inviting community members of all ages to join its Fourth of July celebration on Friday, July 4.
The annual event includes a full day of activities for all ages and interests, including a pancake breakfast, 5K race, parade, carnival, fireworks show, and more. Community members are encouraged to bring credit and debit cards since all activities and vendors are cashless.
“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.”
The day starts with a pancake breakfast at Kentwood Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma Ave. SE. The breakfast takes place from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. and costs $5 per person. It’s free for ages 3 and younger.
City of Kentwood Fourth of July Celebration, 2024. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The 5K race and fun walk begins at 8 a.m., with the start and finish at Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Road SE. The route takes participants through nearby neighborhoods and across a portion of the East West Trail. For the safety of all participants, roller skates, dogs and bicycles will not be allowed on the course. All finishers will receive a medal.
At 9:30 a.m., the parade begins at Crestwood Middle School, 2674 44th St. SE. The parade travels south on Walma Avenue to Breton Avenue, turns north at the roundabout, heads east on 44th Street and ends at Crestwood Middle School.
Carnival rides, games and prizes
City of Kentwood Fourth of July Celebration, 2024. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
From 10:30 to 2:30 p.m., community members can head over to City Hall for a carnival featuring rides, games, prizes and more. Individual tickets cost $1 each, and the number of tickets needed for each attraction varies.
Wristbands for carnival rides also will be available for $20 at the event and in advance Wednesday, July 2 through Thursday, July 3 at City Hall and the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. City Hall is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. The Kentwood Activities Center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday.
The day concludes with an evening celebration at City Hall from 4 to 10 p.m. that features community booths, a beer tent, food trucks, live music and fireworks. There will be musical performances by Signal Trip, Simply in Time and Par-llo Connection.
The fireworks show begins at dusk and is visible from City Hall and surrounding areas.
City of Kentwood Fourth of July Celebration, 2024. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
A section of Walma Avenue near City Hall from Fire Station 1 to the roundabout will be closed all day to allow pedestrians to safely cross the street and take part in the activities. A section of Breton Avenue in front of the library to the roundabout will be closed for the fireworks display. It will close 15 minutes before the show and reopen 30 minutes after the fireworks are done. The Kentwood Police Department and volunteers will be on-site to help direct traffic.
The event’s diamond sponsor is Macatawa Bank, and the gold sponsors are Bloom Sluggett, PC, DTE Foundation, Lacks Enterprises, Metronet, MCSA Group Inc., MSU Federal Credit Union, Sabo PR, Spark 43 Architects and Triangle Construction Inc. The silver sponsors are Arie Nol Auto Center, Moonlight Graphics Inc. and Wolverine Building Group, and the copper sponsors are The Joint Chiropractic, Kent County Health Department and Renewal by Andersen.
The City is seeking 5K runners, parade participants and volunteers for the day’s events. Learn more and sign up at kentwood.us/4thofJuly.
Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)
It’s time to put your dancing shoes on! Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. for the first 2025 Concerts in the Park summer performance.
With their sophisticated appearance, masterful musicianship and trademark high-energy performances, the 10-member band will pay tribute to influential funk, soul and R&B artists in a soul-infused entertainment experience designed to keep the audience dancing.
“It’s always a ride playing Wyoming because the crowds are always fantastic; it’s just always fun,” says drummer Tom Taylor.
Soulful sounds from master musicians
The band delivers high-energy performances at every venue (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)
Audiences will be treated to the soulful sounds of Mike Coon on guitar and vocals, Matt Fouts on bass, John Neil on keyboard and sounds, Colin Tobin as lead male vocalist, Katie Sarb as lead female vocalist, Tim DenBesten on trumpet and vocals, Nate Hansen and Danny Giacobassi on saxophone, Jeff Carroll on trombone, Tom Taylor on drums, and Eugene Griffith as sound engineer.
No strangers to large events and festival stages, members of The Soul Syndicate deliver a unique sound and crowd-pleasing experience at every venue they visit with their carefully crafted multi-song medleys.
Though soul, funk and R&B genres are musically related with soul and funk often considered sub genres of R&B, it is only in the past five years that The Soul Syndicate has deviated from their original plan of playing pure, classic soul music.
“Eleven years ago the original idea behind the band was really more around being strictly classic soul,” says Taylor. “That late 60s Motown, Stax, Memphis, Philly soul music. We wanted to do something different, something that was unique.”
At the time, pure soul music was unique to the West Michigan area. Though many people enjoyed The Soul Syndicate’s performances, many songs were not well-known and did not generate the excitement band members were hoping for.
So they decided to change it up.
May I have this dance?
“About five years ago we started to think about becoming more of a pure dance band, adding a lot more funk elements, really keeping the popular songs but making it a little funkier,” says Taylor. “Like anything, it’s evolved from there based on audience reaction and some of the events that we started booking.”
The Soul Syndicate’s popularity soared when the band began playing their own arrangements of song medleys. Suddenly, people were coming to see them perform at multiple events and saying they liked the band’s new sound.
And those medleys, Taylor says, keep the audience on the dance floor.
“Folks don’t like breaks,” Taylor says with a laugh. “If they’re on the dance floor, they like to keep going until they get tired.”
The band may tweak the medleys from year to year, but they continue to add more to their playlist.
“We all love playing together and love seeing big crowds dancing. There’s nothing better.”
The Soul Syndicate performs at several venues throughout the year (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)
Band growth, awards and playing with stars…
Only half of The Soul Syndicate are original members of the band, but the past decade has brought plenty of growth, talent and new friendships.
“When we started, the horn section was just a trumpet and a saxophone,” says Taylor. “And now we’ve got a four-piece horn section: a trumpet, two saxes, and a trombone.”
Many band members, Taylor included, perform with other groups as well as with The Soul Syndicate. That has provided band members with opportunities to play with nationally known artists such as Hootie and the Blowfish, The Beach Boys, The Temptations, The Guess Who, Natalie Cole, Rosemarie Clooney, Elvis Presley Jr., The US Navy Commodores Band – and more.
“The longer you’ve been doing this, you make a lot of relationships and never know who you’re going to run into in different parts of the area, different parts of the country and different theaters,” says Taylor.
The band’s only original music album won a Jammie Award for Best New Artist during their first year of inception.
They chose to move away from original music, however, due to varying ideas about how important original music was to their shows and a level of audience disinterest when playing lesser-known songs.
“Original music is great but, for us, if someone doesn’t know the song, they may not dance to it,” says Taylor. “They may applaud politely, but then wait for that next well-known song.”
The Soul Syndicate performs at a previous Frederik Meijer Gardens concert (Supplied)
More than just notes on a page
For Taylor, music has always been his escape.
“It takes me away from my corporate job and lets me unwind and just play the drums and drive a large horn band,” says Taylor. “There’s nothing better than that.”
Taylor went on to say that each Soul Syndicate member relates to the feeling of escaping into music they love. And doing it together is an added bonus.
“The members of the band are great friends,” Taylor says. “We get along really well, we collaborate very well together. We all laugh, we have fun.”
And The Soul Syndicate enjoys seeing other people having fun.
“We just love making people happy. We love what we do.”
See the band perform – more than once!
The Soul Syndicate has some pretty cool swag too (Supplied)
The Soul Syndicate is available to play for weddings, corporate events and the festival stage. To reserve the band for an event, click here.
Taylor urges audiences to check out their website for additional summer events.
“Check out our website; all of our dates are posted there,” Taylor says. “We have a lot of public performances in 2025 for people to come see us, especially outdoor concerts.
“We love the support of folks coming out to see us numerous times during the summer.”
Concerts in the Park details
The weekly Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!
The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.
Up next on stage for Kentwood’s Summer Concert Series is That Beatles Thing at 7 p.m. tonight on the lawn behind City Hall.
Come celebrate the timeless music of the Beatles tonight behind City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair and are welcome to bring their own food, beer and wine to enjoy during the show. Food trucks also will be on-site each week with food and drinks available for purchase. The Summer Concert Series features a local music group on Thursdays, June 5 through Aug. 14 (except July 3) from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Kentwood Farmers Market The Farmers Market runs from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays from June 5 through Aug. 21 behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. There will be no Farmers Market and concert Thursday, July 3.
Kentwood Farmers Market. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“Our Farmers Markets and Summer Concert Series have become community favorites for neighbors, friends and families to come together for food, fun and festivities,” Kentwood Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo said. “From local vendors and themed farmers markets to live music and delicious food trucks, there’s something for everyone at our Farmers Markets and Summer Concert Series.”
The Farmers Market offers a variety of local goods for sale, including fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and more. It will feature 20-plus local vendors and include special activities throughout the summer. The market accepts food assistance benefits, including SNAP, EBT and Double Up Food Bucks. The market’s season harvest sponsor is Renewal by Anderson, the artisan sponsor is Corewell Health and the friend of the market is Arie Nol Auto Center.
A new addition to this year’s June Farmers Markets is a free Zumba class from 5:15 to 5:45 p.m. at the concert stage.
Here’s the summer lineup of the free activities, food trucks and concerts:
June 12 – Art at the Market at the Farmers Market, featuring an opportunity to create a work of art using produce to create a painting. That Beatles Thing performing Beatles covers. Food trucks include El Globo Restaurant Mobile, Scott’s Pig Roast, Kool Breze, Media Famous Street Foods and Luna Bella’s.
June 19 – Celebrate Kentwood Culture at the Farmers Market with colorful textiles, savory spices and more. Motherland House Concerts bringing the vibrant sounds of Africa. Food trucks include Pilar’s Empanadas Argentinas, YoChef’s Catering Company, Cheezy Duz-It and Dune Buggy.
June 26 – Produce Bingo at the Farmers Market. Hark Up Horns performing jazz, swing, pop and rock. Food trucks include Baerrito, La Rotisserie, Sanse Filpino Cuisine and Freddy Franks.
July 10 – Bike Night at the Farmers Market featuring local bike organizations. On the Lash performing traditional Celtic music. Food trucks include Freddy Franks, Los Pinches Tacos and Dakiddd Bar-B-Que and Catering.
July 17 – Backyard Barbeque and farm-fresh goodies at the Farmers Market. Sunchaser Band, 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 – Christmas in July at the Farmers Market, featuring holiday-themed goods. Fierro, performing energetic norteño and tejano music. Food trucks include Kory’s Antojitos, Around Baking Company, Frostbite Shaved Ice and Patty Matters.
July 31 – Fitness Fun at the Farmers Market featuring a quick HIITER demonstration. Roosevelt Diggs performing a blend of folk, country, bluegrass, blues and more. Food trucks include Freddy Franks, Tamales Mary, Sweet Racks and Smokin’ Butts BBQ and Dolce Mini Cakes.
Aug. 7 – Throwback Thursday at the Farmers Market with a chance to win a prize for best dressed. RocknSoul performing covers of songs from the 1970s and ’80s. Food trucks include Dune Buggy, Taqueria Mi Pueblo MI, 616 Kabob Stop and Desi’s Tropical Sno Shack.
Aug. 14 – Back-to-School Bash at the Farmers Market, featuring a foam party, school supplies giveaway and more. Innuendo playing rock and roll covers. Food trucks include Tacos la Familia, Cheezy Duz-It, Motor Mouth MI, Kool Breze and PAC Brazilian Food.
Aug. 21 – Dog Days of Summer at the Farmers Market featuring more vendors and services for your furry friends. No live music, but food trucks Tacos Mexico, Taste of Toya’s World and PizzaMI will be on-site.
Parking will be limited at both City Hall and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Residents can find additional parking at the following locations:
Dedicated community member Michael Hadding shakes Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley’s hand while donating a $10,000 check to the City’s Little Free Pantry. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The City of Kentwood has accepted a $10,000 donation to support its Little Free Pantry, which provides nonperishable food and personal care items to community members in need.
Michael Hadding, a dedicated community member and longtime supporter of Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department, donated to the Kentwood Community Foundation to help keep the shelves stocked at the Little Free Pantry.
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“Mike’s generosity and dedication to our community are truly inspiring,” Kentwood Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo said. “This donation will make a meaningful difference for many community members who rely on our Little Free Pantry.”
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry started in 2017 to address immediate local needs. It is open to all community members year-round, offering non-perishable food and personal care items anonymously with no questions asked. A Little Free Pantry is available at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch,4950 Breton Ave. SE. Several donation bins are also available throughout Kentwood.
Hadding actively volunteers and participates in many Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department programs and activities, including helping to clean up litter and treat invasive plants in parks and trails and taking photos at community events. He has also been spotted shoveling snow at local school bus stops to help prevent kids from slipping or falling. Hadding was named Volunteer of the Year in 2021 for completing more than 100 volunteer hours and being involved in many Kentwood Parks and Recreation programs.
“After living in Kentwood for more than 20 years, I have seen firsthand how hard the city staff work behind the scenes – managing and operating the Little Free Pantry, helping anyone in need quietly and compassionately,” Hadding said. “This donation will help them order more food in advance, enhancing the experience for those who use the pantry.
“I wanted to give back in a way that truly helps the community that has been good to me, and this is one way I can return the favor.”
Community members interested in donating to Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry can find a list of suggested food and personal care items and a link to make a financial contribution at Kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
From Left, Guillermo Cisneros, President and CEO of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Yeli Romero, Owner of ACCESO VIP GR, holding her Hispanic Businessperson of the Year award at the Chamber’s Annual Awards Gala and Fundraiser May 22, 2025. (Courtesy Photo)
When Yeli Romero was 10 years old, she wore her mom’s high heels and pretended to be a boss.
“I wanted to be glamorous, walk red carpets, and inspire others,” said Romero, who dreamt of being on TV or radio as a youngster. “I used to call radio stations just to hear my name on air; it made me feel seen.
“Today, I’m proud to be that voice for others. My dream is to one day be a host on Univision.”
That young boss in her mom’s high heels grew up to accomplish many of her dreams…and much more.
Romero recently won the Hispanic Businessperson of the Year award from the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at its Annual Awards Gala and Fundraiser held May 22. The Gala celebrates the award winners and the rich Hispanic culture in West Michigan, according to the Chamber’s Website.
“It’s a milestone that proves hard work, consistency and passion truly pay off. This award recognizes commitment to community, leadership and entrepreneurial impact. I believe my years of service in both business and media, my advocacy work, and my efforts to support underrepresented communities through bilingual media contributed to this recognition.
“When I found out I had won the Hispanic Businessperson of the Year award, I cried tears of joy,” said Romero, who graduated from Adelante High School in Grand Rapids in 2002, which has since closed. “It was an incredibly emotional moment. I felt seen, celebrated and uplifted by my community. This award isn’t just for me — it’s for every person who has supported me and every client who has believed in my work.”
Romero was nominated for this award by Deena Scianimanico, Membership and Events Manager at the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
“I nominated Yeli Romero because she is a constant presence in our community,” Scianimanico said. “Whether she’s serving as a mistress of ceremonies, leading Zumba sessions, advocating for important causes, or conducting interviews; she is everywhere. She’s amazing on social media, with a vibrant personality and impeccable sense of style.
“I often see her at the Hispanic Chamber, providing one-on-one business coaching and actively taking advantage of the benefits we offer. She also sets aside intentional time to work on herself and her business, not just the daily grind. That kind of boundary-setting and commitment to personal growth is rare and so important. She’s an inspiration and a powerful example of how to prioritize self-development while staying deeply engaged in the community.”
Yeli Romero, Host of WKTV Soundbites en Espanol.
WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)
Her business, ACCESO VIP GR, began as a radio segment she and her husband hosted on La Mejor GR, where they conducted interviews and shared community events and business promotions, thanks, she said, to the opportunity given to them by Chuy Morales.
“Our passion for promoting businesses quickly became evident, and we realized we loved the promotional work even more than hosting,” Romero explained. “What started as a hobby became our full-time business.
“Today, ACCESO VIP is a full-service bilingual marketing company offering everything in one place: social media management, digital marketing, graphic design, photography, video production, radio, TV, newspaper advertising, and printing. The name means “VIP Access” because we believe every client and follower deserves that VIP experience.”
She created the business after seeing the need for culturally relevant marketing where Latino business owners could find all services in one trusted space, and thanks to her strong network, she was able to integrate services into customized marketing packages.
ACCESO VIP has more than 500 clients, including Independent Bank, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., Puertas Abiertas, Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan, Meijer, the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, SpringGR, Bethany Christian Services, LAUP, Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative, Southwest Business Association, and The Other Way Ministries.
“We help them grow their presence, amplify their mission, and connect with both Spanish- and English-speaking communities,” said Romero, who has promoted more than 3,000 events through culturally relevant marketing.
Yeli Romero, Owner of ACCESO VIP GR, and husband Jesus Gomez.
Her team consists of her husband Jesus Gomez, along with a collaboration of talented designers, photographers and creatives.
“And we love mentoring interns and providing them real-world marketing experiences. Many have gone on to work with larger companies, and we’re proud to have been a stepping stone in their professional journey.”
Born in Mexico, Romero moved to Grand Rapids when she was 16 years old.
“I come from a hardworking family and was raised alongside my siblings, Juan Manuel and Elivira Romero, by parents who always encouraged us to be strong and dream big,” she said. “I’m now happily married to Jesús Gómez, and we have two wonderful sons, Isaid and Jael, who are my pride and joy.”
Before launching ACCESO VIP, she worked at many different places, including as a general manager/sales person/event coordinator/radio host at 93.3 FM La Poderosa, as a sales manager/radio host/event coordinator/voice-over artist at La Mejor GR and as a radio host at Alegría Latina 92.7 FM.
“I found my passion at the La Poderosa radio station,” Romero said. “Though I started as a secretary, my role soon grew to involve more tasks, including promotional and fundraising activities. During this phase, I discovered that I enjoyed being involved with my community and the importance of being part of making an impact.”
WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)
A certified Zumba instructor since 2017, Romero teaches wellness and fitness classes.
“I previously taught at the YMCA and for the City of Grand Rapids,” she said. “Now, I focus on private sessions for organizations and companies, including Steelcase, Rockford Construction, The Other Way Ministries and the West Michigan Hispanic Center.”
Finding time for more passions
Romero also holds many community leadership roles, including the manager of both the Southwest Business Association and Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Farmers Market, and the Wellness Advocate and Social Media Manager of Puertas Abiertas.
“I help amplify their mission, support survivors of domestic violence and trauma, and manage their online presence,” said Romero of Puertas Abiertas.
Grand Rapids Community College has played a major role in her professional and personal growth.
“I consider myself a lifelong learner,” said Romero, who’s pursuing a marketing degree at GRCC. “I love education and believe in learning something new every day.”
A personal story: Alopecia Universalis
While in high school, she was diagnosed with alopecia universalis, a condition that causes total body hair loss, including on the scalp, and a severe form of alopecia areata, “a condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles,” according to Wikipedia.
“Losing all my hair was one of the most painful experiences of my life,” Romero explains. “This started when I was still in high school. That time in my life was very stressful as an immigrant new to this country trying to finish high school away from family and friends.
“I struggled for many years with myself and my beliefs. I suffered from bullying for many years and issues with confidence and feeling like I couldn’t share my story even with my family. Even though this was an obstacle for me, I didn’t let it stop me from learning and finding my passion. I continued to grow and find my place in the community.
“Eventually, my confidence grew and I was finally able to share my story with my community in 2021. I kept it a secret for 19 years; even while building my businesses.
“In 2021, I decided to share my story publicly and began advocating for others. I’ve raised funds to buy wigs, taught Zumba classes without my wig (out of state), and have spoken out to educate others. I want people to know they are not alone or less worthy.
“It’s important to raise awareness: please don’t touch our heads, and be mindful when someone wears a wig; it means more than most people realize. Small acts of kindness make a big difference.”
WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)
Two more important passions
As a radio host at WYCE 88.1, where she hosts El Mundo Musical, Despertando con Yeli every Saturday morning, this positive show features Latino music, interviews, community resources and event announcements.
The other one takes place here at WKTV. As a TV host of Soundbites en Español, she informs and empowers the Latino community.
“I proposed the idea, assembled a great team, and we now cover topics like health, immigration, finances, sports, education and more.”
WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero out with the WKTV Truck. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)
Proudest career achievement?
“Helping people feel seen.”
“When someone tells me, ‘Yeli, your show helped me do something important,’ that fills me with pride. My work is about service and connection.”
Biggest passion?
“Empowering my community,” Romero said. “Promoting access to resources. Helping women, business owners and youth believe in themselves.”
WKTV Soundbites en Espanol Host Yeli Romero out in the community. (Photo Courtesy, ACCESO VIP Jesus Gomez)
Favorite thing outside work?
“Going to the gym and relaxing in the steam room. It’s my time to reset. I believe that mental and physical health are essential to face the world.
“I also love spending quality time with my family.”
When did I realize my strength?
“In 2009, during a St. Jude Children’s Hospital training. Watching those children fight for their lives reminded me that if they could be strong, so could I. That year, we raised $50,000 in a radio-a-thon.
“It changed my life.”
Ultimate dream?
“To become a national TV host on Univision, continuing to advocate for my community on a broader stage.”
Handling obstacles?
“I face them head-on; with faith, resilience and a growth mindset. If I don’t have the answer, I ask for help, find solutions and transform challenges into opportunities.
“God is a very important factor in my life. I feel like at moments in my life I lost faith, but that has made my faith even stronger because of all the opportunities he has presented to me. My family has also been an important part of my life in supporting me and encouraging me in a hard time.”
A Kentwood Police welfare check of a person falling asleep while driving near 28th St. led to a short pursuit which ended with the suspect crashing and striking several police cruisers at 44th St. and Kalamazoo Ave.
The incident, which occurred at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, began as Officers responded to a welfare check and located a female driver sleeping in her car. She then fled in her vehicle immediately after being contacted by police and the short pursuit ended in the suspect crashing. The driver was taken to a local hospital and then lodged at the Kent County Correctional facility. Other drivers involved in the accident were checked for minor injuries while at the scene.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
Summer Wonder brings participants a spectacular summer of outdoor discovery, scavenger hunts, reading, STEAM activities – and lots of fun for everyone (Courtesy, KDL)
Summer Wonder’s “WonderFold” contains a tracking log for participants (Courtesy, KDL)
Kent District Library is taking readers on a Summer Wonder journey of reading, learning and experiencing!
The Summer Wonder challenge is designed for multiple learning styles and abilities to keep readers of all ages engaged and inspired. The program brings participants a spectacular summer of outdoor discovery, scavenger hunts, reading, STEAM activities – and lots of fun for everyone.
Summer Wonder is a great opportunity to limit the “summer slide” that negatively affects learning between the end and start of the traditional school year. Extensive research shows that children involved in summertime reading programs sponsored by public libraries are more likely to maintain their academic skills.
Participate in Summer Wonder, running from June 2 – Aug. 8, by picking up a Wonderlog at any KDL branch or signing up online at kdl.beanstack.org. It is free and includes adventures and prizes for all ages.
“Earning prizes for reading and having fun – what could be better?” said Leigh Verburg, Branch Programming and Outreach Specialist. “Summer Wonder includes stories, activities and discovery for all ages, so sign up together and let the fun begin!”
More free summer programs!
KDL offers a great line-up of free summer programs and presenters including singing, magic, animals, puppets, STEAM activities and more. For a complete listing, visit kdl.org/events.
For more information on the Summer Wonder program, visit kdl.org/summer.
Trinity Health Grand Rapids is one of only 36 breast centers in the nation with this certification and one of only two in Michigan (Courtesy, Trinity Health Grand Rapids)
Trinity Health Grand Rapids is one of only 36 breast centers in the nation with the certification and is one of only two in Michigan. Trinity Health Breast Center – Lakes Village in Norton Shores was also awarded this distinction.
Highest level of care
This is the highest level of recognition awarded by the NQMBC, a program developed by the National Consortium of Breast Centers. It recognizes a center’s quality performance based on several data-driven criteria, such as timeliness from biopsy to surgery, documentation of margins, genetic testing for patients, and much more.
This certification is the highest level of recognition awarded by the National Consortium of Breast Centers (Courtesy, Trinity Health Grand Rapids)
“It is always rewarding to see our hard work pay off,” said Bess Connors, MD, Medical Director, Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center.
“This award reflects years of efforts to ensure we are providing the highest level of care to breast cancer patients in West Michigan. This distinction demonstrates the commitment of our team to achieving excellence for each patient every day.”
Total care, total confidence
Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center focuses on total breast health, including all-digital mammography, genetic counseling, and the latest treatments.
“Along with Trinity Health Breast Center – Lakes Village, we are the only Michigan breast center to achieve this distinction,” said Dr. Connors.
“We want our patients to be confident in the care they receive, and this is just one way we can demonstrate that care close to home can also be world-class care. These certifications give us annual opportunities to review our work and make sure we continue to excel among breast centers nationally.”
Learn more!
Information about all services offered at Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center can be found here.
CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens will transform both the outdoor gardens and indoor galleries, showcasing the artist’s dynamic range and masterful creativity (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)
Continuing a decades-old relationship with internationally acclaimed artist Dale Chihuly, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park announces a major exhibition of his work: CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens. The exhibit will open on May 1, 2026 and run through Nov. 1, 2026.
“We are delighted to welcome Dale Chihuly back to Meijer Gardens,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “His groundbreaking art creates unforgettable connections between nature, culture, and human creativity.
“Guests will be captivated by the dynamic interplay between Chihuly’s spectacular art and our gardens’ natural beauty.”
An immersive transformation
CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens will transform both the outdoor gardens and indoor galleries, showcasing the artist’s dynamic range and masterful creativity. The exhibition will feature monumental outdoor installations such as Chihuly’s towering glass sculptures, vibrant Reeds, and other site-specific artworks nestled within Meijer Gardens’ landscapes.
Chihuly’s “Gilded Champagne Gardens Chandelier” showcases the artist’s masterful creativity (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)
Indoors, visitors will experience a varied survey of works highlighting more than four decades of Chihuly’s artistic evolution. Featured series include: Baskets, Macchia, Seaforms, Putti, Ikebana, Persians, Venetians, Cylinders and Rotolo. Each piece is complemented by original drawings offering insight into his creative process.
The exhibition promises to be an extraordinary and immersive experience for visitors of all ages, celebrating the profound impact of one of the world’s most innovative artists.
Celebrating the arts
Presented by Macatawa Bank, a Wintrust Community Bank, the exhibition runs from May 1, 2026 through Nov. 1, 2026 and is the third time Chihuly’s art has been presented at Meijer Gardens. Previous Meijer Gardens exhibitions include an indoor exhibition in 2002 and a sprawling outdoor experience in 2010.
“At Macatawa Bank, we celebrate the arts and the important role creativity and artistic abilities play in fostering strong, vibrant communities,” said Jon Swets, Macatawa Chief Executive Officer. “We’re honored to be a part of this inspiring exhibition displayed upon the beautiful backdrop of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.”
Guests will enjoy the dynamic interplay between Chihuly’s art and the Gardens’ natural beauty (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)
Additional information about the CHIHULY exhibition and the permanent sculpture collection at Meijer Gardens can be found here.
*This exhibition is organized by Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in cooperation with Dale Chihuly and Chihuly Studio. The work displayed is protected by copyright, any copying is expressly prohibited.
The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to its Kickoff to Summer Celebration, a fun-filled festival for all ages set for noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 31.
The Kickoff to Summer Celebration will feature a variety of food trucks and market vendors as well as a beer tent, children’s activities and live music – all taking place around City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE.
“We’re eager to welcome the start of another beautiful summer with our Kickoff to Summer Celebration,” Kentwood Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo said. “With delicious food, live music and plenty of local vendors, this popular annual event brings together family, friends and neighbors for a memorable day.”
The food trucks and beer tent will be open throughout the event. A wide variety of cuisines will be available through 20-plus food trucks – everything from barbeque and burritos to baked goods and cold treats. The beer tent will feature a variety of brews, including local craft favorites from Railtown Brewing Company. Starting at 1 p.m., more than 15 vendors will sell handmade jewelry, art, clothing, sweet treats and more. The cost for food, beverages and artisan goods will vary by vendor.
Kentwood Kickoff to Summer Celebration 2024. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
A kids zone featuring two foam parties, face painting, an obstacle course and yard games will be open from 1 to 6 p.m.
The event’s gold sponsors are Bloom Sluggett, PC, Metronet, Sabo PR, Triangle Construction Inc. and MSU Federal Credit Union. The silver sponsors are Arie Nol Auto Center and Moonlight Graphics Inc., and the copper sponsors are The Joint Chiropractic and Renewal by Andersen.
The Kentwood Police Department is currently investigating a shooting that occurred Wednesday evening in the 3100 block of Creek Dr. in Wingate Apartments.
At approximately 6 p.m., Officers responded to this location with reports of a shooting after a verbal argument. During the investigation, two victims arrived at a local hospital with gunshot wounds. Both victims arrived with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. Kentwood Police are still actively investigating and searching for all involved persons, however, this is not believed to be a random act of violence, and there is no known threat to the public currently.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
The Paul Henry Thornapple Trail will be closed from 44th Street to Wing Avenue starting Wednesday, May 28, through the end of June for resurfacing and other improvements.
Work is scheduled to start Wednesday, May 28, with fence and boardwalk repairs, storm improvements and minor excavation from Kalamazoo to Wing avenues. Starting Monday, June 9, the work area will extend to East Paris Park. The trail will then be resurfaced with new asphalt.
Additional improvements include new benches, refuse containers and way-finding signage to enhance the trail user experience.
The project is expected to be completed at the end of June, weather permitting.
The Kentwood Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at 4:45 p.m. Saturday, May 24, in the 4700 block of Ridgebrook Ave. SE.
Upon arrival, officers located several casings, along with damage to vehicles and a residence. 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.
Editor’s Note: WKTV is reposting this unique, local story in honor of George David Payne and all United States veterans.
The weeks leading up to the sinking of the USS Indianapolis during a top secret mission in WWII, 17-year-old sailor George David Payne mailed two letters home from the ship.
Some 77 years after his brother tragically died on that ship off the coast of Japan, Sparta resident David Payne still gets extremely emotional reading those last letters.
“I get choked up when I read that last letter,” said David, who never met George David. “From my understanding he was a quiet, nice kid. I’ve never heard anything bad about him.”
Below is an excerpt from one of the two final letters from George David Payne (Seaman 2nd Class):
One of the two letters Wyoming sailor George David Payne sent home just weeks before the USS Indianapolis sank off the coast of Japan on July 30, 1945. (Courtesy, David Payne)
Dear Mom, Dad and Kids,
I hope this letter finds all of you in the best of health. I feel pretty good myself.
Tell dad and all the kids I said hi. Tell Jean the same. I suppose you are having quite a time with the kids.
Tell grandma and grandpa I said hello. Boy, I’ll sure be glad when I get another leave, but I shouldn’t start thinking about a leave already.
I suppose it is pretty nice weather in Michigan now. Anyway, it should be summer. Well, I’ll have to say so long for now.
Love to all the family,
George David Payne
Tragedy strikes shortly after letters sent home
Tragically, not long after the letters were sent, torpedoes from the Japanese submarine I-58 sank the USS Indianapolis to the bottom of the Western Pacific Ocean within minutes on July 30, 1945.
Only 316 men survived
An estimated 300 men died aboard the ship, while nearly 900 sailors abandoned it, leading to several days of fighting off sharks, dehydration and injuries. Only 316 survived.
Top secret mission delivering atomic bomb components for use on Hiroshima
On a top secret mission that began in San Francisco, the Indianapolis successfully delivered atomic bomb components to Tinian Island. The components delivered were used in the atomic bomb (Little Boy) that the United States dropped on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945.
USS Indianapolis in its prime. (U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
“Many are familiar with Captain Quint’s retelling of the ship’s story in the 1975 film, “Jaws.” Few, however, understand the far-reaching impact of the incident and the tremendous amount of documentation and research conducted in the wake of the incident that continues to impact how the Navy operates today,” according to the Naval History and Heritage Command Communication and Outreach Division.
George David Payne is remembered by two siblings (David Payne and Suzanna Green) in a WKTV interview last summer (2022). July 30, 2023, marked the 78th anniversary of the sinking of the Indianapolis.
Siblings Jim and Cherie Payne, and mom Lillian Payne at their home: 305 Murray St., Wyoming, in 1945. (David Payne)
“I wasn’t born yet when George died,” David continued. “I didn’t realize I had a brother that died in the war until I was seven. In the early fifties, there was a program on TV showing the Japanese sinking that ship and my mother Lillian started crying and said your brother was on that ship.”
While recently looking at a photo of his brother Jim, Mom Lillian and sister Cherie (dated June 20, 1945) enjoying a happy day on the front porch, David said it soon turned tragic about a month later with the death of his brother on July 30, 1945.
David said his brother George David wasn’t old enough to sign up for the war so his dad signed the necessary paperwork in 1945 to let him join the Navy.
A short stint on the ship
“He was only on that ship for two weeks,” said David, age 75, who’s lived in Sparta for over 30 years. “I had an older brother in California (Nick Alberts, from his mother’s previous marriage), and he met him out there. George stayed for Nick’s wedding in California, and then got transferred to the USS Indianapolis.”
David said Nick, a member of the Seabees in California at the time, blamed himself for George’s fate.
“My little buddy”
USS Indianapolis Seaman 2nd Class George David Payne. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
“He blamed himself for getting him transferred and going to the wedding,” said David, as he cried explaining the sad details. “He always called George ‘my little buddy,’ and said, ‘I can’t come home without my little buddy.’”
Because of that lingering guilt, David said his big brother Nick didn’t return home for 15 years.
“He had guilt, but did finally come home in the late fifties when I was 14 years old,” David continued. “Nick left a book on the Indianapolis with me.”
Most of the 12 siblings (seven girls, five boys) grew up on 305 Murray Street in Wyoming and attended Kelloggsville High School.
Providing after death
Many of them experienced the Great Depression. And it wasn’t lost on any family member how far George’s Navy death gratuity went to pay for their necessities.
“Our mother bought our school clothes and everything we needed from that check, it helped out our family so much,” said David, born on September 17, 1945, less than two months after the Indianapolis sank. “Both mom and dad got 20 or 30 dollars a month from George’s death.”
Gruesome shark attack stories
David Payne honoring and remembering his brother George David at a USS Indianapolis memorial in 1995 in Indy. (Courtesy, David Payne)
During a USS Indianapolis memorial event held in Indianapolis in 1995, David learned firsthand about the tragedy from several survivors.
“Through the years, we didn’t talk about it much and we were hoping he wasn’t trapped in the ship or killed by sharks,” said David, who attended with his wife Mary and sister Suzanna Green.
“Some of the guys relayed the terrible stories, talking about sharks dragging away their friends. It must have been hell.”
He said nearly 200 sailors attended, and recalls some talking about the gruesome shark attacks.
“I remember one guy’s account saying he heard a fellow sailor’s last word’s while getting dragged off by a shark, he screamed for his mother, and David imagined his brother George screaming for mom as well, as he cried retelling his memorial experience with survivors.
“There were some terrible stories. They had to go through hell.”
A “wonderful guy”
Green said George David was “kind-hearted, and definitely cared about his country. My mother cried over his death all of her life and made sure all of us knew we had a brother George David. He was a good kid.”
Green, who also attended the 1995 Indianapolis memorial, recalls the heavy emotions of the event.
“We went there because it was in his memory,” said Green, who taught for 30 years in the Grand Rapids Public School system. “And it was very emotional when we found his name on the monument. Dave put Mary on his shoulders and she put a piece of paper up there and she scratched it with a pencil.”
A proud celebration of life and service
Siblings David, Suzanna and Margie Payne at home on 305 Murray St. in Wyoming in the late 40s. (David Payne)
“It made me feel real close to the brother that I never saw,” Green continued.
“I knew him, but never saw him. I was very proud that his name was there and that he was remembered. It was a celebration of his life and his service.”
Green said their faith got her through the tragedy.
“Mom read the bible every day,” Green explained. “I love him like I grew up with him and that’s because my mother kept his memory alive.”
“We love him even though we didn’t ever get to meet him. And he still is well loved.”
Navy changes status
The Navy officially changed the status of George David and 12 other sailors lost when the Indianapolis was sunk in 1945 from “unaccounted for” to “buried at sea,” Navy Casualty announced on May 27, 2022.
The change in status is the result of extensive research between Naval History and Heritage Command, Navy Casualty Office, the USS Indianapolis Survivors Association, the USS Indianapolis Legacy Organization, and the Chief Rick Stone and Family Charitable Foundation.
The announcement helps bring closure to the families of these sailors who lost their lives at the end of a secret mission which helped end World War II.
Remembering George David through his clothing
At age 12, David found one of George’s Navy peacoats.
“I put it on and came upstairs and asked mom if I could have it,” he recalled.
His brother James would put on his Navy uniform occasionally.
A friend’s dad and Battle of the Bulge veteran from World War II, James Emanouil, age 97 at the time of the original article, used to spar with George David in the early forties at a local gym in Grand Rapids.
“I think George David wanted to join this war because of James and Nick.”
Service to the country goes way, way back
David’s fascination with genealogy led to a discovery of another young veteran from long ago. He learned that a great, great, great grandparent fought in the American Revolution at age 15, Eli Payne, Sr. His 100-year-old aunt, at the time, gave David a charcoal drawing of this relative.
Captain Charles B. McVay III
Captain Charles B. McVay III, commander of the USS Indianapolis. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
Per the Naval History and Heritage Command website, “Captain McVay was court-martialed in the aftermath of the sinking and found guilty of recklessly endangering his crew by failing to zig-zag, in spite of I-58 Captain Mochitsura Hashimoto’s testimony at the trial stating that such maneuvers would not have changed the outcome of his attack. The conviction effectively ruined McVay’s career. It was controversial at the time and remains so today.” (Hashimoto was the Japanese submarine commander that sank the USS Indianapolis.)
“McVay had a distinguished naval career prior to the loss of the Indianapolis. He served as Executive Officer of the USS Cleveland during the North African landings in November 1942 and earned a Silver Star for his actions aboard the same ship in the Solomon Islands in March 1943.”
After his death, McVay was exonerated by United States President Bill Clinton and the 106th Congress in 2000. Captain McVay committed suicide on November 6, 1968.
The bold paragraphs below are excerpts from survivor Captain Charles B. McVay’s detailed “Oral History – The Sinking of USS Indianapolis”
This is all documented in the Naval History and Heritage Command Archives. For a complete account of “Recollections of Captain Charles B. McVay, III,” visit here.
Captain McVay:
Commander Flynn
Executive officer [second in command on the ship] came up, Commander Flynn, and said, “We are definitely going down and I suggest that we abandon ship.” Well, knowing Flynn and having utter regard for his ability, I then said, “Pass the word to abandon ship.”
Dividing up rations floating at sea
I looked over the material that we had, the food stuffs, and told the people that I would open one Hormel tin per day. It contains 12 ounces and we would divide that evenly, and I also figured out each person could have two biscuits and two malted milk tablets, which I knew would last us about ten days.
Attacked by sharks
We had sharks, or rather they had sharks down there [in the life preserver group]. We know that because we have two survivors who were bitten by sharks and as I told this one boy in the hospital. I said, “You’d better take some castellan paint and put on that thing before it heals up because nobody will ever believe you’ve been bitten by a shark. You might as well outline the teeth mark and you will have it for the rest of your life and can say, `I know I was bitten by a shark.'”
USS Ringness to the rescue
The (USS) Ringness picked us up by radar. We had a 40 mm, empty ammunition can which I had spent a good deal of energy and time trying to get to, thinking it was an emergency ration, but we picked it up anyhow and saved it and she [Ringness] got a [radar] pip from this can.
I think we had lost probably about 15% of our weight and I was naturally so elated to get on the ship, as were the others that we didn’t turn in at all. We were given something to eat, ice cream, coffee, such as that. The doctor said, “You can eat all you want,” which most of us did. We drank quite a bit of water.
The City of Kentwood has announced its tentative road construction and maintenance schedule for the summer.
The $1.2 million reconstruction, resurfacing and maintenance program has been approved by the City Commission and includes improvements to approximately 15.5 lane miles of major and local roads. Work will begin in June and is expected to be completed by November.
Planned street reconstruction, resurfacing and maintenance projects include:
Milling and repaving of 52nd Street SE from Breezefield Drive to M-37.
Milling and repaving of 52nd Street from Division to Eastern avenues.
Milling and repaving of Breton Avenue SE from 44th to 52nd streets.
Milling and repaving of Kalamazoo Avenue from 52nd to 60th streets.
Other preventative street maintenance work throughout the city, including routine street marking, crack sealing and patching.
Signs will be placed on major streets to give drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists advance notice of when closures will begin.
“The City of Kentwood is committed to maintaining the quality of our community’s roads, which contribute to public safety and sound city infrastructure,” City Engineer Brad Boomstra said. “We recognize construction can be inconvenient, so our crews are committed to working efficiently to reduce disruptions as much as possible.
“We appreciate the support and understanding of our residents and businesses as we complete these essential improvements.”
The 52nd Street work from Breezefield to M-37 will be completed in two consecutive phases starting in June.
During the first phase, 52nd Street will be closed from west of East Paris Avenue to M-37 from June to July. During the second phase, 52nd Street will be closed from Breezefield to East Paris from July to August.
Throughout the project, the road will be open to local traffic only. Property owners affected by this project will be informed by letter. Mail delivery and trash pickup will not be disrupted.
The 52nd Street work from Division to Eastern will begin in June and last about nine weeks, with construction expected to wrap up in August.
(Photo Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Throughout the project, one lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction. Drivers are encouraged to use the detour route of 60th Street to Eastern Avenue SE to avoid delays.
The Breton Avenue project is expected to begin in August and end in November. Throughout the project, northbound and southbound traffic will be maintained, but will be limited to one lane in each direction. Drivers are encouraged to use Kalamazoo Avenue to avoid delays.
The Kalamazoo Avenue project is expected to start in June and end in August. During the project, northbound and southbound traffic will be maintained, but will be limited to one lane in each direction.
Patching and crack sealing will take place on several neighborhood streets in June to prepare them for cape sealing. Cape sealing creates a smooth surface with increased durability. These projects take two non-consecutive days, with the cape seal treatment requiring up to a few hours to dry before being ready for traffic.
Drivers are asked to proceed slowly and stay alert when traveling through road project areas. On-street parking will not be allowed during cape sealing.
Residents in the neighborhoods where these projects will take place will be informed by letter. They are encouraged to follow the construction crew’s instructions for the best access to their home.
The City’s road maintenance decisions are based on a variety of data, including ratings from the annual Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating System, or PASER. This rating system compares the quality of roadway segments and assigns a rating for road pavement conditions based on visual inspections.
Kentwood maintains some of the highest-rated major streets in Kent County based on PASER, according to data compiled by the Grand Valley Metro Council, which rates Kentwood’s road network annually.
Last year, the City invested in improvements to 41.24 miles of major and local roads. Major streets included in the 2024 reconstruction, resurfacing and maintenance program were:
Julivan Avenue and Ridgewood Street.
40th Street from Patterson Avenue to Soundtech Court.
East Paris Avenue from 28th to Burton streets.
Community members can sign up to be notified when construction updates are added to the City’s website or follow the City on Facebook for updates.
For more information about Kentwood’s 2025 road projects, including amap of street resurfacing and repairs, visit kentwood.us/construction.
Get ready to beat the heat — Wyoming parks have officially opened their splash pads for the summer!
Grab your swimsuits, sunscreen, and smiles, and cool off with family and friends. Splash pads are open 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily. To turn on, gently tap the activators with your hand or foot.
Find a splash pad near you and start making sunny memories today!
Kent District Library and the KDL Board of Trustees are proud to announce the two recipients of the KDL Community Impact Scholarship. Jamie Elgrably and Ania Fleszar will each receive $5,000 to further their education.
The award recognizes high school seniors and adults returning to school who have worked hard to improve their communities and show potential to make long term impact. Both trade-bound and college-bound students were eligible to apply.
“An incredible blessing”
Scholarship winner Jamie Elgrably (Courtesy, KDL)
Elgrably, of Kentwood, is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Cornerstone University, with hopes of continuing on to earn a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling.
She is a wife and a mother of two, and after putting her education on hold for many years due to life circumstances—including several moves and raising young children—she finally decided to pursue her dream.
Elgrably said, “Receiving this scholarship is an incredible blessing. It lifts part of the financial burden and makes it possible for me to continue pursuing my calling with ease and peace of mind. I’m passionate about helping others feel seen, supported and valued, and I look forward to using my education to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.”
“It means so much…”
Scholarship winner Ania Fleszar (Courtesy, KDL)
Fleszar is a student at Lowell High School and plans to put the scholarship money toward her education at Western Michigan University. She is planning to pursue either secondary education in History and English or theater, maybe both.
“It means so much that this money is helping my education, of course, but it means even more that it’s coming from my community library,” Fleszar said.
“I’ve learned so much from KDL’s resources growing up, and now I am having my education furthered into college with their assistance.”
Passionate about making a difference
These winners are students who are passionate about making a difference, champions for inclusivity, innovators at heart and lifelong learners with a love for the library. These guidelines were shaped by those of the Library Journal Jerry Kline Award, an award KDL received in 2023 that afforded KDL the opportunity to begin this scholarship fund.
The scholarship award in the amount of $5,000 will be disbursed directly to the recipient’s chosen college, university or trade school to be used for tuition, fees, books or other educational expenses.
Onyx, a four-year-old black Labrador Retriever, has become a beloved member of the Davenport Community and has captured the hearts of faculty, staff and students (Courtesy, Davenport University)
Two years ago, Davenport University welcomed a very special employee to campus, Onyx the therapy dog. The four-year-old black Labrador Retriever has since become a beloved member of the Davenport Community and has captured the hearts of faculty, staff and students.
Brett Windsor, Assistant Director of Davenport’s Department of Public Safety, was instrumental in bringing Onyx to campus.
(Courtesy, Davenport University)
“In my previous role with the University of Michigan Health-West hospital, I witnessed people suffering from mental health crises and wanted to provide more support to those individuals in need,” said Windsor.
“When I transitioned to Davenport, I responded to multiple student residents with mental health needs, so I knew our team could use a therapy dog to better connect with them and the entire Davenport community.”
Putting her best paw forward
Thanks to the Davenport University M.E. Legacy Endowment Fund grant, Windsor brought his therapy dog program to life by working with Paws With A Cause, an international nonprofit organization headquartered in Wayland, MI.
Onyx had already completed a year and a half of training when she was selected to join the Davenport family. Another 18 weeks of training with Windsor followed so she could put her best paw forward when she arrived on campus.
Windsor said what makes Onyx special is that she can adapt her demeanor to match the students’ moods.
“Some students prefer a more energetic version of Onyx, where she is standing up and passing out kisses, and some prefer her lying down in a calm manner,” he said. “She can actually judge what each person is looking for. She is a happy, excited dog who loves to meet people and be petted.”
Onyx is putting her innate talent to good use, joining Windsor on around 100 hours of community engagement this school year alone. Events have included classroom visits, freshman orientations, Davenport athletic events, new hire orientations, National Night Out, Hanger Clinic Adaptive Field Day and more.
“This was 100 hours of Onyx and the Public Safety team having conversations that wouldn’t have happened otherwise, and 100 hours of brightening peoples’ day,” said Windsor.
Having therapy dogs on campus provides a sense of calm to students in a typically high-stress time (Courtesy, Davenport University)
A sense of calm during chaos
One of the pair’s highlights came recently when they welcomed the West Michigan Therapy Dogs to the Academic Building on the W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus to provide emotional support to students during finals week.
According to Danielle Pipal, Assistant Director for Student Life, the therapy dogs have visited campus during finals week for about 10 years, and it might be one of the students’ favorite days of the year.
“Having the dogs on campus provides a sense of calm to our students in a typically high-stress time,” said Pipal. “Exams are certainly stressful, and many of our students haven’t been home in a while, which adds another stress level. Seeing the dogs on campus provides a sense of safety and comfort while they are wrapping up the semester.”
For Onyx, attending these events and helping out at the Wellness Center on the Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus isn’t just another day on the job; she seems to enjoy it.
“She likes to see her friends on campus every day, loves to play fetch in the gym and roll around in the grass in the summer and the snow in the winter. She’s just an all-around great dog,” Windsor said.
“Studies have shown that interacting with pets can significantly reduce cortisol levels, which are known stress indicators,” said Windsor. “Onyx’s addition to the team gives us a tool to diffuse difficult situations and help students relax. She has already proven herself to be a valuable resource to the Davenport Community.”
Follow Onyx!
Follow Onyx’s journey on campus on Instagram: K9_Onyx.
The Kentwood Police Department is inviting high school students to apply for its youth academy set for July 28-31.
The program is designed to show participants what it’s like to train to be a police officer and for them to experience the various roles and functions police officers perform. The academy is open to all graduating high school seniors and students who will be a sophomore, junior or senior in the 2025-26 school year. Participants do not need to live or attend school in Kentwood.
“Our youth academy gives young people in our community an up-close look at what a career in law enforcement is like, with the hope of inspiring the next generation of police officers,” Deputy Police Chief Stephanie Morningstar said. “Our officers are looking forward to connecting with students, sharing their experiences and building relationships along the way.”
The youth academy is free for participants and runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Each participant is provided a uniform and daily lunch.
Kentwood Police Department Youth Academy (Photo Courtesy, KPD)
The program gives students hands-on experience in police training and operations. Participants receive instruction in various aspects of policing and participate in training scenarios, including:
Traffic stops
Drunken driving enforcement
Building searches
Subject control
Handcuffing
Special Response Team
Eligible participants must pass a background check and will be interviewed before being accepted into the program. Participants also are required to attend an informational meeting with a parent or guardian before the academy begins.
Youth academy applications will be accepted through May 16. Applications can be submitted online, by email to careya@kentwood.us, in person at the Kentwood Police Department or by mail to Sgt. Alexander Carey at 4742 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood, MI 49512. Interested applicants who have questions should contact Sgt. Carey at careya@kentwood.us or 616-330-8211.
The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition begins Sunday, May 11.
The Kingpin of Comedy stand-up comedy show runs weekly from May 11-Oct. 19 at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
“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: The Funniest Person in Wyoming,” said SNF founder, Brian B.
The Kingpin of Comedy will receive a prize package over $1,000 in value – including $500 cash (Courtesy, Brian B.)
That prize package includes $500 cash, Kingpin of Comedy bowling pin trophy, personalized Kingpin bowling shirt and the opportunity to close the SNF LaughFest show in 2026. Additional prizes from Spectrum Entertainment Complex, GLC Live at 20 Monroe and Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids LaughFest round out the total prize package to over $1,000 in value.
More information about SNF and the seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition can be found here.
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
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.
Davenport University is expanding its unique online bilingual program, Casa Latina, to include three additional associate degrees and two graduate certificates. These additions to the program highlight the need for ongoing support and advocacy for multilingual learners and will be available to students in fall 2025.
Established in the fall of 2024, Casa Latina will now include fully online and bilingual associate degrees in accounting, business administration and human resource management, and graduate certificates in business essentials and human resource management. These offerings are in addition to the 12 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs currently available to students.
“Casa Latina provides a range of career-focused undergraduate and graduate degrees, along with bilingual support services and scholarship opportunities,” said Alejandra Guillén, Director of Marketing & Recruitment for Casa Latina.
“Graduates leave professionally fluent in both English and Spanish, with the skills and cultural understanding to succeed in diverse work environments.”
Bilingual students, especially first-generation students, look for programs that fit their lifestyle (Courtesy, Davenport University)
Fit your lifestyle
Davenport found bilingual students, especially first-generation students, were looking for programs that fit their lifestyle, but not everyone was ready to commit to a four-year program.
“At Davenport, Casa Latina students will now have the option to start with a two-year associate degree, reap the fruits of that commitment, and then finish their undergraduate degree when it’s convenient for them,” said Guillén.
Empowering bilingual individuals
The initiative is grounded in the belief that fully developed bilingualism is a powerful asset (Courtesy, Davenport University)
Casa Latina is designed to empower bilingual individuals and elevate the value of Spanish-English fluency in professional settings. The program focuses on those with underdeveloped or underutilized language skills, helping them achieve full proficiency and succeed in high-demand fields such as business, technology, health care and urban education.
“With nearly half a million Latinos in Michigan, and only 2% holding a postsecondary degree, the need for an accessible, culturally affirming educational pathway is urgent,” said Guillén. “Casa Latina exists to meet this need.
“Many Spanish-speaking individuals—especially those who feel their English skills are not strong enough—have long considered college out of reach. Casa Latina removes this barrier, offering a fully bilingual pathway to higher education.”
The initiative is grounded in the belief that fully developed bilingualism is a powerful asset. It enhances cognitive abilities, expands socioeconomic opportunities and strengthens communities. The program prepares its students to succeed individually and contribute meaningfully to the organizations and communities they serve.
Learn more!
For more information about Casa Latina, click here.
Don’t miss the exciting kickoff to the car cruisin’ season with the Metro Cruise Dust Off on Saturday, May 3. The Dust Off will be hosted at the Wyoming Moose Lodge, 2630 Burlingame Ave SW, and begin at 8:30 a.m.
The Dust Off has been the Metro Cruise‘s first event of the year since 2014. It was held at rotating sites in the early years, but for the past seven it has been at the Wyoming Moose Lodge. The site has an expansive lot of 200+ spaces with general parking nearby, a large outdoor patio and gracious hosts that give access to the entire building for this event.
For nearly all show cars and attendees, the Dust Off is their first car event of the year. This event emanates a special nostalgia due to the reuniting of old friends after a long time apart.
(Courtesy, Metro Cruise)
Key details:
*Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025 *Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Show car lot opens at 8:30 a.m. *Location: Wyoming Moose Lodge (2630 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming) *Free admission, free parking for general cars – follow signs on arrival (see map below) *Food and drinks available starting at 11 a.m.
Event Entertainment:
*200+ show cars; all from individual local owners *Build-a-Burger starts at 11 a.m. – various food and drink (full bar) *Spacious outdoor patio with ample seating; indoor areas and seating also available *Themed music playing outside throughout event *Multiple items from the Metro-Merch official collection, including the 2025 Dust Off T-Shirt, just $15 to the first 70 people
Dust Off event parking map (Courtesy, Metro Cruise)
Grab a four-legged friend for this popular community event filled with music, food, drinks, and fun – all while supporting a great cause (Courtesy, Hats & Hounds)
Dust off your best hat and grab a four-legged friend for the popular Hats & Hounds popular community event filled with music, food, drinks and fun – all while supporting a great cause.
There will be a chance to win a prize for Best Dressed Hound & Handler – so don your best outfit! (Courtesy, PAWS)
Event details
This evening of fun will take place on Thursday, May 22 at 6 p.m. at Wildwood Family Farms located at 7970 Snow Ave SE, Alto, MI 49302. Guests will enjoy toe-tapping bluegrass music from the Round Creek Trio, indulge in southern-inspired food and beverages, take part in exciting raffles and games, and have the chance to win a prize for the Best Dressed Hound & Handler Contest.
Tickets are just $25 per person and include all food and drinks. In addition to the fun, attendees will meet PAWS clients and learn firsthand about the life-changing impact PAWS assistance dogs have on individuals with disabilities.
Financial support is needed as the need for assistance dogs increases (Courtesy, PAWS)
“It’s exciting to bring this event back for another year. Last year, we were able to raise $15,000 for our mission and this year we’re hoping to raise even more,” said Ashley Diersch, Chief Advancement Officer at PAWS.
“There is a growing need for assistance dogs, and the need for financial support continues to grow as well. With the challenges of inflation and the uncertainty with the economy, we need more help from our community to continue this life-changing work. Every ticket purchase helps!”
Personal pets are welcome, but must be over 16 weeks old, fully vaccinated, leashed and under the control of their owner at all times. If you are unable to attend but still want to support PAWS, donations are welcomed and can be made online.
One of Grand Rapids’ popular community spaces returns for its 103rd year as Fulton Street Market opens its Main Market Season (Courtesy, Fulton Street Market)
One of Grand Rapids’ popular community spaces returns for its 103rd year as Fulton Street Market opens its Main Market Season.
Starting May 3, markets will run Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through the end of October. Offerings include local produce, farm fresh meats and dairy products, artisan makes, hot and prepared foods, and of course – coffee!
Fulton Street Market continues to promote food accessibility through programs including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks, partnership with the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Elders, and the Fulton Street Market Food Recovery Program. Through the Food Recovery Program, Fulton Street Market has redirected over 75,000 pounds of unsold food into the Heartside community free of charge since 2022.
A century of community connection
(Courtesy, Fulton Street Market)
As the oldest farmer’s market in West Michigan, Fulton Street Market has been an integral part of local connection and community since 1922.
Featuring 118 outdoor booths and additional indoor spaces, the market hosts an extensive assortment of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, hand-crafted food items, and unique artisan products year-round. Each market season draws tens of thousands of visitors to shop for produce, grab a bite to eat, and support local farmers and small businesses.
“We’ve been planning for weeks how we want to show up and make the most of the excitement and joy that opening day brings to our community,” says Arick Davis, co‑owner of Last Mile Cafe. “Our team is very excited for Fulton Street’s Main Season!”
In addition to weekly market days, Fulton Street Market hosts ART! at the Market events, a BIPOC Night Market series, and seasonal Rummage Sales. These community favorites amplify an array of artists, uplift farmers and creators within marginalized communities, and bolster efforts to shop second hand.
The City of Wyoming’s boil water advisory is in effect for Kentwood customers served by the Wyoming water system.
The areas of Kentwood under the boil water advisory are east of Division Avenue to Madison Avenue and from the north side of Maplelawn Street to south of Harp Street. The affected areas are outlined on this map.
Residents and businesses in the affected areas are encouraged to use bottled water or to boil water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and preparing food. Bring tap water, including filtered water, to a full rolling boil for 1 minute and let it cool before using.
The City of Wyoming issued a boil water advisory today until further notice due to a drop in water pressure in a portion of its water distribution system.
The City of Kentwood is working closely with the City of Wyoming on this situation and will provide updates as they become available. These updates will be shared on the City of Kentwood’s website and Facebook page.
The Vietnamese American community of West Michigan will honor President Ford’s legacy of giving new hope to thousands of refugees with a special program free to the public (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
Hosted by The Gerald R. Ford Museum from 6:30-9 p.m. on May 9, the event will highlight Ford’s leadership during the Vietnamese refugee airlift, the largest aerial evacuation in history. The evacuation encompassed a series of overlapping operations which relocated thousands of Vietnamese children and families: Babylift, New Life, Frequent Wind and New Arrivals.
Operation Babylift (President Ford, right) rescued over 3,000 babies and orphans from Vietnam (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
“This event marks 50 years since the Fall of Saigon, which led to the Refugee Act and the resettlement of Vietnamese families in West Michigan,” said Le Tran, art teacher and Asian Student Union Advisor at East Kentwood High School, and chair of the West Michigan Asian-American Association.
“It’s time to reflect on our journey, honor President Ford’s compassionate leadership, and celebrate the resilience and contributions of our community.”
During the program, President Ford’s youngest son, Steve Ford, will offer an inside look into the motivation behind his father’s call to action to save the Vietnamese orphans.
Additional program features are Vietnamese musical performances, reflections from an Operation Babylift adoptee, and a panel discussion offering insight into experiences of Vietnamese Americans and the impact of Ford’s refugee support.
A compassionate call to action
Steve Ford (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
In a recent conversation with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed, Steve Ford revealed that Operation Babylift was near and dear to his father’s heart.
“Dad found out that there were over 3,000 babies and orphans in Vietnam that had been fathered by American servicemen,” said Ford. “A lot of these babies had been put in orphanages or given up, and he felt a deep concern about that.”
Not only were thousands of babies abandoned, they were in danger of being killed by the Ho Chi Minh army as they took over Saigon.
President Ford’s empathy, his son said, stemmed from his own turbulent past as an infant.
Born to Leslie Lynch King and Dorothy Ayer Gardner, and originally named Leslie Lynch King Jr., President Ford was only weeks old when his physically abusive father threatened Gardner with a butcher knife. Gardner fled, eventually settling at the home of her parents in Grand Rapids.
Gardner divorced King and eventually married Grand Rapids businessman Gerald R. Ford.
The Ford family (Steve Ford, right) pictured in front of the White House (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
“Gerald R. Ford Sr. is the one that took Dad under his wing, raised him, invested in his life – and gave him his name,” said Ford. “Dad’s history…very much played into his empathy for these young babies that had been fathered by U.S. servicemen and were being abandoned. So he made a great effort for these babies.”
In the National Geographic article titled “Resettling Vietnamese Refugees in the United States,” President Ford stated, “[T]o ignore the refugees in their hour of need would be to repudiate the values we cherish as a nation of immigrants, and I was not about to let Congress do that.”
A 50-year ripple effect
On April 3, 1975, President Ford launched Operation Babylift. Through private contractors and U.S. military planes, thousands of orphaned children were airlifted out of Saigon and brought to the United States for adoption.
A doctor attends to a Vietnamese baby during Operation Babylift (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
In A Time to Heal: The Autobiography of Gerald R. Ford (p. 252), President Ford stated:
“I ordered American officials in Saigon to cut through any red tape that might stand in the way of the children’s escape. Then I told our Air Force to begin those mercy flights as soon as possible. Everyone suffers in a war, but no one suffers more than the children, and the airlift was the least that we could do.“
President Ford feeds a Vietnamese refugee baby (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
President Ford and his wife Betty greeted the first plane at the San Francisco International Airport and helped carry babies off the plane.
Numerous foster and adoptive families were waiting to open their doors to the Vietnamese orphans, with several churches and organizations helping facilitate the adoption process.
Fifty years later, those babies are now lawyers, doctors, homemakers, teachers and nurses. Ford said he is often approached by those orphans at speaking engagements, where they thank his father for saving them.
“It’s amazing how something 50 years ago is still rippling today and causing such good.”
One of those orphans, Thuy Williams, has become a good friend of Ford and his wife.
Separated from her mother and slated to be on the first airlift flight that ended in tragedy, Williams will share her journey of heartache and healing during the commemoration event.
President Ford carries a Vietnamese baby from “Clipper 1742,” a plane that transported approximately 325 South Vietnamese orphans from Saigon to the United States (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
Recognizing the good and the bad
The local Vietnamese American panel discussion will give perspective regarding the Vietnam War and its aftermath.
“There’s good and bad,” said Ford. “It’s the reason we do these stories at the Museum. There were definitely both sides, and we always feel it’s important to show both sides because that’s what history looks like. It’s never one way.”
A country of immigrants
“If Dad were here today, he would want people to remember that we are a country of immigrants,” said Ford. “We’ve gone through periods all through our history of welcoming people here. We’ve always stepped forward when these crises have happened and been willing to welcome people in the country.”
Ford went on to say that his father tried to heal the nation in many ways.
President Ford visited refugee camps in May 1975 (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation)
“There were scars on this country, there were wounds that needed help,” said Ford. “Dad would tell you war is ugly, it’s tragic. But if you try to do your best, you can look deeper and find some of these stories where you have good coming out the other side.
“I think the story of these babies – Operation Babylift – is one that makes America look like a country with great empathy and humanity.”
Event and resource links
Ford Museum event registration and information can be found here.
More information about the Vietnamese refugee airlift evacuation and the Vietnamese American community can be found below:
The City of Kentwood will offer its annual Community Cleanup Day on Saturday, May 3, to help residents “spring clean” their home and yard.
Kentwood residents can drop off yard waste, household items, furniture and general debris for disposal and electronics for recycling from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kentwood Public Works Department, 5068 Breton Ave. SE. Proof of Kentwood residency is required.
“Our Community Cleanup Day provides residents with a convenient and safe way to dispose of unwanted items at no cost,” Public Works Department Director Chad Griffin said. “We encourage residents to take advantage of this event as they prepare their home for the spring season.”
The following items will be accepted:
Yard Waste – Loose leaves, brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs and grass clippings.
Household Items – Water heaters, toilets, appliances, snowblowers, etc.
Furniture – Bed frames, mattresses, dressers, couches, etc.
Electronics – TVs, phones, computers, fax machines, modems, printers, etc.
Residents participating in Community Cleanup Day are asked to enter the Public Works Department property off Breton Avenue, where staff will check ID for residency and direct traffic flow.
Kentwood Community Cleanup Day May 3. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The following items will not be accepted during Community Cleanup Day:
Hazardous materials of any kind, such as automotive fluids, paints, aerosol cans, etc., and construction debris like concrete, dirt and roofing. Donations of any kind, smoke detectors and tires will also not be accepted.
Residents looking to safely dispose of household hazardous materials may utilize the Kent County Public Works Department’s SafeChem program, which is open and available to residents from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Kentwood Public Works Department.
Residents who are unable to attend Community Cleanup Day can drop off brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs, loose leaves and grass clippings at the Public Works Department from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. tp 5 p.m. Sunday through May 23. For more information about the City’s brush and leaf drop-off site, visit kentwood.us/BrushLeafDropOff.
Kentwood Public Schools recently broke ground on a new, state-of-the-art multipurpose indoor facility, made possible through the district’s 2021 $192 million bond program. District leaders, local officials and community members gathered to celebrate the beginning of construction on this exciting project, which reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to student opportunity and community engagement.
Projected cost: $28 Million
The 107,000-square-foot facility will serve as a hub for athletics, recreation, educational programming, and large community and school gatherings. With a projected cost of approximately $28 million, the facility will offer flexible space designed to support a wide range of activities and events, including use by school athletic teams, band practices, physical education classes, and community gatherings, enriching the student experience and providing a resource for the broader Kentwood community.
“Kentwood Public Schools is thankful for the continued support from our community to provide excellent environments for our students and community to learn, grow and thrive in,” said Kentwood Superintendent Kevin Polston. “We are excited to break ground on the new Kentwood Public Schools Community Multipurpose Center to further enhance educational opportunities for students in the arts, academics and athletics.”
An architectural model of the Kentwood Public Schools Multipurpose Building. (Courtesy, KPS)
The multipurpose facility will not only enhance extracurricular programming and student engagement, but also serve as a valuable asset for the entire Kentwood community—providing space for practices, performances, recreational leagues, special events, and educational activities throughout the year.
As one of the flagship projects of the 2021 bond program, the new facility reflects the community’s strong support for education and the district’s vision to meet the evolving needs of students and families.
Construction is scheduled to be completed in December of 2026.
The $192 million bond program is managed by Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. and designed by TowerPinkster Architecture.
Health departments and health officials across Michigan and Kent County are transitioning from preparing for the arrival of measles to reacting to the arrival of the disease, which was once officially considered eliminated in the United States in the year 2000.
Measles began its comeback in the United States in February and early March in the Southwest United States, specifically New Mexico and West Texas.
884 cases across the United States, 9 in Michigan
Since then, cases of measles have been spreading across the nation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the latest numbers have shown an increase of cases with 30 states in the U.S. reporting cases. According to the CDC, a total of 884 cases are confirmed across the nation as of April 24. In the state of Michigan, as of April 24, there have been nine confirmed cases of measles according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). A total of four outbreak cases of the measles has been reported by the MDHHS with the outbreak located in Montcalm County in West Central Michigan. Locally, the first case of measles was reported in Kent County on April 1. The measles case in Kent County was the first reported in Kent County since 2013.
Along with measles, the state of Michigan has also seen an uptick in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough. In 2024 Michigan reported 2,081 cases of pertussis, a 19-fold increase from 2023 and the third consecutive annual rise. So far in 2025, the state has already reported nearly 700 pertussis cases, including 112 in infants under age 2, the age group most at risk for severe complications.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease that continues to circulate both in the U.S. and globally,” said Dr. Adam London, Health Officer at the Kent County Health Department. “This case is a reminder of how quickly measles can spread and the importance of vaccination. We urge residents to check their immunization status, especially if planning to travel internationally or into areas with active measles outbreaks.”
On April 24, healthcare officials from around the state of Michigan convened for a conference call to address the state of measles in Michigan and discussed ways to address the issue and keep the public up to date on the situation.
One of the main points of emphasis by the panel, that included Michigan Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the State of Michigan, was the need for vaccinations.
“These numbers are alarming, and this resurgence is preventable,” Dr. Bagdasarian said. “Diseases like measles and pertussis are highly contagious and potentially deadly, especially for infants and young children. We have safe, effective vaccines that protect against these illnesses – vaccines that have been available for decades. Let’s use all the tools at our disposal to protect our most vulnerable.”
(Courtesy, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, MDHHS)
Vaccine rates have been falling in recent years and that has enabled diseases like the measles and pertussis to mount a comeback.
According to the MDHHS, vaccination rates for young children in Michigan have declined over the past decade. As of March 2025, only 71.5% of Michigan children ages 19 to 35 months had received four or more DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) doses. MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine coverage for this age group was 79.4%. Only 68.4% of young children in Michigan have received all the vaccines recommended to protect them from 14 serious diseases by the time they’re 2-years old. Pertussis (whooping cough) often begins with mild cold-like symptoms, but progresses to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks. More than half of infants who get pertussis need to be hospitalized, and complications can include pneumonia, brain damage and death.
“Vaccination is not simply a personal choice, it is a public health responsibility that protects the entire community, particularly those at highest risk for serious health consequences,” said Dr. Rachel Klamo, a family physician and president of the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians. “We encounter vaccine-preventable illnesses daily and are seeing cases of once-rare diseases, such as measles, the consequences of which can be life-long and devastating. For physicians, this is heartbreaking because it is preventable.”
“Up-to-date vaccines are key in protecting children against measles”
Up-to-date vaccines are key in protecting children against measles which is easily spread. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, measles is a disease caused by a virus. It is one of the world’s most contagious diseases. The MDHHS website also states that 90% of persons without immunity to measles will become ill after exposure to the virus. It also states that measles can live for up to two hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves an area.
The MMR vaccine, recommended starting at age 1, offers long-lasting protection against measles. Michigan’s recent outbreak was linked to a large, ongoing outbreak in Ontario, Canada.
(Image Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Parents deserve accurate, science-based information about vaccines,” said Veronica Valentine McNally, president of the Franny Strong Foundation and founder of the I Vaccinate campaign. “When families are informed, they choose to protect their children. That’s why we created IVaccinate.org—to empower Michigan parents with the facts they need to make confident decisions.”
The I Vaccinate campaign is a nationally recognized joint initiative of the Franny Strong Foundation and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, supported by the CDC and every major health and medical organization in the state.”
Parents especially need to know that the DTaP vaccine is recommended at 2, 4 and 6 months, followed by boosters at 15-18 months and 4-to-6 years to protect against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. The MMR vaccine is recommended at 12-to-15 months and again at 4-to-6 years. The vaccines are available through pediatricians, most pharmacies and local health departments. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive vaccines at no cost from enrolled providers.
“With vaccine-preventable diseases making a comeback in our state and across the country, this is not the time to let our guard down,” said Dr. Bagdasarian. “This is a good time to call your health care provider and make sure your family is up to date on vaccines.”
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport revealed its first-ever official mascot, Jerry the Jet™, a friendly and engaging character designed to enhance the airport experience for guests and promote aviation in the community.
Created in collaboration with its marketing and advertising partner, Extra Credit Projects, Jerry the Jet™ is part of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority’s broader effort to elevate the guest experience, increase brand recognition and deepen community engagement. With a cheerful personality and a passion for flight, Jerry will serve as a mascot for both in-terminal experiences and events throughout West Michigan.
“This is more than just a mascot,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “Jerry the Jet™ is a fun, approachable way for us to connect with our guests and our community while sparking curiosity about aviation. He embodies our commitment to creating an exceptional and welcoming experience for everyone who walks through our doors.”
In addition to greeting passengers in the terminal, Jerry the Jet™ will appear at community events and serve as an ambassador for the Airport. He will help educate audiences about flight, careers in aviation and the role airports play in connecting people and places.
Ford International Airport was recently recognized as one of the top-performing airports globally for guest experience by Airports Council International World. Over the past year, the Airport has set a new passenger record, added accessibility amenities including a sensory room, added commercial airline partners to expand nonstop flights options, opened four new restaurants and more.
For more information about the Ford International Airport, visit FlyFord.org.
Lamar Park (2561 Porter St.)
