Category Archives: Area Education

Local school’s youth wrestling program produces results, sends first student to wrestling State Finals!

Dahmari Lee (in gray) takes on an opponent during a scrimmage at AnchorPoint Christian School (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


AnchorPoint Christian School in Wyoming is excited to announce that 4th grade student Dahmari Lee will be moving on to the MYWAY State Championships. Dahmari is AnchorPoint’s first student to move on to the championship round.

“I’m so proud of all the wrestlers this year!” said Coach Ed Harris in supplied material. “Each one has grown in a number of ways whether it is learning new moves, self-confidence, or how to handle adversity.”

Challenges and growth

Dahmari Lee with parents Andreen and John Wierenga (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

For the past two years, Dahmari has wrestled as a novice. The 2024 regional tournament at Grandville High School was his first taste of open wrestling, competing against opponents with two or more years of wrestling experience.

Dahmari enjoys wrestling with his dad at home, so when AnchorPoint’s 5-6th grade teacher Ed Harris formed a school wrestling team, he immediately signed up.

“He’s really into sports, so when they started a wrestling program here he wanted to try it,” John Wierenga, Dahmari’s father, told WKTV. “I told him we probably wouldn’t do any tournaments the first year, just practice. But after three practices, he was ready [to try] a tournament.”

Dahmari said he enjoys working hard and receiving medals (of which he has earned several) at competitions. The young wrestler is looking forward to participating at the State Championships, in part because he will wrestle open.

“Open is a little bit harder because you have to wrestle a couple years ahead of you,” said Dahmari, admitting that he likes the challenge of competing against more experienced wrestlers.

Andreen Wierenga, Dahmari’s mother, said watching her son wrestle is very emotional for her because she doesn’t want him to get hurt.

Despite her nervousness, Andreen supports Dahmari by attending his matches.

Dahmari Lee (right) prepares to scrimmage (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“When he’s winning, I like to cheer him on,” said Andreen. “But when he started to get the hang of it, he said, ‘I don’t like the excitement. You can stay home, and Dad can take me,’” said Andreen.

Andreen attended a recent match with the promise that she would sit quietly and not cheer. When Dahmari won his match, however, Andreen admitted that her emotions ran high.

“He came up and hugged me and said, ‘See? This is why I told you not to come,’” said Andreen with a laugh.

Dahmari’s willingness to accept challenges placed before him has garnered the notice of his coach.

“[Dahmari] is always willing to challenge himself in practice and in competition,” said Harris. “The fact that he placed 4th shows he belongs with those open wrestlers, and will continue to grow as an athlete and a person going forward.”

Iron sharpens iron

Launching AnchorPoint’s K-6 grade wrestling program stemmed from Harris’ own love of the sport.

Teacher and Coach Ed Harris believes in teaching more than just wrestling moves (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Harris began wrestling in high school and quickly fell in love with the sport. A Division 2 Team National Championship win at GVSU was followed by coaching positions at Godfrey Lee Middle School and then Wyoming High School.

When a donor purchased mats for AnchorPoint from Michigan State, the school’s youth wrestling team began.

“I love the sport of wrestling, and with a donor coming forward to help get the mats here, and my sons going to this school [and] with the opportunity to coach them, God’s timing was perfect,” said Harris.

Harris is also excited to incorporate faith into the wrestling program.

“I have always loved Proverbs 27:17: ‘Iron sharpens iron,’ because it is so true in wrestling,” said Harris, adding that a good partner provides refinement, but a bad partner creates stumbling blocks. “It is amazing how much faith and wrestling are connected, and we talk about that in our devotions before every practice.”

Life lessons

Dahmari (left) shows perseverance during a recent scrimmage (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Faith is only one life lesson AnchorPoint’s wrestlers learn through the program.

Strengthening their bodies as well as relationships with their peers as they work together in a competitive setting is also a focus of the program. Giving students a positive outlet for working through emotions, physical stress or anxiety, and learning the art of winning and losing gracefully are also lessons the students will take with them throughout life.

But one of the most important lessons, Harris said, is perseverance – especially through tough times.

“Wrestling is super tough, especially when you first start out,” said Harris, commenting that he was proud of the wrestlers for showing perseverance during a recent scrimmage. “No matter the score, they just kept wrestling and working to improve.

“I hope they transition that thinking to life and that, no matter what is going on in life, you can always find ways to work to make it better.”

Preparation and anticipation

As Dahmari prepares for the State Championships at Wings Event Center Arena on March 22-23, anticipation is high for both student and coach.

“I’m excited to see where wrestling can take Dahmari and all of our students in the future!” said Harris.

For more information on AnchorPoint Christian School, visit www.anchorpointchristian.org.

Chef Syndy Sweeney to share delicious baking tips at Wyoming KDL event March 26

Black Forest Crepe (Courtesy, Syndy Sweeney)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Chef Sweeney finds meaning in cooking (Courtesy, Sweeney)

Chef Syndy Sweeney of T. Rex & the Rabbit Foods will be at the Wyoming branch of Kent District Library (KDL) on Tuesday, March 26 to share her love of food and cooking with local residents.

For Sweeney, cooking is about more than just food. It’s about connection and comfort.

“For me, food has always been love,” said Sweeney. “My mom started teaching me when I was about four, and food was always something that I did for comfort and for connection.”

Combining books and cherries

At the Baking with Michigan Cherries KDL event, Sweeney will share the many ways to create delicious baked goods using Michigan’s seasonal cherry bounty.

The event is being held in conjunction with KDL’s On the Same Page community-wide reading initiative featuring the novel Tom Lake by best-selling novelist Ann Patchett. Patchett’s novel is centered around Michigan’s Traverse City cherry orchards.

“I read the book and have developed a lecture where we’re going to cover basic baking tips with regular flour and gluten-free flour, and incorporate as many different cherry products as possible,” said Sweeney.

Attendees will learn common-sense tips to successful baking, as well as favorite components, ingredients and baking equipment/utensils.

Sweeney encourages participation and questions during her demonstrations.

“I want people to feel engaged,” said Sweeney. “I want people to feel comfortable touching the dough and smelling the ingredients that I am using in my demonstration.”

Dinosaurs and rabbits

As a personal chef, Sweeney offers catering services for small events, meal prep, and several options for cooking classes through various community programs.

“Where you need a chef, I go,” Sweeney said. “I don’t have a restaurant, and I don’t have a storefront. But I have a lot of equipment, and a car and a cart. And muscles,” Sweeney added with a laugh.

Though Sweeney has been a vegetarian for over thirty years, her parents and her husband eat meat.

“I was always making substitutions,” said Sweeney. “I would make two versions of the same thing but with different proteins.”

(Courtesy, Syndy Sweeney)


T. Rex & the Rabbit Foods is a fitting name for Sweeney’s business due to the chef’s refusal to restrict herself to one practice of cooking. Whether vegetarian, a meat lover, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, halal, or dealing with food allergies, Sweeney is onboard.

“I don’t like when food is politicized,” said Sweeney. “I cook for everybody.”

Though Sweeney loved cooking, she doubted she would be able to make a living as a personal chef. However, Sweeney has been amazed at how her desire to help people connect through food has expanded into the successful business it is today.

“It’s been a lot of work, a lot of talking to people, testing recipes, and just word of mouth and hustling,” said Sweeney. “It’s a lot of fun, and it’s been very challenging and humbling at times.”

Sweeney enjoys the teaching aspect of her job, using her skills to highlight the ways food connects people rather than dividing them. That sense of community is something she strives for in each of her lectures and classes.

Registration and information links for a variety of fun upcoming events!

(Courtesy photo)

For more information about Sweeney’s Baking with Michigan Cherries KDL event, click here.

To register for Sweeney’s Cherries on Top hands-on cooking workshop at Kentwood Parks & Rec, click here.

Many of Sweeney’s cooking classes can be found at the Kentwood Parks & Recreation and Forest Hills Community Services websites.

KDL branches are hosting various events centered around the novel Tom Lake in preparation for author Ann Patchett’s April 24 visit to Covenant Fine Arts Center at Calvin University. Details for this event can be found here.

Davenport University launches groundbreaking bilingual degrees program

Education, student, business (Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Education (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Leaders at Davenport University (DU) announced a groundbreaking initiative that leads to bilingual degrees with professional proficiency in English and Spanish.

Casa Latina at Davenport has a unique approach by offering courses with one week fully in Spanish and the next week fully in English. Graduates of this program at Davenport will enhance the pool of bilingual talent for businesses, while offering a solid path to careers in business, technology, healthcare, urban education and the sciences.

Casa Latina, the only program of its kind in the nation, represents a new era in higher education.

Twelve undergraduate and graduate degrees are tailored to students who will not only become experts in their fields, but will join the workforce ready to lead in a bilingual world. Degree programs include accounting, business administration, education, human resource management, health services administration and technology project management.

Worldwide flexibility

Students can apply now for courses beginning fall 2024.

The Casa Latina program is fully online, giving students the flexibility they need to begin and finish their degrees. The program will be available worldwide, and Davenport will consider work experience and education credits, reducing the time it takes to earn a degree.

Scholarships are available for full-time students: $9,200 for undergraduates and $5,000 for graduate students. Students attending part-time will be awarded a prorated amount.

(Courtesy, Davenport University)

Innovative and bold

DU saw the need for this bilingual program after studying the needs of employers across the country.

Carlos Sanchez, the executive director of Casa Latina, believes the uniqueness of this program will appeal to the Latino community by offering key bachelor and master degrees along with wrap-around support for students. DU’s Casa Latina program offers bilingual and bicultural student support in admissions, financial aid, counseling, tutoring and library services.

“Davenport is taking an innovative, bold approach with Casa Latina,” Sanchez said. “We are creating this bilingual program that will provide an opportunity for Latino students to overcome so many challenges. We are taking barriers down related to language, finances and geography.

“We have virtual bilingual tutoring, and we have staff dedicated to advising our Casa Latina students. We are creating a community at Davenport that will embrace and guide students as they pursue their degrees.”

Supporting the underserved

The energy for Casa Latina comes right from the top. President Richard J. Pappas and Executive Vice President of Academics and Provost Gilda Gely know Casa Latina will serve students and employers, while aligning with Davenport’s commitment to reach underserved populations in higher education.

Despite being the fastest growing population in the country, Latinos are the least represented in higher education. In the U.S., only 18% of adults over the age of 25 who identify as Hispanic or Latino have a bachelor’s degree or higher. That’s compared to 37% of white/non-Hispanics. Pappas said Davenport is focused on closing this gap.

(Courtesy, Davenport University)

“We have taken direction from people within the Latino community to understand the needs and challenges they have to continue their education,” Pappas said. “We are absolutely committed to creating an environment with all the tools necessary for bilingual students to graduate ready to work and lead in bilingual environments.”

Gely has been instrumental in the development of Casa Latina and believes it is the right program to give bilingual speakers the opportunity to become confident in their ability to succeed in college and in the workplace.

“At Davenport, we have taken the position that Latino students do not have to fit into our mold, but rather we will meet them where they are and support them as they realize their potential,” Gely said. “We have been working toward launching this bilingual program with their success at the forefront of its development. This is truly an exciting moment and opportunity.”

Philanthropic community support

The philanthropic community has contributed $2.7 million to Casa Latina at DU. Foundations and donors giving to Casa Latina include:

  • Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
  • M.E. Davenport Foundation
  • Daniel & Pamella DeVos Foundation
  • Frey Foundation
  • Steelcase Foundation
  • Steve and Tana Wessell

Those interested in supporting Casa Latina can find out more here.

Integration and services

Casa Latina has an advisory board to ensure integration into the community with opportunities for networking and internships. Davenport offers career services support throughout a graduate’s lifetime.

For more information about Casa Latina at Davenport University, visit https://www.davenport.edu/casa-latina.

(Courtesy, Davenport University)

Omni from Grand Valley State University provides adults with pathways for degrees and skills

(Courtesy, GVSU)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Grand Valley State University (GVSU) has announced a new delivery model for adults to advance their economic mobility and career opportunities. This new model merges the best of online and in-person support for adult learners.

Omni: A commitment to adult educational advancement

Omni from GVSU combines an expertly taught curriculum with the agility of flexible education delivered across GVSU’s expanding regional campus network and online. This allows adult learners anywhere to advance their education on a schedule that works with their life and work commitments.

GVSU offers online and in-person education opportunities (Courtesy photo)

GVSU’s Omni is designed to help Michigan residents advance in their careers through an educational experience that is flexible, fast and trustworthy.

“Omni represents a new commitment to adult learners in Michigan, many of whom have previous college credits or work experiences that can be recognized to create a custom path toward a GVSU certificate or degree,” said Philomena V. Mantella, President of GVSU.

Flexible learning opportunities

By blending regional campuses across Michigan with flexible online learning, Omni makes a GVSU education accessible to more adult learners than ever before.

“The needs of Michigan’s workforce demand bold solutions,” said La June Montgomery Tabron, President and CEO of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. “Opportunities like these are crucial to move our communities toward becoming more equitable places of opportunity, and also help parents better support their children so they can thrive.”

The Foundation is providing support for GVSU’s expansion in Battle Creek.

Guiding steps for advancement

Flexible education options help adults gain further education (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

GVSU Omni is led by Chief Executive Kara Van Dam, previously GVSU’s vice provost for graduate and lifetime learning. Van Dam brings more than two decades of experience in adult post-secondary education.

Van Dam joined GVSU’s leadership team in 2021 to lead a university effort to develop new ways to help the 2.5 million Michigan adults without a post-secondary credential improve their career path and earning potential by completing, or continuing, their education.

“Michigan faces a daunting challenge,” said Van Dam. “Nearly 50 percent of its adult population lack a postsecondary credential despite unambiguous evidence that continued educational achievement is the surest path out of poverty toward sustained economic security.

“Our regional network of campuses across the state and online educational offerings mean that, no matter where people are in their careers and education, GVSU Omni meets students where they are and guides their next step for advancement.”

Learn more about Omni

Enrollment in GVSU Omni’s initial programs will begin in the spring of 2024. Additional programs will be offered in the fall.

For more information about Omni, visit gvsu.edu/omni

GVSU K-12 Connect selected as vetted tutoring provider for MI Kids Back on Track program

Nearly three-quarters of the state’s schools are short of teachers, according to a survey by the Michigan Education Association (MEA). (pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff

Grand Valley State University’s K-12 Connect academic support program recently received approval as a vetted high-impact tutoring provider for K-12 districts seeking funds from the MI Kids Back on Track program.

The K-12 Connect program joins a select group of approved providers aligned with the requirements for the $150 million MI Kids Back on Track program. This makes providers eligible for K-12 districts receiving grant funds to utilize them for tutoring services.

Empowering students through education

K-12 Connect is dedicated to opening doors of opportunity to students (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

The state funds are designed to support learning that get students back to grade-level academic standards, assist those at risk of falling behind and prepare students for postsecondary education.

As a provider using a Michigan-aligned curriculum, K-12 Connect is primed to deliver high-quality tutoring services to Michigan students, said Amirah Vosburgh, K-12 Connect Director. She said this recognition as a trusted educational partner opens doors to opportunities for growth and impact while enhancing K-12 Connect’s commitment to supporting students.

“This approval is more than just a stamp of recognition; it’s a testament to our dedication to empowering students, supporting educators and fostering academic success,” said Vosburgh. “We believe that this endorsement will not only enhance our credibility but also solidify our position as a leading provider of educational solutions.

“We are excited about the possibilities ahead and remain steadfast in our mission to transform the learning experience for students across our communities.”

Personalized support

K-12 Connect was created in 2020 to address learning loss during the pandemic. It has steadily grown, supporting more than 5,500 students. K-12 Connect is working with educators in 35 school buildings across Michigan this academic year.

In addition, K-12 Connect is approved to provide direct-to-family tutoring in eight states, with more approvals on the way, officials said.

Personalized support helps students excel in learning (Courtesy photo)

K-12 Connect offers personalized support, either during school or after school, for K-12 students across all grade levels. Tutors help students attain proficiency in math, maximize reading capabilities, build skills through academic mentoring to help with high school success and preparation for college, and more.

Learn more about the programming on the K-12 Connect website.

Go big or go home: Wyoming High School art students decorate the halls in tape

Daira (left) and Deborah with their 3D tape art creation (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


3D images created with only tape can be found in the halls of WHS (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Students have painted Wyoming High School’s halls – with tape.

WHS Art 3 students recently studied a contemporary artist who uses tape to create large-scale optical illusions. Inspired by this work, students collaborated to create six unique designs that would give a 2D space a 3D appearance.

Students worked in pairs and used two kinds of tape as a creative medium to explore the idea of space.

“It’s good to have them collaborate, it’s good to have them work in a different space and on a different scale,” WHS art teacher Liz Duffield told WKTV. “We use different things, different materials, so they recognize art is not just drawing and painting, that we have a lot more in the art world.”

Painting…with tape?

Tape art emerged in the 1960s as an alternate urban art form that uses only adhesive tape as a medium. The work of tape artists has garnered a great deal of media interest over the last decade.

That interest is partly due to the advantages of “painting” with tape versus aerosol cans.

The tape art installations cover the walls from the floor to the ceiling (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

No longer needing protective measures, such as masks, to guard against dangerous vapors is a convenience as well as a health benefit to tape artists.

Adhesive tapes can be applied quickly and easily to materials such as stone, wood, glass, aluminum and more. The tape can also be removed without leaving residue.

Strange, interesting, unique…all of the above?

“It was an interesting concept,” said Jordan, WHS junior. “I never would have thought of this for an art project, putting tape on walls. That sounds strange; it was abstract.”

Jovanny, WHS senior and Jordan’s collaborative partner on the project, agreed. “It was really fun. We’re always doing painting or drawing, and I think this was a unique experience, using tape and creating art with it.”

Jovanny (left) and Jordan with their tape art installation (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Though both students agreed the 3D project was not the easiest, both enjoyed the challenge of designing and executing the art.

“We just went with the flow, and this is how it turned out,” said Jovanny, gesturing to an image of their art installation on his computer.

Jovanny also enjoyed the collaborative aspect of the project.

“I liked how we collaborated together because usually we don’t collaborate often in this class,” Jovanny said, adding that creating an art piece with another student – and having it turn out well – produced a sense of accomplishment.

Jordan, who typically creates 2D drawings on a much smaller scale, admitted that while she enjoyed the 3D project, she has no plans to repeat it.

“One time is enough,” Jordan said with a laugh.

An opportunity to share and inspire

Collaborative partners Daira and Deborah, both WHS seniors, enjoyed the opportunity to share their art with the entire school.

Daira (left) and Deborah with their 3D tape art creation (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“I liked it because a lot of students can see [it],” said Deborah. “I had three or four students ask me, What class is this? What are you doing this for? I think it catches students’ attention, and that is good if they want to take art.”

Daira said that, though she typically enjoys painting, she had fun working on the tape art.

“I don’t think it was that difficult because you have just straight lines,” said Daira. “The difficult part was making them look even.

“I would want to do something like this again and experience more than just painting. Art is more than just painting and drawing.”

Deborah would also like to try tape art again, but the WHS senior is thinking…bigger. A bigger canvas and a larger audience.

“Somewhere downtown, somewhere where everybody can see it,” said Deborah.

Art as an outlet

That creative expression is what draws both Daira and Deborah to art in general.

Art teacher Liz Duffield periodically walks by and checks to make sure the tape remains secure (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“I like that you can express your creativity,” said Deborah. “Instead of like every other class where you just write and read, in this class you can actually express it more in colors and lines and shapes.”

“Expressing your feelings too,” Daira added. “Art has a lot of feelings and emotions that you can show. If you are not good in English and writing, you can express it in art.”

Allowing students the opportunity for that expression is important to Duffield – though she admits that she never expected to become a teacher.

“I always knew that I loved art and being creative, design and things like that,” said Duffield. “I never actually thought I wanted to be a teacher, and then I started volunteering in a classroom–and I loved it.”

Value in variety

While the medium of watercolors is Duffield’s personal favorite to work in, she believes in the value of all art forms.

“I think it’s really important to expose my students to many different kinds of art,” Duffield said.

State of the Child conference on Feb. 23 will discuss challenges facing youth, provide avenues of support

Local teens collaborate with community experts about how to support today’s youth (Courtesy, WCS)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Youth mental health has been declared a national emergency by the surgeon general.

“Far too many young people are struggling with their mental health and unable to get the support they need,” stated the U.S. Surgeon General’s 2021 Advisory. “We all have a role to play in supporting youth mental health and creating a world where young people thrive.”

Wedgwood Christian Services (WCS) aims to increase awareness of this issue with its upcoming State of the Child (SOTC) event on Friday, Feb. 23 at Frederik Meijer Gardens.

“We feel State of the Child is extremely important,” said Brooke Jevicks, Chief Advancement Officer for WCS. “It’s about increasing awareness, educating ourselves on these important topics and strengthening yourself as an advocate.”

Prevention matters

WCS believes prevention is a key component to helping our youth.

“People need to understand how much prevention can matter. How many things are being caught sooner,” said Jevicks.

SOTC brings together local teens who will express their thoughts to the audience in pre-recorded messages.

The teens will touch on their own personal thoughts and experiences with mental, emotional and physical health. What they are seeing peers deal with regarding stress, anxiety, family life, life online and recognition of healthy v. unhealthy relationships will also be part of the local teens’ message.

Local teens share their experiences and concerns (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

A panel of community leaders will discuss the concerns raised by the teens. Maranda, Children and Family Services Manager for WOOD TV8, will guide the conversation.

The SOTC panel will consist of representatives from the local court system, school system, and healthcare system. A community therapist and a WCS therapist from their residential care program will also join the panel.

An audience Q&A session will follow the panel discussion, succeeded by deep-dive breakout sessions.

Participants will be able to attend a breakout discussion from both Session A and Session B.

Session A topics:

  • Panic Attacks 101
  • Understanding & Overcoming Digital Addiction: A Deep Dive into the Digital World
  • Breath of Fresh Air: The Truth About Vaping

Session B topics:

  • Dating: Then v. Now – Teen Relationships in the Age of Technology
  • Changing the View and Narratives Surrounding Mental Illness & Suicide
  • Unpacking the Invisible Backpack: Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Young Mental Health

Personal testimony

SOTC is thrilled to feature award-winning mental health advocate and speaker Ross Szabo as keynote speaker.

One of the most sought after mental health speakers in the country, Szabo has spent over half his life finding ways to make mental health approachable.

Diagnosed at age 16 with bipolar disorder, Szabo attempted to take his own life at age 17.

“He really knows what it’s like to suffer internally, and he’s worked hard to turn all of his personal trials into testimonies,” said Jevicks.

As Wellness Director at Geffen Academy at UCLA and CEO of the Human Power Project, Szabo is changing how grades 6-12 learn about their mental health.

“It will be amazing to listen to him talk about how to navigate life’s challenges, and his perspective on how to aid today’s youth,” Jevicks said.

Expert care and services

In addition to the annual SOTC conference, WCS – one of the most highly regarded mental health and behavioral health facilities in Michigan – offers a variety of services and care.

WCS is committed to supporting children and families (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

WCS is known for their residential care, and for taking on the toughest cases for children who have been chronically neglected and physically or sexually abused. All WCS services offer expert, trauma-focused, evidence-based, therapeutic care…and love.

“We are committed to supporting children and families through mental health, emotional health, behavioral health and spiritual health,” said Jevicks. “We have a deep love for the people in our care [and] want to extend Christ-like love and grace to them.”

Among WCS services is a home for youth saved from human trafficking, and an entire certified staff dedicated to helping children overcome addiction.

WCS’s school prevention program, Positive Youth Development (PYD), teaches kids to understand and value their worth through a variety of programming.

“We are doing a lot of really important work to help each child in our care find their true self,” said Jevicks. “Our team reaches thousands of teens with preventative programming.”

Kids = The Future

Support children by educating yourself first (Courtesy, First Steps Kent)

“Kids are our future,” said Jevicks. “They are future leaders, future decision makers, our future coworkers.

“We have to take care of them. In order to take care of them, we have to be doing things like this event. Raising our awareness, educating ourselves, and becoming stronger advocates. Too many people are struggling with their mental health, and it’s not just kids. It’s adults too.”

Futurist Rebecca Ryan recently presented the Top 10 Trends for the Next 10 Years in business to the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. Number ten is normalizing mental health.

“There’s been a lot of effort put into it, but there’s still quite a ways to go,” said Jevicks, adding that there is a lot to be said about businesses being involved in SOTC.

“Businesses should be sending their leaders to [SOTC], and getting a grasp on what today’s youth are facing and dealing with so we can have better benefits in place and better support systems [for] our future employees.”

Value of SOTC

Jevicks said that hearing local kids candidly share their realities at SOTC each year is eye-opening.

“Then community experts and leaders get insight into those barriers and provide practical ways to face those barriers together,” said Jevicks. “You always walk away knowing more than before.”



“Ultimately,” Jevicks continued, “if you have kids, if you work with kids, care about kids, or are invested in the future of our community, you want to attend Wedgwood’s SOTC.

“It takes all of us to positively impact each other and tackle this topic.”

Registration, Sponsorships and Notes

Attendees can receive continuing education credits for attending SOTC. SCECHs are available. CEUs are available pending approval.

WCS says they are grateful to all their sponsors, but specifically Title Sponsor, Fifth Third Bank.

“That’s really helped us be able to bring the speaker in and grow this event, providing more information to people,” said Jevicks.

Register for SOTC and/or become a SOTC sponsor by clicking here.

East Kentwood student selected for All-State Jazz Band, performs at state music conference

Robel Abebe with his family at the Michigan Music Conference (Courtesy, Sho Dembinski)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Robel Abebe performs with the All-State Jazz Band at the MMC (Courtesy, Sho Dembinski)

Robel Abebe, senior at East Kentwood High School, performed with the All-State Jazz Band at the 19th annual Michigan Music Conference (MMC) last weekend.

“Congratulations to Robel Abebe, who performed with the All-State Jazz Band last Saturday!” said EKHS Band Director Sho Dembinski in a school social media shout-out.

“Robel was selected from over 2,000 students to play with this band, and spent Thursday and Friday at the Amway Grand in Downtown GR to prepare for his concert. Way to go, Robel!”

The All-State Jazz performance was held Saturday, Jan. 27 at 3 p.m. in the Amway Ambassador Ballroom.

MSBOA All-State

The MSBOA All-State program was established during the 2005-06 school year.

Advancing to the All-State program is a competitive process and requires talent and diligence. Being accepted to All-State is considered one of the highest honors a high school musician can receive.

(Courtesy photo)

Students must prepare a 10-minute recorded audition that includes sight-reading, an announced etude and a series of scales. Auditions are submitted using only an identification number with no reference to the student or school.

The auditions are then evaluated by an adjudicator and placed in order. The required number of instruments is then selected to fill each section in the five All-State ensembles: Middle School String Orchestra, Middle School Band, High School Full Orchestra, High School Band and High School Jazz Ensemble.

Approximately 2,500 students audition each year for 400 seats in the All-State ensembles.

In January, the students assemble for two and a half days of rehearsal with nationally recognized conductors. All-State ensembles then perform in a concert held Saturday of the MMC.


(Courtesy photo)

Michigan Music Conference

“The purpose of the Michigan Music Conference is to provide relevant professional development and
vibrant musical experiences that support music education for educators and their students,” states the MMC website.

Featuring school ensemble concerts, performances from Honors Choirs, All-State Bands, and Orchestras; sessions for in-service and pre-service teachers; professional development clinics; hands-on technology workshops; and association membership and business meetings, MMC attendance draws approximately 9,000 teachers, administrators, students, speakers, and guests each year.

Preying on the vulnerable: How to protect yourself and loved ones against human trafficking

Prevent human trafficking through education and understanding (Courtesy, WCS)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Human trafficking is a crime of exploitation that preys on the vulnerable.

This form of crime and abuse claims victims without discrimination. Traffickers will look for vulnerabilities in those of any age, race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, immigration status, cultural background, religion, socio-economic class, and education level.

Millions are victims of trafficking, and many of those victims are children (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

With approximately 27.6 million victims worldwide at any given time, human traffickers profit at the expense of the victims by compelling them to perform labor or engage in commercial sex.

And the number of human trafficking incidents is rising.

“There’s definitely been an increase in the amount of [trafficking] incidents that have happened over the past several years,” said Kali Jackson, Cook Claus Residential Therapist, WCS. “The big thing that’s coming into play is technology.

“A lot of individuals are experiencing their first grooming incidents online.”

However, many times predators are much closer to home than people realize – and they are targeting children.

Trafficking is highly relational

Traffickers create relationships with their victims first.

“They become friends with them online, or it may even be a loved one or family member – but they have some sort of connection with that client,” said Jackson.

The predator must first know the victim’s needs in order to offer a solution and make the perpetrator appear safe. Often the most susceptible and vulnerable are children.

One of Wedgwood’s Residential Homes (Courtesy, WCS)

“We typically see individuals getting into trafficking between ages 12 and 16,” said Jackson.

Nearly half of child trafficking cases worldwide involve family members, with family involvement in child exploitation almost four times higher than in cases of adult trafficking.

Because of this, children may not recognize themselves as victims.

Even if they do, fear can prevent children from seeking help. Those fears can come from fear of law enforcement, fear of returning to an abusive home, of being deported, or of harm befalling their loved ones. Victims may also feel a sense of guilt or shame that causes them to remain silent.

It is also important to understand that, though many traffickers are male, women can also be perpetrators. Some traffickers work in groups consisting of both men and women.

The common denominator

Lyrics to a song residents wrote together in music therapy (Courtesy, WCS)

Whether a child or an adult, vulnerability remains the common factor.

As the therapist for Wedgwood’s residential home that serves human trafficking victims ages 12-17, Jackson is no stranger to seeing that vulnerability firsthand.

“I’ve been in this position for four years, and every story is so unique,” said Jackson. “But the one thing always in common is that vulnerability.

“Every single one of my clients, when they talk about why they got into human trafficking, [say] they felt unloved, they felt vulnerable enough to allow anyone to give them that love and attention.”

A dysfunctional home life is one of the main catalysts for involvement in human trafficking.

“Maybe they’re running away from home, or they’re displaying images or messages online suggesting that they’re not happy at home,” said Jackson. “They’re looking to try to fill that void of the relationship they don’t have with their parents with anyone out there willing to give it to them.”

How can we stop the cycle?

Wedgwood Christian Services (WCS) is dedicated to preventing human trafficking by bringing awareness to the community and urging people to educate themselves on the dangers and signs of human trafficking.

Prevention of human trafficking, Jackson believes, begins in the home.

“It first starts with having, and modeling, positive relationships in the home,” said Jackson. “A lot of times when we see youth seek out that negative attention, it’s because they’re looking to fill that void they’re not getting in the home.”

WCS residents participating in a “Let Go, Let God” activity (Courtesy, WCS)

Creating a safe space at home for children to give voice to their feelings is crucial.

Having open conversations with children about warning signs they should look for online is also essential.

Jackson urges parents to be aware of current street language, their children’s social media use, and who their children talk to.

Red flags to watch for can include changes in a youth’s personal hygiene, the amount of cash they have on them, and evidence of sexual activity.

Educate, educate, educate

Continual education regarding human trafficking is encouraged.

“This is a topic that continues to grow, and there’s more information on it all the time,” Jackson said.


Tip sheets provided by WCS can help with that education and understanding:

Things to Look For

Prevention Through Empowerment

Dos & Don’ts

Resources for victims

Wedgwood’s Cook Claus Program, also known as Wedgwood’s Manasseh Project Trauma Recovery Center, is a local residential treatment program for victims of sex trafficking.

The program provides a safe environment where victims can begin to heal and gain hope for their future.

A WCS resident’s graduation, summer 2023 (Courtesy, WCS)

Access the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.

Kids & Family Expo on Jan. 27 will feature new attractions – and a lot of fun!

The Kids & Family Expo will have some new attractions this year (Courtesy, MHF)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


New and exciting attractions are adding fun to the Kids & Family Expo at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

At the helm of the Expo will be the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) and be nice. program.


A dedication to community and family wellness

Though the MHF has participated in the Expo for 10 years, this is the first time the Foundation will host the event.

“The reason that we decided to take it on after we were approached last year was because this is a winter event that focuses on family, togetherness and community connection,” said Jessica Jones, Communications Director for MHF. “Those are all aspects of our organization that we promote within families.

The Expo will focus on overall family wellness (Courtesy, MHF)

“We’re really trying to tap into the community and promote good mental health.”

The Expo will look similar to previous years with additional enhancements and a focus on overall family wellness. Community resources information, hourly wellness presenters, and fun interactive and educational experiences for the entire family will be available during the event.

“The Expo helps provide that little bit of escape from the winter,” said Jones. “Families are trapped inside together if the weather hasn’t been great. Changing the scenery in the winter can be more empowering than we realize.

“This gives the family an opportunity to get out, be together and have some fun.”

What to expect: new and original features

A new aspect to the Kids & Family Expo will be that all attractions and rides are included in the ticket price.

All attractions and rides are included in the ticket price (Courtesy, MHF)

“There’s no extra nickel and diming once you’re in, which was really important to us,” said Jones.

New attractions will include the Pirate’s Revenge swinging boat and Turbo Tubs, which can accommodate both kids and adults.

A cakewalk sponsored by Nothing Bundt Cakes will take place every hour near the Empowerment Stage presented by Forest View Hospital.

“The Empowerment Stage is something new this year, and we have a rotation of fun things that are happening there,” said Jones.

Included in that rotation is WOOD TV8 Chief Meteorologist Ellen Bacca presenting the popular Weather Experience. There will also be several story times for children.

John Ball Zoo will be providing animals for patrons to enjoy (Courtesy, MHF)

“We’re going to be pushing out the be nice. action plan: notice, invite, challenge, and empower,” said MHF Founder Christy Buck in an interview with eightWest. “We’re going to be reading books to kids, and they can sit and listen to a book being read and how N.I.C.E. is implemented in this book.”

Additional activities include: a petting zoo, ponies, jumbo activities, a fire engine and police car, a photo booth, archery, face painting, snake petting and more.

Various information from community organizations will be available at the Expo in addition to activities and rides. Each resource distribution station will also feature an activity.

“We’ve got all this good information, all these great resources packaged, and a whole lot of rides and fun and games for the whole family,” said Buck on eightWest.

Expo = Positive Impact

Activity and FUN can help improve mental health (Courtesy, MHF)

Everything that we do in our lives, Buck said, has to do with our overall health and mental health.

Weather, nutrition and finances are also factors that play into mental health. The Expo will have presentations and information about each of these factors.

Jones said that events like the Expo can help improve mental health for some people.

“Being active, having things to look forward to, feeling empowered following some kind of activity or event, anything that makes you feel good,” said Jones.

“For kids, these are memories that they’re going to make as they have fun with the rides. Parents are going to make memories by being with the kids and providing this experience for them.”

Families can find a multitude of resources at the Expo (Courtesy, MHF)

Resources and links

Tickets for the Kids & Family Expo can be purchased at the door or online here or here.

For more information on the Mental Health Foundation and be nice. program, click here.

Special viewing of movie Selma to be hosted at KDL Wyoming branch Jan. 17 as part of local MLK celebration

The film titled Selma is based on true events centered around Martin Luther King Jr. (Courtesy, KDL)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Martin Luther King Jr. (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Kent District Library (KDL) is inviting the community to share in a week-long celebration honoring MLK and the Civil Rights Movement.

Honoring the Life and Legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.: A Weeklong Celebration will take place Jan. 15-19 at local KDL branches. Programs for all ages will feature powerful reflections and action that supported the legacy of MLK.

“We chose to do the week-long celebration because [we] wanted it to be a variety of programs that patrons could enjoy,” said KDL Volunteer Event Coordinator Debra Schultz. “We didn’t want to just tie it into one day.”

Selma: heart-wrenching and eye-opening

As part of the celebration, the Wyoming Branch will host a special viewing of the movie Selma on Wednesday, Jan. 17 from 5:30-7:45 p.m.

(Courtesy, KDL)

“We wanted something that would touch a whole family and be an educational piece – but also an entertaining piece – and so we chose the movie Selma,” said Schultz. “It’s a great movie about representation of the need to understand each other, and to find equality in what we do.”

Taking place in Selma, AL, the movie speaks to the fight that Martin Luther King and his followers went through while striving to be treated equally.

“[King] was really looking for voting rights back in the 60s when this took place,” said Schultz. “African American people just wanted the right to vote…and they did it in a peaceful march.

(Courtesy, KDL)

“But even though their intentions were peaceful, there was still violence because the governor of the town did not want them to come to his town.”

Many people who supported the rights of African Americans to vote traveled to Selma from across the United States to march with MLK.

“They wanted to be there to say, ‘We stand with you.’” said Schultz. “It’s powerful because I don’t think we realize [that] the ordinary person didn’t know what was going on. A lot of them did not realize that African Americans didn’t have the right to vote, so this was an eye-opener for them.

“It was also dangerous for them because the people they were fighting against were also fighting against anyone who agreed with [MLK]. Some white people that went down for the march did end up getting harassed and violated.”

Schultz continued, “This movie is very moving and dramatic, heart-wrenching, and an eye-opener.”

Original artwork available for viewing

“Road Towards Equality” painting by Paul Collins (Courtesy, KDL)

KDL has also procured the loan of an original piece of art from a local Grand Rapids artist for the MLK celebration.

Artist Paul Collins has agreed to have his original painting titled “Road Towards Equality” hanging at several of the branches to honor MLK. It will remain on exhibit through February in honor of Black History Month.

“The reason that [Collins] chose to have it displayed in the library is because he thinks the library atmosphere is the right type of place to have this picture,” said Schultz. “Everyone has the ability to go in and see it because we are open to all, and it’s free to walk into a library.

“He likes the idea that anyone who walks in will have that opportunity to see it – and hopefully ask questions and learn from it. Learn what our heritage is, learn what our freedom is, learn about the men and the women that made changes to help our freedom.”

(Courtesy, KDL)

“Road Towards Equality” can be seen at the Kentwood branch for the first two in January. Alongside the painting will be a postcard with a description of the artwork that patrons will be able to take home with them.

From Kentwood, the painting will be on exhibit at the KDL Caledonia Branch from Jan. 29 – Feb. 2. The Walker location will display the piece the following week, followed by a week at the Sand Lake location, and then at the Rockford branch for the last week in February.

MLK celebration events

Though usually closed on Martin Luther King Day, KDL decided to stay open on Jan. 15 in order to provide a wider impact with carefully curated events.

“We wanted to make sure that there were eventful and educational programs going on that would tie into Martin Luther King and his legacy,” said Schultz. “We worked with Darius Quinn from Quinn Consulting to come up with a good schedule of events that would touch on the heart of what Martin Luther King stood for, and why it’s important that we still carry that on today.”

Other MLK events include a presentation by Randal Jelks, author of Letters to Martin, Jan. 15; a presentation by author, podcaster and retired Calvin professor Dr. Michelle Lloyd-Paige, Jan. 16; “Fear Must Not Be Our Future” presentation by Pastor Joe Jones, Jan. 18; and a Letters to Martin book discussion Jan. 19.

Each KDL branch will have a display of passive craft projects for children and families. The crafts  include a silhouette of MLK that can be decorated with paint, markers, crayons. Various MLK quotes that had an impact on society will be available to cut out and adhere to the silhouette.

A small booklet will also be available for children at certain KDL locations. The booklet focuses on who MLK was, why his speech of “I have a dream” is important, and how children can live that out today.

A selection of books that represent Martin Luther King, his beliefs and what he was fighting for at that time, as well as books with similar messages relevant to current times will be available at all KDL branches for visitors to read and enjoy.

Our mission

“Our mission is Ideas, Information, and Excitement,” said Schultz about KDL, “and I feel like we have the ability to help people become more aware of our history and what we can do to become more united as a nation.”

*KDL thanks Darius Quinn for his extensive work and help on the MLK celebration, as well as Kendra McNeil, owner of bookstore We Are Lit, who provided copies of Letters to Martin for the library locations.

Impact of incarceration: Arbor Circle offers free panel discussion highlighting systemic racism, poverty and community

Incarceration deeply impacts communities in several ways (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Arbor Circle is inviting the community to a conversation about the impact of incarceration on our community, barriers and challenges faced by returning citizens, and ways to support returning citizens.

As our community commemorates Martin Luther King Jr. Day, join Arbor Circle at their third annual Growing Together event from 6-8 p.m. on Jan. 11 for a free panel discussion on the impact of incarceration in our community.

Honoring a legacy, impacting the community

Arbor Circle event panelists (Courtesy, Arbor Circle)

The panel discussion, presented in partnership with Civic Theatre, will take place at Wealthy Theatre with the option for guests to join in-person or virtually. While the event is free to attend, please register to help us plan: Event Registration.

Event panelists include Dee Dee Taylor, Founder and President of Taylor Made Re-Entry; West Michigan Works! Project Manager Wes Selent; Director of Cure Violence Grand Rapids and Member of City of Grand Rapids SAFE Taskforce Richard Griffin, and Mike Cole, Arbor Circle Clinical Manager.

“Bringing this important conversation to our community honors the legacy of Dr. King,” said Enid Gaddis, Director of Equity & Inclusion at Arbor Circle. “The impact of incarceration is felt by individuals, families, communities, and across systems.

“Our panelists will be exploring this impact from diverse perspectives, which include their lived experience and roles as service providers. I am excited to be part of the conversation.”

Don’t leave yet – there’s more!

As an extension of our Growing Together event, Arbor Circle is partnering with Grand Rapids Civic Theatre as they launch their production of Clyde’s, running Jan. 19-28.

(Courtesy photo)

This modern play explores the tremendous hurdles formerly incarcerated folks experience in life outside prison walls. Themes include safe housing, employment, specific support for women of color, and more.

Learn more about the show, Community Resource Night on Jan. 25, and the “pay what you want” opportunity here: https://www.grct.org/clydes/.

The panel discussion is sponsored by Veneklasen Construction, Fifth Third Bank, Grand Valley State University, Horizon Bank, Hungerford Nichols CPAs + Advisors, Mika Meyers PLC, PCE Systems, Sytsma Wealth Strategies – Raymond James, and Urban League of West Michigan.

Kentwood family provided first schools for the local community

Bowen School built in 1905 (Courtesy, Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission)

By Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission

Bowen School, September 1950 (Courtesy, Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission)

Some of the City’s most important links to the past are from the history, lifestyle and contributions of the Bowens.

The Bowens were involved in the construction of four Bowen Schools built over several decades. Early settlers Bostwick and Hattie Bowen were particularly interested in the educational affairs of the community. Both served as director of the school board. They hired teachers and some even boarded at the Bowen’s home.

The first school was built on the Bowen property. A second one, known as Bowen 2, was built off property but nearby Brake’s Blacksmith Shop and an abandoned train depot.

Bowen 2 tragically burned down in 1904. After the school fire, the blacksmith donated part of the shop for classes for the rest of the year. When located in the blacksmith shop, the school was known as Bowen 3.

The Bowen School being torn down in 1962 (Courtesy, Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission)

The next year, the depot was destroyed, and materials were used to build a new school, Bowen 4, which was completed in 1905. The new two-room school was built of cement blocks with a large archway at the entrance.

The idea of two rooms – one where younger children could be taught and another for older students – was that of Bostwick. There was much opposition, but the idea won out. It was the first two-room schoolhouse in the area and also the first local school to be made out of brick.

The building was used until 1952 when the current Bowen Elementary School was built on the same lot but further back. The two-room building was then demolished in 1962.

To learn more about the Historic Preservation Commission, visit kentwood.us/HPC

New scholarship program through KDL aims to empower individuals working to achieve their dreams

KDL’s scholarship program will provide education and pave the way for a stronger community (Courtesy, KDL)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Education transforms lives, and Kent District Library (KDL) has launched a new scholarship program to help local students obtain that education.

The scholarship program empowers individuals enrolling in college or vocational training programs. Your year-end contribution will help establish the fund and enable more individuals to achieve their dreams.


(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Why should you donate?

Contributions to the scholarship fund, KDL says, are an investment into the education of future local leaders, innovators and contributors. This helps strengthen and build a stronger local community.

Financial constraints often hinder individuals as they pursue higher education. Donations break down those barriers and provide opportunities to those who need it.

“Education is the cornerstone of a thriving community,” KDL says in supplied material. “By supporting our scholarship program, you are helping to build a stronger, more educated community that benefits everyone.”

Contributions and spreading the word

KDL hopes to raise $200,000 or more by June 2024. All contributions, no matter the size, make a difference.

“Every dollar brings us one step closer to supporting another aspiring student,” says KDL (supplied).

Sharing KDL’s message with friends, family and networks has the potential to increase lives impacted with the scholarship program.


(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Contact and donation information

Those with questions or requests for more information are urged to reach out to KDL at 616-784-2007 or contact@kdl.org.

KDL thanks the community for your generosity and commitment to the future of our community: “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who are eager to learn, grow and make a positive impact on the world.”

Donate now at kdl.org/donate.

Godfrey-Lee Public Schools to expand administration building, closes deal on building



By WKTV Staff

Godfrey-Lee Public Schools is proud to announce that they will be purchasing Bloom Credit Union’s Wyoming building. The district closed on the deal on Dec. 15.

The Wyoming location of Bloom Credit Union, located on 1414 Burton St. SW, is right next door to Godfrey-Lee’s Administration Building, separated only by a fence.

Superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Schools Arnetta Thompson and Bloom CEO Joe Heintskill in front of Bloom Credit Union (Courtesy, Godfrey-Lee Schools)

Bloom Credit Union is relocating their administrative offices and bank branch to other locations in Wyoming and Grand Rapids. Godfrey-Lee was able to benefit from the move by partnering and purchasing the current building. They hope to create a new administration building with potential for a conference and community center.

Bloom Credit Union has always been a community partner of the district. For years, Bloom has shared their parking lot with Godfrey-Lee due to lack of space at the Administration building, and has consistently provided in-kind donations for students.

Lee High School recently celebrated 100 years in the district and launched a fundraising campaign for a new scoreboard at their athletic complex. Bloom received the campaign postcard in the mail and committed to donating the funds for the scoreboard.

Bloom Credit Union will soon be relocating their administrative offices to a larger space in Grand Rapids. Their 1414 Burton St. SW branch will continue to operate from the same location until they open another
nearby branch at a later date.

$250,000 award money to support KDL expansion projects and scholarship fund

KDL wins national award, plans to reinvest the prize money into the community (Courtesy Photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The Jerry Kline Community Impact Award recognizes libraries as a vital community asset (Courtesy, KDL)

The Kent District Library Board of Trustees recently approved a plan to reinvest $250,000 in prize money into the community. The money will be used to support library expansion projects and to establish a scholarship fund.

As the recipient of the fifth annual Jerry Kline Community Impact Award, KDL receives the one-time prize as the 2023 winner of this national award.

Developed as a partnership between the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation and Library Journal, this award recognizes the powerful synergy that results when a library works closely with both its local government and its community.

Funding Details

Four communities in the KDL service area currently have a library expansion project underway — the cities of Rockford and Walker and townships of Grattan and Tyrone. Thanks to this one-time prize for excellence, KDL is able to pledge $50,000 to support each of these projects.

KDL is also establishing a scholarship fund for KDL patrons who are a pursuing a college degree with plans to positively impact their community. The fund will be established with $50,000 from the Jerry Kline prize, interest earned from KDL’s Community Foundation Fund through the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, and private donations.

Scholarship applications will be announced and accepted late in 2024.

Community Impact

 “The whole focus of the Jerry Kline Award is community impact, so it only seems fitting we use these funds to have a positive effect on the communities that we serve and love,” KDL Executive Director Lance Werner said. “This is an exciting opportunity to live out our mission of furthering all people thanks to the financial prize that comes with this recognition.


“This gives us a unique opportunity to invest in the physical growth of branches in our community and in personal growth for exceptional patrons. We are so pleased to give back to Kent County, whose residents so thoughtfully support our operations.”

People who would like to donate to the building projects can do so by contacting the government offices for Grattan Township, city of Rockford, Tyrone Township or city of Walker. For those who would like to donate to the KDL Impact Scholarship fund, visit kdl.org/donate.

Impact Award Highlights

(Courtesy, KDL)

The Jerry Kline Community Impact Award was created in 2019 to distinguish the public library as a vital community asset.

KDL was recognized for building relationships with local officials based on a foundation of trust and credibility.

All U.S. public libraries were eligible to apply for the prize whether in a single building in a small town or a multi-branch system serving an entire region.

Nominations were evaluated based the library’s impact on the community in areas such as engagement, inclusion, leadership development, sustainable thinking and inventiveness.

Mental health advocate and founder of i Understand non-profit joins Davenport University alumni board

Vonnie Woodrick is determined to change attitudes surrounding mental health (Courtesy, Davenport University)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Woodrick has made mental health her life’s work (Supplied)

Davenport University leaders have announced that Yvonne (Vonnie) Woodrick has joined its Alumni Association Board for a three-year term. Woodrick, a West Michigan native, graduated from the university in 1984. She said it’s wonderful to be part of the university that means so much to her.

“It’s truly an honor to be in a position to highlight Davenport, a university that is near and dear to my heart,” said Woodrick. “Witnessing the growth from a college to a university has been amazing, and the expansion of Davenport’s mental and behavioral health services and academic programs is extremely important to me.”

Mental health is health

Mental health has been a focus for Woodrick since her husband, Rob, died from depression in 2003. The young widow with three children set out to change attitudes surrounding mental health and suicide. This cause has become her life’s work, and she founded the nonprofit organization i Understand in 2014.


Her work and Davenport’s recent additions of a campus wellness center and two master’s degrees connected to mental health make this renewed connection between Woodrick and the university even more meaningful. This fall, the university launched the Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, and the Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling.


“The actions taken in this area by Davenport leaders display their understanding that mental health is health,” Woodrick said. “At the university, the topic is discussed, resources are readily available and career choices in this field are cutting edge.

“I am grateful Davenport University is bringing the mental and brain health conversations to the forefront. I am excited to be a part of this, and can’t wait to see what the future holds in this area.”

Whole health for students

Woodrick joins 11 other Davenport alumni who serve the university and its mission through its Alumni Association Board.

“We’re delighted to have Vonnie join our strong alumni board,” said Rachel Render, Executive Vice President for Advancement at Davenport. “Vonnie’s expertise is important as we focus on the whole health of our students as they pursue their higher education dreams.”

For more information on i Understand, visit: https://www.iunderstandloveheals.org/

The evidence is in: Youth engaged in their communities become critical thinkers

Teens involved in community activism become more politically active and conscious (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By Rachel Rickman

WKTV Contributor

While it might stand to reason that teenagers involved in activism within their communities become more politically active and conscious adults – there is now evidence to support the idea.

A new University of Michigan (U of M) study brings to light specific ways teen activism leads to more critical thinking and community engagement in young people. In addition, the data shows how youth engaged in community activism are more likely to continue their community and civic action as they get older.

Elevating awareness and engagement in teens

Community engagement promotes understanding of both local and national inequalities (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

The study, recently published in Society for Research in Child Development, looks at how teenagers (specifically youths around age 16) elevate their awareness, become more politically involved, and develop a better understanding and more active approach to community engagement by participating in community activism—both youth and adult facilitated.

The study shows that addressing local and national political concerns with a group of peers or mentors helps young people develop a better understanding of their place within their community. They also maintain motivation to address problems related to inequity.

Young people joining in community engagement, the study found, are more likely to continue fighting inequities in society once they leave school.

By participating in their community, teenagers gain a better understanding of the ways inequity works within their own lives and communities as well as nationally. A sense of empowerment in their ability to create meaningful change is also a benefit.

Critical reflection and positive change

The study is based on the work of Paulo Freire, a Brazilian educator, philosopher, and outspoken proponent of critical pedagogy. According to the study, “He believed in the idea of critical reflection and action on the world to make it more just and equitable.”

Freire studied and proved that without development of critical consciousness it is difficult for young people to evolve a sense of their ability to create positive change within their immediate social setting, and that of a larger community.

Empowering action and providing tools

A Grand Rapids organization that has been putting Freire’s work into practice since 1998 is Our Community’s Children (OCC). The organization is a public-private partnership between school systems and city government.

OCC provides a liaison between school systems and city government (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

OCC has multiple programs in place with the similar goal of engaging young people in their community, empowering action, and providing tools and resources to better their own lives and those of others.

Program examples include initiatives such as Kidspeak, a program for K-12 local youth facilitated by the Mayor’s Youth Council that gives young people the chance to talk to school officials, community leaders, and legislators about issues important to them.

The Mayor’s Youth Council, made up of high school city residents, gives these young people the chance to see how city government works. They also gain experience working directly with city officials and programs.

Challenging injustice

Young people participating in community engagement groups reflected in the U of M study are largely of Black, Latino and Hispanic descent—people who experience significantly higher rates of structural inequity. This is also true of OCC.

Engagement in activism programs lead to greater understanding of self and others (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Participating in community activism gives students an objective look at the social problems and injustices surrounding them, allowing for a clearer perspective to challenge these issues. According to the study, “Youth’s exploration leads to a greater understanding of the self and relationships with others.”

Programs like OCC “give a platform to begin the process,” said Shannon Harris, Director of Our Community’s Children. A chance for youth to “start early in knowing how city government works,” and perhaps most importantly, “a brave space” for young people to “feel safe speaking their opinion.”

A wonderful example of continued community activism is found in Grand Rapids City Commissioner Kelsey Purdue. Purdue, a former member of the Mayor’s Youth Council, is now a City Commissioner for the Third Ward.

The conclusion of the study states, “Community-based activism, then, serves as a key consciousness-raising system that supports youth to recognize, negotiate, and challenge oppression in their lives.”

Create and support youth activism

There are many positive short and long-term implications of this study for schools and communities looking to create and support youth activism programs.

For more information on Our Community’s Children and how to become involved, visit their website: https://ourcommunityschildren.com/.


Rachel Rickman is a freelance writer, editor, and former university English Instructor with a BA, MA, and MFA focused on writing. She grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but currently resides in Rosarito, Mexico with her husband and son.

Much of her work focuses on “narrative recipes”—personal essays with recipe/cooking ideas.

School-based dental programs give children access to adequate healthcare

Over 20 million children in the U.S. face barriers to receiving quality health care (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By Lauren Konsdorf

WKTV Contributor

The 19th century proverb, “An apple a day keeps the dentist away,” is easier said than done for some families. Over 20 million children in the United States face barriers to getting quality health care, with cost and transportation being two of these barriers.

Meeting families where they are

School is back in session, and this means more contact with other children and daily germs. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Nationwide Children’s Hospital provides school-based health programs, one of the programs tackling the most common chronic condition among children, tooth decay.

Tooth decay is the most chronic condition among children (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“It is a great partnership, and we are grateful for the services provided to our families,” Wyoming High School Principal Josh Baumbach said.

The Wyoming Public School district benefits from dental clinics which include preventative care appointments and performing most restorative procedures. Partnering with Cherry Street Health Center, Wyoming families have the ability to request dental services for their children.

Shauna Bayer, Associate Director of School-Based Programs at Cherry Health, said the programs participated in 857 exams last year in the Wyoming school district, 55 of which had urgent needs. Bayer also said the program treats every child the same whether they are insured or not. It provides families with care that they might not have access to.

“It makes it worthwhile to come to work every day,” said Bayer.

School-based dental clinics have helped over 1,000 children

Since July 2021, the school-based dental clinics have treated more than 1,000 children and have completed more than 7,000 procedures.

School-base dental programs help families access important healthcare (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Mary Kay Irwin, Senior Director of School Health Services for Nationwide Children’s, wants to improve health outcomes for all children.

“We know that children can reach their full potential in the classroom when they are healthy, live in a safe and stable environment, and have access to the resources they need,” Irwin said.

The dental program creates outcomes for children and families that need access to important healthcare.

Irwin said working together and meeting families where they are is key to helping children access important care that they would not otherwise receive.

School-based dental services help with eliminating barriers that exist in receiving adequate healthcare for school children, creating a more resourceful environment and a future of children enjoying a five-letter facial expression – a smile.



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

Revamped “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program launched by Kent District Library

KDL has offered the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program since 2015 (Courtesy, KDL)

By Kent District Library

deborah@wktv.org

Kent District Library (KDL) has offered the program 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten since 2015. This year, KDL is pleased provide a new and improved version with the same great outcomes.

The updated program introduces an online tracking option, includes a book with early literacy activities and features Michigan woodland animals.

Reading to children helps them learn early literacy skills (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

All children, infant to kindergarten, are encouraged to participate in this program designed to prepare kids for school. For every 100 books read, kids will earn an animal sticker for their tracking poster. When you reach 1,000 books, your child will be awarded a certificate of achievement and their very own book bag!

Repeating books, listening to audio books, paging through a board book, books read at storytime and reading books in any language all count toward the goal.

“Last year, we committed to creating new inspiration for this popular reading program to ensure that it would remain a fun, relevant and engaging way to encourage early literacy for this generation,” said Dawn Heerspink, Branch Librarian at the Byron Township Branch.

Completing the program is simple, Heerspink continued. “Start or continue reading at least one book a day with the child in your life and see how one book multiplies into many books, all helping that child learn the early literacy skills they need to grow into a reader who enjoys books.”

Stop in to any KDL branch to pick up a tracking and activity booklet for your child that includes a progress poster. Track your reading using the book, online at kdl.beanstack.org, or on the Beanstack app.

Learn more about 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten at kdl.org/1KB4K.

One Day Niche fills vital gap, provides activity-based program for those with disabilities

Field trips are a daily part of One Day Niche programming (Courtesy, Alison Haraburda)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Alison Haraburda was frustrated with the lack of local social interaction and physical activity options for her disabled brother – so she took matters into her own hands and founded One Day Niche.

A non-profit organization that provides life skills and activities for individuals with disabilities, One Day Niche fills a gap long needed for those who have aged out of traditional schooling.

Engaging in the community and social interaction are important aspects of the program (Courtesy, Alison Haraburda)

“We want One Day Niche to be a place where people of all abilities can come together and enrich the lives of each other through shared experience,” Haraburda says on ODN’s website.

Shared experience with those possessing various levels of ability is nothing new to Haraburda. Her parents provided foster care for several individuals during Haraburda’s childhood, all with various disabilities. Three of those individuals eventually became Haraburda’s adopted siblings.

“Growing up, I learned how to care for individuals with various disabilities,” said Haraburda. “That was part of my upbringing.”

Haraburda’s adopted brother is now 35 years old but with a limited mental capacity of an individual much younger. She made several attempts to find programs her brother could participate in, all unsuccessful.

“He ended up sitting at home, watching TV all day,” said Haraburda. “[He would] go to bed, get up and do the same thing again. That’s not good for anybody’s health.”

That was when Haraburda embarked upon a quest to provide healthier options and programming herself.

Determination and dedication

Haraburda began talking to organizations, inquiring about programs offered to individuals. In addition, she spoke to nonprofit organizations to find out the feasibility of founding her own nonprofit.

After gleaning information from 25 organizations, Haraburda said there was a resounding theme.

Rebekah (left), Alison and Jason are committed to helping those with disabilities thrive (Courtesy, Alison Haraburda)

“I heard over and over, ‘Don’t quit, don’t quit, keep going,’” said Haraburda.

Haraburda took their advice to heart and, one year after launch, One Day Niche averages 7-13 individuals with varying levels of disabilities per outing, and owns two vehicles for transport.

“This is the first year I’ve been blessed to be able to hire two additional employees,” Haraburda added.

With the growth in attendance, extra help was desperately needed despite individuals attending on a rotating basis.

“The disabled have different struggles to deal with, so it varies when they can come,” said Haraburda. “But 85% of our individuals are pretty consistent on the days they come.”

How does One Day Niche work?

Participants meet at a designated place Monday through Friday at 9 a.m. Providers and caregivers may drop off participants, or One Day Niche employees pick up individuals as needed.

Each day includes a field trip and activities geared toward increasing basic living and social skills.

There is always fun to be had at One Day Niche (Courtesy, Alison Haraburda)

“Our focus is basic living within the community,” said Haraburda. “It can be job skills, but our focus is how we can be contributing members to the community at large.

“A lot of them struggle with social interactions; a lot of learning has taken place.”

Bowling, basketball, shopping, crafts, museums, parks, visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens and exploring ArtPrize are just a few examples of One Day Niche activities.

“In the fall, we spend a lot of time going to farms, doing fall activities [like] pumpkins, apple picking, hayrides and corn mazes,” said Haraburda.

Community engagement and giving back are an important aspect of One Day Niche.

“Thursday mornings we go to a church and give back,” said Haraburda. “We vacuum, take out the trash, wash windows and wipe down tables.”

Continuing to grow and dream

Haraburda’s initial idea was to have a large facility or gym that would allow them to have various activities on-site, as well as field trips.

“Buying a facility has been out of our reach so far,” Haraburda admitted. “It’s a long-term goal, to buy a place and have a site year-round where we can do activities.

“We have been very fortunate to make a lot of different connections, so every Wednesday we have access to a gym at a local church.”

Here’s how to join the fun

“We try to keep the registration process for the individuals and families very simple,” said Haraburda. “We know that caring for an individual with any type of disability is hard, so we try to make the process simple for anyone who would want to join in.”

Daily cost is $25 and includes six hours of the program and all activities for that day.

Haraburda said they are always looking for volunteers and college interns to help out.

“We have had families come and volunteer their time,” said Haraburda. “One family brought Nerf guns, so we had Nerf wars that day. It was a really fun day,” she added with a laugh.

To register as a volunteer, email admin@onedayniche.org or call 616-862-6612.

Help support their journey

“We are always looking for funding,” said Haraburda. “As a new nonprofit, that seems to be the hardest for us as we get off the ground. But we are expanding, and we love what we do and the services we have been able to offer the families.

“It’s been a journey, but it’s been a fun journey.”

To learn more about One Day Niche, visit onedayniche.org.

Forensics students get hands-on experience processing mock crime scene

Davenport University and the Michigan State Police Crime Lab worked together to create a hands-on experience for forensics students (Courtesy, Davenport University)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Forensics students processed a realistic mock crime scene (Courtesy, Davenport University)

Students in Davenport University’s forensics class recently received a surprise. Just as they were settling in for Professor William Ruhf’s lecture, a woman from the Michigan State Police (MSP) Crime Lab appeared at the door and announced that a crime had been committed on campus and their help was needed to process the scene.

The woman was Susan Isley, Ruhf’s supervisor at the MSP crime lab. Ruhf wanted to give his Biological Laboratory Science majors hands-on, real-world experience in forensics.

Enlisting Isley’s help, the MSP mobile crime lab set up a realistic mock crime scene for Ruhf’s students to investigate. The plan was to make the crime scenario and investigation as authentic as possible.

“We wanted the scenario to play out as it would in real life, with no advance notice,” said Ruhf.

Davenport’s Bachelor of Science in Biological Laboratory Science gives students the foundation needed to launch a career as a laboratory scientist or to pursue a postgraduate degree in areas like science, biomedical research, biotech and pharma. This biomedical science degree program is the only one of its kind in Michigan and one of only a few in the nation.

The scene of the crime

Students were able to see the real-world application of what they learned in the classroom (Courtesy, Davenport University)

The students made their way to the north side of campus to survey the mock crime scene and begin their investigation.

The scenario consisted of a struggle with shots fired and evidence of a body being carried to a nearby swamp. The students worked together to collect spent cartridge cases, blood samples, and hair from tree bark. They learned how to cast a shoe impression, accurately photograph the scene, and package all evidence correctly. At the end of the exercise, they turned in their lab report just as if they had been investigating an actual incident.

The mock crime scene was a great way for students to see the real-world application of what they are learning in the classroom.

“I think the kids really enjoyed the field experience and learned something in the process,” said Ruhf. “We know that the skill to think critically can’t be obtained in a single exercise, but I saw the ‘light come on’ for several students while they were processing the mock crime scene, which made it all worthwhile.”

Field experience helps develop the skill of critical thinking (Courtesy, Davenport University)

Riley Schroeder, who graduates in April, agreed with Ruhf’s assessment.

“It was refreshing to be able to learn the material in this format versus just talking in class about how a crime scene would be handled,” said Schroeder.

To learn more about Davenport’s Bachelor’s in Biological Laboratory Science degree, visit davenport.edu/forensics.

International students embrace American culture at Wyoming High School, gain education money can’t buy

Wyoming High School provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for five foreign exchange students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Five foreign exchange students representing four countries embarked on a journey that led them to Wyoming High School.

Alexandra (Italy), Edward (Germany), Daisy (Thailand), Linh and Hieu (Vietnam) have traveled thousands of miles to experience the American way of life.

Though not always easy due to cultural differences, all five students have expressed enjoyment of their time in the United States.

International Exchange Coordinator and Educatius Local Coordinator Sunflower Swan is determined to help the foreign students get the most out of their time in America.

“My job is to help them to achieve that experience of positive outcome,” said Swan.

Swan (left) helps the international students express their experiences, emotions and goals while in the United States (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Swan, raised in Korea, came to America as an exchange student when she was in college. Her experience inspired a passion for helping others find that same joy.

“I want this experience to be fun and engaging. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Swan.

Swan creates that fun environment through various interactive events and activities.

Upon the exchange students’ arrival, Swan hosted a gathering at a local park for the students and their host families. Cookie-eating contests, marshmallow-stuffing contests, and 3-legged races were among the planned activities.

But Swan said the games accomplished far more than just having fun.

“The [3-legged race] is a metaphor that they have to [coexist] in harmony with each other,” said Swan. “Because, to have a successful experience, they can’t do their own thing. You have to tie together.”

Exuberance for life and the American way

Swan’s passion for life was evident during a conversation with Swan and the foreign exchange students.

That conversation involved far more than a question and answer session to see how the students were faring at WHS. Props, signs, face mustaches, picture taking, dancing, and laughter were also part of the mix.

“I don’t do boring stuff,” Swan said as she tossed this reporter a flowered lei with instructions to put it on before she took a picture. “That’s fun, isn’t it? A celebration of life, I call it.”

Alexandra loves trying new things while in America (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Alexandra is also embracing life and several new experiences.

“I am making new friends every day, and I am not afraid to talk to [others],” said Alexandra. “I’m shy, but I’m trying to be more confident.”

Alexandra said she joined the WHS golf team because she had never tried the sport before. “I’m not good,” Alexandra said with a shrug. “But I don’t care.”

WHS English teacher and Alexandra’s host mother, Joslyn O’Dell, said Alexandra fit right into her family.

“As soon as we got the name Alexandra, Drake (O’Dell’s son) looked her up on social media and became friends with her,” said O’Dell. “So before she even got to the U.S. they were interacting. Weeks before she arrived, we had already started that relationship.”

Watching Alexandra seize every new experience has been fun for the O’Dell family.

“Just seeing her try the American school and see how that fits for her has been fun,” said O’Dell. “She’s had a lot of new experiences and she’s enjoyed a lot of them; she wants to experience everything.”

Daisy is also embracing new things, with music festivals, camping and learning a different genre of music among the Thailand native’s recent experiences.

Valuable lessons learned

Some experiences, however, are internal and more personal.

Daisy said that she is naturally shy but is learning to open up to people.

“Here, she has learned that exerting her opinion does not mean she isn’t humble,” said Swan. “[It is] gaining maturity and speaking when you need to speak.”

Hieu (left) and Edward discuss a question asked during the meeting (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Hieu (Vietnam) enjoys playing basketball, is making friends, and is also learning to be more confident.

“I used to be shy to talk to people, but now I am more open,” said Hieu.

Linh said that through the kindness she has seen at WHS, she “learned to be respectful to everyone.”

Edward says being in America has instigated more meaningful conversations with his parents back in Germany.

“I talked to my parents [before], but here I do more,” said Edward.

Making mistakes and overcoming obstacles

Though most of the exchange students’ experiences have been positive, some difficulties have emerged.

Differences in culture such as body language, difficulty level and concept of school classes, and homework are some of the most common obstacles for foreign students.

“Some students don’t do homework because in their culture, homework is optional, it is not part of their grade,” said Swan, adding that some of the students have had to realize homework is required in the U.S.

Edward enjoys the class activities WHS includes in the curriculum (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Daisy said that while she loves the freedom America offers, she struggles with students’ disrespect toward teachers.

Because of Swan’s own experience as an exchange student in college, she understands the hurdles these students face.

“I know what it’s like, adjusting,” said Swan. “Sometimes they are afraid to speak because they don’t want to mispronounce a word.”

But Swan said making mistakes is part of the learning process.

“You have to make mistakes to learn the language and assimilate,” said Swan. “Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. Mispronunciation is good. You don’t have to have perfect English to engage in conversation; that’s not reasonable.”

A few of their favorite things…

Increased freedom, friendly teachers and students, learning activities for students, and free food and refills on drinks were some favorite things mentioned by the group. ArtPrize was also a highlight this fall, with all five students exploring exhibits together.

30 countries, 20 years, and public diplomacy

Swan has spent 20 years and traveled to 30 countries while helping students experience other cultures.

“We are training future world leaders,” said Swan, adding that 200 out of 300 world leaders were involved in some kind of student exchange program.

Swan (left) said Linh (right) had very limited English when arriving in America and is a perfect example of how hard work and tenacity help students grow (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“This is called public diplomacy,” Swan said. “It’s one of the greatest, powerful public diplomacy the U.S. can have, having exchange students here, learning American culture, American way of life.”

But for Swan, it is about far more than diplomacy.

“I traveled the world, but I discovered people are all the same,” said Swan. “I am more compassionate as I meet people because they all need to be loved and appreciated.

“We are all the same. We have so much focus on skin or education or status but forget they are human.”

And where Swan goes, fun and new friends follow.

“For me, I live fully,” said Swan. “I want to enjoy it. Life is too short, and I want to celebrate life.

“It’s not easy to do what I do. It’s a lot of problem-solving, but I’m making a difference.”

Education money can’t buy

Swan says learning about new cultures reminds us that we are all human (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Swan encourages families to consider hosting an exchange student, saying it benefits families as well as students.

“In my experience, host family children become much more diverse and stronger,” said Swan. “You are providing education money cannot buy.”

To learn more about local exchange student hosting opportunities, visit Educatius.

Local Teen CHARGE program holds writing competition, promotes drug-free living

“The Best Me Is Drug Free” writing contest is open to all West Michigan 7th-12th grade students (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Submissions for the writing contest will be accepted until Oct. 23 (Courtesy: pxhere.com)

“The Best Me Is Drug Free” is the theme for the student-led Teen CHARGE program’s writing contest currently underway – and that is still accepting submissions.

Wedgwood Christian Services’ Teen CHARGE program is celebrating Red Ribbon Week (RRW) with a writing contest that focuses on drug abuse awareness and living drug-free lives.

All 7th-12th grade West Michigan students are invited to submit an original written work to the contest. Submissions can be in the form of a poem, story, song, rap, essay or personal narrative that relates to the theme “The Best Me Is Drug Free.”

Submissions can be emailed to teencharge@wedgwood.org, and will be accepted until Oct. 23. Winners will win gift cards and will have the chance to have their piece published on the Teen CHARGE website if they so choose.

“Every year we try to do things to recognize Red Ribbon Week,” said Gina Boscarino, Wedgwood Christian Services Group Specialist. “I wanted to do something they would be excited about, and I have a lot of students who enjoy writing, specifically creative writing.”

Raising awareness, making a difference

Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program (Courtesy: h9images, Freepik.com)

RRW is an annual, nationwide drug abuse awareness campaign that takes place during the last week of October. The campaign began after the death of Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was brutally murdered in 1985 by a Mexican drug cartel.

Camarena was known to say, “I’m only one person but I want to make a difference.”

The RRW celebration was created in 1988 by the National Family Partnership (NFP) to honor and acknowledge Camarena’s sacrifice by recognizing the harmful effects of drugs on our communities and making commitments to live a drug-free lifestyle.

Authentic and true

Boscarino says many of the written RRW submissions received to date have been “very powerful.”

Many students pledge to live drug-free lives during Red Ribbon Week (Courtesy: storyset, Freepik.com)

“Some of them are talking about why they are not going to do [drugs], or why they don’t feel the need to do drugs or alcohol,” said Boscarino. “And the other half is looking at it from the other perspective, showing the dangers of it [and] how a person loses themselves once they become addicted to something.”

“We are looking for [pieces] that are authentic and true,” Boscarino explained, adding that students do not have to have a personal experience with drugs in order to create a powerful and authentic written work.

Though this is the first year having a writing contest for RRW, Boscarino says they will definitely be doing it again.

“I think one of the great things about writing is that it is a confidence builder for a lot of people,” said Boscarino.

Blog submissions always welcome

Teen CHARGE promotes creativity and accepts blog submissions regularly (Courtesy: pxhere.com)

In fact, students interested in writing are encouraged to submit to the Teen CHARGE blog at any time.

“If kids are interested in writing, we are always taking submissions for the blog even if they’re not a specific Teen CHARGE brand representative,” said Boscarino. “We just really want to promote creativity and making healthy decisions.”

To find out more about Wedgwood Christian Services, visit wedgwood.org. To learn more about Teen CHARGE, visit teencharge.org.

East Kentwood marching band sparks love of music in students, creates lasting relationships

Drum major Sofia Daniel directs the band during a school day rehearsal (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

East Kentwood High School (EKHS) band directors Mike Gozzard and Sho Dembinski strive to make music a memorable and welcoming experience for each of their 200 students.

“Even if kids don’t continue in music after high school, we’re just trying to make their experience as good as possible while they’re here, making sure they know they are welcome and that they have fun,” said Dembinski.

A love of music instilled in the next generation

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_7910-scaled-e1696341806203-1024x903.jpg
Students practice their show outside each day (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The last two years have brought heartache and necessary adjustments to the EKHS band family.

In May 2022, Kentwood Bands lost their beloved director, Marshall Werling, to cancer. Through his time at EKHS, Werling passed on a lasting love of music to the students.

“Music has always been a very big part of my family, but also the teachers who have led me here,” said Sofia Daniel, drum major and junior at EKHS. “Especially Mr. Werling. He and Ms. [Natalie] Sears were a very big part of why I love music.”

Daniel went on to say that she has always had a positive experience with the EK band program, whether that experience came from new friends or a connection with a teacher.

Bringing a community together

Directors Gozzard and Dembinski continue to bring students of all backgrounds and activities together through the band program.

“The thing I like the most is that [the program] is diverse in the typical meaning of diverse, but also in other meanings,” said Dembinski. “For example, we have kids that do cheer, football, and do other clubs and robotics and things like that. It’s cool to see them come together and do one thing.”

Jennifer Pham enjoys all genres of music (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Daniel agrees, saying she enjoys being in a class where everyone likes music. “It’s a kind of family of people doing what you love as well,” said Daniel.

EKHS junior and flute/piccolo player Jennifer Pham says sharing her love of music is important to her.

“Music has always been a big part of my life,” said Pham. “I love listening to it in my free time, so the chance to be able to play something and share my love of music is something that I like.”

Pham participates in marching band, concert band, jazz band, and combo groups. Though flute is her main instrument, Pham recently learned bass for jazz band.

“I like that there are so many opportunities we are given,” said Pham. “Although you have to pick an instrument, just because you pick something now doesn’t mean that you can’t learn another one later.”

Pham says she will keep music in her life even if she does not choose it as a career path.

Finding the right niche

Raul Aquino-Gonzalez, trumpet player and EKHS senior, joined band because his brothers had also been in the program. But Aquino-Gonzalez didn’t feel a connection to music right away despite saying the atmosphere was inviting.

Aquino-Gonzalez plans to study jazz in college (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Last year is when I really began to get into it, and I really started trying to get better,” said Aquino-Gonzalez. “I just loved it from then on.”

The catalyst for that change of heart?

“I joined jazz band, and I think that was the spark,” Aquino-Gonzalez said. “That’s when I would spend hours every day playing and trying to get better.”

Aquino-Gonzales recently formed a jazz group outside of school that performs for different events, including the school’s fall play.

A legacy of lasting relationships

While Dembinski and Gozzard work to ensure a certain level of proficiency in all students – and they see improvement in musicianship each year – Dembinski said the first week of band camp is his favorite part of every year.

A family atmosphere forms strong ties between students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“My favorite time of year is the first week of band camp when all the freshmen come here for the first time,” said Dembinski. “We work a lot with the section leaders and the leadership, trying to make everyone feel welcome. We do a bunch of games during camp to make sure all sections of the band are one big family.”

Dembinski said that he sees close ties form between students, and knows many of them will last.

“There are a lot of lasting relationships,” Dembinski said. “I see it all the time. Most of my closest friends are friends from high school band or college band.”

A show all ages can enjoy

That sense of relationship is demonstrated in the Home title and theme of the EKHS 2023 marching band show.

There is still time to see the 2023 marching band performance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Featuring artists from Michigan, the show incudes “Lose Yourself” and “Not Afraid” by Eminem, “Juice” by Lizzo, “Bring It On Home To Me” arranged by Roy Hargrove, and “I Wish” and “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder.

Dembinski said some college marching band shows have also recently featured a home theme.

“We liked the idea, we just wanted to put our own spin on it with the music we picked,” said Dembinski.

Picking music everyone enjoys, however, is not easy.

“If you pick new music, students like it but parents don’t,” said Dembinski. “If you pick ‘old music’ from the 70s and 80s, parents like that but students don’t. This show has a bit of both.

“I’ve heard band parents say they really like the Eminem section, and every time I leave class, students are playing Stevie Wonder,” Dembinski continued. “It surprised me a bit. But I think this show has something that everyone can jam out to.”

Experience the magic of music

The EKHS marching band show can be seen at the Hastings Invitational Oct. 7, the EKHS home football game Oct. 13, and the East Kentwood Invitational Oct. 21.

Dembinski encourages the community to attend the invitational and experience performances from schools all across Michigan.

“You get to see our band, but also a bunch of other sweet bands too,” said Dembinski. “It’s nice to see a bunch of different sized schools, different demographics and different show ideas.”

To learn more about Kentwood Bands, visit www.kentwoodbands.org.

Wyoming Wolves Band cultivates student leaders, redefines success

The Wyoming Wolves Marching Band performs for residents at Michigan Veteran Homes in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

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

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

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

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

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

Redefining success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Finding connections and community

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Time well-spent

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

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

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

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

A life-changing impact

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Giving back to the community

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

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

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

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

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

A Thriller of a show

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

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

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

Over the years, Lee Middle & High School has grown from the single front wing built in 1923 (Courtesy, Lee High School)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

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

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

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

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

A rich history

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traditions – then and now

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What attendees can expect

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Complimentary light refreshments will be available.

“A hundred years only comes once”

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

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

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

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

What’s Your Story: Write Michigan’s annual short story contest provides a chance for all ages to be published and win money (Courtesy, Kent District Library)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Great Start Collaborative of Kent County giving away free child development goodie bags on Aug. 12

(Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Family resource organization Great Start Collaborative of Kent County is hosting a free in-person event to help parents learn more about the importance of play and developmental screening in children.

Taking place Saturday, Aug. 12 at Alger Head Start in Grand Rapids, the 4th annual “Books, Blocks and Balls” event will offer fun activities for the entire family from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m..

Participants will receive a goodie bag filled with items proven to help with child development. Every child that attends, regardless of age, will receive a free book.

Families will also have the opportunity to complete a developmental screening onsite, which can help parents know what to look for at certain ages and stages in their children.

(Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

There will be a variety of activities, food options and family fun onsite, including: raffles for free prizes every 30 minutes, food trucks offering free food to participants, games and movement activities with The Zumba Lady, face painting and balloon twisting, interactive activities at each vendor table, and more.

Participating alongside Great Start Collaborative will be dozens of community organizations providing additional giveaways and resources to families in attendance.

One such organization is First Steps Kent, an independent non-profit that works to strengthen and coordinate the system of early childhood services through research and innovation.

First Steps Kent is leading a community-wide effort to develop a system of support for children ages 0-5 (and their families) that ensures every young child in Kent County will enter kindergarten ready to succeed in school and in life.

This event was made possible because of the generosity of Kent County taxpayers and the voter-approved Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage that provides dedicated and sustainable funding for programs that improve the health, school readiness, and well-being of children under age five in Kent County.

Grand Valley board approves campus Master Plan

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org


GVSU Board of Trustees approves a new Master Plan. (Courtesy, GVSU)

The Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees approved the university’s Master Plan at its Feb. 24 meeting at the Pew Grand Rapids Campus. Trustees heard the plan is designed to embrace technology and create an environment for diverse learners and advance equity.

The plan envisions a more cohesive footprint at the Pew Grand Rapids Campus, providing more greenspace with a “campus quad” near the Seidman Center, a student center/dining hall and a new Center for Talent, Technology & Transformation known as Blue Dot, among other improvements.

“The approval of the campus Master Plan does not represent a commitment of capital, but does help focus the vision and anticipated capital projects for Grand Valley campuses and aligns them to support Reach Higher 2025,” said Trustee Elizabeth Emmitt. “It is exciting to imagine how the campuses will evolve and think about the impact on our community.”

Blue Dot would serve as a keystone component of a planned renovation and expansion of the Eberhard Center, which is located adjacent to the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids.

In Allendale, the plan shows a more pedestrian friendly layout with more modern living centers, a renovated and expanded Kirkhof Center and continued improvements of athletics facilities.

One major idea includes converting Campus Drive to focus on pedestrian and bus traffic while diverting most traffic to Laker Drive. The plan also calls for the phased replacement of Kistler, Copeland and Robinson living centers, which are the original living centers from the 1960s, with more modern facilities.

At the Health Campus in Grand Rapids, plans call for adapting and renovating classrooms and other areas for new technologies and to better accommodate nursing and health sciences curriculum.

The board also heard a presentation from Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police Brandon DeHaan about safety measures and planning on campus in the wake of the shootings at Michigan State University.

The presentation followed a February 23 campus safety briefing DeHaan hosted with President Philomena V. Mantella and Sgt. William O’Donnell, Grand Valley’s emergency manager.

In other board action:

  • Jesse Bernal, chief of staff to the president and vice president for Inclusion and Equity, said Grand Valley is leading Michigan in advancing diversity and inclusion. Bernal presented highlights from the Division of Inclusion and Equity’s annual report, stating Grand Valley’s graduation rates for students of color and underrepresented students surpass rates of those cohorts at other Michigan public universities. Bernal said equity gaps on campus are closing due, in part, to the coordinated approach to inclusion and equity adopted in 2015.
  • Trustees approved the reauthorization of four public charter school academies, Chandler Woods Charter Academy, in Belmont; East Arbor Charter Academy, in Ypsilanti; and two Michigan Mathematics and Science Academy locations in Warren. Trustees also approved appointment or reappointment of charter school board members.
  • Trustees welcomed the return of Shelley Padnos and the new appointment of Ronald Hall to the board. Padnos, an attorney and the current executive vice president of PADNOS, a company known for its innovative recycling process, previously served on the board from 2007-2014. Hall, a Southeast Michigan business leader and attorney, is new to the board. Both were appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to eight-year terms beginning February 2.

Cross Creek’s new school song is made for speed

By Cory Olsen
National Heritage Academies

The band plays in unison as it marks its way through a staccato, ascending theme while their director guides them down a path, all the while envisioning the pinnacle of auto racing: Formula 1.

The piece titled “F-1” may not move as fast as the race cars, but the feel of the music portrays the sense of anticipation when played by the Cross Creek Charter Academy symphonic band, directed by David Steketee.


Check out the Cross Creek symphonic band performing “F-1” by clicking here.



Commissioned by Steketee for the school’s 25th anniversary, the song begins with the entire band building anticipation for the coming percussion breaks. Trumpets and woodwinds then pair for climbing runs, preparing for the song’s melody. It’s a noble and celebratory piece of music that promotes feelings of pride and security – themes held strongly by the school.

David Steketee directs the Cross Creek symphonic band. (Courtesy, Cross Creek Academy/National Heritage Academies)

“It’s the 25th anniversary, so I wanted to do something that’s unique,” Steketee said. “Commissions are done a lot but they’re expensive, so it’s not done often by any one school, so this is our one and only for a while.”

Composer Randall Standridge was hired to write the piece to fit the instrumentation and ability levels of the seventh/eighth grade symphonic band. The band debuted the piece during a performance in May. The $3,000 cost for the composition was quickly covered with a fundraising effort by school supporters.

“I was excited, our whole administration was excited, the Cross Creek family was excited, it was great,” Steketee said.

Band students experienced challenges because of COVID-19, not being able to play as freely due to most instruments requiring breath to make sounds. Steketee said the song provides a lot of room for his students to play together, which helps with their comfort levels.

“Anytime where they’re playing by themselves, the kids don’t like it so much,” he said. “COVID has really brought our ability level down, so when the music is fast and full instrumentation, it’s much better for their confidence.”

Being able to direct students through the song proved to be a joy for Steketee and being part of something that will live on into Cross Creek’s future adds to the director’s sense of pride.

“I just wanted to do something cool and having our name on the masthead of that piece is pretty rad,” he said. “It’ll be there forever.”


Cross Creek Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Byron Center, serving students in Young 5s through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes 98 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.

“Sugar” McLaughlin aims for FREE basketball camp at East Kentwood

A photo from a past Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin All-Star Basketball Camp at East Kentwood. (Courtesy)

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

This year, camp is free!

At least that’s the goal of the Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin All-Star Basketball Camp, which takes place Aug. 2-4 at East Kentwood High School.

Giving back

“He’s always wanted to give back to the community,” said Bobbie McLaughlin, brother of the area’s biggest basketball star who set records in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s at Creston High School and Central Michigan University.

Nothing but net

Considered the best high school basketball player in Grand Rapids history, Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin averaged 33 points a game his junior and senior seasons at Creston High School in the late 1970s and then went on to score more than 2,000 career points at Central Michigan University. He is a member of the Central Michigan Athletics Hall of Fame and in 2005 was inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame.

The camp has been shut down since 2019 because of Covid, and, with “all the crazy things going on for kids in the inner city,” organizers wanted to offer a chance to offer something at no cost.

“Everywhere he goes, the kids are asking about the camp,” said Bobbie, who attended Grand Rapids South High School back in the day. “They’re really thirsty. So we put our heads together and said, ‘Let’s give them a free camp.’ Let’s show them some love.”

Campers practice their skills at the Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin Basketball All-Star Camp at East Kentwood. (Courtesy)

A fundraising campaign is going on right now to help the McLaughlins raise money to make it happen. The goal through the social media platform Vertical Raise is $10,000. They are more than halfway there, he said, as local businesses such as Brann’s Restaurants have contributed, as well as individuals.

The three-day camp is for boys and girls grades 5-12.





Hours are 8-11:30 a.m. for grades 5-8, and from 1-4 p.m. for grades 9-12 from Aug. 2-4.

“All the area kids, inner city kids, just come out and have a good time… We’re just looking for people to help make this happen,” Bobbie McLaughlin said.

Guest speakers

Along with learning basketball skills with drills and instruction, Bobbie McLaughlin said camp organizers are arranging guest speakers to help educate and motivate the kids to learn more than just basketball.

“(Mel) said we need to show some positive love for the kids. Everything’s been a little crazy, not just in Grand Rapids, but all over. We just said, ‘What can we do to help these kids out?’”

The camp has been a staple of summers in Grand Rapids for about 25 years. It originally took place at Ottawa Hills High School, but moved to East Kentwood in 2018 when attendance swelled to more than 200 campers, said Bobbie McLaughlin, who lives in California but looks forward to returning to see old friends and relatives. (He was a pretty good baseball player back in the day.)

Some notable campers

The camp has produced some notable players over the years, including Kobe Bufkin (Michigan),  Marcus Bingham (Michigan State University) and Xavier Tillman (Michigan State, Memphis Grizzlies), just to name a few.

“We know it’s working, we know these kids are learning and having fun,” McLaughlin said.

“We’re so proud of them. A lot of the parents come up to us after the last day of camp and say,  ‘Where are you gonna be next week? This is such a good thing for these kids.’”

McLaughlin said he is in the middle of finalizing a gift bag each player will receive during the camp, which includes a T-shirt, wristband, hat and hopefully a book, which was written about his brother’s life.

Check out “Sweet Shot”

“Sweet Shot: The Basketball Life and Legacy of Melvin ‘Sugar’ McLaughlin,” which was released in 2021, looks at the player’s life on and off the court, from his early childhood in Ann Arbor to today.

“Sweet Shot,” a book about local basketball star Melvin “Sugar” McLaughlin, was released in 2021. (Courtesy)

Author Vernon E. Wendt — a theology professor at Concordia University-Chicago, ordained pastor in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and East Grand Rapids native, is expected to be in attendance at the camp, Bobbie McLaughlin said.

“It’s a really cool book,” McLaughlin said. “We want to make an impact.”

In addition, players can compete in contests for trophies, he said. And camp organizers will present sportsmanship and MVP awards.

It’s all about spreading joy, and a message, he said.

“We teach them, sports is like life…you have to learn to play together, to work together, to be a team. Take that home. Spread it. That’s our concept.”

And don’t be surprised to see Sugar put his skills on display.

He still “balls,” his brother said. “He’s always doing something for kids.”

Sugar McLaughlin said in a video message that he wants kids to grow, learn and be the “best version of themselves.”

“Come and join us for this very beautiful and positive experience,” Sugar McLaughlin said. “This is something that is true to my heart and very special to me.”

Learn more about the camp by calling 616-222-6126.

John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

High school sports participation up 6.6 percent after COVID-19 pandemic

Wyoming Potter’s House Christian’s Lezawe Osterink (left) was a state champion in the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs at last spring’s Division 4 track and field finals, and was a member of the winning 3,200-meter relay with teammates Ian Palacios, Jackson Rodriguez and Logan Swiney. Osterink also won the D-4 boys cross country individual title last fall. The boys team placed third at the track and field finals and 12th in cross country. (Courtesy of MHSAA)

By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Participation in Michigan High School Athletic Association sports rebounded tremendously during the 2021-22 school year, despite a slight decline in enrollment among the MHSAA’s 750-member high schools.



Big decline during COVID-19

The onset of COVID-19 during the spring of 2020 was followed by a significant decline in participation in sports during 2020-21. However, participation for the most recent school year concluding last spring saw an increase of 6.6 percent from 2020-21 to a total of 260,542 participants across the 28 sports for which the MHSAA sponsors postseason tournaments – even as statewide enrollment fell nearly 1 percent to 440,728 students this past school year.



Girls participation increased 6.8 percent to 109,128 athletes, while boys participation was up 6.5 percent at 151,414. The overall MHSAA participation totals count students once for each sport in which they participate, meaning students who are multiple-sport athletes are counted more than once.



“We’re excited to see participation beginning to rebound, and in a big way in a number of sports,” said Geoff Kimmerly, MHSAA communications director. “Something reaffirmed during the months of COVID-19 shutdowns and delays was the value of sports in our school communities, and we expect those participation numbers to continue to rise as more families feel comfortable and we continue to learn more and more about best practices for living and competing while the coronavirus remains with us.



“Something else to consider is how our participation has begun to bounce back even as enrollment in our member schools has continued to decline slightly. Michigan generally ranks higher in participation nationally than for student-aged population, and while we may not be at our pre-COVID levels yet, we do anticipate our numbers to keep growing during 2022-23.”

The Forest Hills Northern girls tennis team won the Division 2 state championship last spring. (Courtesy of MHSAA)

Track and field, boys skiing lead way

A total of 23 sports saw increases in participation during 2021-22 compared to 2020-21. Ten sports saw double-digit percentage increases, led by boys track & field (27.2 percent to 22,120 participants), girls track and field (22.4 percent to 15,594 participants), and boys skiing (22.4 percent to 1,001 participants).



Wrestling (17.1 percent) and boys bowling (16.2 percent) also saw double-digit increases, along with girls tennis (11.4 tennis), girls bowling (11.2 percent), girls competitive cheer (10.6 percent), boys golf (10.5 percent) and girls lacrosse (10 percent).

Girls boost wrestling numbers

Wrestling’s major boost came in part because of a nearly 300-percent increase in girls participants with 620 taking the mat for the first season of the MHSAA offering a girls championship division at its Individual Wrestling Finals.

Also enjoying increases in participation during 2021-22 from the previous year were girls golf (8.1 percent), girls skiing (7.6 percent), boys basketball (6.4 percent), girls soccer (6.3 percent), boys swimming and diving (6.1 percent), boys lacrosse (5.8 percent), softball (3.6 percent), girls basketball (3.1 percent), baseball (3 percent), boys tennis (2.8 percent), football (2.4 percent), girls volleyball (2 percent) and girls swimming and diving (1.2 percent).

Decreased participation

Five sports saw decreased participation in 2021-22, including boys soccer (0.21 percent with 28 fewer participants), girls cross country (1.4 percent), boys ice hockey (1.2 percent), boys cross country (3.9 percent) and girls gymnastics (4.6 percent).

Football highest participation

Football, with a combined 33,284 participants over the 11- and 8-player formats, remained the most-played sport during the 2021-22 school year. Boys track and field (22,120) and boys basketball (20,017) were next for total participants, followed by girls volleyball (18,798), the most popular girls sport, baseball (16,528) and girls track and field (15,594).

Golf and skiing enjoy high participation

While the majority of sports are still building back to their pre-COVID participation totals, golf and skiing posted some of their highest totals in some time. Boys golf (6,829) had its most participants since 2012-13, and girls golf (3,875) its highest total since 2003-04. The boys skiing total (1,001) was its highest since 2002-03, and the girls skiing total this past season (837) was the highest for that sport since 1998-99.

The participation figures are gathered annually from MHSAA member schools to submit to the National Federation of State High School Associations for compiling of its national participation survey. Results of Michigan surveys from the 2000-01 school year to present may be viewed on the MHSAA Website


	

‘Anchors Away’ — United States Navy Band to present free concert at Grand Rapids Christian School 

By WKTV Staff

Anchors Aweigh, my boys, Anchors Aweigh.

Farewell to foreign shores, We sail at break of day.

America’s Navy is famous for many stories, in peace and in war, with the medals and ribbons over their hearts, and stripes on their arms, telling a Navy man/woman’s story all by themselves.

And inspirational music, patriotic music, just plain fun music is one of the ways to tell those stories.

Part of that storytelling is the United States Navy Band, coming to Grand Rapids later this month as one of 13 cities spanning six states to host a performance during the group’s 2022 tour.

“For many years, Navy bands have been where it matters, when it matters, just like the rest of our Navy,” Capt. Kenneth Collins, U.S. Navy Band commanding officer, said in supplied material. “Today, we have Sailors performing around the world, improving relations with our allies abroad as well as telling the Navy story here at home.”

The United States Navy Concert Band will be telling its stories April 27, at 7:30 p.m., at Grand Rapids Christian School’s Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Arts and Worship. This concert, like all Navy Band performances, is free and open to the public.

The U.S. Navy Concert Band is the premier wind ensemble of the U.S. Navy. As the original ensemble of the Navy Band, the Concert Band has been performing public concerts and participating in high-profile events for more than 95 years, according to promotional material. The band performs a wide array of marches, patriotic selections, orchestral transcriptions and modern wind ensemble repertoire.

One of the U.S. Navy Band’s primary responsibilities involves touring the country.

All of the band’s primary performing units embark each year on concert tours throughout specified regions of the country, allowing the band to reach out to audiences in areas of the country that do not have opportunities to see the Navy’s premier musical ensembles on a regular basis. The concerts are family-friendly events, meant to be entertaining to veterans, families, individuals and those interested in joining the Navy.

The U.S. Navy Band, based at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., is the “flagship” musical organization of the Navy and one of 11 Navy bands located around the world.
 

The Navy Band has been touring the country since 1925. Sailors in the Navy Band are full-time professional musicians, and almost all of the Sailors in the Navy Band have undergraduate degrees in music, and most have graduate degrees.

For more information on the band visit U.S. Navy Concert Band. For more information on the concert visit here.

On seven seas we learn, Navy’s stern call

Faith, courage, service true, with honor, over honor, over all.

Eyeing needs at junior high, Wyoming Public Schools seek district voter approval of ‘no property tax increase’ bond

Wyoming Public Schools graphic of changes planned for the junior high building. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

In November 2017, Wyoming Public Schools district voters approved a bond proposal which transformed Wyoming High School, and accomplished much needed modernization of other schools and district buildings.

Wyoming Public Schools high school building classroom after the 2017 bond funded improvements. (Supplied)

With those priority projects done, or set to be done this summer, the district is looking at more needed district infrastructure work, especially at Wyoming Junior High School, and not just needed upgrades but again “transforming” the educational setting for district students.

To do that, the district is seeking a bond renewal on the May 3, 2022, ballot which would allow it to gain additional funds while having no property tax increase over the current rate for district residents.

(District property tax payers could actually see a decrease in total property tax with passage May 3 of the City of Wyoming’s Proposals 1 & 2, which are the city’s proposed income tax and millage reduction proposals for funding of the Wyoming’s Police, Fire and Parks & Recreation Departments.)

Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra. (Supplied)

“If approved, the current (WPS bonding renewal) proposal would provide an additional $24.9 million for comprehensive renovations and the partial reconstruction of Wyoming Junior High School, a facility that has not seen major structural improvements in nearly forty-three years,” Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra said district informational material on the bond proposal. “And just like in 2017, if passed, this proposal will not raise the property tax rate above the current rate. The current millage rate (which has remained the same since 2016 and is currently lower than 14 of 20 Kent County school districts) would be extended into the future.”

The 2017 bond, according to Superintendent Hoekstra, “paved the way to remodel and reconstruct outdated buildings throughout the District; bring them up to code; and improve security, air quality, and technology.”

But with funds set aside from the 2017 bond approval, the district could only lightly renovate portions of the junior high.

“Having experienced the successful transformation of the High School, the District is asking the community to consider improvements to the Junior High as extensive as those made at Wyoming High School,” Hoekstra said.

 

Wyoming Public Schools photos of some of the problems with the junior high building. (Supplied)

Renovations and improvements to the junior high to be funded by the bond renewal include, according the district, modern learning environments, new furniture, and integrated technology; adequate lab spaces and equipment; improved air quality; replacement of failing building systems (such as roofing, plumbing, and electrical) to become energy efficient and meet modern building codes; and site improvements to traffic flow, aging parking lots, and athletic facilities.

To learn more about the 2022 bond proposal, and to see images of the work completed to date with funds from the 2017 bond, visit wyomingps2022.com.

According to ballot information from the Kent County Elections Office, the estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2023, is 0.94 ($0.94 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a 0 mill net increase over the prior year’s levy.

How and when to vote on the bond renewal

All registered voters can either vote in person on Election Day or send in an absentee ballot. Absentee ballots became available March 19, and must be returned by May 3 at 8 p.m. You can request an absentee ballot by contacting the City Clerk’s Office online or by phone.

In-person voting will take place on May 3 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the polling location designated by the city. You will need to bring your voter ID.

If you’re not registered to vote, you have a few options to become registered to vote in this election: By mail on or before April 18; online at michigan.gov/vote on or before April 18; in person at the City of Wyoming City Clerk’s office through May 3.