Category Archives: Citizen Journalism

“Wyoming’s Gathering Spot”: City of Wyoming celebrates grand opening of Godwin Mercado

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The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025 (Courtesy, Matthew Reed/WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado on Saturday, Aug. 16 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and free community event.

Senator Hilary Scholten (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin cut the ribbon, officially opening Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The warm summer morning began at 10:30 a.m. with statements given by State Representative John Fitzgerald, U.S. Senator Hilary Scholten, City of Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin.

“The Godwin Mercado is a project that embodies the best of what our community can achieve when we come together with purpose and vision,” said Mayor Vanderwood. “It is a true honor to stand here today as we officially open the Godwin Mercado.”

Support from the community helped make Godwin Mercado a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Krashawn Martin echoed Mayor Vanderwood’s remarks, saying the marketplace would not have been possible without broad community support.

“My heart is beyond happy to see so many smiling faces, so many different pieces and pockets that really build the community that is Wyoming,” said Martin. “I’m so honored to be a tiny piece of making this beautiful space come together.”

Placemaking in action

Managed and programmed by the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility community event space will provide year-round usage opportunities to local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.

Godwin Mercado is recognized as Wyoming’s new gathering spot for the community (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)

Market days will also help fill key gaps in the area’s food system, helping support the well-being of residents in the Godwin Heights area and the entire Wyoming community.

Representative Fitzgerald expressed the value Godwin Mercado brings for this generation as well as future generations.

“This is placemaking in action for this community,” said Rep. Fitzgerald. “It’s going to bring attention, good attention, to this community. I cannot be prouder of the City of Wyoming and its investment in this space.”

After the ribbon cutting, community members gathered for several free activities, including a meal, games, face painting and live music, all provided by Wyoming food and artisan vendors.

  • Local Kona Ice provided refreshing treats (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • Free face painting was enjoyed by both children and adults (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • A free meal was served to all in attendance (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • Large garage doors allow for easy access to and from the Mercado indoor event space (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • Wyoming Police let children explore department vehicles (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • Playing with bubbles is a must for all ages (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • Wyoming firefighters and police officers chatted with event guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • Celebration attendees enjoyed live music (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
  • Rep. John Fitzgerald (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin visit with celebration guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The outdoor plaza was filled with fun, family-friendly activity while the main indoor event space allowed seating and shade for those eating or simply needing a break from the sun.

A thread of connection

An unveiling of the colorful mural on Godwin Mercado’s outer south wall also took place.

The Godwin Mercado mural tells the history of the City through “story stacking” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Installed by local nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, and painted by Filipina street muralist and visual anthropreneur Venazir, the mural is a testament to Wyoming’s history, resilience and spirit – and was inspired by a game of Jenga.

“I was playing Jenga with my friends, and then I thought of stacking all the bits and pieces of who was Wyoming, who is Wyoming,” Venazir told WKTV Journal.

As Venazir researched the City’s history, she recognized the importance of not only the Godwin Mercado space, but what the significance and impact of revitalizing that space means to the community.

Titled “Stacked Stories” and “Building Balance,” the mural’s stacked images reveal the many facets of Wyoming’s lifespan while giving a poetic nod to the layered narrative of Godwin Heights and Wyoming and emphasizing the balance between past and progress.

Mural artist Venazir continued working on the mural during the celebration (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Another prominent element of the mural is a red thread weaving through the images.

“The red thread is the most symbolic element in my work,” said Venazir. “It’s this unifying element that I use across all of my murals.”

Since 2017 in the Philippines, Venazir’s red thread has been weaving a tapestry of stories internationally as she explores the intricate relationships between human traditions and the ever-changing landscapes that shape them.

“It stitches us [together] in ways that we couldn’t even imagine,” said Venazir. “My journey as an artist is to visualize the process that there is a red thread that guides us. That thread stretches and tangles, but it is never broken.”

Learn more about Venazir and her dynamic art here.

An educational avenue

Godwin Mercado will not only provide fresh food options and space for events, it will also collaborate with local schools and organizations to host educational activities.

(Courtesy, Godwin Heights)

Chad Conklin, Superintendent of Godwin Heights Public Schools, said school staff and students are excited about the opportunities Godwin Mercado offers.

“What this building is going to bring with the agriculture – it’s going to be fantastic,” Conklin told WKTV. “We’re looking at ways to be able to incorporate our own curriculum within it and hopefully support that through our science classes.”

Conklin also appreciates the increased accessibility the Mercado parking lot provides for the adjoining Godwin Heights athletic complex activities.

Helping our city thrive

Sen. Hilary Scholten said Godwin Mercado will play an important role in helping support small businesses and local entrepreneurs in West Michigan.

“Close to 99% of businesses in the State of Michigan are considered small businesses,” said Senator Scholten. “That is what makes our economy so beautiful and so diverse.

“Places like the Mercado are going to continue to support those small businesses and help them to thrive.”

(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)

Resource links

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

The Mercado provides various options for residents to embark upon their own personal entrepreneurial journeys. Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via a vendor application.

For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.

Watch this short clip to hear what City of Wyoming officials have to say about the opening of Godwin Mercado! (Courtesy, Tom Norton WKTV)

Woodland Mall Back to School Shopping Guide

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(Courtesy, Woodland Mall)


By WKTV Staff

Whether you’re shopping for elementary-school kiddos or college-bound young adults, Woodland Mall is your one-stop destination for students of all ages.

“Having the right clothes, accessories and supplies can go a long way for boosting students’ confidence and comfort heading into a new school year,” Senior Marketing Director Lisa Wolstromer said. “For the 2025 back-to-school season, we’re seeing interest in both fashion and function. Popular items include updated denim styles, athleisure wear, sneakers, beauty, skincare products and tech essentials.

“With retailers offering everything you need and great food and beverage options to enjoy along the way, you can make a fun day out of back-to-school shopping at Woodland Mall.”

Enjoy a smoother experience prepping for school with Woodland Mall’s shopping guide:

Step into the school year with footwear from Aldo, Kids Foot Locker, Snipes, Vans and Zumiez:

  • Get fresh kicks for the first day, from Nike Air Force 1s to classic Vans slip-ons.
  • With trendy sneakers, athletic shoes and backpacks, grab exclusive styles perfect for gym class, after-school sports and campus walks. 


Zumiez. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)


Shop style staples at Aerie, American Eagle, H&M, Hollister and Urban Outfitters:

  • Find outfit essentials for tweens, teens and college students, such as graphic tees, denim, layering pieces and on-trend accessories.
  • An A+ campus fit should balance comfort and style. 

Find fall layers and outerwear at Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle, H&M and The North Face:

  • Lightweight jackets, hoodies and seasonal layers are perfect for chilly mornings and classroom comfort.
  • Pick up a blazer and similar polished jacket for high school and college presentations. 

Grab backpacks and school gear from Barnes and Noble, Claire’s, Journeys and Journeys Kidz:

  • Fun items and accessories like hair clips, lip glosses and locker decorations can personalize the school experience.
  • Stay organized with notebooks, planners and other school supplies, and stay hydrated with colorful drinkware you’ll take with you everywhere.


Journeys Kidz. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)


Stay connected with tech and study tools from the Apple Store and Cricket:

  • Look for student and educator discounts on MacBooks, iPads and more, and don’t forget must-have accessories like headphones, styluses and portable chargers.
  • Consider data plans for staying connected on the go.

Stock up on self-care and dorm essentials from Bath & Body Works, Lush, Macy’s, Sephora and Von Maur:

  • Get first-day ready with makeup, hair tools and skincare kits, along with body mists and aromatherapy to beat stress.
  • Feel put together with must-have beauty products and organizers for your locker or dorm room.


Charleys Philly Steaks and Mango Thai. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)



Fuel up while you shop – stop by Auntie Anne’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Mango Thai, Red Robin and Starbucks: 

  • Take a study break or refuel during your shopping trip with a coffee, smoothie or snack.
  • Treat the kids (and yourself) to dinner and dessert for completing your back-to-school checklist! 

To find a full list of retailers and deals, visit ShopWoodlandMall.com. 

MHSAA News: Girls field hockey and boys volleyball make high school sports debut; boys tennis Finals update

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , ,
(Image Courtesy, MHSAA)



By Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor


Girls field hockey and boys volleyball make their debuts with MHSAA sponsorship during the 2025-26 school year. Field hockey will be played in the fall, while boys volleyball begins its first season in the spring.


There are 37 varsity teams expected to play during the inaugural field hockey season. There will be one playoff division, with the first MHSAA Regionals in this sport beginning Oct. 8 and the first championship awarded Oct. 25.


Practices are set to begin Monday, Aug. 11, for an anticipated 100,000 high school athletes at Michigan High School Athletic Association member schools.

The fall season includes the most played sports for both boys and girls; 36,210 football players and 19,679 girls volleyball players competed during the Fall 2024 season. Teams in those sports will be joined by competitors in girls and boys cross country, field hockey, Lower Peninsula girls golf, boys soccer, Lower Peninsula girls swimming & diving, Upper Peninsula girls tennis and Lower Peninsula boys tennis in beginning practice next week. Competition begins Aug. 15 for cross country, field hockey, golf, soccer and tennis, Aug. 20 for swimming & diving and volleyball, and Aug. 28 for varsity football. 

Pilot program in Boys Tennis Finals
To conclude their season, Lower Peninsula boys tennis teams will begin a pilot program showcasing Finals for all four divisions at the same location – Midland Tennis Center – over a two-week period. Division 4 will begin play with its two-day event Oct. 15-16, followed by Division 1 on Oct. 17-18, Division 2 on Oct. 22-23 and Division 3 played Oct. 24-25.

Also in Lower Peninsula boys tennis, and girls in the spring, a Finals qualification change will allow for teams that finish third at their Regionals to advance to the season-ending tournament as well, but only in postseason divisions where there are six Regionals – which will be all four boys divisions this fall.

Football Finals now 3 days
The 11-Player Football Finals at Ford Field will be played this fall over a three-day period, with Division 8, 4, 6 and 2 games on Friday, Nov. 28, and Division 7, 3, 5 and 1 games played Sunday, Nov. 30, to accommodate Michigan State’s game against Maryland on Nov. 29 at Ford Field.

Two more changes affecting football playoffs will be noticeable this fall. For the first time, 8-Player Semifinals will be played at neutral sites; previously the team with the highest playoff-point average continued to host during that round. Also, teams that forfeit games will no longer receive playoff-point average strength-of-schedule bonus points from those opponents to which they forfeited.

Boys soccer rule changes
A pair of changes in boys soccer this fall will address sportsmanship. The first allows game officials to take action against a team’s head coach in addition to any cautions or ejections issues to players and personnel in that team’s bench area – making the head coach more accountable for behavior on the sideline. The second change allows for only the team captain to speak with an official during the breaks between periods (halftime and during overtime), unless another coach, player, etc., is summoned by the official – with the penalty a yellow card to the offending individual.

More game-action rule changes  

  • In volleyball, multiple contacts by one player attempting to play the ball will now be allowed on second contact if the next contact is by a teammate on the same side of the net. 
  • In swimming & diving, backstroke ledges will be permitted in pools that maintain a 6-foot water depth. If used in competition, identical ledges must be provided by the host team for all lanes, although individual swimmers are not required to use them. 
  • Also in swimming & diving – during relay exchanges – second, third and fourth swimmers must have one foot stationary at the front edge of the deck. The remainder of their bodies may be in motion prior to the finish of the incoming swimmer.
  •  In football, when a forward fumble goes out of bounds, the ball will now be spotted where the fumble occurred instead of where the ball crossed the sideline.

Community invited to celebrate the Godwin Mercado grand opening on Aug. 16

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The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The City of Wyoming is inviting the community to celebrate the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado marketplace on Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event that Krashawn Martin, Director of the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, describes as a community block party.

“We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season,” said Martin at the July Godwin Mercado sneak-peek event.

A ribbon cutting will take place at 10:30 a.m. followed by free family-friendly activities, food and drinks from local vendors, live music, lawn games, face painting and more.

Click the following links for more information about the Godwin Mercado and the grand opening event.

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

Resource links

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

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

(Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

Motown music filled the air as RocknSoul performed at the Kentwood Summer Concert Series

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RocknSoul (Photo Courtesy, RocknSoul)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


The warm evening air was filled with the upbeat and energetic tones of Motown Thursday when RocknSoul took the stage at the Kentwood Summer Concert Series.

Based out of the Detroit area, RocknSoul brought the Motown sound to their performance behind City Hall. It also was Throwback Thursday at the Kentwood Farmers Market, where a variety of food trucks and vendors were on hand.

“We play a little bit of everything,” said vocalist and bass player Robert Joiner. “From Motown, to R&B, Dance, Blues and some jazz. The fans really like Motown and we play a lot of the 60s, 70s and 80s Motown and dance music.”


Featured songs include artists like The Temptations, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson.

As a group, RocknSoul has been together for a few years, but individually, the members have 20-to-30 years of professional music experience each.

Joiner, who retired after 30 years with the City of Detroit Police Department, spent 18 years playing with the Blue Pigs, a band comprised of City of Detroit Police officers who gained a large following.

The band’s lead guitar, Charles Hawkins, was a member of Black Merda, a rock band from Detroit that was active from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s. Black Merda produced a number of albums during that time period and also played psychedelic soul, funk rock and blues rock.

“Charles has played with Eddie Kendrick and David Ruffin,” Joiner said. “He also had a stint playing with Edwin Starr from War. He’s played with a lot of big names during his career.”

Keyboardist and saxophone player Kevin Armstrong has also played with a variety of musicians and Paul Sikorski brings a wealth of experience as the band’s drummer.

The band features variety in its vocals as Joiner and Armstrong both handle about 40 percent of the vocals apiece, while Hawkins sings vocals on about 20 percent of the songs. Sikorski also has been known to step in as a vocalist at times.

The band primarily performs in Southeast Michigan, but also makes plenty of trips into Ohio. This week’s concert in Kentwood was the band’s first performance in West Michigan.

What Hospice Isn’t: Common myths about end-of-life care

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After finding out what hospice is – and is not – families often wish they’d called sooner. (Photo Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice from iStock)

By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


Myths and misconceptions surrounding hospice have caused people to delay accessing supportive end-of-life care they’re entitled to – or skip it entirely. 

Melissa Wedberg, vice president of community relations at Emmanuel Hospice, is passionate about dispelling these myths and empowering individuals to take advantage of hospice services earlier on.

“If you have Medicare or private insurance, hospice is a benefit you have a right to when you’re medically eligible,” Wedberg said. “We are not hastening death; we are bringing support. Delaying hospice can lead to unnecessary pain, suffering and potentially even loss of time with loved ones. After finding out what hospice is – and is not – families wish they’d called sooner.” 

Hospice is not giving up.
According to Wedberg, this is the biggest mental and emotional barrier that exists not only for patients, but for families and even for some physicians, too.

“Hospice is not about resigning to the disease process or age; it’s about refocusing goals,” she explained. “When someone doesn’t have curative options left, we focus on enhancing quality of life. At Emmanuel, we start with the question, ‘How do you want to live?’ Hospice means gaining support during a difficult time rather than going through it alone.” 

Hospice is not just for your last days or hours.
Individuals can be on hospice for months or more, especially when enrolling sooner than later. There are many diagnoses that make you eligible.

“It might surprise people to learn that someone on hospice is not necessarily someone who looks like they’re dying,” Wedberg said. “You may have seen a hospice patient and not even known it because they were out at a grocery store or attending a ball game. Hospice care is helping that individual live how they want to live for the time they have left.” 

Hospice does not hasten death.
“Hospice care is a way for people to live more comfortably for longer,” Wedberg said. “In fact, we believe hospice is more about living than dying. We work tirelessly to provide life-giving opportunities that make every moment matter.”

Studies have found hospice patients may actually live longer due to better quality of life and symptom management than those with similar illnesses who are not receiving end-of-life care.

Hospice will not make you change doctors.
“You can keep your primary care provider, or you can choose to have your care overseen by the hospice medical director,” Wedberg said. “What’s important for patients and families to know is they remain in control when they sign on. We offer support and solutions; you can decide if or how you want to accept them.”

Hospice will not take away your medications.
A hospice nurse will work with a patient’s doctor to determine which medications are necessary to maintain comfort, but “if a patient wants to continue a medication they’re taking, they’re generally able to do so,” Wedberg said.

Hospice is not a refusal of all medical treatment.
While choosing hospice means a focus on quality of life over curative measures, that doesn’t mean all medical treatments stop. 

“With the exception of cancer treatment or dialysis, it’s rare patients have to give up treatment, especially when it’s for symptom management,” Wedberg said. 

Hospice will not administer pain medication regardless of need.
Some believe hospice will immediately use heavy pain management, such as morphine or opioids, no matter the situation. There is also the myth that these medications will hasten death. Both are not true. 

“We only treat pain if pain exists,” Wedberg said. “And we’re going to treat it at the appropriate level for each individual only to relieve discomfort and improve their quality of life.”

Additionally, patients are empowered to use other therapies and services, such as massage therapy, acupuncture, essential oils and more, alongside or instead of medication to manage their symptoms,  depending on their wishes and goals. 

Hospice is not a place.
Hospice is rarely an actual location that people go to, but rather a service that comes to you wherever you call home. 

Hospice is not a one-time decision.
“If for any reason you don’t want hospice anymore, you can stop at any time and there’s no penalty,” Wedberg said. “You can leave and come back. You can switch providers. If a miracle treatment or clinical trial becomes available, you could take it. But in the meantime, if you’re eligible for hospice, why not get that support in place?”

For more information, call 616-719-0919 or visit EmmanuelHospice.org.

Memories abound as fighters from Pride Boxing Club in Grand Rapids gather for reunion

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Golden Gloves, Kent County, Local Business, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
Former heavyweight champion Buster Mathis Jr. poses in front of some of the numerous press clippings of Pride boxing at the reunion. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


Memories came flowing back in waves Saturday as former boxers from the Pride Boxing Gym gathered together for a first-time reunion in Byron Center.

Grand Rapids has a long and rich amateur boxing history and the former Pride Gym, which was located near the corner of Division and Burton streets in Grand Rapids, was one of the shining stars of the amateur boxing scene in West Michigan during the 1980s and 90s.

The names and the accomplishments were the things of legend in the amateur boxing realm. Among the boxers, many of them who went on to successful professional boxing careers that trained at the Pride Gym were the legendary Floyd Mayweather Jr., Buster Mathis Jr., Juan Padin, Kevin Childrey, Tony Quintana, Sugar Ray Collins, Brian Blakely, Kevin “KP” Porter and a host of others.

Many of those boxers were on hand for a reunion and picnic Saturday. The stories were numerous and the laughs and smiles flowed as over 25 former Pride boxers took part.

Burr Elzinga of Wyoming was one of those boxers who brought home one of many Golden Gloves state championships during the storied run of the Pride gym that began in 1985 and continued until it closed in 2000.

“It was a great facility that provided so much benefit for a whole lot of young people who needed it,” Elzinga said. “It helped so many kids. It was really a beautiful place and we are all very thankful for it.”

The reunion was organized by the two men who got Pride Gym up and running in the mid 80’s, Bob Serulla and Bruce Kielty.



Founders Bruce Kielty (left) and Bob Serulla reminisce at the Pride Boxing Club reunion. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



Ionia State Prison ring purchased for one dollar

“Bruce and I opened the gym 40 years ago,” said Serulla, who’s also a boxing announcer and co-host for WKTV’s Golden Gloves programming. “We talked about opening a gym and we met with Buster Mathis Sr. We talked to him about opening the gym and having him train young men. We finally found a location, but we didn’t even have a ring. The Ionia State Prison had a boxing program way back and we found out they still had their old ring. We contacted the prison about seeing if they would donate the ring and they said that we could buy it for $1. It was an old Everlast ring, but it was perfect for us and we got the gym going.”

Kielty also fondly recalled the beginnings of the gym.

“It was quite a dream of ours,” Kielty said. “We brought in Buster Mathis Sr. to be our head coach and we also had Phil McConahy who was another great coach. We had a very successful 10-12-year run.”

In Buster Mathis Sr., the Pride Gym had a name that was sure to get the attention of young boxing prospects in West Michigan. One of the finest heavyweights in the 1960s and 70s, Buster Mathis Sr. fought the great Muhammad Ali as well as other notables Smokin’ Joe Frazier, Jerry Quarry and Ron Lyle.

Trainer Buster Mathis Sr. helped grow the Pride Gym

With a trainer like Buster Mathis Sr. working with the boxers, the Pride Gym grew rapidly and produced a wealth of boxing talent.

Mathis Sr. was not the only high-level trainer at Pride as Johnny Butler also trained boxers. Butler, an amateur national champion in 1958, who is over 90-years old now, was also on hand for the reunion Saturday.

Boxers came from all over the country to reunite

The former Pride boxers came from all across the country for the reunion that first started sending out invitations a few years ago.

“We have boxers coming in from California, Montana, Alabama, Florida, Atlanta, you name it,” Serulla said. “It is a heck of a group. Almost everyone was able to make it in.”

Kielty also was thrilled to see the reunion come to fruition.

“This reunion is also very special,” Kielty said. “We have former boxers living all over the country and this reunion was another dream come true. We started sending invitations out three years ago. Boxing is a unique fraternity and this was something we really wanted to do.”  

 

Juan Padin (left) and Brian Blakely were two of the original boxers at the Pride Boxing Club. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)



Juan Padin and Brian Blakely first to join Pride

The first two boxers who joined Pride in the beginning, Juan Padin and Brian Blakely, became the backbone of the team and both became captains.

“It started with Juan Padin and me, we were the first two,” Blakely said. “I started when I was 14-years old. We would be going to different shows and doing really well and people were starting to ask ‘who is Pride’. No one knew who we were, but before long people began to know. There were a lot of good people in Pride. We had really good coaches who gave us a lot of attention.”

Blakely and Padin won a number of state titles during their boxing days at Pride and also went on to compete for national championships.

Blakely eventually turned professional and actually made his professional debut in November of 1990 in a boxing show at the Welsh Auditorium in downtown Grand Rapids that featured the last match of Floyd Mayweather Sr.



The former boxers of the Pride Boxing Club get together for a group photo at the first-ever reunion of the gym. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)

The new Pride Gym was a perfect spot for Padin to begin his boxing career. The then 16-year old Padin had just moved to Grand Rapids from Brooklyn, New York.

“I just moved to Grand Rapids and didn’t know anyone,” Padin said. “I just went into the gym one day after it first opened and I kept coming back. It was a great gym. One thing about Pride fighters is that they got us in shape. You never had to worry about a Pride fighter running out of gas.”

Padin made the trip to Grand Rapids from Birmingham, Ala., where he now lives.

“This reunion is just great,” Padin said. “I haven’t seen a lot of these guys in a long time. This is just awesome to see all my old teammates and coaches. It’s a lot of great memories. I wouldn’t have missed this for the world.”

Former champion Buster Mathis Jr. excelled at Pride Gym

The reunion also was special to Buster Mathis Jr., who grew into a champion amateur and professional boxer under the tutelage of his father and the team at Pride.


“I learned a lot of life lessons from my father,” Mathis Jr. said. “Boxing helped me in a lot of different areas in my life. The lessons I learned from boxing helped me to do a lot of other things later in my life.”

Taking up boxing as a 14-year old not only changed his life, but also changed the younger Mathis’ body.

“I weighed 280 pounds when I first came to the gym and started boxing,” Mathis Jr. said. “My dad trained me for a whole year and when I was a 15-year old I was down to 180 pounds. When I eventually fought Tyson as a pro I was at 225 pounds.”

After a highly successful amateur career, Mathis Jr. became a professional where he won 21 of 26 bouts and also won a USBA heavyweight championship. Mathis Jr. not only fought Mike Tyson, but also former world heavyweight champion Riddick Bowe.

For Mathis Jr., like the rest of the Pride boxers, the team atmosphere at the gym was one of the highlights of being a boxer at Pride.

“Everybody sparred with everybody,” Mathis Jr. said. “The atmosphere in the gym was just phenomenal. It was basically more like a family type of thing.”

Buster Mathis Sr. passed away in 1995 just prior to his son’s bout with Tyson. If the senior Mathis was alive today, Buster Jr. had no doubt where his dad would’ve been on Saturday.

“He would probably be at the gym right now training someone,” Mathis Jr. said. “The one thing my dad really liked was taking some young kid and making that kid into a champion. He loved working with and developing kids and teaching them to become a fighter.”

Kevin “KP” Porter, Leon Spinks, Michael Dokes to name a few more

Mathis Jr. was not the only successful heavyweight boxer to come out of Pride. Kevin “KP” Porter also had a long and successful pro career in the heavyweight division. During his professional career Porter defeated former heavyweight champion Leon Spinks and also fought some of the bigger-name heavyweights of the era like Andrew Golota, Greg Page, Michael Dokes and former Olympic champion Henry Tillman.

The reunion also fanned the flames of some of the boxers wanting to see a Pride comeback.

“I want to bring Pride back,” said Sugar Ray Collins. “I’d like to bring it back and have amateurs, pros and MMA fighters. I’d love to see it come back.”

Woodland Mall to host National Night Out event Aug. 5; superhero-themed

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Kent County, Local Business, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, Woodland Mall,
Woodland Mall National Night Out. (Photo Courtesy, Olivia Grace & Company)


By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org

Woodland Mall will host a superhero-themed event to celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 5, in partnership with the Kentwood Police Department.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign celebrated across the country that promotes community-police partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

Woodland Mall’s free event will offer community members a variety of interactive experiences for all ages from 3 to 5 p.m. in the mall’s outdoor plaza area between Red Robin and The North Face, as well as inside the Barnes & Noble wing.

In addition to meeting Kentwood police officers and getting an up-close look at emergency vehicles, there will be superhero special appearances, face painting, balloon twisting, a photo station and giveaways.

“Woodland Mall is honored to host a National Night Out event this year to encourage residents to connect with their neighbors and local police personnel with superhero-themed fun,” Senior Marketing Director Lisa Wolstromer said. “By bridging public safety education with family-friendly entertainment at the mall, we seek to help build lasting relationships through positive interactions.”

During the event, shoppers can explore a police cruiser and the department’s Special Response Team truck, as well as try on police vests and hold shields. The department’s K-9 handler also will be on-site to teach attendees about a K-9 unit’s role in law enforcement.

“This year, we’re proud to be part of several neighborhood events throughout Kentwood, including a featured celebration in partnership with Woodland Mall,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “We’re grateful to Woodland Mall for helping us create a fun, family-friendly space where residents can meet officers, check out police vehicles, snap a photo with McGruff the Crime Dog and say hi to our real crime fighter, K-9 Abby.”


Woodland Mall National Night Out. (Photo Courtesy, Olivia Grace & Company)


In addition, Captain America, Spider-Man and Captain Marvel will make a special appearance for the event. Face painting, balloon twisting and create-your-own superhero masks will be offered while supplies last. The themed photo station will include both official gear and take-home souvenirs like junior hero certificates and badge stickers.

More event information can be found at ShopWoodlandMall.com.


(Courtesy, Woodland Mall)

Wyoming Police investigate recent shooting on South Division

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(Courtesy, Deborah Reed/WKTV)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


One person is injured following a shooting in the 3700 block of South Division Avenue.

At approximately 1:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug.4, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers located evidence indicating that multiple shots had been fired; however, no victim was found at the scene.


A short time later, an adult male victim arrived at a nearby hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. He is currently listed in stable condition. At this time, no arrests have been made. Detectives from the Wyoming Police Department, along with members of the Forensic Science Unit, are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300, or to report anonymously through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345, 1-866-774-2345, or online at www.silentobserver.org.

Antique cars spark memories, meaningful connections for seniors at Care Resources

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Seniors enjoyed the opportunity to view a fleet of 12 antique cars at Care Resources (Courtesy, Care Resources)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Cars aren’t just timeless works of art – they are vehicles for lasting memories. Care Resources hosted an antique car show for its participants, ages 55 years and older, to reminisce about and enjoy on Thursday, July 31.

Seniors reminisced about cars they had in their younger years (Courtesy, Care Resources)

Grand Rapids Antique Car Club showcased 12 antique cars in the parking lot of the nonprofit’s Grand Rapids day center. Participants had the opportunity to admire the fleet of automobiles, connect with local car enthusiasts and take a trip down memory lane.

And those memories, said Recreational Therapist Megan Bollo, are what make the program so special.

“This event allowed participants to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise and reminisce about the “good ‘ole times,” said Bollo. “All of which contribute to their physical and mental well-being.”

The car show also promotes intergenerational socialization (Courtesy, Care Resources)

Bollo went on to say that the event went well, with many smiles and laughs along the way.

“Our participants love interacting with car owners of all ages – it brings out a lot of joy and fond memories.”

One participant who worked on cars as a hobby in the past enjoyed looking at the engines and talking with the owners about the work they had done to restore the vehicles.

Laughter and smiles were in abundance during the car show (Courtesy, Care Resources)

Care Resources

The antique car show was just one of the many programs the Care Resources team organizes to meet the mental, social and physical needs of the older adults it serves as a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, also known as PACE®. This innovative community-based program, funded by Medicare and Medicaid, promotes healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement.

Learn more about your local Care Resources here.

Dementia or normal aging?

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Slight declines in memory and cognition are typical with aging, but there are scenarios that call for further assessment. (Photo Courtesy, Care Resources)


By Care Resources
greer@wktv.org


You’re about to leave and realize you’ve lost your keys again. You just put muffins in the oven and second guess whether you added salt. You are mid-conversation and just can’t seem to find the right word. 

Is this the start of dementia? 

“We’ve probably all known someone whose gone through dementia, and it’s so hard to see them not be the person you used to know,” said Laura Hall, associate clinical director at Care Resources. “So, when we have any trouble as we age, our first thought is, ‘Oh, no. Do I have dementia? Am I declining?’ And that’s valid. Seeking support and testing can help you know what you’re experiencing.”

While memory loss and other cognitive changes can be difficult to diagnose, Hall says word finding or taking longer to communicate or think of things are classic examples of normal aging. 

“As we age, it takes longer to process information,” Hall said. “We get more easily distracted with noise and other things going on that makes it harder to focus and multitask. Some short-term memory challenges can be normal as well, especially with any lack of sleep or fatigue.”

She says slight declines are typical, but there are scenarios that would call for further assessment.

“If the forgetfulness is long-lasting or ongoing, especially in short-term situations, such as failing to remember a conversation you recently had, that’s a notable change,” Hall said. “The need for more help with daily activities of living such as cooking would be another sign. Not being able to find your cookware, follow a recipe or operate the stove are some more dramatic examples.”

Memory changes often progress slowly, so we don’t always realize for ourselves when they’re happening. Friends and family can be a great resource for noticing if someone is having a harder time, but Hall recognizes it can be uncomfortable to approach a loved one about memory concerns. 

“Some people don’t want to acknowledge there might be an issue, but it is OK to bring up the subject,” Hall said. “You can share your concern they’re not remembering things like they used to and suggest talking to someone. Offering to go with them to a visit with their provider can be helpful.”

Now the big question: Is there anything we can do to prevent or delay cognitive decline? Hall says staying active and social are the best things you can do for your mental health and cognition.

“A lot of age-related cognitive decline is preventable,” Hall said. “Getting out of the house, interacting with other people and learning new things can make a huge difference. It can be as simple as learning how to knit or play pickleball or talking with friends on a new topic.” 

At Care Resources, eligible adults 55 years and older can get involved in new activities and socialize through the day center while having their cognitive health closely monitored, including testing every six months. Spending time at Care Resources can also provide important respite to caregivers. If you or your loved one could use some extra support, call 800-610-6299 or visit CareResources.org for more information.

City of Wyoming invites community to celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 5

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Entertainment, First Responders, Food, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Our Cities, Police and Fire, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , , ,



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The City of Wyoming is inviting community members to participate in National Night Out events throughout the city on Tuesday, Aug. 5.

An annual event celebrated across the country, National Night Out encourages residents to turn on their porch lights and gather with neighbors, community leaders, and police and fire personnel.


The annual National Night Out events help build relationships and trust within the community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)

Celebrating and Strengthening Relationships

Lieutenant Andrew Koeller of the Wyoming Police Department says National Night Out strengthens the vital relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve – and the Wyoming PD is proud to participate in the annual event.

“This evening is more than just a gathering—it is a celebration of trust, safety, and shared commitment to keeping Wyoming safe and connected,” says Lt. Koeller.


Wyoming officers help youth try on tactical vests at a local National Night Out event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)


While National Night Out formally highlights the Wyoming Police Department’s community partnerships, Lt. Koeller says those relationships are at the core of everything the police department does every day.

“The Wyoming Police Department places great value on building, maintaining, and growing meaningful connections with those we serve,” says Lt. Koeller. “Our dedicated Community Services Unit leads many of these efforts, but every member of our department shares the responsibility of fostering strong community ties.”

Wyoming National Night Out Details

Wyoming police officers, firefighters, and leaders will join residents at multiple gatherings across the city. Most events will take place between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Residents will have opportunities to explore police and fire equipment, including police cruisers, fire trucks and other emergency response vehicles, as well as learn about a variety of safety topics. Community members can also visit with the Wyoming Police Department K9 team.


Officer Willshire, Kentwood PD (left) Officer Klaassen, Wyoming PD (center) Officer Quintard, Wyoming PD (right) welcome community members at Celebration Cinema (Courtesy, Deborah Reed 2023)


Wyoming Police Department officers will be at Celebration Cinema at Rivertown Crossings from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., along with other local agencies. The department will also hold community events at Grace Christian University, Godwin Heights High School, Lifeline Church, Bayberry Farms and Buck Creek Church.

*Locations and event times listed below:

  • Celebration Cinema, 3728 Rivertown Pkwy from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Grace Christian University, 1011 Aldon St. SW from 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
  • Godwin Heights High School, 59 35th St. SW from 5:30p.m.-7:30 p.m.
  • Lifeline Church, 2929 Rogers Lane Ave. SW from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
  • Bayberry Farms, 2768 56th St. SW from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
  • Buck Creek Church, 3746 Byron Center Ave. SW from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

“We are grateful to our residents, local organizations and community leaders for their continued support and involvement,” says Lt. Koeller. “Together, we make Wyoming a safer, stronger place to live, work, and visit.”


WPD Captain Tim Pols hands a sticker to a young resident during a previous Wyoming National Night Out event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)

Learn More!

National Night Out began in the 1984 with a group of law enforcement agencies, volunteers, neighborhood watch groups, and state and regional crime prevention associations. It grew from porch vigils to neighborhood celebrations to promote safety in communities and build relationships with public safety.

To learn more about National Night Out, visit natw.org.

Air quality advisory declared for July 30-31 in West Michigan

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This advisory is due to smoke from Canadian wildfires moving into the Upper Peninsula Tuesday and into parts of the northern Lower Peninsula Wednesday morning (Courtesy, AirNow.gov)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


An air quality advisory is in effect for West Michigan through Wednesday and Thursday, July 30-31.

According to AirNow.gov, The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has issued an Air Quality Advisory for elevated levels of fine particulate (PM2.5) across the state of Michigan. The advisory is due to smoke from Canadian wildfires moving into the Upper Peninsula Tuesday and into parts of the northern Lower Peninsula Wednesday morning with hourly PM2.5 concentrations ranging from USG to Unhealthy.


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


“Smoke from Canadian wildfires moved into the Upper Peninsula Tuesday and into parts of the northern Lower Peninsula Wednesday morning with hourly PM2.5 concentrations ranging from USG to Unhealthy,” said Stephanie M. Hengesbach, Meteorology Specialist, Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

“Models show the plume continuing its southern trek across the state as a cold front moves south into the Ohio River Valley. As the smoke moves in, PM2.5 concentrations in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) range will expand south, while concentrations of PM2.5 in the Unhealthy range are more likely across northern areas.”

Sensitive groups are encouraged to take precautions.

This forecast will be evaluated Thursday morning to determine if the current statewide air quality advisory will need to be extended into Friday.


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

EGLE recommends:

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

(Courtesy, AirNow.gov)

How air quality is measured

Air quality is an important measure for creating desirable communities and protecting public health. Air Quality Advisories and Air Quality Alerts are based on the Air Quality Index (AQI).

The AQI is a scale from 0 to 500 that indicates air pollution levels. Higher values mean higher pollution and more health risks. When AQI exceeds 100, it is unhealthy, starting with sensitive groups and worsening as it rises. There are six categories, each with a color, to easily gauge the level of health concern in communities.

Air quality advisories/alerts information:

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

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

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

Roosevelt Diggs brings a melting pot of American music to Thursday’s Kentwood Summer Concert Series

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Roosevelt Diggs. (Photo Courtesy, Jen Diel)


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


The state of Michigan has a long and rich tradition of producing outstanding acoustic-based music and this week’s performance of the Kentwood Summer Concert Series features a homegrown West Michigan band that’s adding to that legacy.

Roosevelt Diggs, a four-man band that has been perfecting its craft since 2008, takes the stage Thursday at 7 p.m. on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. A versatile band, Roosevelt Diggs blends country, blues, rock and roll, folk and blue grass into a melting pot of true Americana music.

There also will be food trucks on hand as concertgoers are encouraged

to come early and check out the Kentwood Farmers Market next door

in the parking lot behind Kentwood City Hall from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“We are kind of a melting pot,” said Logan Duddles, who with his brother Levi Duddles is one of the two vocalists of the group. “None of those individual genres label us exactly. You can use Americana to encapsulate us, but it’s a struggle to categorize our sound down to one thing. We have a lot of elements of American music in our style.”

Along with providing vocals, Logan Duddles also plays acoustic guitar while brother Levi is on the electric guitar. 

“We share the vocals,” Logan said. “We don’t look at it as our having one lead vocalist. There are certain songs that I sing and certain songs that he sings.”

The band also includes Jon Shears on upright bass and Jeff Leitch on drums.


Roosevelt Diggs. (Photo Courtesy, Jeff Brinn)



Logan and Levi have been making music together since a young age back in Reed City. They connected with Shears in 2008 to form the band, while Leitch came on as a drummer three years ago.

17 years and counting

Since forming in 2008, Roosevelt Diggs has made steady progress. Initially, the band had a goal of being able to play local shows and maybe cut an album someday. In the past 17 years, the band has soared beyond initial expectations and continues to add to its legacy.

“Our goals were pretty low starting out,” Duddles said. “At first, we just wanted to be able to play a few shows. Our goal was to work hard and practice every day and get a little better. Through the years, we looked at it as we wanted to be better as a band than we were three months ago. We’ve been able to release four albums and have been able to play at some amazing venues and some great festivals around the state.”

The band’s first album came out in 2012, followed by ones in 2014, 2018 and 2023.

WYCE Jammie Award Winners

The growth and success of Roosevelt Diggs is evident in the albums it produces. Their 2018 album (Better Days) and 2023 one (Reverie) were both WYCE Jammie award winners. 

Among the venues the band has played are Frederik Meijer Gardens, the Wheatland Music Festival and the Hoxeyville Music Festival.

“We feel very fortunate through the years to have played at some amazing venues and festivals,” Duddles said. “We have played at some places that have definitely been on our bucket list.”

Right out of the phone book

Along with a unique style, Roosevelt Diggs also has a unique name. Similar to the Michigan rock band Greta Van Fleet from Frankenmuth who came up with their unique name when a relative mentioned the name of a local resident, Roosevelt Diggs came up with their name from a similar local angle.

“Way back before cell phones kids use to do prank calls on the phone,” Duddles said. “One day we went through the phone book and we saw the name Roosevelt Diggs and that name stuck with us. Years later when we needed a name for the band we remembered the name Roosevelt Diggs. We were looking for something different and it just stuck.”

The band is looking forward to Thursday’s concert in Kentwood and promises an entertaining and energetic show for concertgoers.

“We play high-energy shows,” Duddles said. “We get into our performances. We dig in and don’t just go through the motions. We have fun and make it a good time and give the fans as good a show as we can.”

Concertgoers will also be treated to a broad range of music.

“We play a lot of different music,” Duddles said. “Some bands just sound the same. We pull in a lot of different genres. There will be something everybody will like and hopefully more than just one. It’s a lot of different genres all melting together to produce some great music.”   

PROJECT 90, West Michigan’s premiere ’90s rock band, will play favorite hits at Lamar Park performance July 29

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Covering music from Nirvana to Blink 182 to Melissa Etheridge – “and everything in between” – the five-piece rock band is known for its high-energy and dedication to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Project 90 (P90), one of the top three favorite cover bands in West Michigan for eight years running, will bring the best of ‘90s rock to Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 29 at 6 p.m.

Covering music from Nirvana to Blink 182 to Melissa Etheridge – “and everything in between” – the five-piece rock band is known for its high-energy and dedication to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music.

P90 was formed to pay tribute to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music (Courtesy, P90)

“All ‘90s All Night – Re-live the decade that brought us pogs and boy bands, furbies and Friends,” states the P90 Facebook site.

P90 was formed to pay tribute to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music – and does not disappoint.

Featuring lead vocals by Mark Gardner, guitars by Nolan Romzek and Brian Zeemering, bass and vocals by Matt Vail, and Stephen Legg on drums, P90 has been dominating the ‘90s music scene in West Michigan, boasting 9.6K fans on social media and large crowds at each performance.

Come out to Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park final summer performance at Lamar Park ready for the full ‘90s rock ‘n’ roll experience!

Concert details

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

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

A complete listing of Project 90’s performances and events through September 2025 (Courtesy, P90)

Wyoming’s Brian Campbell looks for third consecutive track title at Berlin Raceway 

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Wyoming Super Late Model driver Brian Campbell at Berlin Raceway. (WKTV Photo by Greg Chrapek)


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


The weather has been hot and the laps have been even hotter this summer in the Super Late Model division at Berlin Raceway, where Wyoming’s Brian Campbell is looking to win a third consecutive track championship this season.

A 25-year racing veteran at Berlin, Campbell is part of a large group of drivers who are in hot pursuit of the Super Late Model title at Berlin. Heading into this weekend’s race, Campbell is in second place, 41 points behind leader Austin Hull of Belmont, who’s in first place with 948 points.

“It’s been closer this year than it has been in the past,” Campbell said. “There are a lot of good drivers this year like Austin Hull, Terry Senneker and Tyler Rycenga.”

Campbell, who’s closing in on 100 career wins, has experienced some highs and lows in what has been a competitive first half of the season at Berlin.

“I’ve had my ups and downs this year,” Campbell said. “I’ve led the points, been second in points, been third in points. It’s been a rollercoaster of a season.”

Terry Senneker of Wayland is third in points, 12 behind Campbell in third place with 895. Tyler Lupton of Clarkston is fourth with 888, Joe Bush of Hastings, fifth at 837, Andrew Scheid of Sparta, sixth with 834, Dylan Stovall of Wayland, seventh at 820, Tyler Rycenga of Allendale, eighth with 772, Evan Szotko of Coopersville, ninth at 743 and Ken Wobma of Rockford rounds out the Top 10 in the Super Late Model Division with 639 points.

Christmas in July

This week three of the main divisions will be racing at Berlin Raceway’s Christmas in July event. Along with the Super Late Models, the Sportsman and 4-cylinders will be taking to the track along with a VROA race.

In the 4-cylinder division, Justin Roelofs of Ravenna is in first place with 1,220 points. Chase Roelofs of Allendale is in second place with 1,107 points, while Hunter Wiersma of Coopersville, third at 1,094 points in what is another competitive division. Dave Avink is in fourth place with 940 points, while Blake Huitema of Grandville, at 934 points and rookie Tyler Westveld of Marne, sixth with 895 points.

In the Sportsman division, Josh Frye of Coopersville is in first place with 946 points, followed by Ryan Holtzlander of Muskegon, 901 points, Brian Thome of Kent City, 886, Kevin Ford of Coopersville, 881 and Korey Ensing of Hudsonville, 864 in fifth place. Brian Tillema of Hastings is sixth with 861 points, Tom Thomas of Grandville, seventh, 793 points, Scott Baker of Grand Rapids, eighth at 778, Corey Holtzlander of Grant, ninth, 761 and Allen Davis of Wyoming rounds out the Top 10 with 702 points.

Campbell is looking to make up some ground on Hull in the Super Late Model race. Racing is a family affair for Campbell, whose father Fred began his racing career at Berlin in 1975.



Far right, Wyoming Super Late Model driver Brian Campbell and crew inspect his car at Berlin Raceway. (WKTV Photo by Greg Chrapek)


All in the Family

“My dad got me into it,” Campbell said. “My dad started in 1975 so I grew up here and in surrounding race tracks in the Midwest with my dad. I graduated college and started racing when I was 21. I helped my dad and followed my dad around and worked with him all the way through grade school, high school and college, and finally got a race car when I was 21.”

Campbell is a veteran in the Super Late Model division and other than his rookie season that’s the only division he has raced in during his career.



Super Late Model driver Brian Campbell’s car. (WKTV Photo by Greg Chrapek)


A number of highlights

Campbell’s career has been a successful one with a number of highlights.

“I’ve got four track championships out here,” Campbell said. “I’ve got wins at Bristol, I’ve got wins at Nashville, I’ve got wins at Milwaukee Mile, a couple of different traveling championships, so I’ve been fairly successful around the Midwest.”

A big part of that success has been Campbell’s team that consists of his father Fred, Henry Rosendall, Henry Fellows and Kevin DeGood.

“They run the show,” Campbell said. “I just drive.”

A home track advantage for Campbell

Campbell especially enjoys his home track at Berlin Raceway. This Saturday, July 26, he invites fans to get to the track early.

“Fans should get here early because there is going to be an autograph session on the front stretch,” Campbell said. “That will be fun for the kids to come down and get autographs. The whole front section will be packed with fans, and then from there it will be a good night of racing.”

The autograph session begins at 6 p.m. before the races. Racing starts at 6:30 p.m. The band Sounds Familiar will perform for fans live after the races.        

Local filmmaker, Tran Hoang Calvin to have films featured at Filmmaker’s Happy Hour on July 24

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The Cans Film Festival is celebrating Grand Rapids-based documentary filmmaker, Tran Hoang Calvin, during Filmmaker’s Happy Hour at Speciation Artisan Ales (Courtesy photo)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Filmmaker Tran Hoang Calvin (Courtesy photo)

The Cans Film Festival is celebrating Grand Rapids-based documentary filmmaker, Tran Hoang Calvin, during Filmmaker’s Happy Hour at Speciation Artisan Ales on Thursday, July 24 from 6 – 9 p.m.

Filmmakers and film-lovers are invited to this special event to meet Tran Hoang Calvin and get to know him through his work, all while sharing a drink from Speciation Cellars. This event is free and open to the public.

Tran Hoang Calvin is a director and producer with a Bachelors in Fine Arts in Film and Television Production from New York University Tisch. Calvin focuses on the developing field of new media including social media strategy, memetics and virtual reality.

Calvin worked at various major media companies including Anonymous Content, Decon-Mass Appeal, Vice Media, and ABC News. He then co-founded both Nodehaus Media, an animation studio and production company driven by Gen Z artists and entrepreneurs, and Dolphinger Memetics, a marketing research lab.

What to expect at Happy Hour

The July 24 Filmmaker’s Happy Hour will feature four of Calvin’s films: “Refuge: The Story of Viet Tran” (2021), “A Clean Slate” (2023), “Has Heart” (2025) and an exclusive preview of “Shoot, Shovel & Shut-Up” (2025).

(Courtesy photo)

The short documentary, “Refuge,” allows attendees to hear from Vietnamese refugee, Viet Tran, who talks about his past struggles with fleeing his country in search for a better life. IMDb

As Wisconsin reforms its expungement process, the opportunity for a second chance for the formerly incarcerated hinges on a local activist named Shanyeill McCloud in “A Clean Slate.” IMDb

“Has Heart” follows a Navy veteran and an artist as they empower veterans through art, helping them reclaim their voices. This inspiring documentary shows how creativity heals trauma, connecting stories of sacrifice, honor, and resilience. IMDb

The short drama, “Shoot, Shovel, and Shut up,” features the Clifford family as they attempt to start a new life by selling their dilapidated, impoverished farm. But when the discovery of an endangered bird on the property threatens to collapse the sale, the son Andy must decide whether to make the bird’s presence known or to shoot, shovel, and shut up. IMDb

About the Cans Film Festival

The Cans Film Festival organization works to support independent filmmakers by promoting film as an accessible art form to audiences everywhere, their website states.

The organization’s flagship event series, the Cans Film Festival (CFF), is a film screening series meant to give filmmakers another opportunity to show their work and to connect with each other and their local community. The price of admission is a donation of recyclable cans and bottles which are given to the top three filmmakers whose films were voted as audience favorites at the end of the night.

(Courtesy photo)

Filmmakers keep all proceeds through the 10-cent redemption system at most grocery stores across Michigan.

The festival is dedicated to showcasing the diverse range of short films created in Michigan. Local filmmakers are invited to submit their short films of 15 minutes or less (shorter runtimes are preferred), across any genre or subject matter.

Celebrate community spirit

Join the July 24 Filmmaker’s Happy Hour event and celebrate community spirit, support local artists and contribute to a greener future. For more event details, click here.

Celebrate National Night Out with Kentwood on Tuesday, Aug. 5

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Kentwood National Night Out. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to participate in National Night Out events throughout the city on Tuesday, Aug. 5. 

National Night Out is an annual event celebrated across the country that seeks to promote community-police partnerships and encourage residents to connect with their neighbors, community leaders and local police and fire personnel.

In partnership with the Kentwood Police Department, Woodland Mall will host a free public event from 3 to 5 p.m. Community members can explore a police cruiser and Special Response Team truck and try on police vests and hold shields in the mall’s outdoor plaza area between Red Robin and The North Face at 3195 28th St. SE. A KPD K-9 officer and dog will be on-site to teach attendees about a K-9 unit’s role in law enforcement.

The event also features special appearances by superheroes as well as face painting, balloon twisting, a photo station and giveaways.



Kentwood National Night Out. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



“National Night Out is one of the many ways the Kentwood Police Department strengthens relationships and demonstrates our commitment to serving all who live, work and visit our city,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “We are looking forward to connecting with both longtime and new residents during these fun, casual citywide events.”


There also will be over 10 neighborhood events throughout the evening featuring a variety of food and activities, including games and appearances by McGruff the Crime Dog. At these events, community members of all ages also will have an opportunity to connect with Kentwood police officers, firefighters and leaders as well as explore and learn about police cruisers, fire engines and other emergency response vehicles.


Kentwood National Night Out. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)


“We welcome all opportunities to engage with community members, which is essential to effective public safety,” Kentwood Fire Chief Brent Looman said. “Events like National Night Out help our firefighters and residents come together as a community and get to know one another better.”

National Night Out was started in the 1980s by an established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention associations and volunteers across the country.

Learn more about Kentwood’s National Night Out events at kentwood.us/NNO.

Community members interested in hosting a National Night Out neighborhood block party are encouraged to reach out to Kentwood Police Officer Brooke Lowe at 616.656.6564 or loweb@kentwood.us.

Mobile food pantry schedule for Kent County, July 21-Aug. 19

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By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Several Kent County organizations have partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host mobile pantries each month.

Below is a list of mobile food pantry locations open to the community. Each listing consists of date, time, location and drive-thru or walk-thru designation.

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

Mobile food pantry schedule for July 21 – Aug. 19:

July 21 – Monday

July 22 – Tuesday

July 23 – Wednesday

July 24 – Thursday

July 25 – Friday

July 26 – Saturday

July 28 – Monday

July 29 – Tuesday

July 31 – Thursday

Aug. 2 – Saturday

Aug. 4 – Monday

Aug. 5 – Tuesday

Aug. 6 – Wednesday

Aug. 7 – Thursday

Aug. 8 – Friday

Aug. 9 – Saturday

Aug. 11 – Monday

Aug. 12 – Tuesday

Aug. 13 – Wednesday

Aug. 14 – Thursday

Aug. 16 – Saturday

Aug. 18 – Monday

Aug. 19 – Tuesday

Resources

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

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

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

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


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

A DIY band

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friendship and trust

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More than just notes on a page

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lyricism as poetry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A curse…and hope

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Phabies and their music here and here.

Concert details

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

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

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

Sunchaser to showcase musical diversity at Thursday’s Kentwood Summer Concert Series 

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Sunchaser. (Photo Courtesy, Sunchaser)


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


The mid-summer air will be full of hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s this Thursday as Sunchaser takes the stage for this week’s concert of the Kentwood Summer Concert Series.

A band of veteran musicians from the West Michigan area that formed in 2021, Sunchaser is a five-piece group that plays a wide variety of musical styles from rock to country, blues, R & B and more.

This Thursday’s concert is set to begin at 7 p.m. and last until 8:30 on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. It also will be Backyard Barbeque Night at the Kentwood Farmers Market and plenty of farm-fresh goodies will be available. There also will be food trucks on hand as concertgoers are encouraged to come early and check out the Kentwood Farmers Market which takes place next door in the parking lot behind Kentwood City Hall from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Sunchaser has experience playing at many different venues around West Michigan, from outdoor concert series, clubs and restaurants, private and corporate events and local veterans’ halls where they enjoy playing for veterans. This Thursday’s show will be the first time the band has performed at the Kentwood concert series and the group is excited about the opportunity.

“We are really excited about playing at the Kentwood Concert Series for the first time,” said Rusty Benmark, a guitarist and vocalist with the group who has over two decades of experience performing in classic rock and blues bands in the Grand Rapids and Lansing areas. “We are looking forward to putting on a great show and hope that everyone will enjoy themselves.”

Concertgoers can expect an energetic performance with a variety of musical genres from the 60s, 70s and 80s. The band plays hit covers from those decades by such notable artists as Eric Clapton, Bob Seger, The Eagles, Credence Clearwater Revival, Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels, Dwight Yoakum and The Rolling Stones to mention a few. Sunchaser’s eclectic song catalog also includes Motown covers of Marvin Gaye & The Capitols as well as classic rock hits of Stevie Nicks, Fleetwood Mac, The Zombies, Linda Ronstadt and the B52s.


Sunchaser. (Photo Courtesy, Sunchaser)


“We pride ourselves on our diversity and our set list/catalog that spans multiple decades,” Benmark said. “We play a wide variety of different genres. We have a lot of diversity in the band and the members of our band also play multiple instruments. We also have a variety of different vocalists so there is a lot of variety in our performances.”

The diverse musical background and experience enables the band to cover a wide-range of styles. The musical diversity is one of the things the group believes is their biggest asset and the group constantly tries to push the envelope into different areas.

“The feedback from audiences has been very positive,” Benmark said. “Audience members often comment that there’s a little something for everyone in our set list.”


The group counts four solid vocalists in its lineup and having multiple lead singers enables the group to cover a variety of styles.


Along with Benmark, the group includes Bob Seif, the founding member of the band who plays guitar, keyboards, percussion and vocals. Seif has been playing and singing music in the Grand Rapids area since he was seven years old.


The band formed during the pandemic
“Music is the best therapy, period,” Seif said. “The only good thing to come out of the Covid pandemic for me was our band.”


Barb (Bobbi) Bean is one of the lead vocalists and also plays the keyboard. Bean has over 30 years experience performing in local and regional musical groups both big and small.


Pat Gil plays the bass guitar. Gil has been playing the bass guitar for over 30 years in various bands around the Midwest.


“We like to make our audiences happy,” Gil said. “We pick a lot of groove-oriented songs to get people moving. Our unofficial slogan is, ‘We play it, you shake it.’”


Mike Danielson is the drummer for the group and also a vocalist. Danielson began drumming at the age of 10 and started playing in his first band in the seventh grade.


“I have always liked many styles of music,” Danielson said. “I have played in different style bands to hone my experience in that style. Music has been an important part of who I am for my entire life and has been so therapeutic for me and many friends along this journey.”


The band is a tight-knit group that enjoys performing and making music with each other.


“We really enjoy what we are doing,” Benmark said. “We are pretty tight friends and that shows up on stage. We have a lot of fun and also add some humor to our shows. We want our audience to really enjoy the performance.”


Along with playing popular covers, the band also plays some deeper cuts and some music that audiences may not have heard in a while.

“We like to find some things that are not covered by a lot of bands,” Benmark said. “Our concerts are not all the same songs. You hear a different sound due to our versatility and having people playing different instruments and different vocals.” 

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

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


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

How it works

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional energy assistance

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

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

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

More resources:

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

Contact your local DHHS office here

Federal poverty level guidelines

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

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Environment, Health, Kent County, medical moment, Weather, West Michigan, , , , , ,
The air quality in West Michigan is currently considered unhealthy for sensitive groups (Courtesy, AirNow.gov)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

Sensitive groups are encouraged to take precautions.


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

Air pollution cause

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

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

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

EGLE recommends:

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

How air quality is measured

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

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

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

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

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

Air quality advisories/alerts information:

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

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

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

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

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

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


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

Growing up on rock-n-roll

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Honoring a legend

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

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

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

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

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

Concert details

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

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

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

Lyme disease cases up 168% over five years in Michigan: How to avoid tick bites

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Blacklegged tick. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)


By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


When it comes to summertime pests in Michigan, the pesky mosquito is generally thought of first. While that annual nuisance is prevalent again this year, another pest is making a comeback and taking its toll on Michiganders.

Like the mosquito, ticks are another summertime culprit that feasts on humans and spreads its own varieties of disease.

Tick-borne diseases, particularly Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, are increasing across the state of Michigan.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Lyme disease cases have increased 168% over the last five years. Michigan recorded 1,215 cases of Lyme disease in 2024, as compared to 452 cases in 2020. Anaplasmosis cases in Michigan have seen an almost fivefold increase over the last five years, with 82 cases in 2024 compared to 17 in 2020.

Lyme disease most common one in Michigan

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is the most common tick-borne disease in Michigan. (Michigan Health and Human Services) Anaplasmosis, caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, is the second most common tick-borne disease and cases are increasing, particularly in the northern parts of the state.


Blacklegged ticks. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)


“Preventing tick bites is the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease and anaplasmosis,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the MDHHS. “If you find a tick attached to your body, promptly remove it. Monitor your health, and if you experience fever, rash, muscle or joint aches or other symptoms, or if you suspect a tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, consult with your medical provider.”



Key Points from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

*Infected ticks are found most commonly in forested areas in the northeastern, north-central, and mid-Atlantic states, and in smaller areas within Pacific Coast states.
*Lyme disease bacteria causing human infection in the United States are spread to people by blacklegged (Ixodes) ticks.
*In general, infected ticks must be attached for more than 24 hours to transmit infection; prompt tick removal can prevent transmission.


Roughly 75% of Michigan Counties have a known risk for Lyme disease according to the latest map published by the Michigan.gov. Menominee and Dickinson Counties in the Upper Peninsula ranked first and second in the state for most confirmed cases of Lyme Disease. However, closer to home, Kalamazoo County was fourth, Ottawa County seventh and Allegan County is eighth in number of confirmed cases.

Unlike many other diseases, there is currently no vaccine to guard against Lyme Disease.

“There is a Lyme Disease vaccine for dogs,” said Dr. Maria Diuk-Wasser, a professor of ecology, evolution and environmental biology at Columbia University, who is researching the spread of ticks and which parts of the country tend to harbor disease-carrying ticks. “There is a vaccine in the works that is scheduled to come out in a couple of years. There used to be a vaccine for ticks, but it was taken off the market due to poor sales about 20 years ago.” 

The early symptoms of Lyme disease, according to the Mayo Clinic, are fever, headache, extreme tiredness, joint stiffness, muscle aches and pains and swollen lymph nodes. Signs and symptoms of tick-borne disease typically begin one to two weeks after a bite, often after being in wooded or brushy areas where ticks commonly live. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can decrease the risk of serious complications.


Classic Lyme disease rash. (Photo Courtesy, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

According to Health and Human Services, both Lyme disease and anaplasmosis are transmitted by Ixodes scapularis, commonly known as the blacklegged or deer tick. The blacklegged tick is well-established in parts of Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and has been expanding its range over the years. 

The MDHHS is encouraging Michigan residents to take steps to avoid tick bites while enjoying the outdoors. Protect yourself against Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases by following these tips.

*Avoid tick-infested areas that harbor them like grassy, brushy and wooded areas. Individuals should walk in the center of trails to avoid contact with overgrown grass, brush and leaf litter on trail edges. Dogs and cats can encounter ticks outdoors and bring them into the home. Talk with your veterinarian about the best tick prevention products.
*Apply an EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin. Treat clothes before going out to forested areas or hiking with permethrin, which kills ticks on contact or buy clothes that are pre-treated. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
*Always check for ticks on yourself and your animals after being outdoors, including in your own yard. Inspect all body surfaces carefully and remove attached ticks carefully with tweezers.
*Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors, preferably within two hours, to wash off and more easily find ticks. Wash clothing in hot water and dry on high heat to kill ticks.

For more information on Lyme disease and other tick-borne conditions, or how to submit your tick and/or photo of a tick, visit Michigan.gov/Lyme.

The Kent County Health Department also has a Tick Borne Diseases Fact Sheet available on its website.

Additional information nationally is available at CDC.gov/Lyme.

West Michigan shows economic resilience despite months of uncertainty

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


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

Three-year highs

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

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

(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

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

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

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

June survey key index results of West Michigan businesses:

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

Resource Links

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

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

MHSAA: A century of school sports

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, ,
(Logo Courtesy, MHSAA)



By Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor
greer@wktv.org


A primary mission of the MHSAA’s 100-year anniversary has been to connect today’s athletes, administrators, coaches, game officials and spectators with their roles in the ever-growing story of school sports in Michigan.

Indeed, together, we are the MHSAA.

Over the last 10 months and with today’s 44th and final installment, our “Century of School Sports” series also has sought to tell a deeper and more detailed story of how the MHSAA has arrived at this moment. As our work becomes new with the start of every school year, and with every family experiencing educational athletics for the first time, it’s a story that must always be updated, expanded and retold.

But at the heart of most organizations is a fundamental statement. So to close this celebration, we below break down what is literally the “About” of the MHSAA – as we prepare to build on these values in adding to our story again and again during the century to come.

The MHSAA is a private, not-for-profit corporation …

Although the MHSAA has built a thriving relationship with the Michigan Department of Education over the last many decades – and, in fact, the state superintendent or designee has a non-voting position on the Representative Council – the MHSAA also has maintained its autonomy since its start and even before, as a legislative takeover attempt of the former Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Association led to the MHSAA’s formation in December 1924.

The MHSAA was first incorporated in 1972 and is classified as a 501(c)(3) organization. In the most basic terms, as a non-profit corporation the MHSAA must reinvest all revenue it receives back into its mission of administering school sports. Put another way, whatever money the MHSAA makes must be spent to conduct its tournament events and the several other educational, leadership, etc., programs the MHSAA provides for students, coaches, officials and others who contribute to educational athletics.

… of voluntary membership …

Through their boards of education, member schools voluntarily join the MHSAA each and every year, vowing by formal school board resolution to abide by and enforce the MHSAA’s rules for educational athletics. Membership is optional; schools may conduct a complete program of interscholastic athletics and may participate against MHSAA member schools in regular-season competition without joining the MHSAA. But the great majority of high schools in Michigan approve that membership annually.

… by more than 1,500 public and private senior high schools and junior high/middle schools …

Over the last several years, the MHSAA has counted about 750 high schools and 800 junior high or middle schools, or elementary schools with 6th-grader participation, among its membership. For 2024-25, those totals were 754 high schools, 777 junior high/middle schools and 63 elementary schools with participating sixth graders.

… which exists to develop common rules for athletic eligibility and competition.

This drove the original formation of school sports associations across the nation going back to the late 1800s, including the Michigan State Teachers Association’s first inroad into athletic administration in 1895. The MHSAA Handbook, updated annually with rules and other changes voted upon by the Representative Council, is the rulebook for all MHSAA member schools – public and nonpublic – with rules for general topics like student eligibility but also specific to each sport to regulate scheduling and other intricacies.

No government funds or tax dollars support the MHSAA …

In maintaining that independence noted above, the MHSAA receives no funding from local, state or federal governments. The MHSAA’s income is derived primarily from ticket sales at postseason events, with smaller portions from sponsors and advertising, officials and coaches education registration fees – and again, with all money brought in by the MHSAA going back into those tournament events and programs to support students, athletic directors, coaches and officials.

… which was the first such association nationally to not accept membership dues or tournament entry fees from schools.

These have long been points of pride for the MHSAA; membership remains and has been completely free since the mid-1940s, after the end of World War II, and member schools may enter MHSAA Tournaments for free.

Member schools which enforce these rules are permitted to participate in MHSAA tournaments …

In adopting and upholding MHSAA rules as their own, school districts agree to promote a standard of competitive equity necessary to keep MHSAA Tournament events fair for all involved.

… which attract more than 1.4 million spectators each year.

Over the last 35 years, attendance at MHSAA Tournament events has reached at least 1.1 million spectators annually (not counting the COVID-affected 2019-20 and 2020-21 school years), with a high of 1.68 million during the 2005-06 school year. Attendance during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years began climbing again toward 1.5 million spectators, those last two years’ ticket totals ranking among the highest over the last 15.

School sports have a massive footprint in Michigan, which has a population just above 10 million residents. Sure, attendance figures likely count the same spectators several times – the same person might buy tickets for several rounds of several sports over the course of a school year – but a one-to-one comparison using athlete totals also is powerful.

Conservatively, Michigan has at least 160,000 high school athletes. Add in parents of those athletes, grandparents, other relatives with significant interest, and that’s a huge block – let’s say at least 5 percent of the state’s population have some current tie to the athletes playing at the local high school. That’s not even covering athletes at MHSAA junior highs and middle schools, coaches and athletic directors at all levels, and more than 8,000 game officials who make those contests possible. And our groups of athletes are rolling over at least every four years, meaning many tens of thousands more have had at least recent direct contact as participants in our programs.

The MHSAA always has provided opportunities to compete and win championships, but more importantly to learn life lessons gleaned from simply taking part in the process.  

This work is important; its impact is significant. And just as our predecessors surely felt beginning this endeavor 100 years ago, we remain eager and enthused to play our part.

Celtic band On The Lash up next in Kentwood Summer Concert Series; July 10

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , ,
Celtic band On The Lash to perform at Kentwood Summer Concert Series. (Photo Courtesy, On The Lash)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org



The sweet sound of traditional Celtic music will create an atmosphere of Saint Patrick’s Day in the middle of summer as the Kentwood Summer Concert Series welcomes On The Lash to the stage Thursday night.


The band features traditional Irish/Scottish music that it personalizes with its original voices. On The Lash not only provides new takes on classical Irish songs and Celtic music, but also features original songs in the traditional Irish/Scottish standards.


This Thursday’s concert is set to begin at 7 p.m. and last until 8:30 on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. It also will be Bike Night at the Kentwood Farmers Market as local bike organizations are featured. There also will be food trucks on hand and concertgoers are encouraged to come early and check out the Farmers Market next door from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.


Kentwood Farmers Market. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



This week’s concert will have you in the mood to drink some Cream Ale or Stout while listening to some relaxing Celtic melodies.


On The Lash provides a local flavor to the Celtic music it plays as the band, which has been together for three years, is comprised of former Western Michigan University students who have West Michigan roots.


“We’ve been together for three years as a band, but we’ve known each other for a decade,” said John Robey. “We met in college at Western Michigan where we were all music majors. I grew up playing Irish and Scottish music and a couple of the other members also played this type of music.”


Robey plays the fiddle in the band which also includes Patrick Harson on guitar, Joel Myers, mandolin, and Elizabeth June, vocals and flute.


“Eizabeth is the star,” Robey said.


The band performs year-round, but is at its busiest during March, November and December. They play at concert venues during the fall and winter months and venture to outdoor festivals during the summer and early fall.


“We play a very exciting blend of classical Irish and Scottish music,” Myers said. “We play some covers of Irish and Scottish-style songs and we also have our own original music.”


Along with their performances, the band also spreads their knowledge of traditional Celtic music throughout the community.


“We also do a fair amount of work with schools teaching Irish/Scottish music and putting on workshops,” Robey said. “We like teaching Irish/Scottish music and presenting it to newcomers who want to know more about it.”


The group is excited about the upcoming show in Kentwood and looks forward to performing the Irish/Scottish variety of music to this week’s concertgoers.


“We are looking forward to playing in Kentwood,” Myers said. “It will be a really fun show. We will be playing some of the traditional staples along with some other really good Irish/Scottish music. We will also be playing some of our own songs. We bring a lot of energy and the people at the show will have a good time.”


The band will play some covers of some of the traditional Irish jigs and reels and also will cover some traditional Irish/Scottish bands of the 1970’s and 80’s including Silly Wizard, a Scottish folk band that formed in Edinburgh in 1970. Silly Wizard was one of the more popular Scottish folk bands of the 1970’s and 80’s.


On The Lash also will do some covers of The Paul McKenna Band, which is one of the top folk bands to come out of Scotland in the last 20 years.


To get a taste of what On The Lash has to offer the band has just released their first album currently available on Spotify. The five-song album is called Fireside and a preview can be found on the band’s website onthelashband.com.


Most of the music on the album is from the traditional Irish heritage that is the primary influence of the band. 

Kentwood Police investigate stabbing at City Line Apartments July 5

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, First Responders, Hard News, Kent County, West Michigan, ,
Courtesy, Kentwood Police Department


By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org

The Kentwood Police Department responded to a stabbing at City Line Apartments near the intersection of S. Division Ave./52nd St. on Saturday, July 5.

A male victim was located nearby with a serious, but non-life-threatening stab wound to the leg. He was treated at a local hospital. The female suspect was later located nearby and was taken into custody without incident. She was lodged at the Kent County Jail.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6600. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.

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

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


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

Mishel Pollard of Catherine’s Health Center standing in the hallway at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)

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

Additional care

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

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

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

Bringing integrated services to the community

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned!

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

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

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

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


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Fulfilling a vital need

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

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

A community hub

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

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


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

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


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


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

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

Events year-round

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


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


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

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

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

Restoring a previous historic Wyoming event is also under consideration.

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

Intentional connections

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

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


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

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

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

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


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


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

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

Come one, come all!

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

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

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

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

Resource links

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

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

For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.

Hello heat wave! Hydration critical for older adults

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kent County, Senior Living, West Michigan,
Makenna Diller, a registered dietitian with Care Resources PACE®, talks with Vicki S. about the importance of hydration during the hot summer months and how fruits can help. (Photo Courtesy, Care Resources)


By Care Resources
greer@wktv.org


There’s nothing quite like summer in Michigan, but the heat waves that come with it can be dangerous, particularly for older adults and other vulnerable populations.

Registered Dietitian Makenna Diller with Care Resources, a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, says older adults are at increased risk for heat-related health problems for several reasons.

Stay hydrated

“The biggest concern for all of us when it comes to really hot days is making sure we are staying hydrated,” Diller said. “It is especially important for older adults, who are more likely to have health concerns or medications that impact their ability to keep cool.

“Additionally, the body’s triggers for thirst diminish as part of the natural aging process. That combined with memory issues or other cognitive changes may make it more difficult to remember to drink water.”

Diller says the trigger for thirst is the last step in terms of our bodies telling us we need water, so don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Having a plan in place to ensure ongoing fluid intake is key. Regular reminders from caregivers and loved ones can help.

Add flavors

Diller also encourages finding ways to make drinking water more enjoyable by adding flavors, such as cucumber or lemon.

“It is important to keep getting fluids, and that doesn’t always have to mean just water,” Diller says. “Fluids can come from anywhere. There are a lot of foods we can incorporate that support hydration. Think of any fruit or vegetable that’s juicy or watery when you bite into it.”

Add fruits and vegetables for fluid intake

Diller says melons, lettuce, celery, grapes, berries, oranges and pineapples are all great options that can count toward your daily fluid intake.

“Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can be a win-win for getting that fluid component, but also great vitamins and minerals,” she adds.

How meals are prepared on hot days also is important. Diller recommends avoiding the use of ovens and stoves, which can really heat up a home.

“Find meal prep ideas online that use alternative kitchen equipment and personalize them to your own tastes,” Diller says. “That may look like a microwave, air fryer or pressure cooker, anything that can put off less heat, but still result in a substantial meal. Searching for ‘air fryer recipes’ or ‘summer pressure cooker ideas’ is a great way to get the creativity going.

“Consider buying foods that are already pre-cooked in the store, such as rotisserie chicken and canned veggies or beans. Salads and cold sandwiches also are great options that have the added benefit of being easy to prepare and personalize with different ingredients.”

Whenever considering dietary modifications, Diller recommends getting specialized guidance. She says dietary health plans should be customized to individuals’ specific health needs, lifestyle, age and tastes as well as cultural background and financial situation.

“With a dietitian, you can get the most up-to-date research and medical nutrition therapy recommendations that are relevant for your specific situation,” Diller says. “If you aren’t enrolled in a program like Care Resources, your primary care provider may be able to make a referral.”

Nutrition counseling is one of many services for adults 55 years and older provided by Care Resources. For more information, call 800-610-6299 or visit CareResources.org.

A fun, eventful July planned for the City of Kentwood

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Food, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , ,
(Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)




By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org


Kentwood’s Fourth of July Celebration kicks off a fun, eventful month. Be sure to check out all these cool upcoming events in July!








Celebrate the Fourth of July on Friday with a full day of activities.

  • 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast at Kentwood Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma Ave. SE.
  • 8 a.m. – 5K Race and Fun Walk at City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE.
  • 9:30 a.m. – Parade following this route.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Carnival with rides and games for all ages at City Hall. Wristbands for the carnival will be available for purchase Wednesday, July 2, until Thursday, July 3 for $20 at City Hall and the Kentwood Activities Center.
  • 4 to 10 p.m. – Evening Celebration at City Hall with community booths, food trucks, a beer tent and live music – all leading up to FIREWORKS at DUSK.

Community members are encouraged to bring credit and debit cards to the event since all activities and many vendors are cashless. Find all the details, including parking and volunteer information, at kentwood.us/July4.


“Our Parks and Recreation and Public Works departments begin planning months in advance to make Kentwood’s Fourth of July Celebration a memorable event for all,” Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo said. “From the morning pancake breakfast to the evening fireworks, this celebration is a great opportunity for our community to come together, have fun and honor the holiday.”

Check out the Kentwood Summer Concert Series Lineup for July
From 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday through Aug. 14 there is live music from local bands. Bring a blanket or chair and watch the performances on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE.

Kentwood Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)

Food trucks will be on-site with food and beverages for purchase each week. Concertgoers may also bring their own food and beer or wine. Get there early and explore the Kentwood Farmers Market from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot behind City Hall.




July’s lineup includes four performances:
July 10 – On the Lash, performing traditional Celtic music. Food trucks include Freddy Franks, Los Pinches Tacos and Dakiddd Bar-B-Que & Catering.
July 17 – Sunchaser, a five-piece band playing rock, country, blues, R&B and more. Food trucks include Taquero Mucho, Falafel Truck, Boujee Bowls and Taste of Toya’s World.
July 24 – Grupo Fierro, performing energetic norteño and tejano music. Food trucks include Kory’s Antojitos, Around Baking Company, Frostbite Shaved Ice and Patty Matters.
July 31 – Roosevelt Diggs, performing a blend of folk, country, bluegrass, blues and more. Food trucks include Freddy Franks, Tamales Mary, Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ and Dolce Mini Cakes.
Please note: There’s no concert or Farmers Market on July 3. For more information about the concerts, go to Kentwood.us/MarketsAndMusic.

Shop Local at the Kentwood Farmers Market through Aug. 21
The 11th season of the Kentwood Farmers Market runs through Aug. 21. You can find fresh produce, baked goods, tea, craft items and more from a variety of local vendors from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Thursday behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Food trucks also are on-site each week.

Get the latest updates from the Kentwood Farmers Market Facebook page.


Kentwood Farmers Market. (Photo Courtesy, City of Kentwood)


Summer Food Programs

Free lunches for children and some adults are available again this summer through Kent District Library’s Gather 2 Grow program, a partnership with Feeding America West Michigan. Kids ages 0-18 and individuals who are younger than age 26 and have a disability can enjoy a nutritious lunch from noon to 1 p.m. Monday-Friday through Aug. 29 at KDL – Kentwood (Richard L. Root), 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Learn more at kdl.org/lunch.


In addition, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is starting its annual SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) program, providing eligible households with $120 per child to purchase nutritious groceries. This initiative ensures kids have access to healthy food while school is out, bridging a gap in food security for thousands of kids in Michigan. Learn more and apply here.


The Kent District Library (KDL) Kentwood Branch Library. (WKTV)

Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Events
The Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch will offer a variety of programs this month, including:
KDL Lab Experience: Creature Power: Thursday, July 3, 10-11 a.m. Explore the amazing world of creatures big and small as we dive into fun animal activities.
Ruff Readers: Tuesday, July 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. This unique read-aloud program in partnership with West Michigan Therapy Dogs Inc. pairs kids with a trained therapy dog and their handler. Kids read their favorite book and the pooches curl up, listen and enjoy.
Eric Litwin – Pete the Cat Family Concert: Tuesday, July 15, 10-11 a.m. Join Eric Litwin, the original author of the “Pete the Cat” series as well as the author of “The Nuts and Groovy Joe,” for a groovy time of song singing, guitar strumming and picture taking.
Chasing the Aurora Below the 45th Parallel: What It Takes to Catch the Northern Lights: Tuesday, July 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join Melissa Kaelin, founder of Michigan Aurora Chasers and author of “Beyond the 45th Parallel,” to discover how to view the northern lights. Learn how an aurora is created and the best methods for predicting an aurora display.


Also, check out KDL’s Author Talks, online conversations in which authors of interesting, popular, informative and compelling books share more about their work, their writing process and the things that inspire them. These conversations are led by passionate readers from the Library Speakers Consortium, and they offer a chance for attendees to ask questions about their favorite authors and topics. Learn more at kdl.org/authortalks. Find a full list of KDL events at kdl.org


Home Lead Inspections
Get ahead of lead: Homeowners who live in a home built before 1978 can get free paint, dust and soil lead testing through Kent County Community Action. Learn more and apply for the Kent County Lead Evaluation and Reduction program by visiting gettingaheadoflead.com/kclear.

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

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , , , ,
The audience can expect a rockin’ good time as The Reverend Jesse Ray, accompanied by his Carolina Catfish band, treats attendees to new songs and fan favorites (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The importance of authenticity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practicing what he preaches

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

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

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

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

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

Bringing people together

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

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

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

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

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

Concert details

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

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

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

Kentwood Police investigate shooting Wednesday at Jaycee Park

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(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)


By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


The Kentwood Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at 4:47 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, at Jaycee Park (1088 Gentian Dr. SE).

Upon arrival, officers located shell casings, along with damage to a vehicle. At this time no injuries were reported, and no suspects have been arrested.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department at 616-656-6580.  Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.