One person is in custody and stolen money has been recovered after a bank robbery the morning of Nov. 3 at PNC Bank in the 200 block of 28th Street SW (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
One person is in custody and stolen money has been recovered after a bank robbery this morning at PNC Bank in the 200 block of 28th Street SW.
Incident details
At approximately 10:53 a.m. on Nov. 3, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to the PNC, located at 220 28th Street SW, on the report of a bank robbery that had just occurred.
A suspect entered the bank, approached a teller, and demanded money. He implied he had a weapon. An undisclosed amount of cash was obtained by the suspect who then left the bank on foot. A few Grand Rapids Police Officers were in the area on an unrelated matter and observed a person matching the suspect’s description near 28th Street and Buchanan Avenue SW.
When Wyoming Police arrived, the 34-year-old suspect was taken into custody, and proceeds of the robbery were located in his possession. He was subsequently lodged at the Kent County Jail. The suspect’s identity is not being released pending arraignment.
Continuing investigation
Wyoming Police are grateful that no one was injured during this incident and appreciate the assistance of the Grand Rapids Police in helping locate the suspect in this robbery within minutes. Wyoming Police Detectives and the FBI will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this robbery.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police Detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
The annual Wyoming Veterans Breakfast includes a hot breakfast, guest speaker Doug Boomer, and a ceremony presented by the Wyoming Police Honor Guard (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
The annual Wyoming Veterans Breakfast will take place at the Wyoming Senior Center (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
The City of Wyoming invites Veterans and community members to attend its annual Veterans Breakfast on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 9 a.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center (2380 DeHoop Ave SW).
Veterans are welcome to attend at no charge as a thank you for their service. All other guests are welcome with a $10 registration. The event includes a hot breakfast, guest speaker Doug Boomer, and a ceremony presented by the Wyoming Police Honor Guard.
“This event is one small way we can show deep appreciation for the sacrifices our Veterans have made,” said Krashawn Martin, Director of Parks and Recreation. “It’s always a heartfelt morning where our community comes together to honor those who’ve served with pride and gratitude.”
Pre-registration is required to attend. Those wishing to participate must register by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at (616) 530-3164.
Veterans gather at a previous annual Wyoming Veterans Breakfast (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
This Veterans Day, AnchorPoint Christian students will set up a field of American flags in partnership with Disabled American Veterans to honor local veterans and raise critical funds to support our nation’s ill and injured heroes (Courtesy, DAV)
Flags will be displayed at AnchorPoint Christian School on Nov. 11
This Veterans Day, AnchorPoint Christian School students will set up a field of American flags in partnership with Disabled American Veterans (DAV) to honor local veterans and raise critical funds to support our nation’s ill and injured heroes.
Each donated flag represents a special veteran in someone’s life, with proceeds benefiting DAV and the charity’s free, professional services for veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.
Local students show support for veterans (Courtesy, AnchorPoint Christian)
The flags will be displayed at AnchorPoint Christian School on Nov. 11.
“It’s been amazing to see our students get excited about something that honors others,” said Holly Gomez, a teacher at AnchorPoint Christian School.
“They’re realizing that even at their age, they can play a part in showing appreciation and supporting veterans in our community.”
Providing life-changing services
Headquartered in Erlanger, KY, DAV provides our nation’s veterans and their families with a range of programs, such as benefits assistance, transportation to and from VA medical appointments and more, at no cost. DAV volunteers donate nearly 2.5 million hours per year assisting veterans in their communities.
With over 1,200 chapters across the country, the charity has nearly one million members who give veterans a powerful voice at local, state and federal levels.
(Courtesy, DAV)
“Every flag in the field holds a unique story about a veteran who served and reminds their brothers- and sisters-in-arms that they are not forgotten,” said Barry Jesinoski, DAV CEO and national adjutant. “Each donation helps provide life-changing services for our nation’s veterans and their families. We are deeply touched by the community’s generosity and support.”
Kelloggsville is one of four area teams playing in the MHSAA state playoffs Friday. Godwin Heights, South Christian and East Kentwood round out the other three.
The Kentwood/Wyoming area is well represented in this year’s Michigan High School Athletic Association state playoffs that begin this Friday. East Kentwood, Godwin Heights, South Christian and Kelloggsville all qualified for the playoffs this year with two of the teams, East Kentwood and Godwin Heights, hosting playoffs.
East Kentwood is in the playoffs for the second straight year and is hosting a playoff game for the first time since 2018. The Falcons finished the season with a 7-2 record. East Kentwood is hosting Grand Ledge out of the Capital Area Activities Conference in a first round Division 1 playoff game with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m.
East Kentwood. (Photo Courtesy, Eli Reed)
Grand Ledge comes into the game at 7-2 and finished second in its league at 5-1 behind undefeated DeWitt. The Comets boast an offense that is putting up 35 points per game, while the defense is allowing 22.2 points. Grand Ledge played four playoff teams this year, including games against DeWitt and Detroit Catholic Central who both turned in 9-0 records. The Comets fell to DeWitt 59-7 and lost to Detroit Catholic Central 36-14.
Grand Ledge does share a common opponent with East Kentwood. In Week 1 Grand Ledge traveled to West Ottawa and claimed a 30-27 win. East Kentwood defeated West Ottawa 45-8 in Week 6.
East Kentwood enters the game with an offense putting up 40.8 points per game, while the Falcon defense is allowing 17.3 points. Kentwood has played five playoff teams this year. The two blemishes on the Kentwood schedule came by a combined total of eight points to Rockford (21-14) and Hudsonville (43-42), who have a combined record of 16-2 this season.
Unlike last year when the Falcons played at Hudsonville in the first round of a district comprised of fellow OK Red teams, the Falcons are in a district with teams to the east and south. The change of scenery is something East Kentwood Coach Tyrone Spencer doesn’t mind.
“It’s nice being able to play someone new that you haven’t seen before,” Spencer said. “After a season in the OK Red beating up each other, it’s a nice change to play someone else.”
Spencer said the team also is excited about the playoffs and the opportunity to play a home playoff game.
“The kids are super hyped up”
“We got together on Sunday to watch the selection show and they loved it,” Spencer continued. “They are excited about it and playing a home playoff game, something we haven’t done since 2018.”
(Image Courtesy, Godwin Heights)
Godwin Heights hosting
Godwin Heights finished the regular season with a 7-2 record and also will be hosting a playoff game. The Wolverines host Spring Lake Friday at 7 p.m. in a Division 4 playoff opener.
Spring Lake enters the game with a 6-3 mark. The Lakers are members of the OK White where they turned in a 3-2 record and finished third. The Lakers average 37.4 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 21.3 points. Spring Lake played three playoff teams this season, including losses to league rivals Grand Rapids West Catholic (21-14) and Grand Rapids Christian (24-21).
“Closely matched teams”
“It will be a matchup of a couple of closely matched teams,” said Godwin Heights Coach Brandon Kimble. “We don’t know a whole lot about them, but they did play Fruitport who is in our league. We are looking forward to it and we expect it to be a really good game.”
Godwin Heights counters with an offense that is putting up 28.3 points per game. The Wolverines have faced four playoff teams this season and were 2-2 in those meetings. Godwin Heights is in the playoffs for the first time since 2018 other than the 2020 covid season when every school in the state qualified for the playoffs.
“The guys put in a lot of hard work”
“The boys are excited about the game,” Kimble said. “Coming into the season, making the playoffs is one of our main goals. The guys put in a lot of hard work this season and it’s always good to see the success from all the hard work they put into it. We’re super excited about playing at home in front of our fans and the community. We’re also super appreciative of all the support we have received from the administration and the community.”
(Image Courtesy, South Christian)
10 years in a row for the Sailors
South Christian qualified for the playoffs for a 10th consecutive season. The last time the Sailors missed the playoffs was 2015 when they finished at 2-7. South Christian hits the road for the playoff opener as it travels to Portland to take on the 9-0 Raiders of Portland in a Division 4 playoff game slated for a 7 p.m. kickoff Friday. Portland reached the regional finals last season and two years ago the Raiders advanced to the state semifinals where they fell to South Christian 21-6.
Portland features a potent offense that is putting up 38.1 points per game and utilizes a strong ground game. The Raider defense is especially stingy allowing opponents five points per game. Portland has played three teams that qualified for the playoffs this season.
“They (Portland) have a real good program,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown. “The past few years they have had a lot of success. They know how to win. Watching the film you can see the enthusiasm they play with. They also tackle well and block well. They will be a challenge for us.”
South Christian enters the game at 4-5. A look inside the numbers, however, points to a highly-competitive schedule that the Sailors needed to navigate to earn a spot in the playoffs. South Christian played six playoff teams during the season with two wins against those teams to its credit. South defeated Grand Rapids Christian 27-13 and Zeeland East 41-12. The Sailors also had close losses to playoff teams, Grand Rapids Catholic Central (24-17), Zeeland West (12-6) and Grand Rapids West Catholic (27-20), meaning they enter the game being more than battle tested.
“The kids are excited for the opportunity,” Brown said. “They are excited about the playoffs, the second season, and playing in a win or go home situation.”
South enters the game with an offense putting up 22.3 points per game and its defense has developed into a team strength.
“Our defense has been continually improving,” Brown said. “We will really need our defense to play well Friday. We are going to need 11 hats flying to the football.”
Rockets head to the playoffs with a 6-3 mark
Kelloggsville enters the playoffs with a 6-3 record, the best mark at Kelloggsville since the 2017 Rocket team turned in a 9-0 regular season. That was the last time the Rockets qualified for the playoffs other than the 2020 season that was affected by the Covid pandemic.
Kelloggsville travels to Grand Rapids Catholic Central Friday for a 7 p.m. Division 5 opener.
Catholic Central is a familiar face in the playoffs for Kelloggsville as the Cougars defeated the Rockets 45-34 in the 2017 playoffs. That Catholic Central team also went on to win the Division 4 state championship.
Catholic Central enters the game with a 9-0 record. The Cougars, who average 29.3 points per game on offense, won the OK Black Conference championship this year. They field a stingy defense that’s allowing just 7.6 points per game. That defense was on display when the Cougars edged East Grand Rapids 10-7 in a game that determined the league champion. Catholic Central played a total of four playoff teams this year including a road win against defending Division 6 state champion Jackson Lumen Christi.
Running back Keyontae Gibson leading the charge
Kelloggsville enters the game with a high-powered offense of its own that’s putting up 25.2 points per game. The Rocket offense is led by running back Keyontae Gibson, who’s coming off a five-touchdown, 416-yard rushing effort in a win against Holland in the regular-season finale.
That win propelled the Rockets into the playoffs and the team is thrilled to be going.
“The kids are pumped up about it,” said Kelloggsville Coach Justin Dennett. “Everyone is really excited about it. It’s been great seeing the way the school and the community have rallied around the team. Everyone is embracing it and enjoying the ride.”
Featuring over 100 artisans from Mexico, Guelaguetza Designs in Wyoming is more than just a business that sells handmade clothing, jewelry and home decor from Mexico – it is a space to celebrate culture.
Guelaguetza Designs celebrated 20 years of business in September by outgrowing their previous store on DeHoop Avenue and moving to their current, larger location – an 8,000-square-foot building on 28th Street.
But owner Nancy Quero says the grand opening celebration was about more than reaching a milestone, it was about recognizing the impact Guelaguetza Designs has made in the community.
“Our commitment to celebrating culture and traditions has fostered a strong sense of belonging among community members,” Quero said. “We’ve created a space where stories are shared, traditions are honored, and every individual feels valued.”
Hugged by culture
Born and raised in Oaxaca, Mexico, Quero left her mother, brother and two sisters and immigrated to the United States when she was 19 years old, searching for opportunities to help her family.
“My dad died when I was 15,” Quero said. “My mom was struggling a little bit, and this opportunity came to come here. [I came] so I could help my family.”
Once in the U.S., however, Quero missed that connection with her family and culture.
Faced with a new culture, Quero found comfort in the clothes her mother made for her (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“I felt like there was something missing when I arrived here,” said Quero. “New country, new language, new people. So anytime I used to wear my tops or my dresses, I felt hugged by my culture, I felt hugged by my mom, who made those clothes.”
Recognizing the importance of remaining connected to her heritage, Quero founded Guelaguetza Designs in 2005. Not only did the business keep Quero rooted to her Mexican heritage, it provided a hub where the West Michigan Hispanic business and residential communities could connect with the rich culture of Mexico.
100% authentic
“Everything we sell here is 100% handmade in Mexico,” said Quero.
Collaborating with artisans in Mexico allows Quero to support underserved Mexican workshops by offering fair trade business practices that create sustainable business and preserve native Mexican ancestral techniques.
Many artists Quero collaborated with upon opening Guelaguetza Designs were from workshops her father had partnered with before his death.
“Right now I’m working with the daughters and sons of the people that my dad was working [with], so it’s like a second generation working together,” said Quero.
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Finding new workshops, Quero added, is an intricate process.
“We want to make sure that they are the ones who make everything that they sell because we want to make sure that we are sourcing items that are 100% authentic, [and] that we are contributing to those workshops directly,” Quero said. “I ask a lot of questions, [and] I ask for videos if I’m not able to go and visit their workshop.”
Though her mother and siblings are all involved in art and design, Quero admitted her passion lies more with business and relational aspects, similar to her father.
“I was taught how to sew and embroider – the basics,” said Quero, “but that’s something that I do not enjoy as much as talking to the people, selling, being that bridge between those workshops and my community here. That’s what I love, what I enjoy the most.”
A long journey
The journey to becoming a brick-and-mortar business was a long one. Fourteen years, to be exact.
Though Quero began selling handmade products in 2005, the first Guelaguetza Designs brick-and-mortar store did not open until 2019. In the last six years, however, they outgrew the 3,000-square-foot building and moved to their current – and larger – location on 28th Street.
Guelaguetza can now be found at their new 8,000 square-foot location on 28th Street (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)Guelaguetza can now be found at their new 8,000 square-foot location on 28th Street (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Quero credits her success to awareness of community changes and demand over the years. Those observations led her to develop new business plans and strategies as needed to bring products to those desiring Mexican culture and those wanting to learn about Mexican culture.
“In the last five years, there is a boom of people being curious about Mexico,” said Quero. She went on to say that many people became interested in learning about Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) after the release of the animated film Coco.
Día de los Muertos
This ofrenda rests just inside the main entrance of Guelaguetza Designs (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Celebrated between Oct. 31-Nov. 2, Día de los Muertos is a festive and colorful holiday where individuals and families remember and honor deceased loved ones.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re not Mexican,” said Quero. “You can still remember; it is very important. That’s why there is a specific date for us to do this.
“Día de los Muertos is about that: remembering all of those who are no longer with us, remembering their lives, their happiness, and everything good they added to our lives.”
During the annual celebration, it is common to create an ofrenda, or altar, to honor loved ones. Many people begin with only flowers and pictures of their loved ones. Over time, they may add water, incense, art, sugar skulls and other elements.
Inside Guelaguetza Designs is an ofrenda with various items and written meanings for each item or element. Quero said this is helpful for patrons who come ready to find items to add to their ofrenda.
“It’s a very nice moment, and I love seeing community come together celebrating this kind of holiday.”
Embracing cultural heritage
Through Guelaguetza Designs, Quero works to inspire youth to embrace their own cultural heritage, learn about the culture and identities of others, and foster a lifelong commitment to cultural awareness and social responsibility.
Quero learned the importance of giving back from her parents (Courtesy, Guelaguetza Designs)
“It’s very important because it’s part of who we are,” said Quero. “It’s very important that we, as a parent, instill in them that love for our culture – so that when they grow up they can continue it.
“That’s the only way that our heritage and culture can continue going through many years to come.”
Giving back is also at the heart of everything Quero does.
“Anything that we give back – your time, money – it’s important. We love supporting different causes and other nonprofit organizations that align with our mission.”
For more information about Guelaguetza Designs, click here.
Wyoming Public Schools is asking residents to approve a new bond totaling $29.75 million that will provide support for day-to-day district operations and complete projects identified in their long-range facilities plan (Video provided by Wyoming Public Schools)
Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) is asking residents to approve a new bond totaling $29.75 million that will provide support for day-to-day district operations and complete projects identified in their long-range facilities plan.
In communications sent to all WPS families, Superintendent Craig Hoekstra encourages community members to be aware of three proposals on the Nov. 4, 2025 election ballot and what each proposal will fund.
(Courtesy, Wyoming Public Schools)
“This bond, if approved, will allow us to complete our Facility Master Plan that we built many years ago,” said Hoekstra in a video introducing the bond proposal.
“We put a great plan together to completely update our school district. Our buildings were built between the 1940s and the 1960s, so completing our Master Facilities Plan will allow us to execute our vision that best supports our kids today, but also well into the future.”
Bond proposal facts
Supplied by Wyoming Public Schools
The Kent ISD Regional Enhancement Millage would be restored and renewed to a total of 0.9 mills for educational and operational programming.
The WPS Sinking Fund replaces our expiring Sinking Fund and would result in a no net tax rate increase and focuses on repairs, safety, technology replacements, and buses.
The WPS Bond Proposal totals $29.75 million to complete projects identified in our Master Facilities Plan, including new learning spaces for students, air conditioning and secure entrances in remaining buildings, elementary media center updates, and a gym addition at Gladiola. If the Bond Proposal is approved, the overall net debt millage rate is expected to decrease by 0.15 mills.
WPS Bond Proposal (Courtesy, Wyoming Public Schools)WPS Sinking Fund Proposal (Courtesy, Wyoming Public Schools)
A tax decrease
Hoekstra went on to say that WPS asked for help from the community three different times – in 2017, 2022 and now 2025 – to avoid the inevitable tax increase of a one-time large bond request.
“We were being very mindful and fiscally responsible with our community with no increase (2017), no increase (2022), and this one is a tax decrease (2025),” said Hoekstra.
This third and final bond request on Nov. 4 will allow WPS to continue work begun with the previous two proposals without any gaps in advancement and completion of the Master Facilities Plan.
“These proposals aren’t just about buildings, they are about creating spaces where students feel safe, supported and ready to succeed,” a WPS student said in the bond proposal video.
“I’m excited because we get to go out to our community, be good stewards of their resources, and just supporting our kids at a very high level moving forward,” said Hoekstra. “What excites me the most is we’re doing this for our kids.”
Learn more
More information on the bond proposals can be found at wyomingps.org.
Darius Walker, 2025 winner of the SNF Kingpin of Comedy competition (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The Sunday Night Funnies‘ (SNF) seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition began with 91 comedians on May 11, and ended with one on Oct. 26 when Darius Walker was crowned the 2025 Kingpin of Comedy champion before a capacity crowd at Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
“As always with the finals, the audience vote was very tight with only five votes separating first and third place,” said Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “But Darius had an outstanding set.”
Brian B. went on to say that Walker had been a Kingpin of Comedy finalist the previous two years, so he was not surprised Walker won the title of 2025 champion.
“Over the years, I’ve seen him mature as a comedian,” said Brian B. “I know that he puts a lot of effort in going out and doing shows, as well as always writing new material.”
Prizes worthy of a king!
As the Kingpin of Comedy winner, Walker received a prize package worth over $1,000.
The SNF Kingpin of Comedy final competition was filled to capacity with interested audience members (Courtesy, Brian B.)
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought that the overall winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Town,” said Brian B.
Walker received a prize package worth over $1,000 (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The prize package included $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and GLC Live at 20 Monroe, as well as prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
Walker also received a bowling pin trophy, personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt, a video of his winning performance, and an invitation to close the SNF special 2026 LaughFest performance in March.
After his victory, Walker said, “I’d like to thank my wife, friends and the Grand Rapids comedy community for helping me grow as a comedian!”
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
An assessor from CALEA will arrive on Monday, Oct. 27 to conduct an on-site review over a four-day period. This visit is the final step in a rigorous four-year accreditation cycle and includes a comprehensive examination of the department’s policies, procedures, management, operations and support services.
The gold standard
CALEA Accreditation is considered the gold standard in public safety professionalism. It provides independent verification that a law enforcement agency meets internationally recognized best practices in areas such as accountability, transparency and community partnership.
For the Wyoming community, accreditation ensures:
Enhanced public trust, by confirming that department practices are ethical, transparent, and consistent with national standards.
Improved service delivery, through policies that promote efficiency, fairness, and responsiveness to community needs.
Reduced risk and liability, by ensuring clear, accountable procedures for critical incidents and daily operations.
Commitment to continuous improvement, with each accreditation cycle driving new opportunities to strengthen public safety services.
The assessment process
(Courtesy Photo)
As part of the assessment process, the department invites members of the community to share feedback through the CALEA Public Comment Portal.
Community members are encouraged to share comments regarding the department’s compliance with CALEA standards, community engagement, quality of service and overall professionalism.
Comments may include commendations or concerns and can be submitted directly to CALEA through the Public Comment Portal. Feedback provided through the portal goes directly to CALEA and will be acknowledged upon receipt.
The purpose of this process is to gather valuable input that helps the Wyoming PD and CALEA continue to strengthen the standards of professional policing.
Contact WPD directly
Individuals who wish to share comments or questions directly with the Wyoming PD may also do so by calling 616-530-7300, visiting the department in person, or submitting an online message through the Police Department Contact Form on the City of Wyoming website.
Kingpin competition finalists (Courtesy, Brian B.)
Ninety-eight comedians are now down to eight as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition enters its final round on Sunday, Oct. 26.
“We have a good mix of comedians performing in the Kingpin finals this year,” says Brian B., MC and founder of the SNF.
Participating comedians hail from the Grand Rapids and Detroit areas, Holland and Buchanan.
“It’s a diverse lineup as well,” says Brian B. “Of the eight comedians performing, two are women and four of the comics are of color.”
The Kingpin of Comedy final round will also feature a drawing for a pair of tickets to comedian Adam Degi’s first standup comedy special recording on Nov. 14 at the Pyramid Scheme in Grand Rapids.
Degi will also be closing out the Kingpin Finals while the votes are being counted.
Prizes galore!
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought that the overall winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Town,” says Brian B.
The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and GLC Live at 20 Monroe, as well as prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy and personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences.
Marine Corps veteran and Birthday Ball organizer Eric Winters with skywritten smiley face above him at the Muskegon Air Show. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
While recovering from a car accident after his Marine Corps service, veteran Eric Winters wasn’t happy with the challenges he faced.
“During my recovery, I became so mad at the system that I had to start a nonprofit to help my military brothers and sisters,” explained Winters, who founded a nonprofit called VETS (Veteran Enrichment Taskforce Services) in 2024. “We are out here advocating for our military community, with a primary focus on mental health, housing and more.”
Winters was inspired to found VETS after the accident left him unable to continue working. He said he wanted to advocate for veterans who have been left behind. The nonprofit seeks to raise awareness of veterans’ issues through community events.
Their mission: “To identify, develop, deliver and evaluate veteran-based needs paralleled with a service solution for growth, prosperity and fun.”
Marine Corps Birthday Ball This year marks the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps and what better way to highlight the milestone with a celebration.
Marine Corps Birthday Ball to celebrate 250th anniversary. Tickets can be purchased through Nov. 3. (Image Courtesy, Eric Winters)
“I had a sudden epiphany,” said Winters, who served from 2004 to 2012. “Milestone life events bring parties, and parties bring people and awareness. It just so happened that Marines around the world would be celebrating their birthday, so let’s host the next Marine Corps birthday ball.”
The First Annual City of Grand Rapids Marine Corps Birthday Ball will be held on Monday, Nov. 10, at the DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids. That marks the exact date the Marine Corps was founded 250 years ago; Nov. 10, 1775, in Philadelphia by Commandant Samuel Nicholas.
The Marines were the third branch of the US Armed Forces, arriving five months after the Army and one month after the Navy. Today, the Marine Corps is a component of the U.S. Department of the Navy, with nearly 200,000 active and reserve personnel.
Local veterans at the US Marine Corps War Memorial. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
The Skinny The event, slated from 5 to 9:30 p.m., begins with a cocktail and social hour, followed by an official ceremony at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 and dancing at 8 p.m.
The goal of Winters and VETS is to fundraise and support the Marines while honoring past and present service members and their families. They are partnering with Creative Community Entertainment (CCE) to host the event.
Additional festivities begin a few days before, with a drone light show at 555 Monroe St. from 5 to 9 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7 and 8. The light show features live music, vendors and a VIP booth offering alcohol sales.
On Sunday, Nov. 9, from 2 to 6 p.m., there’ll be bowling, arcade games and food at the Main Event Center, located at 3121 28th St. SE, Kentwood. Patrons can present their receipt from the Ball at the Main Event, which will donate 20 percent of all proceeds to it. A Veterans Day parade on Nov. 11 will cap off the weekend. Starting at 6 p.m, it’ll run from Lyon and Ottawa Street through Veterans Memorial Park.
“For Marines, this day is more than a celebration – it is a sacred tradition observed with the reverence of a national holiday,” Winters explained.
Grave Markers from the 22 A Day Suicide Awareness Program on the side of the US-131 highway in Grand Rapids in remembrance of the 22 veterans who take their own lives each day. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
Marine Ball shy of fundraising goal VETS set an initial fundraising goal of $250,000 by the 250th anniversary Ball, which Winters admits was ambitious. The group has currently raised just over $15,000, with the budget for the ball estimated at $30,000. Members of the public are invited to donate in any way they can to support the cause. Winters notes that VETS will allocate any extra funds raised toward the broader mission of CCE and VETS.
“Your support will not only help us celebrate this historic occasion, it will also empower veterans who have given so much in service to our country,” Winters said.
Tickets can be purchased through Nov. 3. The first 200 guests to register will receive an event T-shirt, a commemorative cup and a challenge coin. Tickets may be purchased at this link.
“Becoming a Marine is a lifelong badge of honor – one earned through dedication, sacrifice and pride,” Winters said. “Marines are not only members of the world’s most elite fighting force, but also part of a greater community that continues to serve and uplift others long after active duty ends.”
Marine Corps veteran Eric Winters (right) with a WWII veteran at a Comstock Park football game where veterans were honored on the field. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Godwin Heights continued their winning ways with a 41-22 victory over rival Kelloggsville Friday and in the process set up a winner-take-all scenario for the OK Silver championship at Belding.
The win kept Godwin Heights perfect in the OK Silver with a 5-0 record and sets up next Friday’s showdown in Belding against the Black Knights who are also 5-0 in the league. The two teams also have 7-1 overall records.
“It was a real battle with them last year,” said Godwin Heights Coach Brandon Kimble. “It was 14-7 at halftime and it was close in the third quarter before they ran away in the fourth quarter. The conference championship is going to be on the line and our boys are going to be ready to play. We have a real strong senior class that is used to going on the road and we’ve played in some really tough games already.”
The win against Kelloggsville was another one of those tough games. Godwin Heights fell behind the Rockets 16-7 in the first quarter before scoring the next five touchdowns to secure the win in the annual rivalry between the Division Avenue neighbors.
“It’s a big rivalry game for us,” Kimble said. “You can throw out the records when we play. Kelloggsville has been playing good as well this year and we knew they were going to give it their all. We battled back and forth early and it was a good game. They played hard, but our boys came to play.”
Wolverines averaging 33 points per game
Godwin Heights has been especially strong on offense this season as the Wolverines are averaging 33.6 points per game. Junior running back Julius Hoskins was among the offensive leaders for as he ran for four touchdowns against Kelloggsville. Hoskins finished the game with 202 rushing yards.
“Julius is really going to be something special,” Kimble said. “We actually have two stud running backs. Ka’Res Harris splits carries with Julius and he actually leads us in touchdowns.”
Godwin Heights sophomore quarterback Martellis Forest also was a big part of the offensive outburst. Forest passed for 171 yards.
“We are blessed with the athletes that we have at all of our skill positions,” Kimble said. “Martellis is one of the best quarterbacks in the area. He can really spin it. He can put the ball anywhere and can throw the deep ball. He puts a lot of pressure on opposing defenses.”
Forest also is blessed with a wide variety of receivers.
“We have some really good receivers on the outside,” Kimble said. “We have four receivers who are capable to taking it to the house at any time. Isziah Walker, Martise Raphael, Aidan Jackson and Taisjon Allen have all been doing a great job for us.”
Walker led Wolverine receivers with nine catches, 98 yards and a TD
Walker led the way against Kelloggsville as he caught nine passes for 98 yards and a touchdown.
Paving the way for the backs and providing pass protection is an offensive line anchored by Jeremiah Lee and Jayden Ingram.
“Jeremiah is our right tackle and he had over 10 pancake blocks,” Kimble said. “Jayden is our left tackle and he is just as good. Our entire offensive line has been doing a great job and we have had over 200 yards rushing in the last three games.”
While the offense has been putting up plenty of points this season, the Godwin Heights defense has been stingy when it comes to allowing points.
“Our defensive line is very strong,” Kimble said. “We are led up front by Louis Wilson who is a three-year starter. Lonnie Sanders and Josiah Cox flank Louis. Our defensive line is really strong.”
The Wolverines also are solid in the defensive backfield.
“Taisjon Allen is a team captain and he leads us in the back end,” Kimble said. “He had a pick on Friday.
Mikyius Witherspoon plays a rover position for us and he has led us in tackles in three out of the last four games. He is a big part of our defense. He had four tackles for loss on Friday. He has really been playing great for us.”
With a 7-1 overall record, Godwin Heights is heading to the playoffs regardless of the outcome of Friday’s game with Belding. The Wolverines are 13th in the state in Division 4 in playoff points.
Kelloggsville also is looking to punch its ticket for the playoffs next Friday when it hosts Holland. The Rockets are 5-3 for the season and a win against 2-6 Holland would secure a playoff spot for the Rockets.
Cameron Dunbar led Kelloggsville with a pair of touchdowns and Keyontae Gibson added one as well.
Women at Risk, International President Rebecca McDonald will lead the three main sessions of the Civilian First Responder conference (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
100,000 – 300,00 U.S. kids are at risk of trafficking. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)
One-third of teens are lured toward prostitution within 48 hours of leaving home. (National Runaway Hotline)
Fifteen = the average number of times a trafficked minor is sold per day. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)
Learning about human trafficking and how to prevent it can save lives (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Learn how to become a circle of protection around your loved ones by attending the Civilian First Responder (CFR) conference hosted by Women at Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) on Saturday, Oct. 25.
“No longer do we have the luxury of deciding whether or not we need to know about human trafficking,” states the WAR, Int’l website.
Circles of protection
A Michigan based, non-profit charitable organization, WAR Int’l is known for their fight against human trafficking and rehabilitation of trafficking victims.
Established to create circles of protection around those at risk, WAR’s programs and partnerships provide safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more in over 40 countries. The organization’s culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.
CFR – What to expect
The upcoming and highly sought-after CFR conference will bring President of WAR, Int’l Rebecca McDonald, human trafficking survivors, law enforcement officers and members of the U.S. government together to educate communities on human trafficking.
The CFR conference will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (EST) at Women at Risk Headquarters, 2790 44th Street SW.
Attendees will learn what makes a community susceptible to trafficking; how to identify a victim and signs of trafficking in your community; how to respond to and report suspicious activity; helpful tips, action plans, and ways to protect the innocent; and how to share this information with all ages of community members.
How to prevent human trafficking is information that should be shared with all ages (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
During the conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend three sessions led by Rebecca McDonald and breakout sessions led by various professionals involved in the fight against human trafficking. A question and answer session with conference session leaders, speakers and survivors will round out the day.
CFR conference schedule
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. SESSION ONE (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
Do you feel like you don’t know what trafficking is or how it found its way into our communities? This session will show you why it is vital for everyone to know the signs of human trafficking. You will also hear firsthand from a trafficking survivor as she shares her journey to freedom, bringing this topic home in a real way. Come and learn to “see the unseen.”
10:30 a.m. BREAK
10:45 a.m SESSION TWO (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
This session will explore common 21 lures used by sexual predators, discuss 21 trafficking flash points and the demographics in Western Michigan, and teach Homeland Security guidelines for Civilian Responders. The session will include interviews with law enforcement, teenage traffickers, Homeland Security, as well as a testimony about how one phone call rescued a woman and changed her life.
12:45 p.m. LUNCH
1:45 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Choose from a variety of Breakout Sessions that will be led by various professionals involved in the fight against human trafficking. Session topics may include Counseling, Parenting, Pornography, Law Enforcement, Hospitality, Outreach, or Survivor Testimonies.
2:30 p.m. BREAK
2:50 p.m. SESSION THREE (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
In this session, you will learn how to use your knowledge to respond to a human trafficking situation. You’ll also uncover helpful and appropriate ways to talk to children about this sensitive subject. Come find out how to be a beacon of light in the darkness, and discover the hope that is ours as we fight against human trafficking.
4:30 p.m. Q&A – THE EXPERTS PANEL
The Panel: The day will end by a time of Q&A taken from your question cards and answered by our panel of session leaders, speakers and survivors.
Event registration and digital programs
Registration for this event can be found here, and closes Oct. 22. Ticket cost is $35 and includes lunch and handouts.
Those unable to attend the conference on Oct. 25 can check out the WAR, Int’l Digital Civilian First Responder Program here.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
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.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since 2016 (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Local veteran Michael Hyacinthe created Wimee to help children learn through creativity (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since February 2016.
Michael Hyacinthe, local veteran and owner of the Has Heart Coffee Shop in Veteran’s Memorial Park, created Wimee after recognizing the power of creativity through his work with veterans and his experience as a father. Hyacinthe wanted to create a character that would also help children learn through creativity.
“I’m an entrepreneur passionate about using my talents to inspire veterans, kids and all human life – individuals – to connect with creativity,” said Hyacinthe.
Think it, See it, Share it
Hyacinthe created the Wimage app, allowing children to turn stories, thoughts and ideas into images. Through text or voice, words are instantly transformed into icons. Users can also include text, create patterns, and incorporate colors and additional images.
A Wimage can be personalized and messaged to friends, shared on social media, or posted on the website for others to see.
Soon, the idea for Wimee the Robot formed. Hyacinthe reached out to his friend and puppeteer, Kevin Kammeraad, and together they worked with puppet builder Joe Emory to make Wimee, the lovable robot puppet.
(Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe and Kammeraad began offering local preschool students hands-on workshops, combining imagination with the innovative technology of Wimage to create collaborative visual stories. Over the years, the duo also led collaborative visual story and collaborative books workshops in elementary school classrooms.
With humor and his love of words, Wimee helps children increase literacy and storytelling skills.
The next Sesame Street
Wimee the Robot and Michael Hyacinthe engage children at an in-person event (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimage app and Wimee the Robot continued to develop and grow.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hyacinthe and Kammeraad developed the web-based Wimee’s Words as an alternative to in-person workshops. Co-produced by Kent District Library, the interactive children’s show encourages imagination, vocabulary building and storytelling through puppetry, music and wordplay.
Through the PBS show, Wimee’s Words, Wimee the Robot reaches close to 40 million homes around the country.
“Our goal is to build the next Sesame Street for the digital age,” said Hyacinthe. “It’s a lot of work, but we’re passionate about the work that we do. We want to continue to create content to teach kids.”
Wimee’s Words viewers can join Wimee LIVE every Saturday at 11 a.m. EST on PBS.org and request songs, ask questions and suggest games to play. Wimee is also featured in the Wimee’s Words app.
Meaningful tech time
Wimee the Robot (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimee’s Words and Wimage teams consist of educators, librarians, technology developers, entrepreneurs, parents, kids and puppets who have joined together to empower all children to become producers of creative content – not just consumers of it.
The new interactive app and AI experience, Wimee’s World, was formed to incorporate the Wimage app and Wimee character, along with games, videos and conversations with the AI robot (Wimee).
Wimee’s World provides kids meaningful tech time by giving them the opportunity to become visual communicators and more creative producers using technology.
“Wimee’s World is designed with safety and creativity in mind, providing a secure environment for kids to explore, create and interact,” states the Wimee TV website.
Wimee provides a fun and safe environment for children to learn (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Parents can have peace of mind knowing that their children are engaging with content that is both entertaining and educational.”
Explore More sheets provide additional information and activities designed and tested by educators and families to spark imagination and curiosity.
The Wimee Creates and Wimee Learnsearly learning concept books, written by Stephanie Kammeraad and published by Zonderkidz/Harper Collins, are another great resource for families.
“Every day is a new chance to explore, learn and create together as a family.” (wimee.tv)
Purpose, empowerment and healing
Educating children through Wimee has helped Hyacinthe heal (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe’s journeys with Wimee’s World and Has Heart may be separate ventures, but both utilize creativity to empower and heal individuals.
As a veteran battling PTSD, Hyacinthe calls the mission of Has Heart and Wimee the Robot his therapy.
“There’s something really unique about veterans,” said Hyacinthe. “We tend to want to serve. If you give us a platform where we can continue to serve, they will find a medium to heal.
“And for me, this is continuing to serve through connecting veterans and giving them hope, giving them purpose through Has Heart, and by educating kids through Wimee.”
Resource links
Find out if Wimee the Robot will be visiting near you! Click here for Wimee’s event schedule.
More information about Wimee the Robot and additional Wimee resources can be found here.
More information about Has Heart and how you can help support veterans can be found here.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of their new pedestrian bridge over 28th Street with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free community event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new elevated pedestrian bridge spanning 28th Street on Saturday, Sept. 27 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free community event.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony was a family-friendly Run, Walk, or Roll event that encouraged community members to explore the pedestrian bridge and Wyoming’s extensive trail network. Also available were food trucks, music and sponsored gifts along the trails.
The opening of the pedestrian bridge was the culmination of several years of planning (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Purpose and vision
The new 12-foot wide, ADA accessible bridge will accommodate two-way pedestrian and bicycle traffic safely across 28th Street, and is part of the City’s [re]Imagined future.
“This project embodies the very best of what our community can achieve when we come together with purpose and vision,” said Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “This is just the start of the renaissance here in Wyoming.”
Since the 2008 economic decline, Wyoming has worked to create a defined downtown that encourages connection and economic growth in the City. City officials, boards and commissions invested time and resources in developing area plans, master plans, and securing funding over the past two decades to make this vision come to life.
“This really was such a labor of love for so many people,” said State Representative John Fitzgerald. “Public infrastructure, construction and visioning takes time. It takes time to create a long-term, successful plan that’s going to create economic and social impacts in our community.”
Wyoming pedestrian bridge at night (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
A lasting impact
Wyoming’s City Center project is a public-private partnership that includes public investment in a non-motorized trail infrastructure and private investment in a mixed-use development.
The pedestrian bridge is an essential piece in making the City accessible to all community members through its connection to 4.6 miles of new non-motorized pathways that link to key regional destinations.
“This marks more than just the opening of this bridge, but a celebration of the completion of critical infrastructure that will increase our walkability, mobility and economic opportunity in our downtown area,” said John Shay, Wyoming City Manager.
Kent County Commissioner Dan Burrill said he looks forward to seeing how the bridge will bring the community together and support future growth.
“The City of Wyoming set a bold vision and has delivered on promises made,” said Burrill. “As the 28th Street corridor continues to be revitalized with new housing and commercial development and rehabilitation, these types of public infrastructure investments are critical to driving private investment.”
The grand opening of the new Wyoming pedestrian bridge drew a large crowd (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A community member registers for the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Cyclists look at the trail map before the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Mayor Kent Vanderwood (right) talks with a community member before the event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Tandem bicyclists relax before the start of the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
For the people
Congresswoman Hillary Scholten thanked event attendees for investing in the City of Wyoming, and presented a Congressional Proclamation to Mayor Vanderwood and the City of Wyoming on the ribbon-cutting of the new pedestrian bridge.
“This is a project by the people of Wyoming, and for the people of Wyoming,” said Scholten.
As the City of Wyoming continues steady progress toward its [re]Imagined goals, Fitzgerald said community members can be assured that their priorities are being heard.
“We’re going to continue to invest in sites like this, in our communities, and in you,” said Fitzgerald.
See a list of the Wyoming pedestrian bridge funding partners here.
(Back, left to right) State Rep. John Fitzgerald and Wyoming City Manager John Shay (Front, left to right) Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten and Kent Co. Commissioner Dan Burrill (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wyoming [re]Imagined: Learn More!
Click the following links to learn more about the City of Wyoming, [re]Imagined:
See below for a list of funding partners for the Wyoming Pedestrian Bridge over 28th Street:
Wyoming City Council – ARPA funds
Kent County Board of Commissioners – $6 million of ARPA funds
Sen. Peters and Congresswoman Scholten (Federal Partners) – Secured $850,000 for the planning and design of infrastructure
Rep. John Fitzgerald and Sen. Winnie Brinks(State Partners) – Secured $20 million from the state budget
Grand Valley Metro Council – $1.17 million in carbon reduction program funds for Wyoming trails
Consumers Energy – Buried power lines to improve aesthetics
Michigan Department of Transportation – Permitting and facilitating bridge construction
Progressive Companies – Design and construction administration
In-line Construction
Katerberg-VerHage
Diversco Construction
Contact Bridge Solutions
PermaTrack
Western Wood Structures
Material Testing Consultants
Land Matters
SME
WSP Engineering
Magnus Capital (Private Partner) – Continued vision to develop vibrant mixed-use development, diverse housing options, pedestrian-friendly urban design and more
Jeff and Brandon Baker
General Motors
Weller
Grace Christian University
Wyoming Planning Commission
Wyoming Downtown Development Authority
Wyoming Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department
Wyoming City Staff – Notably, Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion 154’s new electric handicap doors (Courtesy, American Legion)
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion’s new electric handicap doors. Beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, participants can expect an afternoon of food and fun.
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The event is open to the public and includes prizes for: Best Score on Ballon Obstacle Course, Fastest Time on Scooter Straight Course and Best Overall Trim Package (includes Best Rider Costume, Best Ride Decorations, Best Pit Crew Spirt and Most Unique/Useful Adaptive Aftermarket Equipment). All abilities compete for prizes – including bragging rights and winner trophies.
There will be three independent judges for all competitions. Judges will be announced the day of the event.
Registration as a competitor, pit crew member, attendee, volunteer or vendor can be found here. Competition rules can be found here.
More information about the Mobility Scooter Competition can be found here.
Disability awareness
“Many of our members are veterans or family members who need a bit more assistance than in the past, whether that’s to enter the building, or to carry in a crock-pot for an event like our annual Chili Cook-off,” says Butch Hogan, Post 154 Facilities Manager. “So, upgrading the doors was the right thing to help all, including those with limited mobility.”
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The competition event is being held to celebrate both the new Post 154 accessibility and to increase disability awareness.
According to Ken Stockel, Co-chair of the Scooter Competition, “We’re designing the course will all abilities in mind. Although some may compete in a mobility scooter, power wheelchair, or regular wheelchair, we are also having an obstacle competition for able-bodied participants to compete—in a WHEELCHAIR!
“As most servicemen/women learn early in their military training, when you walk in someone else’s ‘boots’ is when you develop empathy – and that’s where disability awareness begins.”
About American Legion Post 154
The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with more than 1.6 million members who strengthen the nation through programs, services and advocacy for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, youth and communities.
Post 154 is named after Roger B. Chaffee (Feb. 15, 1935 – Jan. 27, 1967), an officer in the United States Navy, and died with fellow astronauts Gus Grissom and Ed White during a pre-launch test for the Apollo I mission.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
“It doesn’t matter what your goals are – running solely for a local election or running at the state or federal level; running next year or maybe in a decade – this program is for you,” said Amber Elder, KDL Programming Specialist. “This program is designed to support you as you dip your toes into the process of running for election.”
What to expect
The training session will take place from 1-4 p.m. and feature workshops designed to help women gain practical knowledge, confidence and experience needed to run for office. Attendees will practice building their networks and their elevator speech – both of which are key work for a campaign. A campaign simulation exercise will give attendees a better sense of what running a campaign entails.
The Elect Her program was developed by the Running Start organization to specifically support women in their run for office (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Attendees will also hear from local politicians – Kent County Commissioners Liz Morse (R) and Nancy Morales (D) – as they share their experiences and knowledge gained while entering the political arena.
“It will be a good mix of practical, hands-on learning opportunities as well as time to sit back and take notes, all while connecting with other people who are also considering taking the leap into running for an election,” said Elder.
Meeting an information need
Inspired by feedback from a previous GVSU Elect Her event, KDL decided to host a Wyoming Elect Her training session to help those who are considering running for election but are uncertain how to do so.
“KDL’s goal with programming is to provide events that meet patrons’ information needs, and this is a unique information need that isn’t met in a ton of places,” said Elder.
The training session can be valuable even if participants decide not to run for election (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Though all are welcome to attend the Elect Her event, the program was developed by the Running Start organization to specifically support women in their run for office.
“While women are around 50% of the population, they aren’t represented in equal numbers in our governments,” said Elder. “Our current Congress is made up of 155 women out of 535 seats, and Running Start is committed to supporting the women who want to decrease the gap between male and female elected officials.”
KDL has offered workshop programs and programs related to politics before, though Elect Her is the first time they have combined those two program styles. Elder said that if patrons find this program valuable, KDL will likely offer the event again in the future.
“Even if you end up not using what you learn at the event to run for election, the connections you make and the skills you learn will still be helpful no matter what your future holds,” said Elder.
Resource links
Elect Her event details can be found here. Additional KDL resources and information can be found on their website.
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 Sept. 12 – Oct. 10:
At the young age of seven, Samantha Perry was a “lucky” traveler on a small private plane which made a lasting impression.
“My dad was working for a fastener company and a large automotive organization needed an emergency part that was causing a production outage, and his company rented a small private plane to fly him from Michigan to Chicago to get the required part,” said Perry, who is on GE Aerospace’s cybersecurity team and president of the Great Lakes Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI). “It was because I tagged along with him in that plane that I caught the ‘bug’ for aviation, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
“While open to all genders, our initiative is designed to expose school-aged females to the aviation industry and spark inspiration about the career opportunities available in aerospace.”
Since becoming president, Perry’s highlights have included bringing Girls in Aviation Day back to Grand Rapids, expanding the chapter board to increase collaboration, and creating strong partnerships with other midwest WAI chapters (and partner organizations) to expand the reach of their professional network.
“Many Women in Aviation International Chapters across the globe host a Girls in Aviation Day event,” Perry said. “The Great Lakes Chapter has held about seven events since inception. However, this is our second year hosting the event with capacity to facilitate larger-scale attendance.”
Girls in Aviation Day set for Sept. 20 at Avflight. (Courtesy, Luke K/PistonFly)
Girls in Aviation Day Details
Time/Date: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20 Location: AVFLIGHT, 4211 Cassard Ln., Grand Rapids Featuring: –Stem activities –Themed crafts –Static displays –Airfield tours –Scavenger hunts
The Mission
“Women in Aviation International is the largest nonprofit organization that envisions a world where the sky is open to all, and where aviation and aerospace dreams are possible without barriers,” said Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “The WAI Great Lakes Chapter is building an inclusive, diverse and global aviation and aerospace industry – starting here in the Great Lakes Region.”
Members vary in age and career stage, from high school senior to retirees.
“In our chapter, some members are corporate pilots (business jets), some are airline pilots, some are certified flight instructors,” explained Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “We have some non-flying occupations too, including, aircraft mechanics, airport operations officers, flight dispatch personnel, trip schedulers, line technicians, aircraft management staff, aviation authors, avionics manufacturers, aerospace engineers, FAA employees, and more.”
“Goal is to increase female representation”
“There is a significant gender gap in most aspects of aviation, and our goal is to increase the female representation in all aerospace occupations. While there are certain aspects of aviation that have larger female populations (flight attendants, for example), other occupations (engineering and maintenance, for example) could benefit from increased diversity.”
Check out the exciting clips above from our first Friday Night Highlights show of the season featuring many of the local high school football teams in Kentwood and Wyoming.
Just like during basketball season, every week we’ll bring you most of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
A new era is dawning for Kelloggsville football and the Rockets have made it a successful launch in the first two weeks.
The new look starts with Justin Dennett, who stepped in as the new Coach. The early results are proving positive as the Rockets defeated Grant 43-14 to open the season, and beat Perry 48-28 Friday.
“We started out pretty good,” Dennett said of the opening day win. “We received the opening kickoff and went down and scored. Then on Grant’s first possession they fumbled. We were up 22-6 at halftime and then scored a few more times early in the second half. We got off to a good start and were able to maintain it.”
Quarterback Cameron Dunbar posts three TDs against Grant
Offensively, the Rockets were led by senior quarterback Cameron Dunbar (5-11, 185 pounds) who completed 7-of-10 passes for 82 yards and rushed the ball 12 times for 176 yards and three touchdowns.
Running back Keyontae Gibson logs 157 yards and three TDs in opener
Running back Keyontae Gibson added 157 yards on 14 carries and scored three touchdowns. Gibson also caught a pair of passes for 27 yards. Danyel White (5-11, 165) added two receptions for 25 yards.
A core of seniors led the way for Kelloggsville on the offensive side of the ball starting with Dunbar at the quarterback position.
“Cameron is a tremendous athlete,” Dennett said. “He is our fastest and strongest athlete. He really fits the offense that we want to run. He is a dynamic kid and a good leader for us.”
Gibson, White and senior Isaak Kowal (5-11, 180) provide plenty of options in the running and passing game.
“Keyontae had a breakout game for us,” Dennett said. “He is a really dynamic kid. He is fast and strong and broke a few long runs. Danyel is one of our fastest kids and has good hands. He is also a good blocker which is good for our offense. Isaak is a senior running back who is a good, tough runner and a good blocker.”
Up front, senior Zane Hendricks (5-10, 200) and Prince Bakara (5-6, 210) anchor the offensive line where they provide plenty of senior leadership for a young group of linemen.
The Rockets also turned in a productive game on the defensive side of the football in their opener.
“Defensively, I wasn’t sure how it would go in Week One,” Dennett said. “The defense played really well and forced four turnovers. They (Grant) only scored once on our first-team defense. I was pleasantly surprised with our defense. We have a lot of good athletes on defense. We still have to fine-tune some things and clean some things up, but for Week One it was a really good effort.”
With a small roster, the Rockets rely on several players to log minutes on both the defensive and offensive side of the ball.
Dunbar and White head up the defensive secondary. Kowal and Gibson lead the way at inside linebacker. Bakara and Hendricks anchor the defensive front.
The defense also is receiving contributions from senior Nasyre Walker (5-9, 170), who plays a hybrid outside linebacker/safety position, senior Jaquardre Montes (5-10, 160), inside linebacker, and Qubec Griffin, defensive back and receiver on offense.
Dennett brings plenty of head coaching experience to Kelloggsville. A native of Byron Center, Dennett was the Coach at Montague the past four seasons.
“We have a good group of seniors,” Dennett said. “They were all pretty committed over the summer. We have a lot of potential, but we need to focus on the little things.”
“We definitely had a good start,” Dennett said. “Our main focus right now is to grow our numbers. Hopefully we can grow them and have a junior varsity team. I was really happy with Week One and hope to build on it.”
Tuyen has been missing since Aug. 10, 2025, and her disappearance was just recently reported to police. She is considered at risk due to likely not having access to medication prescribed to her.
Tuyen is an Asian female with black hair and brown eyes. She stands approximately 5 feet tall with a slim build.
Tuyen was last seen in the area of Clyde Park Avenue and 32nd Street SW. She does not have access to a vehicle and would likely be walking. No description of her clothing is available, and a recent picture of her is featured at the beginning of this article. Her intended destination is unknown.
Wyoming Police continue to search for Tuyen and are requesting assistance from the public.
Anyone who may have seen Tuyen since Aug. 10 or who might have information regarding her whereabouts is asked to contact the Wyoming Police Department at 616-530-7300, Detective Ana Armstrong at 616-530-7332, or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
Nearly 65,000 children in West Michigan are at risk of hunger. Roughly 834 school buses filled with kids are dropped off at home each weekend with a risk of having little to no food for 68 hours.
Local officials, volunteers, Hand2Hand staff and Consumers Energy representatives all gathered to celebrate the new electric van donated by Consumers Energy (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Local nonprofit, Hand2Hand, works to eliminate that 68-hour gap by mobilizing schools, churches, organizations and individuals to provide a backpack of nutritious food over the weekend and extended school breaks. Food sent home consists of breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner items and often a recipe card.
Consumers Energy recently donated a new all-electric van to Hand2Hand through their electric vehicle program to assist in the nonprofit’s food deliveries.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
On Aug. 26, Hand2Hand celebrated the EVan (aptly christened Evan) donation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and volunteer food packing event – the first packing event of the 2025-26 school year.
Jeff Myrom, Director of Electric Transportation Customer Programs at Consumers Energy, said the van went to a great cause. “Helping kids who need more food, more nutrition, so they have successful lives is incredibly important.”
A mission of hope
Jodi Joseph talks about the impact and hope Hand2Hand food bags give local children in need (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Beyond physical nutrition, the Hand2Hand food provides hope for students experiencing hunger.
“If we can nourish that student through the weekend, then they can come to school ready to learn,” said Hand2Hand Executive Director Jodi Joseph. “They can know that there is a community here that sees them, that cares for them; it’s more than just food.”
This year, Hand2Hand will serve up to 15,000 students in 280 schools throughout 45 school districts in West Michigan.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt, Superintendent of Hudsonville Public Schools and Hand2Hand board member, attended Sandy Hill Elementary where Hand2Hand first began serving 19 students in 2008.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt talks about the community need for food assistance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Our kids have a lot of access to things, but there are families that are in need,” said VanderJagt, adding that nearly one hundred students are considered homeless in Hudsonville.
“Watching our students [receive the backpacks], their eyes light up…it impacts them more than you’ll ever know.”
Hand2Hand recognizes that every family’s story is different, with some families signing up for a short time while others sign up for longer. No matter the time frame or reason for the need, the nonprofit exercises discretion regarding student/family identities with each bag discreetly placed in student lockers without volunteers ever knowing student names.
A mission of efficiency
Jeff Myrom talks about Consumers Energy’s electric vehicle initiatives (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Evan the EVan” is the second all-electric van donated by Consumers Energy, with an anticipated 22 more to be donated across West Michigan over the next year and a half.
“As part of PowerMIFleet, we’ve been looking for fleets that serve income-qualified customers,” said Myrom, adding that electric vehicles cost approximately half per mile to operate than a gasoline vehicle.
“We’ve dedicated some funding to ensure that we can help them purchase those vehicles and the charging infrastructure that they need, so they can continue to operate as efficiently as possible.”
Myrom went on to say that the mission of Hand2Hand stood out to the Consumers Energy community affairs team for multiple reasons.
“The kids are excited to take those backpacks home, they love having the food on the weekends…and that’s just a win for everyone,” said Myrom.
“And when those kids also get to see an electric vehicle and understand the technology of the future, we hope it inspires them and keeps them on their journey as they continue to learn.”
It takes a village
Joseph said Hand2Hand is grateful to be part of the Consumers Energy electric vehicle initiative.
Hunger exists in every community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We cannot do this work without having a fleet, without having the tools that we need to do the work,” said Joseph. “By adding this van, it increases our fleet by 50%.
Joseph went on to say that Hand2Hand will serve any school, no matter the number of students in need.
“Hunger exists in every community; it doesn’t matter the zip code,” said Joseph. “We go into a school if there is one student that needs [help], or we go into a school that has 400 students that need it. We really concentrate on the student.”
While the Hand2Hand staff numbers 22, over 4,000 people help fulfill the nonprofit’s mission.
“We really couldn’t do this without the entire community helping us,” said Joseph.
Over 4,000 volunteers help make Hand2Hand’s mission a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Community support is vital to making Hand2Hand’s mission a success (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Ottawa and Kent counties are Hand2Hand’s largest distribution areas.
“We couldn’t even wash the van today for the ribbon-cutting because it was out in the field, it was already out delivering food,” said Joseph. “That’s just a testament to how this van is really going to bless our community and our families and our kids.”
Hand2Hand is expanding to the Forest Hills school district this year, as well as adding more students in their current school districts.
How you can help!
Community packing events take place each week. Volunteers are welcome and can find more information on the Hand2Hand website.
Food packing events happen weekly to ensure students have enough food (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
And while it takes volunteers to do the work, Joseph said, it also takes finances.
Those wishing to donate to Hand2Hand can do so online and also via Venmo. Those who wish to visit the Hand2Hand building with a check and a friendly hello are also welcome.
“We know the work that we’re doing here is impactful. It’s making a tremendous difference,” said Joseph.
Consumers Energy EV resources
Those thinking about obtaining an electric vehicle can visit consumersenergy.com/EV details and rebate offers. Businesses considering an electric vehicle for their fleet can reach out to PowerMIFleet at consumersenergy.com for rebates and professional guidance.
EVs operate at half the cost per mile of a gasoline vehicle (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Former WKTV intern and aspiring filmmaker Alex Bernhardt makes waves with his work on Roger Rapoport’s recently released World War II film, “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Real world experience definitely counts along with a college degree.
After graduating in 2022 from Ferris State University with a degree in television and digital media production, Alex Bernhardt worked an internship at WKTV Community Media.
Hands-on experiences as a WKTV intern
Alex Bernhardt honed several skills during his internship at WKTV (Courtesy, Alex Bernhardt)
He worked in many WKTV departments alongside Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director, and Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director/GM.
Bernhardt filmed and edited for many WKTV programs, including Friday Night Highlights, featuring local high school basketball. He also created videos for WKTV Journal stories, handled a portion of general news reporting and interviewing, promotional and sponsor events, and assisted with a documentary.
While at WKTV, Bernhardt became comfortable going to a location, setting up a camera, putting microphones on people, adjusting lighting for maximum exposure and learning how to deal with the ins and outs of video production.
“I really enjoy editing,” said Bernhardt, noting stringing together footage, reviewing it and putting it together represents his strongest work.
First stop at WWMT in Kalamazoo
His WKTV internship, especially becoming comfortable with a camera, along with his college education of course, helped Bernhardt land his first professional job at WWMT News Channel 3 as a videographer/news editor.
“A lot of the day-to-day news coverage I would end up doing helped me prepare for that position,” Bernhardt said.
After leaving WWMT in July 2024, Bernhardt moved back to his hometown of Muskegon and joined his family to work at The Corner, an innovative community center in downtown Muskegon in a former church building. Many organizations and groups rent the renovated space (www.facebook.com/thecornermkg/) and his two entrepreneurial sisters operate small businesses from the facility.
Enter Roger Rapoport and “Old Heart”
Roger D. Rapoport, author, movie producer, activist, journalist. (Courtesy, photo)
Bernhardt connected with Roger D. Rapoport, a family friend and successful writer and publisher and now an independent filmmaker. He ended up working on Rapoport’s film “Old Heart,” about an Army veteran who defies his family and flies to the Netherlands 60 years after World War II to find the love of his life. The film is based on Peter Ferry’s novel.
Bernhardt gathered the raw footage shot each day for review by Rapoport and editors, assisted with sound, lighting and camera setup, and underwent a “lot of gophering back and forth” to get footage.
WKTV’s Greer is not surprised by Bernhardt’s success.
“It’s no wonder Alex is out in the world making a name for himself not only handling editing, audio and marketing on the set of ‘Old Heart,’ but also playing the role of the farmer in the film,” Greer said. “Alex was a very dedicated, hard-working college intern at our station, who never said no to a challenge.”
Alex Bernhardt, left, as the Farmer in “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
“Old Heart” has heart
To date, “Old Heart” has screened before 130 audiences across the country and accumulated worldwide acclaim.
Accolades include Best Feature from an Adapted Screenplay at the Marina Del Rey Film Festival in Los Angeles, Best Editor (Gene Gamache) and Best Actress (Eva Doueiri) in the Sweden Film Awards, and Best Composer (Garth Neustadter) at the Auguri Film Festival in Naples.
Auguri Film Festival director Olga Sandi described “Old Heart” as a film of rare sensitivity and craftsmanship that weaves together themes of love, loss and resilience across generations.
“Ultimately, “Old Heart” is more than a love story—it’s a meditation on memory, identity and the endurance of human connection,” said Sandi in the review. “With its exceptional direction, stunning cinematography and strong production, it firmly establishes [Kirk] Wahamaki and [Leslye] Witt as filmmakers with both vision and heart.”
“Old Heart” is based on Peter Ferry’s acclaimed novel (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Currently, the film is set to play in Coldwater, Mich., at 12 p.m. on Sept. 24 at the NCG Theater. This event is sponsored by Southwestern Behavioral Health with the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs.
Rapoport said several more “Old Heart” screening events are pending, including five upcoming events in the Netherlands in late September. Updates on “Old Heart” screening dates and locations can be found here.
WKTV fosters community connections through innovative media (Courtesy, WKTV)
Still young…and still aspiring
What’s next for Bernardt besides building up the venue at his family venture?
He hopes to work on other films and enjoys projects like “Psycho Ape: Part II – The Wrath of Kong,” a “super low budget, fun to make, all action and no plot” film. He said “Old Heart” was Rapoport’s fourth movie and he hopes to work with him on future films.
Alex Bernhardt as he worked on “Psycho Ape 2: The Wrath of Kong” film.
“I plan to collaborate with Roger on any future projects he may have, film-related or otherwise,” said Bernhardt. “He is one of West Michigan’s most prolific producers, and he seems to really appreciate my effort.”
When asked what advice he would give to aspiring young filmmakers, Bernhardt gave a tongue-in-cheek reply: “Don’t look at me! I’m still young and aspiring!”
Godfrey-Lee’s varsity football program has not played a full season of 11-man football since 2019.
This off-season, Coach Lamar Marshall and his team prepared for a return to the traditional format. Due to low roster numbers, however, the Legends will once again compete in the MHSAA 8-man football division for the fourth-straight year.
“Unfortunately, we lost some players to transfer,” said Marshall, in his fourth year, whose Legends ended the 2024 season with a 4-5 record. “So we ended up making the decision to come back to the 8-man game.
“It will be business as usual to prepare for the season, and I’m excited for what’s coming up.”
Key players and dual roles
The 2025 Legends will boast an even number of seniors and lowerclassmen. Among the returning seniors is the wide receiver trio of Jaden Potts, Manny Ramos and Aidan Merriweather.
The trio accounted for 95 catches, 909 yards, and nine touchdowns from the graduated Anthony Blok.
Jaden Potts, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Jayden Sanchez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Daeden Lopez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Aidan Merriweather, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Manny Ramos, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Joseph Marshall, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Potts will find himself all over the field as he is a stout force on the defensive side of the ball as well.
“Jaden Potts is our offensive captain, our defensive captain. He gets us into position on defense, and offensively – if you need a key play – he can come up big,” Marshall said.
Merriweather also will play a dual role for the Legends. The dexterous wideout collected 25 tackles last season and also will play running back on offense.
“He’s going to be our gadget guy,” Marshall said. “He’s coming off a foot injury from track, so he’s knocking the rust off, but he’s going to be a monster for us this year.”
Junior Jayden Sanchez will convert to quarterback from running back, where he led the Legends in rushing with 622 yards and seven touchdowns, pinballing his way to 10 yards per carry.
The Lee Legends varsity football team prepares for its first game of the 2025-26 season (Ty Marzean/WKTV Contributor)
“He’s a load to bring down,” Marshall said of his new signal caller. “He played quarterback under me in middle school, so he’s been in the system for a long time.”
The offensive line will be anchored by a pair of four-year varsity starters, 6-4 guard Darnell Burton and 220-lb. center Daeden Lopez.
Legends Schedule
The Legends will kick off the 2025 season with a pair of home games, hosting Baldwin on Thursday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. and Sacred Heart Academy on Friday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. in the WKTV Game of the Week.
Ninety-eight comedians are now down to 42 as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition continues its quarterfinal rounds.
The competition began May 11 with its first of fourteen qualifying rounds. Six quarterfinal rounds will run Aug. 17-Sept. 21 with three semifinal rounds held Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and Oct. 19. Competition finals will be held Oct. 26.
Previous Kingpin of Comedy competition winners (Courtesy, Brian B.)
How it works
Seven comedians are given eight minutes to perform in each round. The line-up of comedians is random, with the order drawn as the show progresses.
Audience members are given a ballot before the show begins. After the last competing comedian of the night performs, the audience picks three comedians they feel should advance to the next round. Ballots are counted while a non-competing comic performs for the audience. Comics moving on to the next round of the competition are announced at the end of the show.
Prizes galore!
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Wyoming!” says Brian B., Founder and MC of the SNF.
The SNF Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a large check for $500 (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and Midtown GR, and prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex. The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy, personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt, and will headline the SNF 2026 LaughFest performance.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
The 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)
