Category Archives: City of Wyoming

In words and video, county health leaders urge COVID-19 community caution over holidays

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Video Pubic Service Announcement supplied by Kent County Health Department

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Health Department and area hospitals, in a joint statement released today, Dec. 14, continue to urge residents to stay home for the upcoming December holidays. As of Dec. 14, Kent County has surpassed 35,800 total cases with a 14.7 percent positivity rate in the last seven days.

“We are making progress, but need to work together to continue to reduce the positivity rate and to reduce the spread and the strain on our hospitals and health care workers,” Darryl Elmouchi, MD, president of Spectrum Health West Michigan, said in supplied material. “We will continue to move this in the right direction by not traveling or gathering with people outside our immediate family.”

While it may be difficult to miss traditional holiday celebrations, the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) statement stressed “the importance of staying home and avoiding any kind of travel and group gatherings in order to avoid an even more devastating spike after the new year.”

The local “I love you so” holiday advertising campaign, which the health department and hospital partners launched in November, will extend to encompass all holidays through the end of the year.

The message builds on the sentiment, “I love you SO I’m staying home,” acknowledging the desire to be with loved ones over the holidays but also to protect them from the spread of the coronavirus.

Kent County is seeing more than 500 new coronavirus cases each day, according to the statement, and “the volume of cases has put a significant strain on local hospitals and frontline healthcare providers, and it has made it impossible for public health investigators and contact tracers to effectively do their jobs.”

With the contract tracing system under strain, the risk of community spread is increased because some people may not know they need to quarantine.

“Residents helped a lot by celebrating Thanksgiving with only people inside of their immediate households,” Hyung Kim, MD, president of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s said in supplied material. “Since infection rates, hospitalizations and mortality are still high, I hope people will stay strong in the upcoming holidays and avoid gathering with people outside their immediate households. We are far from being in the clear from COVID.”

Exploring Michigan’s spooky side in the Grand Rapids Ghost Hunter’s podcast

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In the Halloween episode of the Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters Paranormal Podcast, guests and hosts dressed up for the season. (WKTV)

By Wayne Thomas
Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters

Hosting Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters Paranormal Podcast and Cryptic Frequencies Blog Talk Radio show has introduced me to the spooky, weird, and strange world that surrounds us here in our Great Lake State.  Michigan measures very high on the mysterious meter with Bigfoot, Dogman, and lake monster sightings, significant UFO sightings, haunted ships and lighthouses, roads, cemeteries, libraries, and museums.  We profile mysterious people and places, authors and investigating teams and it’s my pleasure to share some supernatural insights, starting with one of our all-time favorite guests, Shetan Noir.

Noir recently joined us for a special WKTV, The Whole Picture Podcast Halloween episode #34 where we discussed urban legends and superstitions.  We opened with the poem “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by A.H. Schacknofsky and co-host Brandon Hoezee offered insights into the half-truths and his own family connections to the legend of the headless horseman of Sleepy Hollow.

Guest Shetan Noir dresses as a green mermaid during the Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters Paranormal Podcast special Halloween edition. (WKTV)

Co-host Kim Kolean presented evidence of the Allegan County “Melon Heads” with a disturbing photo image of what they might have looked like.  The show also featured two of Noir’s books, “Lake Monsters and Odd Creatures of the Great Lakes” and “Mothman and Other Flying Creatures of the Midwest.” She shared an incredibly fascinating story of the Lake Superior Mermaid while dressed in costume as a shimmering green dragon lady.

My first encounter with Noir was during the 2018 Michigan’s Ghost Coast Paranormal Convention in Grand Haven. Noir was one of the featured speakers and during the day she asked to interview our team for her podcast Into the Liminal Abyss. Noir is an author and a journalist who has spent 25 years researching the paranormal in the field of cryptozoology, the search for or study of animals whose existence is disputed or unsubstantiated.

Currently Noir is the lead investigator for the Michigan Chapter of the North American Dogman Project as well as research into Lake Monsters, Mothman, Bigfoot, Nain Rouge. While ghost hunting might have been enough to keep most people busy, Noir found time to author several books.  Noir’s amazing research chronicles actual eye witness accounts, historical testimony, real world explanations, hoaxes, fossil evidence, and artistic renditions of what these monsters might have looked like with detailed descriptions. Noir’s extensive research documents evidence of hundreds of people experiencing strange creatures at the same time with very similar descriptions by reputable well respected citizens, police, sea captains and crews, and collectively challenges the true definition of cryptozoology.

For more about Noir and her work, listen to the Grand Rapids Ghost hunters Paranormal Podcast at the WKTV Journal or on Facebook at The Whole Picture Podcasts.

A year without the Santa Claus Girls, on this episode of WKTV Journal In Focus

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By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

On this holiday episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, we catch up with the Santa Claus Girls, a local non-profit which has been a Christmastime staple in West Michigan for more than 100 years. . . . Until this year.

This holiday season, instead of being bustling preparing thousands of gifts for local children in need, the group and its army of volunteers are quiet due to the pandemic and due to its loss of home facility.

WKTV first reported the news back in November, see the story here.

But late last month In Focus caught up with the group for a video report. First we will offer a recent WKTV short video about the Santa Claus Girls, then we talk with Maggie Moerdyke, Interim President of Santa Claus Girls. She tell us about what led to the group’s decision to suspend operations in 2020, and it is not just due to the pandemic.
 

We will also talk about the current and future needs of the group, as well as their hope for a better 2021.
 

WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (For dates and times on Channel 26, see our Weekly On-air Schedule. For dates and times on Channel 99, visit here). All individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

County, aiding parents as well as children, allocates latest round of Ready by Five early childhood millage grants

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Ready by Five early childhood support programs are funded by a countywide milage passed in 2018 and provides programs that improve the health, school readiness, and well-being of children under age five. (First Steps Kent)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The goal of the ongoing Ready by Five early childhood support programs, funded by a countywide milage passed in 2018, is to provide “dedicated and sustainable funding for programs that improve the health, school readiness, and well-being of children under age five.”

And a key element of achieving that goal — to “increase their likelihood of success in school and beyond” — is to get parental involvement for the various Ready by Five programs, especially within at-risk families.

So, acting last week on the recommendation of First Steps Kent, the Kent County Board of Commissioners approved allocation of nearly $6 million in Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage funds with the largest among them going to a group working to gain engagement of the parents involved with the Child Welfare System.
 

The West Michigan Partnership for Children’s Parent Engagement Program — which includes efforts at “engaging, involving and equipping parents involved with the Child Welfare System” — was awarded just over $600,000 for a two-year funding cycle.

In all, $5,775,015 in Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage funds were allocated for 2021. The millage is funded by a .25 mil property tax increase passed in 2018 that was expected to generate about $5.7 million a year from 2019 to 2024.

A Ready by Five kid, preparing for the future. (First Steps Kent)

“Our Board is committed to assuring these funds are distributed equitably throughout the county,” Kent County Administrator Wayman Britt said to WKTV. “The Ready by Five millage was voted on by Kent County residents who confirmed that it is imperative we embrace the diverse needs of our community.”

The review process included action by the Ready by Five Resident Proposal Review Board, which included members of the Board of Commissioners, Phil Skaggs and Monica Sparks, as well as Dr. Juan Olivarez, of First Steps Kent Commission; Sandra Ghoston-Jones, of the Kent County Administrator’s Office; and early childhood expert  Joanne Kelty.

Another example of seeking to gain parental involvement in all levels of the Ready by Five effort is that the proposal review board includes four diverse “Parent Representatives” from different parts of Kent County.

“I am honored to serve on the Ready by Five Review Board,” Kent County Commissioner Sparks said to WKTV. “This is a very serious commitment as it will have a measurable and lasting impact on our children and families. We are working very hard to provide equitable resources to ensure the future success of our entire community.”

In total, the Ready by Five Resident Proposal Review Committee reviewed 18 proposals submitted to First Steps Kent for this funding cycle, and recommended funding 12. The latest recommended amounts are in addition to the 27 contracts currently in place with service providers.

In addition to the West Michigan Partnership for Children’s funding of $600,900 ($294,924 in fiscal year 2021 and $305,976 in 2022), another notable allocation was a Fetal Infant Mortality Review project by the Kent County Health Department ($264,005 over two years), and interpretation and translation services contracts with Bethany Christian Services, Hispanic Center of West Michigan and Liaison Linguistics ($210,000, with $70,000 each over two years).

First Steps Kent will receive $396,399.95 for administration of Ready by Five programs in 2021. First Steps Kent is, according to its website, “an independent nonprofit organization that works with parents, service providers, funders, advocates, and other stakeholders to build a comprehensive early childhood system in Kent County.”

For more information on First Steps Kent and Ready by Five, visit firststepskent.org.

Time of giving: Woodland Mall, retailer Vera Bradley, community giving to Feeding America

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Feeding America West Michigan’s mobile food bank operation worked with Woodland Mall (and the Michigan National Guard) early this year to help feed families, including those of mall employees. This holiday season Woodland Mall is supporting Feeding America . (Feeding America WM)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Even in this usually busy holiday season now made difficult by the COVID-19 pandemic, Woodland Mall and Vera Bradley — and the local community — are working to help families which are struggling to put food on the table.

Through Dec. 13, Vera Bradley’s Woodland Mall location is collecting nonperishable food items for local nonprofit Feeding American West Michigan, according to a Dec. 7 announcement. Woodland Mall will additionally “give back” to a group that supported mall employees in their time of need by matching each food item with a $1 donation to Feeding America.

Woodland Mall retailer Vera Bradley is collecting non-perishable food through Dec. 13. (WKTV)

“Feeding America West Michigan fed our staff laid off during the shutdown this spring,” Cecily McCabe, Woodland Mall marketing director, said in supplied material. “To show our deep appreciation to this incredible organization and to help those struggling with the pandemic’s harsh consequences, we are honored to return the favor.”

Every dollar donated by the mall will provide four meals to people experiencing food insecurity in our region, according to the announcement.

Nonperishable items may be dropped off at Vera Bradley, which is located in the JCPenney wing of Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE, during store hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday; and noon to 6 p.m., Sunday.
 

Suggested items include peanut butter, whole-grain pasta, macaroni and cheese, rice, dried grains, canned vegetables, fruits, beans, canned chicken and fish, canned soup or soup mix, and canned or dried beans.

McCabe also said that Woodland Mall and its realtors are simply doing what they can to  support a community that has supported them with their shopping in good times.

“It’s clear that supporting one another through this pandemic has been the most essential role each of us can take on,” she said. “As our industry enters what traditionally has been our busiest time of year, we are so happy to share what we do have.”

More information on this drive can be found on the Woodland Mall website and on Facebook.

Photo Gallery: A look at the Wyoming Gives Back broadcast

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

  • Santa and Mrs. Claus take a moment for pictures before talking to local children. (WKTV)
  • Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms were host for the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast. (WKTV)
  • Helping out back stage were City of Wyoming’s Jennifer Stowell and Amanda Moore. (WKTV)
  • City of Wyoming’s Jennifer Stowell checks over the prizes for the raffle. (WKTV)
  • For Wyoming Gives Back 2020, the grand prize was a television. Other prizes included gift certificates and items. (WKTV)
  • The City of Wyoming’s Department of Public Works wishes everyone happy holidays. (WKTV)
  • Santa gets ready to take some calls from local children. (WKTV)
  • WKTV worked some magic to bring Santa calls to area children this year. (WKTV)
  • Local students connect with Santa and give them their Christmas lists. (WKTV)
  • Local children talk to Santa through Zoom. (WKTV)
  • Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster and offices offer their holiday greetings to area residents. (WKTV)
  • Wyoming Fire Chief Brian Bennett (far right) and his staff wishes everyone a happy holiday. (WKTV)
  • Newly elected council member John Fitzgerald wishes everyone a happy holiday. (WKTV)
  • A close up of some of the this year’s Wyoming Gives Back prizes. (WKTV)
  • San Juan Diego Academy performs during the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast. (WKTV)
  • San Juan Diego Academy performs at the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast. (WKTV)
  • Santa takes a call. (WKTV)
  • Some of the magic to bring Santa and Mrs. Claus to area children. (WKTV)
  • Mrs. Claus said she was so excited to talk to children during the live broadcast of Wyoming Gives Back. (WKTV)
  • WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms receives a special thank you gift from the City of Wyoming for helping out with this year’s Wyoming Gives Back event. (WKTV)
  • Some of the WKTV crew who helped to make the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast happen. (WKTV)

On Dec. 3, WKTV presented the first live broadcast of Wyoming Gives Back. The program was hosted by Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms and features prize drawings, a performance by Wyoming’s San Juan Diego Academy and a visit from Santa. Check out the photos to take a peek at just some of the fun that took place during the event.

Kent County commissioners issue social media ‘Takeout Challenge’ to support local restaurants

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Hankerin’ for a take out dinner? Wyoming’s TwoGuys Brewery’s Tom Payne shows off a take-home option (with a side of beer!). (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Live everybody else in Kent County, the Kent County Board of Commissioners like to eat and like to support local businesses when they can. So the commissioners have issued the “Kent County Takeout Challenge” urging residents to support locally-owned Kent County restaurants hit hard by the pandemic.

The social media campaign encourages people to order takeout and publicly challenge three friends to do the same by tagging them on social media, according to a Dec. 4 statement from the county.

The campaign will run through the end of the year and is using the hashtag #KCTakeoutChallenge.

Board Chair Mandy Bolter kicked off the campaign this week at Noto’s Old World Italian Dining where she “nominated” — publicly challenged — fellow Board of Commission members and residents to take up the challenge.

“This campaign supports local businesses, workers and families,” Bolter said in supplied material. “Local restaurants are part of the fabric of communities all across Kent County, and thousands of our neighbors rely on them for their livelihoods. But they have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic. We want our local restaurants and their employees to emerge strong when this crisis is over.”

Restaurants, which were operating at 50 percent capacity since the spring 2020 ban on indoor dining was lifted, were again forced to move to takeout and delivery only when new Michigan Department of Health and Human Services orders took effect on Nov. 16.
 

According to the county statement, some local establishments fear the latest restrictions could force them to close permanently.

The campaign aims to help retain these businesses and the jobs they create. According to Local First, nearly 70 percent of every dollar spent at local businesses stays in the local economy through wages, local taxes, the local supply chain and more.

For more information on the challenge, including locally owned Kentwood and Wyoming restaurants, visit this page on accesskent.com.

State COVID-19 Racial Disparities Task Force interim report shows progress in protecting communities of color

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Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer behind him, addresses a virtual press conference Dec. 3. (State of MIchigan)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

In an afternoon virtual press conference today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan COVID-19 Task Force on Racial Disparities, chaired by Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, released an interim report detailing the “significant progress Michigan has made in protecting communities of color from the spread of COVID-19,” according to a statement from the governor’s office.

“From the beginning, our administration has listened to medical experts and taken a fact-based approach to eliminating COVID-19 in our most vulnerable communities, and we have seen significant progress,” Gov. Whitmer said at the Dec. 3 press conference and in supplied material.

“Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist and the leaders on the Task Force have been crucial in helping us dramatically reduce the number of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in communities of color by expanding testing and providing crucial support to community organizations.”

The statement points out that while cases and hospitalizations are still rising statewide, the percentages of cases among persons of color has declined as the year has progressed.

“Today’s report shows that significant progress has been made toward our goal to reduce these disparities over the past six months,” Lt. Gov. Gilchrist said. “But as cases continue to rise, we need to recognize that our work is not done because each of us have a role to play to make sure that we defeat this virus.”

The Task Force’s interim report details a number of actions the state has taken to protect communities of color — as well as frontline workers, small businesses and the general population — from the spread of COVID-19.

As of Nov. 16, more than 24,000 tests have been administered in previously underserved communities across 21 Neighborhood Testing sites, according to the statement. From March and April, to September and October, the average cases per million per day for African American Michiganders dropped from 176 to 59. In the same period, the number of probable deaths per million per day among African American Michiganders dropped “significantly,” from 21.7 to 1.

“It’s clear that the work of this task force … has made significant progress in protecting families, frontline workers, and small businesses in communities of color,” Celeste Sanchez Lloyd, Task Force member and community program manager for Strong Beginnings at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids, said in supplied material.


For more information about the Task Force, visit here.

Prizes, holiday fun all part of the Wyoming Gives Back live broadcast

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The Russo family helps Kara Boorsma put toys in the Wyoming Gives Back box. This year, Wyoming Gives Back collected more than 500 toys. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

This year’s Wyoming Gives Back has been a success with more than 500 toys donated to the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree. Now the fun begins as WKTV hosts the live broadcast at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3.

During the broadcast, which can be seen on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 along with WKTV’s Facebook page and at wktv.org, prizes will be raffled. Residents were able to get raffle tickets when they donated an unwrapped, new toy. This year, area residents donated more than 500 toys, which organizers said they were amazed at the amount considering the circumstances with so many facing hardships due to COVID.

“I am grateful to our Wyoming community for their generous toy donations this year,” said the City of Wyoming Administrative Assistant Jennifer Stowell, who helps organize the annual event. “These donations will help make many local children’s holiday season brighter.”

Along with the raffle drawings, the hour-long live broadcast will feature a musical performance by Wyoming’s San Juan Diego Academy, which has performed every year at the Wyoming Gives Back. Also there will be presentations by the Salvation Army and lots of holiday fun with hosts Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV8’s Michele DeSelms.

Despite COVID-19 challenges, Marge’s Donut Den was able to collect about 200 toys this year. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be attending as well, taking phone calls from area children and Santa will be announcing the winners of this year’s coloring contest. City staff said there were a number of entries to the first-ever coloring contest, making the final selections a tough decision for Santa.

Before the Wyoming Gives Back event, WKTV will be live streaming the Kentwood Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. This broadcast also can be seen at  WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 along with WKTV’s Facebook page and wktv.org.

Local chamber urges small businesses to apply for just announced state relief grants

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Members of the local business community visited the Family Network of Wyoming this summer as part of a Wyoming/Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Team Up Tuesday community event. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

After an announcement this week by Governor Gretchen Whitmer that the Michigan Strategic Fund had approved a $10 million grant program to provide up to $15,000 grants to small businesses “disproportionately” impacted the COVID-19 virus, a local business leader urged applications.

In an email today, Dec. 2, the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce and its president/CEO Bob O’Callaghan urged small businesses to apply for the grants. And the WKACC detailed the types of businesses who can apply and what the grants can be used for.

“Grant funds will assist eligible small businesses directly impacted by COVID-19 meet urgent working capital needs including payroll expenses, rent or mortgage payments, and utility expenses,” according to the WKACC statement, which went on to detail “eligible” businesses.

The grants are meant for restaurants, bars and other food and beverage service providers; travel and tourism destinations including lodging providers; live event venues and movie theaters; conference and meeting facilities; ice skating rinks, indoor water parks and bowling centers; and gyms and fitness centers.

In the state’s earlier announcement, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation said the Pure Michigan Small Business Relief Initiative will utilize federal CARES Act funding to award the grants.

“As we continue to take necessary precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19, many of Michigan’s small businesses are experiencing additional strain, particularly now during the holiday season and heading into winter,” Gov. Whitmer said at the time of the state announcement. “We are fully committed to supporting our small businesses and their employees across the state as they navigate and persevere through this pandemic. By putting this federal funding to work, we can provide immediate assistance to those businesses hardest-hit by the pandemic.”

Businesses can apply for the grants starting Dec. 15, and grants will be awarded in amounts of up to $15,000 per eligible business on a “first-in” bases.

In addition to being one of the qualifying businesses, applicants must meet other eligibility criteria including being a for-profit entity (i.e., a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or LLC), having a physical establishment in the state but not being a home-based business, and providing goods or services to multiple clients or customers.

Businesses must also have had annual gross revenues in 2019 greater than $25,000, have at least two employees, including the owner(s) but less than 50 employees, including full-time and part-time.

In addition, according to the state, “applicants will be required to self-certify that they are following all state and local orders related to COVID-19, including, but not limited to, those issued by DHHS and county health departments.”

For more information and, starting Dec. 15, businesses can apply for the grants at michiganbusiness.org/relief.

 

City of Wyoming seeks applicants for Deputy City manager position

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Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt said the city is looking for a deputy city manager candidate who will help the city grow into a better organization that serves Wyoming’s whole community. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The City of Wyoming is seeking applicants for the deputy city manager opening. Applications for the position will be accepted through Dec. 13.

The opening was created when former Deputy City Manager Megan Sall Rydecki left in November to take the community affairs manager for Kent County position for Consumers Energy.

The job posting – available on the City of Wyoming webpage at wyomingmi.gov/jobs – calls for candidates who have strong interpersonal skills and are experienced with public management techniques involved in project management, communications and public relations, and community and employee relations. The position is responsible for developing, overseeing, coordinating, and implementing diverse programs and activities related to business and community growth. It also will work with departments and the community to develop and implement programs related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“We’re looking for a candidate to help us grow into a better organization that serves our whole community,” City Manager Curtis Holt said. “We want to find the right candidate for this important position. One that will help steer our organization into a more equitable and prosperous future, someone with a passion for community growth and understanding.”


The Human Resources Department and other City leaders will vet candidates through an interview process. The City of Wyoming hopes to have a new deputy city manager in place by February. Interested candidates can apply at wyomingmi.gov/jobs by Dec. 13.

Wyoming police seeking information on Nov. 27 homicide

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Wyoming Department of Public Safety (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is looking for anyone with information about a Nov. 27 homicide to contact the department or Silent Observer.

According to a department press release, at a approximately 12:30 p.m. on Nov. 27, the Wyoming Department of Public safety responded to reports of gunshots fired and a person down on the sidewalk in the 900 block of Burton St. SW.

The initial investigation indicates that Grand Rapids resident Cynthia Jean McCoy was walking on the sidewalk when she was shot. The victim was transported to a local area hospital where she was pronounced deceased. After shooting the victim, the suspect fled the area on foot. The suspect is described as an unknown race male, 5 feet, 10 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches, wearing a dark blue hooded sweatshirt and blue face mask.

Detectives continue to work to learn the circumstances that led to the shooting.

Anyone with information on the homicide is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7366 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Head down memory lane with a look at West Michigan’s premiere car event, Metro Cruise

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A big event at the Metro Cruise has been WKTV’s DreamWheels red carpet event. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Sometimes it’s a pleasure to leave something in the rear view mirror — such as the entire year of 2020 — and at other times, it’s fun to peek back in that mirror to remember just how the good times roll.

This week, WKTV will be taking a look back at the iconic Metro Cruise, traditionally hosted in late August. Like many events, the Metro Cruise had to be cancelled this year as the community — as well as the nation and the world — battled COVID-19. Disappointing is it was, the decision was made to keep residents and visitors safe, according to Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce Bob O’Callaghan, whose organization hosts the annual event that centers around Rogers Plaza.

So for 2020, WKTV put together a special celebration of the annual event in its DreamWheels production set to air Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 8 p.m. and again Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7:30 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Residents can also see the broadcast on the WKTV.org website.

Getting an unclose look at classic cars has been a key part of the annual Metro Cruise. (Courtesy Bruce Carlson)

The program takes a tour of the Gilmore Car Museum as hosts Kim Carson and Greg Yoder reminisce about some of the major events that have taken place at the cruise. Started in 2005 to help drive business to the 28th Street corridor when the M-6 highway system opened, the Metro Cruise has become a well-known and well-loved West Michigan premiere car event. The event typically draws more than 275,000 people annually from across the United States and includes approximately 15,000 vehicles such as hot rods, low riders, muscle cars, performance cars, classics, antiques and motorcycles, in addition to numerous live events.

Many of these cars were featured on the DreamWheels red carpet event, hosted by WKTV. Some of the cars will be featured in the special such as the Lingenfelter, Auburn Boattail, and Chrysler Woody. Also included is a trip down the 2007 Metro Million and a look at the 2006 Lowrider competition.

 

The backdrop is the Gilmore Car Museum, a 90-acre historic campus located at 6865 Hickory Road, Hickory Corners (just north of Kalamazoo). Open year-round (except for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day), the Museum has one the largest collections of classic cars providing visitors the opportunity to stroll through automotive history. Many of the buildings have been specifically design for a collection such as the art deco Cadillac dealership that features an array of classic Cadillacs. Residing at the Gilmore is one of the largest collections of Dusenbergs in the United States and during the summer months, there are many local car clubs hosting events for owners to showcase their vehicles. For more about the Gilmore Car Museum. visit gilmorecarmuseum.org.

Also, keep Aug. 20 and 21 open as Callaghan confirmed those will be the dates for the 2021 Metro Cruise, which planning already is underway. For more information on the 2021 Metro Cruise, visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.

The Gilmore Car Museum served as the backdrop to the 2020 DreamWheels production. (Supplied)

Degage seeks donations, volunteers for annual Christmas store

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A guest selects some items from the Degage Christmas Store Express. The store will be open again this year with social distancing guidelines in place. (Supplied)

By Anna Johns
WKTV Intern

The holiday season is expected to look different this year but Degage Ministries is not letting these hardships get in the way of Christmas. Degage Ministries annual Christmas Store Express has been going on for a number of years and this year will be no different, according to organizers.

The goal of the store is to help low-income and homeless residents of the Heartside neighborhood purchase holiday gifts for family and friends. They will be reselling household items, clothing, toys, and more to residents at reduced prices. The store will provide those in need an opportunity to feel dignity and value in not only choosing, but also paying for the gift items. Individuals who cannot afford the store have an opportunity to earn Degage dollars that they can use for shopping.

“This is a great way for people to bring the brightness of their lives to Christmas this year,” said Degage Ministries Event Coordinator Kristen Aidif.

 

Items sold at the store are donated by the community and Degage Ministries is currently looking for donations for the shop. This year, organizers have created an Amazon wishlist to make it easier for the community to help. Items can be purchased from the Amazon wishlist and will be sent directly to the ministry.

Another option is to purchase items listed on the wishlist and drop them off at any Center for Physical Rehabilitation location, which there is a location in the City of Wyoming at 1736 Gezon Pkwy., Suite 100, and near near the City of Kentwood at 7150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Suite B. These items should be dropped off unwrapped and donations must be received no later than Dec. 9. 

The store will be open Dec. 16 and 17 at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church. They are also looking for community volunteers and those who are interested can find more information here. 

At this year’s Christmas Store Express event, participants and volunteers will need to wear masks and social distance the required six feet. (Supplied)

Wyoming Gives Back still collecting toys for this year’s event

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

With all the holiday specials taking place this weekend, it is the perfect time to snatch up a couple of toys for the Wyoming Gives Back event.

Last year, there was one full truck at the Wyoming Gives Back. (WKTV)

For the past 10 years, the City of Wyoming has hosted the Wyoming Gives Back event. This year, due to COVID, the event will be broadcast live on WKTV Comcast Chanel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 at 7 p.m. Dec. 3. Mayor Jack Poll and Michele DeSelms from WOOD TV8 will emcee the program. The WKTV’s Facebook page and wktv.org will be live streaming the event as well.

Area residents have until Nov. 30 to drop off a toy to one of five collection sites in the city. When they drop off an unwrapped, new toy, residents will receive one raffle ticket per new toy just like in past events. On Dec. 3, the raffle drawing will take place with winning raffle numbers being announced. Winners will pick up their items form Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW.

Make sure to drop off a toy to one of the five collection sites by Nov. 30 to receive a raffle ticket. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Wyoming Gives Back drop-off locations are:

Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, small toys, puzzle box-size or smaller, will be accepted at the drive-thru, all others will be by appointment only

Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW, Monday – Saturday, 4 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Pizza Hut, 132 28th St. SW., Monday – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Godwin Plumbing & Hardware, 3703 S. Division Ave., Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Russo’s Pizza, 1760 44th St. SW, Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday 3 – 10 p.m.

“We decided to participate last year and did it again this year because we love to help and support our community,” said Katie DeBoer with Godwin Plumbing & Hardware, one of this year’s collection sites.

Last year, more than 800 toys were collected for donation, and it appears that this year’s event is on its way to meet last year’s goal with Marge’s Donut Den reporting it had already collected more than 200 toys.

Last year, the event raffled more than $4,000 in prizes and city staff have said they have some great prizes for this year’s event as well. But to be entered into the raffle, a resident must drop off a toy by Nov. 30.

Also as part of the fun, Wyoming Gives Back has added a Santa’s Kids Coloring Contest. Area students will be able to submit coloring pages or drawings for a chance to win a prize. Templates can be downloaded from the event webpage. Santa will be attending the live Dec. 3 broadcast, answering phone calls from area children and will be announcing the winners of the coloring contest.

For more about Wyoming Gives Back, visit the event page. 

School News Network: No ‘bad’ apples here

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

From creative writing about apples to making music with ukuleles, area schools are offering innovative programming during the pandemic. Speaking of succeeding, if you were an essential worker from April 1 to June 30, you may qualify for the Future for Frontliners program. Scroll to the bottom for more information.

For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.

There wasn’t much recognizable about Symone Gray’s apple, Martin Van Buren, after he got hit by a car in the Big Apple (School News Network)

Wyoming: Babysitting an apple

Ninth grade students at Wyoming High School get creative in their writing by telling the woes and tragedies of the apples they babysit. Want to get all the juicy sauce on this? Click here.

TEAM 21 Coordinator Ellen Veenkant tackled the change of coordinating the West Godwin Elementary’s drop-off and pick-up schedule (School News Network)

Godwin Heights: A real team player

With no parents allowed in its buildings due to COVID, West Godwin needed help coming up with a plan for pick up and drop off. TEAM 21 member Ellen Veenkant stepped up to the challenge, showing how much of a team player she is. For more, click here.

Kelloggsville music teacher Susan Iacovoni had to figure out a way to get her ukuleles to her students when COVID-19 restrictions meant they couldn’t come to the music room (Dianne Carroll Burdick)

Kelloggsville: Have cart, will travel

Some 140 years after the ukulele was introduced to Hawaii, in Kelloggsville schools, music teacher Susan Iacovoni is introducing her students to the “jumping flea” and watching with glee as their fingers make music, albeit haltingly at first. To learn more about the musical fun, click here.

Brookwood Elementary School Principal Lorenzo Bradshaw is the recipient of the 2020 NAACP Role Model Education Award

Kentwood: Prinicpal earns role model award from NAACP

This past October Kentwood’s Brookwood Elementary School Principal Lorenzo Bradshaw was virtually honored as the 2020 NAACP Role Model Education Award from the local Grand Rapids chapter of the association. Learn why Bradshaw tried to decline the honor and what he finds most rewarding about being in education by clicking here.

Adults attend a Kent ISD GED class (courtesy)

All Districts: Essential workers get high school diplomas thanks to state program

If you served as an essential employee between April 1 to June 30, you may qualify for Futures for Frontliners program. Through the program, eligible participants can earn a GED and/or job training or study at a community college such as Grand Rapids Community College. To be eligible, you must have worked at least 11 of the 13 weeks from April 1 to June 30. For more about the program, click here.

Local restaurants help with Chamber Foundation scholarship program

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The Candied Yam is one of three restaurants give a portion of its Tuesday sales to the Chamber Foundation scholarship program. (WKTV)

As like many others, COVID-19 has impacted the Wyoming Kentwood Chamber Foundation’s ability to fundraise for its Foundation Scholarship Program.

Every year, the Wyoming Kentwood Chamber Foundation awards five scholarships to graduating high school seniors from the five school districts in Wyoming and Kentwood. Those schools are Kentwood, Wyoming, Godwin Heights, Kelloggsville, and Godfrey-Lee.

Due to COVID, the Foundation has had to cancel two of its fundraisers.

To help raise funds for the scholarships, the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with three of its member restaurants, The Candied Yam, 2305 44th St. SE; Delta Hotels Grand Rapids Airport, 3333 28th St. SE; and YoChef’s Catering Co. & Cafe, 34 44th St. SW. Each of the restaurants will donate 15% of its non-alcoholic receipts to the Foundation.

Chamber President and CEO Bob O’Callaghan said the partnership is a way residents can support the scholarships and local restaurants. Even in the current semi-shutdown issued by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, all three are open and offer take out or curbside.

To participate, make sure to use the word “scholarship” when ordering.

O’Callaghan said that hopes all those who do participate in the fundraiser will thank the restaurants for helping.

For more information about Chamber events or activities, visit southkent.org. 

Kent County offices, COVID-19 testing sites closed for Thanksgiving

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Most Kent County offices and COVID-19 testing sites will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 26, and Friday, Nov. 27. in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. All offices will reopen Monday, Nov. 30. at 8 a.m.

A few service exemptions are:

  • The Kent County Correctional Facility will remain open with regular hours; however, all other services will be closed.
  • All Department of Public Works services will be closed Thursday, Nov. 26 but disposal facilities will be open Friday, Nov. 27.

The NxGen LINC Up site has openings for COVID-19 testing starting Monday, Nov. 30, and Baxter Holistic Center has openings starting Tuesday, Dec. 1. More COVID-19 testing locations can be found at www.accesskent.com/covid-testing.

For more information on how to access Kent County departments and offices, visit www.accesskent.com.

Wyoming Community Foundation announces 2020 grant recipients

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, ,
Wyoming Community Foundation Chair Greg Kings sits down with Host Faith Morgan to talk about the foundations work in 2020

By Faith Morgan
WKTV Intern

Persevering through a pandemic, school systems and nonprofit organizations in Wyoming sought financial support. The Wyoming Community Foundation stepped in to help provide relief aid to some of these organizations in addition to their annual grant recipients.

This past summer, the foundation provided $5,000 evenly split among two nonprofits for hunger relief/food bank support: Family Network of Wyoming and United Church Outreach Ministries. Karrie Brown, executive director of development for Family Network of Wyoming, said her organization would be using the funds to create a mini-shopping during their pantry experience. UCOM will use its $2,500 to provide affordable access to nutritious locally grown produce.

“In terms of our funding, we saw a definite increase in the amount of organizations who are looking for funding,” said Wyoming Community Foundation Chair Greg King. “We had a lot of nonprofit organizations reaching out asking for input, and for funding especially with COVID-19.”

This year the foundation received 14 grant applications in comparison to the 10 applications received in 2019, 11 in 2018, and seven in 2017.

 

The 2020 grant recipients:

  • Affinity Mentoring – $2,000 to transition to virtual mentoring in order to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 and provide equitable access to academic, relational support to students.
  • Feeding America West Michigan – $2,000 to support three Mobile Food Pantries, which provide food assistance for the Wyoming community.
  • HOPE Gardens – $600 to expand Team 21 in-class garden curricula and after school programming to Godfrey Elementary and Lee Middle Schools.
  • SLD Read – $500 to provide tutoring services, including assessments and individual tutoring, to address educational difficulties as a result of school closures.
  • United Church Outreach Ministry – $2,500 to provide affordable access to nutritious locally grown produce.
  • Godwin Heights Public Schools – $1,500 to support the Lower Elementary Sensory Walk at West Godwin Elementary.

Another need is volunteers to join the The Wyoming Community Foundation’s board and its Youth Advisory Committee which oversees grant-making for organizations that benefit Wyomig youth.

If you are interested in joining the Wyoming Community Foundation board or looking for more information you can visit grfoundation.org/wyoming

The Wyoming Community Foundation is a regional affiliate of Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Annually the organization selects grant recipients. Applicants for these grants must be nonprofit organizations that are based in the Wyoming area or are doing work to make necessary improvements in the Wyoming community.

New Kent County ad campaign calls on residents to stay home for the holidays

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,

By Anna Johns
WKTV Intern

Thanksgiving day is just around the corner and the Kent County Health Departments’ new campaign urges families to stay home this holiday season.

 

The “I love you so” campaign will run on local TV and radio stations, cable networks, print and digital platforms, including local minority-owned outlets, through the end of the year. The campaign is built on the message “I love you SO I’m staying home,” Though this is a tough message they urge residents to make their health and the health of the families the top priority this holiday season.

Thanksgiving will look a bit different this year, instead of gathering in person, the Kent County Health Department suggests that gatherings take place virtually. As shown in their campaign, families can meet virtually as they share their Thanksgiving meals virtually allowing for a safe holiday.

Though it may be difficult to not see loved ones during the holiday season, it is also important to protect them from the spread of the coronavirus, according to Kent County Health officials and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who spoke during a press conference on Nov. 19. Currently, Kent County is seeing more than 500 new coronavirus cases each day, the Kent County Health Department reported. Over the past eight weeks, there have been ten times as many cases and local positivity rates are at the highest they have ever been since the start of the pandemic. 

“This really is a ‘tough love’ message for our community,” said Kent County Health Department director, Dr. Adam London. “We all want to get together to celebrate with family and friends, but those gatherings are the perfect places for the virus to spread.

“We are asking everyone to make their own health and the health of their loved ones their top priorities this holiday season.”

The “I love you so” campaign is in partnership with Spectrum Health, Mercy Health Saint Mary’s, and Metro Health. As cases continue to rise there has been tremendous stress on hospitals and health care providers.

 

“This is a difficult moment,” said Josh Leffingwell, partner at Well Design Studio, the agency that led the creative development of the campaign. “There is so much emotion tied to telling someone you love that you’re not going to join them for a holiday celebration. We wanted to give people the language to use with their friends and family. It’s a simple message: ‘I love you so much that I’m willing to miss our holiday gathering to help keep us all safe.’”

The $250,000 public education campaign, funded with CARES Act dollars, launches with Thanksgiving-themed ads across all media this week. The new ads will launch before the December holidays and will run through the end of the year.

WKTV’s 20th Annual Turkey Bowl cable channel fest returns Thanksgiving Day

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Local Entertainment, Sports, WKTV Featured sports,
The Wyoming high Wolves lineup in the Red Zone in a game against Zeeland West Sept. 18. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Despite COVID-19 restrictions on fans in the stands, WKTV’s sports coverage crew was busy this fall, as our high school football Featured Game crew was all over Wyoming and Kentwood to cover local football teams.

And as every year, high school sports fans can get their Turkey Day high school football fix this year as we broadcast 15 hours of games on our cable Channel 25.

The special starts at 9 a.m., highlights the best of our high school football games from the season. The schedule of games (with link to the games on WKTV’s On-Demand video internet channel, at WKTVLive.org ) is as follows:

9 a.m. — Zeeland West at Wyoming high.  On-Demand

11:05 a.m. — Grandville at East Kentwood. On-Demand

1:40 p.m. — Belding at Godwin. On-Demand

4:05 p.m. — Jenison at East Kentwood. On-Demand

6:30 p.m. — Catholic Central at South Christian. On-Demand

8:40 p.m. — MHSAA Playoff Hamilton at Godwin. On-Demand

10:35 p.m. — MHSAA Playoff Hamilton at South Christian. On-Demand

With our Thanksgiving Day football fest, WKTV’s fall sports season comes to an end, but we are already planning on winter coverage of basketball and more.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are give the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26).

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

Wyoming, Kentwood nonprofits among first to receive county violence prevention grants

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Going Local, Health, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, , ,
The Spartan Nash Branch of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, in Wyoming. (YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Kent County announced this week the first round of grants to non-profits as part of the new Community Violence Prevention Grant Program, with seven nonprofits awarded grants ranging from $15,000 to $150,000.

Two groups, Bethany Christian Services and the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, have local operations in the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood.

The Kent County Board of Commissioners previously allocated $500,000 of CARES Act funding to the Community Violence Prevention program “to help stem the increasing rate of violence occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic,” according to a Nov. 18 statement from Kent County.

The grants support local 501(c)(3) organizations “that work to prevent violent behaviors from occurring, stop the progression of violence and rehabilitate individuals with established violent behavior,” according to the statement.

“Keeping our residents and communities safe is a top priority for the Kent County Board of Commissioners,” Commission chair Mandy Bolter said in supplied material. “We are proud to make these resources available to community organizations who are working tirelessly to develop innovative solutions that make our neighborhoods safer.”

As listed in the grant application, some of the strategies possibly used by the groups receiving grants include:

Reducing the availability and misuse of alcohol, marijuana, and other substances;

Reducing access to lethal weapons like guns and knives;

Changing cultural norms that support violence;

Rehabilitating individuals with a history of violent behavior;

Providing mentors, counselors, or other similar support for youth;

Providing alternative activities during the day and at night for youth that keep them engaged and involved, thus combatting idleness and lack of direction;

And, education and support of anti-gang measures.

Local group initial plans

Bethany Christian Services of Michigan has locations in both Wyoming and Kentwood, and, according to their application, will use the grant for a wide range of initiatives, including its “Silence the Violence Project”, which “using virtual reality, local youth partner with software developers to create simulated experiences designed to show youth ages 10-17 how to combat violence in their lives and communities.”

Bethany Christian Services’ project is an existing initiative of NAACP, it is estimated that 125-150 youth will engage in these simulations, and while the grant funds will be used this year, the program will continue throughout 2020 and 2021.
 

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids’s Spartan Nash YMCA is located in Wyoming. According to its grant application, it will use the grant to engage in teen violence prevention by “providing alternative choices and activities” during out-of-school time.

“The goal for our programs is to keep teens engaged and involved in community, thus combatting lack of direction or idleness. The Y has staff who are trained in trauma-informed care who can confidently facilitate conversations about gun violence issues as well as strong partnerships with mental health providers like Arbor Circle and Mental Health Foundation to provide group-based mental health support. This work is becoming increasingly important during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Local United Way partners with county on grants 

Kent County contracted with Heart of West Michigan United Way — which already has extensive relationships with local non-profits — to review funding applications and administer the grants.

Other non-profits to receive grants as part of the first round of awards include the Boys & Girls Club of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth, Inc.; Edge Urban Fellowship; Grand Rapids Urban League; New City Kids, Inc.; and Muse Ed (Mus(ed)).

“The agencies receiving funds have established track records in transforming our community,” Michelle Van Dyke, president & CEO of Heart of West Michigan United Way, said in supplies material. “They serve as leaders in preventing violence, facilitators of diversion efforts and mentors for local youth. Together, we will educate and support Kent County residents to ensure the place we call home becomes safer and stronger than ever before.”

For more information on the grants and application process, visit hwmuw.org.

Want a raffle ticket? Drop off a toy for this year’s Wyoming Gives Back

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
The Russo family helps Kara Boorsma put toys in the box located at their restaurant, Russo Pizza, 1760 44th St. SW. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Shay Russo easily admits that it seems like such a small thing, a toy underneath a tree, but to a child it “means the world.”

“But it is tough when you have to decide if you are putting food on the table or purchasing a toy,” Russo said.. And this year, with COVID and the shutdowns, it just seems tougher, she said.

It is why when the City of Wyoming called and asked if Russo’s Pizza, 1760 44th St. SW, would serve as a collection site for this year’s Wyoming Gives Back campaign, Russo and her husband Mike said yes.

There are boxes at five locations in the City of Wyoming for the annual Wyoming Gives Back campaign. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

“It may not seem like much, a toy under the tree, but to a little one it is so important,” Russo said. “They have that hope and to be able to see just a couple of gifts under the tree keeps that magical wonder alive.”

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the City of Wyoming has made the move to host a live broadcast on Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Four local businesses stepped up to be drop-off locations for area residents. Residents need to drop off toys by Nov. 30. While there, the business owner will give the person a raffle ticket for each new toy donated. Raffle winners will be announced during the live broadcast which will include musical performances, holiday greetings, and a visit from Santa.

Under the current Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order, all of the drop-off locations are open to the public. Those locations are:

Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, small toys, puzzle box-size or smaller, will be accepted at the drive-thru, all others will be by appointment only 

Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW, Monday – Saturday, 4 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Pizza Hut, 132 28th St. SW., Monday – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Godwin Plumbing & Hardware, 3703 S. Division Ave., Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Russo’s Pizza, 1760 44th St. SW, Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday 3 – 10 p.m.

“We are mostly have pick up or delivery, so we are open with people coming in to pick up their food,” Russo said. During the spring shutdown, the restaurant saw an uptick in business and Russo said she hopes that if it happens again with the current partial shutdown it will translate in more toy donations.

Marge Wilson owner of Marge’s Donut Den, another drop-off site, said she is concern that the current shutdown may have some impact on donations.

 

“The trickle down effect is starting to hit people,” Wilson said. “People are starting to focus more on the needs of their family.”

Still she was amazed by the generosity of her staff and customers who have already donated more than 200 toys, enough to fill nine boxes.

“We had this craft show just before the shutdown and one of the vendors donated about 150 toys,” Wilson said. “That and several of the staff and customers have come in with items as well.”

Marge’s Donut Den first round of collection netted in about 200 toys for this year’s Wyoming Gives Back campaign. (WKTV Journal/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Last year, more than 800 toys were collected for the annual event, and with the support of the participating busi­nesses, the City raffled nearly $4,000 in prizes. Many area businesses have again donated to the raffle prizes with an array of items being offered.

 

Also this year, the Wyoming Gives Back has added a Santa’s Kids Coloring Contest. Area students will be able to submit coloring pates or drawings for a chance to win a prize. Templates can be downloaded from the event webpage. Completed coloring pages need to be returned to the dropbox or drive-thru at Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, by Nov. 30 to be entered into the drawing. 

For more information about Wyoming Gives Back, visit the event page. 

Metro Health restricts visitors from all locations

3-bottom, City of Wyoming

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

As the number of cases and positivity rates of COVID-19 continue to climb in the community, Metro Health – University of Michigan has made the decision to further restrict visitors from the hospital and outpatient locations. The revisions are intended to help prevent the spread of illness and protect patients, employees and the community.

Effective Thursday, Nov. 19, no visitors are allowed in the hospital or offsite locations. Please see the grid below for guidance and exceptions. Note: DPA means durable power of attorney and ADL means activities of daily living, a term used to describe fundamental skills that are required to independently care for oneself such as eating, bathing and mobility.

For updates on Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, visit metrogr.org.

Traffic Tuesday Answer: Odd/Even Parking, Part III

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

By Officer Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

During the odd/even enforcement period of December 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020, Wyoming police officers responded to almost 11,000 calls for service. How many odd/even parking tickets were also written during that time?

  1. Less than 100
  2. Between 100 and 500
  3. Between 500 and 1,000
  4. More than 1,000
  5. I’m not sure, I’ll check back on Thursday!

Answer: More than 10,00. In addition to responding to all those calls for service and making traffic stops, there were also 1,021 odd/even enforcement tickets written last year.

The City of Wyoming’s odd/even parking takes affect Dec. 1. It is enforceable from midnight to 7 p.m. Cars are to be parked on the even numbered addresses on even numbered calendar days. On odd number days, residents may park in front of the odd number addresses. Those in cul-de-sacs may only park on the street on even numbered calendar days. Streets with “No Parking,” signs will continue to have no parking restrictions.


The odd/even parking is designed to allow the city’s snow plow trucks to be able to clear the streets after a snowfall.

Kent County certifies general election results

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The Kent County Board of Canvassers announced it has certified the Kent County results of the Nov. 3, 2020 General Election.

 

“The work that the canvassers do is critically important as it’s the final checks-and-balances in our process,” said Kent County Clerk Lisa Poshumus-Lyons. “I want to commend our Board of Canvassers for their diligent work and dedication to reaffirming that Kent County’s election was secure, accurate, and transparent.”

Lisa Posthumus-Lyons

The Board of Canvassers convened on Thursday, Nov.5, meeting each weekday, open to the public, until completing the canvass Tuesday, Nov. 17. The law requires the canvass to be completed no later than two weeks after each Election Day. The official county canvass documents will be delivered Wednesday to the state Bureau of Elections for inclusion in the statewide canvass. With the canvass concluded, candidates have until Monday, Nov. 23, to request a county-level recount.

Now that the canvass is completed, and after statewide certification, the County Clerk’s office will conduct the legally required post-election audits in randomly-selected precincts to perform a number of additional measures to verify that the election was administered correctly and that results were accurate. Among those additional steps is the conduct of manual hand-recounts of the ballots in two contested races

 

“Michigan’s process of conducting elections is deliberative and extensive. Counting every legal vote accurately is our number one priority, and we spend a month after every election to ensure that Kent County elections are secure, transparent, and fair,” Lyons said.

WKTV Sports Connection checks in with Wyoming high basketball teams waiting for action

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Going Local, Health, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Sports, WKTV Journal Sports Connection,
Wyoming high boys basketball coach Tom Vander Klay visits the set of WKTV Journal Sports Connection. (Wolves girls coach Troy Mast’s interview is later in this story.)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal Sports Connection, as part of our continuing series of shows focused on different local high school and their sports departments, we check in with the Wyoming High School Wolves basketball teams — both of which were already dealing with pandemic-related restrictions even before the latest state and MHSAA orders.

Visiting the WKTV studios last week (and before this week’s Michigan High School Athletic Association additional temporary restrictions on practices and competitions) are two coaches who have long histories of coaching and coaching success in Wyoming Public Schools, head boys basketball coach Thom Vander Klay and head girls basketball coach Troy Mast.

Both Vander Klay — who had his outstanding 2019-20 team’s season cut short by COVID-19 early this year — and Mast talk with WKTV volunteers Mike Moll and Paul Kabelman about how their teams are handling COVID-19 restrictions, their opinions of the Wolves’ shift of conferences from the OK Gold to OK Green, and a preseason outlook for their 2020-21 teams.

But we also reached out to the coaches this week, on Nov. 17, to see what the latest round of restrictions mean to their programs.

“Currently, we are completely paused for 3 weeks with no team practices or in-person meetings allowed,” Mast said to WKTV. “This is putting our team further behind where we are normally at this time of year.

“However, our job is to be ready when we are allowed to get back to work. Our kids will be excited to get back into the gym ASAP and looking forward to competing against each other in practice in preparation for whatever schedule is put in front of us.”

The Wolves girls were scheduled to start competition Dec. 1 at home against Comstock Park, but that game has even cancelled, along with a home game Dec. 4 against Forest Hills Central and a road game Dec. 8 at South Christian. Dec. 8 also would have been the night of the Wolves boys team’s first game, which would have had the Sailors visiting Wyoming.

“At this point the boys will be able to start tryouts Dec. 8 unless the state tells us differently and/or extends its order. That would have been the date of our season opener against SC (South Christian),” Vander Klay said to WKTV. “So we will have tryouts, get our rosters set on each level and then prepare as quickly as possible for competition.

“Of course, we cannot scrimmage other teams before we play so that will be interesting as those preseason scrimmages reveal so much about the players and the team — and what the coach needs to work on. … My guess is that early game results will be much different than games at the end of the year.”


WKTV Journal Sports Connection, with this latest episode hosted by WKTV volunteer Cory Dalton, brings its audience interviews and stories focused on local Wyoming and Kentwood area high schools sports, both on cable television and on our on-demand and YouTube channels. Readers can catch up on all our local sports coverage by visiting wktvjournal.com/sports.

WKTV Journal Sports Connection is available on-demand, along with WKTV coverage of highs school athletic events and other sports, at WKTVlive.com. It also airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 (For dates and times on Channel 26, see our Weekly On-air Schedule). Individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal Sports Connection are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

KDL, Godfrey-Lee open East Lee’s first library

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,
KDL Branch Outreach and Program Specialist Ty Papke and Godfrey-Lee Media Specialist Harry Coffill take a break in the new East Lee Campus library. (Supplied/KDL)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsam
joanne@wktv.org

When Godfrey-Lee’s Media Specialist Harry Coffill shared that the district’s East Lee Campus did not have a library and due to budget constraints, the chances that the alternative high school getting one were slim, staff at the Kent District Library listened.

The welcome sign at the new East Campus library. (Supplied/KDL)

After all, the chance to get books in the hands of anyone, especially students, is a temptation that no librarian can ever really resist, so the KDL staff partnered with the the Godfrey-Lee media staff and built a private collection for the school.

 

“We really focused on providing books and materials that would be popular for that specific population,” said Ty Papke, the branch outreach and programming specialist for the KDL Wyoming and Kelloggsville branches. “The students also will have access to the KDL full catalog and will be able to request books from other KDL branches which will be delivered by the KDL Bookmobile.”

The groundbreaking collaboration started two years ago with KDL and Godfrey-Lee staff looking through the KDL’s collection for possible selections for the new library. Through discussion, it was decided that while the library would have books that connect to the East Lee curriculum, the new library’s main focus would be to encourage reading, Papke said.

The new East Lee Campus library was designed with the student population in mind. (Supplied/KDL)

“We want the students to enjoy reading rather than feel like they are forced to,” he said, adding that the collection was designed so students would be able to find books about people that are like them, helping to give a voice to what students are facing whether they are Spanish speakers, LGBTQ, or teen parents.

Therefore, the collection has a broad selection that includes teen fiction, novels, graphic novels, junior level chapter books, and some picture books for those with younger siblings or have children of their own. 

A former classroom was converted at the East Lee Campus with shelves and signage added with some comfy furniture as well.

“I’m really excited about building  a community partnership with KDL that allows East Lee students access to exciting literature choices while engaging them in a relationship with a community library that will serve them well into the future,” Coffill said in a recent release about the new library. “The books chosen for the KDL Godfrey-Lee library are exciting, and I can’t wait to see our students utilize the space.”

Unfortunately, the East Lee students have not had a chance to “check out” the library since the school has been in virtual learning well before the recent Michigan Department of Health and Human Services three-week partial shut-down order that took effect on Nov. 18.

Papke said there also is a goal to have the students come to a KDL branch and do a “shopping spree” of sorts among the stacks for books they would like to see in the new East Lee library. This adventure will have to wait due to the COVID situation, he said.

For now, Papke said KDL is pleased to be able to help connect students to books in hopes they too will become lifelong readers.

The East Lee library is the first private collection at a school that KDL has built. In 2017, KDL opened the KDL Kelloggsville branch in partnership with Kelloggsville Public School. The KDL Kelloggsville branch, located in the high school, was the first KDL-school partnership. The Kelloggsville branch is open to the public after school. Currently, all KDL branches are closed to the public and only offering online services and curbside pick up. 

For more about KDL, visit kdl.org.

Traffic Tuesday: Odd/Even Parking, Part III

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By Officer Jenni Eby
City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety

During the odd/even enforcement period of Dec. 1, 2019 to Mar. 31, 2020, Wyoming police officers responded to almost 11,000 calls for service. To prepare. the past few weeks the Traffic Tuesday has been focused on those enforcement issues.

How many odd/even parking tickets were written during Dec. 1, 2019 to Mar. 31, 2020?

  1. Less than 100
  2. Between 100 and 500
  3. Between 500 and 1,000
  4. More than 1,000
  5. I’m not sure, I’ll check back on Thursday!

The City of Wyoming’s odd/even parking takes affect Dec. 1. It is enforceable from midnight to 7 p.m. Cars are to be parked on the even numbered addresses on even numbered calendar days. On odd number days, residents may park in front of the odd number addresses. Those in cul-de-sacs may only park on the street on even numbered calendar days. Streets with “No Parking,” signs will continue to have no parking restrictions.

The odd/even parking is designed to allow the city’s snow plow trucks to be able to clear the streets after a snowfall.

Local state legislator, restaurant owner reacts to latest public health order’s impact

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Local Business, Local Faces, Local Food, Restaurants, , ,

Brann’s Steakhouse & Grill on Division in Wyoming, from previous winter. (Supplied/Bann’)s

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Tommy Brann, state legislator and casual restaurant owner, admits he is in a unique position when it comes to reacting to the latest public heath order, announced by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer over the weekend and set to close restaurants to inside dining, among other impacts.

On one hand, Rep. Brann said to WKTV today, Nov. 16, he knows there is need to act to curb the recent negative public health trends resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic in Michigan — and he knows restrictions on restaurants may be part of that effort. But he also wishes the Governor would have worked with the the rest of state government, and worked more with restaurant owners such as himself, before the new reductions were ordered.

“She takes (the current COVID-19 numbers) seriously, I understand that, but we do too,” Rep. Brann said. “I would really prefer to work together with the Governor.”

State Rep. Tommy Brann (R-77th District)

Rep. Brann, a Republican who recently won re-election to the House of Representatives from District 77, which includes Wyoming, said what is not being taken into account is the impact the currently planned 3-week shutdown will have on restaurant employees.

“I am worried about my employees … we are going to have employees without paychecks” Brann said, adding that the usual 3-week time lag in filing and collecting state unemployment benefits means that some employees “will not have money to buy groceries. … We should have had some relief for businesses that are closing.”

Rep. Brann owns Brann’s Steakhouse and Grille at 4157 Division Ave. S., in Wyoming.

Gov. Whitmer on Nov. 15, announced three weeks of new COVID-19 restrictions due to spiking numbers of new cases, deaths and hospitalizations in Michigan.

The restrictions came as part of a new public health order, also announced Nov. 15, that will temporarily restrict colleges and high schools to virtual instruction, will urge work from home for employees who can do so, and will close down a number of activities previously limited but allowed, including bowling alleys, movie theaters and in-person dining at bars and restaurants.

The public health order — set to run from Wednesday, Nov. 18, and last through the Thanksgiving holiday and until Dec. 8 —  was announced by Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun and MDHHS Director Robert Gordon.

Gordon, in remarks, said public health orders are derived from legislative action taken in Michigan in 1918 after the Spanish Flu. And the Public Health Code Act, passed by the legislature in 1978, further allowed for public health emergency orders to be made.

(See a MDHHS graphic at the end of the story on what the new health order does and does not do.)

Not impacted by the new order are indoor gatherings limited to 10 people and no more than two households meeting in the same place. But outdoor gathering limits have shrunk to 25 people, which includes funerals.

Retail businesses, salons, barber shops, public transit, child-care centers, parks and healthcare facilities are some examples of establishments that may remain open under the new restrictions.

But restaurants, at least for three weeks, will be limited to take-out food sales and outside seating dining sales. But with winter weather impacts, outside dining is not an option for many restaurants, and Rep. Brann points out that limiting restaurants to take-out food sales is particularly unfair to casual dining restaurants such as his.

“For some restaurants, this is not about profit, this is about survival,” Rep. Brann said. “Take-out is important, but it is more important for chain restaurants than causal dining restaurants like mine. … take-out was only about six percent of my sales, that means about a 90 percent loss.”

Wyoming deputy manager leaves to join Consumers Energy

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Megan Sall Rydecki (Supplied)

Former Wyoming deputy manager Megan Sall Rydecki has left the city to become the new community affairs manager for Kent County for Consumers Energy.

Rydecki came back to the City of Wyoming in 2017, serving in her current role for more than three years. 

“Leaving the city of Wyoming was a tough decision but I’m so pleased I can continue giving back to Kent County in another way, helping Consumers Energy deliver world-class performance to its customers,” said Rydecki, who recently changed her name. “This region is poised for continued growth and I’m thrilled to remain a part of its future.”

In her new role, which she started today, Rydecki will serve as the  local government and community representative for Consumers Energy.

“We’re excited that Megan is joining our team in a role that is vital to the prosperity of our company and the greater Grand Rapids community,” said Josh Burgett, Consumers Energy’s executive director of community engagement. “Megan has a proven track record and brings significant experience and trusted relationships with leaders across Kent County that will allow her to both share our passion for these communities’ success and help deliver energy solutions to our customers.”


Rydecki will work alongside outgoing Community Affairs Manager Karen McCarthy, who will retire in early 2021 after more than 37 years with the company. Rydecki also has worked for The Right Place Inc., the Grand Rapids-based regional economic development organization. Kent County, including the city of Grand Rapids and surrounding communities, is the largest metropolitan area within Consumers Energy’s electric service territory.

Rydecki currently serves as chair of the Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees, co-chair of Grand Rapids WhiteWater’s Campaign Cabinet and is a board member of the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

COVID-19 drives Lee middle and high schools to go virtual until late January

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Going Local, Health, ,
Lee Middle and High School. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Godfrey-Lee Public Schools announced today that due to confirmed COVID-19 cases among the Lee middle and high schools populations, and in consultation with the Kent County Health Department and the district nurse from Spectrum Health, the two schools would move to virtual learning and continue that way until at least Jan. 22, 2021.

In a Nov. 13 letter to middle and high school families signed by superintendent Kevin Polston and posted on the district website, it was stated that “today, we learned of additional students with confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 at Lee Middle and High School. This past week, we have had 4 staff/students with confirmed cases, 125 students in quarantine, 7 staff in quarantine.

“In addition, the rise in cases and positivity rate, as well as decreasing hospital capacity are causes for concern for the safety of all community members.”

In response to the situation, the letter continues, the district will shift to virtual learning at Lee Middle and High School (both schools share a building) starting Monday, Nov. 16 through Friday, Jan. 22, 2021.

At this time, the district will keep Godfrey-Lee ECC and Godfrey Elementary School open for in-person instruction. In addition, student meals will be available for curbside pick-up at Lee Middle and High School on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the building’s gym entrance off of Havana Avenue.

Also, according to the letter, “any student that has symptoms consistent with COVID-19, such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, headache, or fatigue, or has been identified as a close contact should quarantine and is eligible for a COVID-19 test kit at school. There is no cost to the family and results have been returned in 24 hours or less.”
 

Students that need a test can schedule an appointment by calling the district at 616-452-3296.

As far as athletics are concerned, high school athletics will continue practices as scheduled. But middle school Winter I athletic competitions are paused, while practices will continue.

“Please do not hesitate to contact Lee Middle and High School with any questions or concerns at 616-452-3296,” the letter concludes.

For more information visit Godfrey-Lee.org. To read a Spanish language version of the letter, fro the website click on Lee Update 11/13/20.



Mel Trotter Ministries annual Thanksgiving banquet changing approach, location due to COVID

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
This year, there is no DeVos Place banquet, instead food boxes will be deliver to those in need. (pxhere.com)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Mel Trotter Ministries (MTM) announced it has finalized the new plan for its annual Thanksgiving banquet.

“In an abundance of caution, care and concern for everyone involved in this amazing event, including our guests, staff, community volunteers, and all those who come to eat and enjoy fellowship on Thanksgiving, we have worked through the necessary details in order to continue this tradition,” said Mel Trotter Ministries VP of Communication and Advancement Beth Fisher.

MTM’s annual Turkey Drop, a yearly event taking place the week before Thanksgiving at Celebration North, 2121 Celebration Dr. NE, and Celebration 1506 Eastport Dr. SE, whereby the community drops off either frozen turkeys or $15 toward the purchase of one, is set for Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Last year, more than 1,600 turkeys were donated; however, this year—the need and thus, the goal, is even greater.

“We have already had requests from local pantries in excess of 2,050 turkeys, along with sides,” said MTM Chief Operating Officer Jeff Dashner. “We are already seeing a significant uptick in the number of meals needed for Thanksgiving Day.”

A special thanksgiving event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day at Mel Trotter. (pxhere.com)

The goal this year is 2,100 turkeys to be donated during Turkey Drop. Those turkeys, along with complete traditional side items, will then be used in assembled food boxes which will be distributed to local West Michigan food pantries. Anyone who would have normally gone to DeVos Place for the annual banquet will now be able to receive a prepackaged Thanksgiving meal via any participating pantry.

“We are grateful to still be able to serve those in our community who would otherwise not be able to partake in a Thanksgiving meal,” said Mel Trotter Ministries President and CEO Dennis Van Kampen. “With the banquet in the past, we fed 1,500 people. These new necessary changes will allow us to feed 10,000 hungry people. We are asking you to please join and help do that this year. The need in our community is greater than ever.”

“The thought of anyone who would normally have come to DeVos Place to celebrate and be together during our annual Thanksgiving Banquet, not being able to do that this year due to Covid was quite frankly, unacceptable. We worked hard to find a way,” Van Kampen said.

That way also includes a Thanksgiving Day meal at Mel Trotter Ministries for all those experiencing homelessness. MTM expects to serve close to 600 meals on Thanksgiving Day. The celebration will take place from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Hundreds of community volunteers who look forward to volunteering at the event each year have been notified of an alternative way to continue their tradition of serving those less fortunate.

“We sent a communication to our incredible community of volunteers encouraging them to reach out to a neighbor or someone they know who might be struggling a little more than normal this year—someone who might not have loved ones with whom to gather—and bless them by bringing a meal or a pie to brighten their day,” Fisher said. “Additionally, our volunteers are encouraged to let the guests at our on-site Thanksgiving Day meal know they are thinking of them by sending in thoughtful video messages throughout the day and using the hashtag #MTMThanksgiving on social media.”

To become a Thanksgiving Day sponsor this year, please visit: www.meltrotter.org/sponsor

To donate community turkeys this year, please visit: www.meltrotter.org/turkeydrop

For a list of local food pantries and distribution partners, please visit: www.meltrotter.org/thanksgiving

KDL returns to curbside, online service only starting Nov. 16

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Out of an abundance of caution, beginning Monday, Nov. 16, Kent District Library will close its branches to in-person visits but will continue to offer curbside pickup services, online programs and expanded online resources. Curbside service is available during normal branch hours so there is no interruption for patrons who check out items, while online programs and other resources are available 24/7.


 
“The closure of several branches over the past couple of weeks has made it clear that we must take further steps in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said KDL’s Executive Director Lance Werner. “The safety of people who visit the library and our staff is our utmost priority.”

Kent District Library has announced it will move all of its branches to curbside pick and online resources. (WKTV)

Curbside service is easy and safe: 

1.      Visit kdl.org, search the catalog and place items on hold, indicating the branch location for pickup. 

2.      After receiving notification that items are ready for pick-up, visit the branch during normal open hours and park in one of the designated Curbside Pick-up spots. 

3.      Call the number listed on the signs in the parking lot; please have your library card number ready. 

4.      A library staff member will bring the items to the car. 



Patrons are also encouraged to access library services online. KDL offers cardholders access to several digital content providers —Freegal, Overdrive, Hoopla and RBdigital. These providers offer digital content in a variety of formats including audiobooks, ebooks, music, movies, magazines and more. All of KDL’s digital resources can be accessed at www.kdl.org/virtual. 

KDL will continue to offer online programs at www.kdl.org/livestream.

 

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, KDL has continued to provide services to patrons. In March, online services were expanded and live streamed programming began in April. Curbside service was introduced in June and free printing launched in August. KDL has streamed over 1,100 programs online since late March, with over 140,000 attendees watching live and over 400,000 recording views.

Check kdl.org for future updates as Kent District Library plans to have their branches back open soon.  

Responding to COVID-19 numbers, Wyoming Public Schools move to remote learning through end of month

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Going Local, Health,
Wyoming Public Schools’ Gladiola Elementary School. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra announced today, Nov. 12, that due to COVID-19 impacts all district in-person students will shift to remote learning immediately and the district will continue in that educational mode through the end of the month.

According to the district announcement, all Wyoming Public School buildings will close for in-person instruction at the end of the day on Thursday, Nov. 12, and plan to reopen on Monday, Nov. 30. All students attending school in-person will move to remote instruction with their teachers.

“Over the past week, we have been notified of over 20 new COVID-19 cases, and significantly increasing large numbers of individuals who are in self-quarantine across our school district,” the announcement states. “While many factors are considered when making this decision, the KCHD (Kent County Health Department) has recommended the District move to a remote learning environment … In addition to our concern for the health and safety of our students and staff, the high numbers of individuals affected has also impacted the availability of teaching staff, bus drivers, food service workers, and students coming to school.”

“Grab & Go” meals to be provided; safety urged

The school district’s food service program will provide “Grab & Go” meals for all students, on Tuesdays at two locations, Wyoming Junior High (2125 Wrenwood SW) and West Elementary (1840 38th Street SW). The Wyoming Junior High distribution will take place from 10:00 a.m until 12:00 p.m., and the West Elementary food distribution will run from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Seven days of student meals (breakfast and lunch) will be provided at that time.

“The decision to move to remote teaching and learning is not an easy one to make,” Hoekstra said in supplied material. “Our goal as a district, and community, is to have students remain engaged in in-person learning. While this temporary shift to remote learning may present challenges to students, staff, and families, my hope is that we are able to return to safe, in-person learning as soon as possible. It is important for us to work together, whether in school or in the community, to protect ourselves and others from becoming ill.”

WPS families are reminded to check their email and ParentVue accounts for additional updates.

Working with Kent County Health Department

The District announcement also urged all district families, students, and staff who experience symptoms, or who may have been exposed to COVID-19, to get tested and self-quarantine. Parents are encouraged to monitor their children for the onset of any symptoms related to COVID-19. If there is any change in your child’s health, please contact your medical provider.

The Kent County Health Department offers free COVID-19 screenings at multiple sites via appointment or walk-in. For more information visit KCHD’s website here.

The KCHD will continue its process for contact tracing and may contact at-risk individuals for further follow-up if it is determined that you are a “close contact”.

“The welfare of our staff, students and community is at the center of every decision we make,” the district announcement states. “Thank you for your continued understanding, support, and trust in Wyoming Public Schools to keep our students, staff and community as safe as possible.”
 

For more information on Wyoming Public Schools, visit wyomingps.org.