Darius Walker, 2025 winner of the SNF Kingpin of Comedy competition (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The Sunday Night Funnies‘ (SNF) seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition began with 91 comedians on May 11, and ended with one on Oct. 26 when Darius Walker was crowned the 2025 Kingpin of Comedy champion before a capacity crowd at Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
“As always with the finals, the audience vote was very tight with only five votes separating first and third place,” said Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “But Darius had an outstanding set.”
Brian B. went on to say that Walker had been a Kingpin of Comedy finalist the previous two years, so he was not surprised Walker won the title of 2025 champion.
“Over the years, I’ve seen him mature as a comedian,” said Brian B. “I know that he puts a lot of effort in going out and doing shows, as well as always writing new material.”
Prizes worthy of a king!
As the Kingpin of Comedy winner, Walker received a prize package worth over $1,000.
The SNF Kingpin of Comedy final competition was filled to capacity with interested audience members (Courtesy, Brian B.)
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought that the overall winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Town,” said Brian B.
Walker received a prize package worth over $1,000 (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The prize package included $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and GLC Live at 20 Monroe, as well as prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
Walker also received a bowling pin trophy, personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt, a video of his winning performance, and an invitation to close the SNF special 2026 LaughFest performance in March.
After his victory, Walker said, “I’d like to thank my wife, friends and the Grand Rapids comedy community for helping me grow as a comedian!”
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
An assessor from CALEA will arrive on Monday, Oct. 27 to conduct an on-site review over a four-day period. This visit is the final step in a rigorous four-year accreditation cycle and includes a comprehensive examination of the department’s policies, procedures, management, operations and support services.
The gold standard
CALEA Accreditation is considered the gold standard in public safety professionalism. It provides independent verification that a law enforcement agency meets internationally recognized best practices in areas such as accountability, transparency and community partnership.
For the Wyoming community, accreditation ensures:
Enhanced public trust, by confirming that department practices are ethical, transparent, and consistent with national standards.
Improved service delivery, through policies that promote efficiency, fairness, and responsiveness to community needs.
Reduced risk and liability, by ensuring clear, accountable procedures for critical incidents and daily operations.
Commitment to continuous improvement, with each accreditation cycle driving new opportunities to strengthen public safety services.
The assessment process
(Courtesy Photo)
As part of the assessment process, the department invites members of the community to share feedback through the CALEA Public Comment Portal.
Community members are encouraged to share comments regarding the department’s compliance with CALEA standards, community engagement, quality of service and overall professionalism.
Comments may include commendations or concerns and can be submitted directly to CALEA through the Public Comment Portal. Feedback provided through the portal goes directly to CALEA and will be acknowledged upon receipt.
The purpose of this process is to gather valuable input that helps the Wyoming PD and CALEA continue to strengthen the standards of professional policing.
Contact WPD directly
Individuals who wish to share comments or questions directly with the Wyoming PD may also do so by calling 616-530-7300, visiting the department in person, or submitting an online message through the Police Department Contact Form on the City of Wyoming website.
Kingpin competition finalists (Courtesy, Brian B.)
Ninety-eight comedians are now down to eight as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition enters its final round on Sunday, Oct. 26.
“We have a good mix of comedians performing in the Kingpin finals this year,” says Brian B., MC and founder of the SNF.
Participating comedians hail from the Grand Rapids and Detroit areas, Holland and Buchanan.
“It’s a diverse lineup as well,” says Brian B. “Of the eight comedians performing, two are women and four of the comics are of color.”
The Kingpin of Comedy final round will also feature a drawing for a pair of tickets to comedian Adam Degi’s first standup comedy special recording on Nov. 14 at the Pyramid Scheme in Grand Rapids.
Degi will also be closing out the Kingpin Finals while the votes are being counted.
Prizes galore!
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought that the overall winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Town,” says Brian B.
The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and GLC Live at 20 Monroe, as well as prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy and personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences.
Marine Corps veteran and Birthday Ball organizer Eric Winters with skywritten smiley face above him at the Muskegon Air Show. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
While recovering from a car accident after his Marine Corps service, veteran Eric Winters wasn’t happy with the challenges he faced.
“During my recovery, I became so mad at the system that I had to start a nonprofit to help my military brothers and sisters,” explained Winters, who founded a nonprofit called VETS (Veteran Enrichment Taskforce Services) in 2024. “We are out here advocating for our military community, with a primary focus on mental health, housing and more.”
Winters was inspired to found VETS after the accident left him unable to continue working. He said he wanted to advocate for veterans who have been left behind. The nonprofit seeks to raise awareness of veterans’ issues through community events.
Their mission: “To identify, develop, deliver and evaluate veteran-based needs paralleled with a service solution for growth, prosperity and fun.”
Marine Corps Birthday Ball This year marks the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps and what better way to highlight the milestone with a celebration.
Marine Corps Birthday Ball to celebrate 250th anniversary. Tickets can be purchased through Nov. 3. (Image Courtesy, Eric Winters)
“I had a sudden epiphany,” said Winters, who served from 2004 to 2012. “Milestone life events bring parties, and parties bring people and awareness. It just so happened that Marines around the world would be celebrating their birthday, so let’s host the next Marine Corps birthday ball.”
The First Annual City of Grand Rapids Marine Corps Birthday Ball will be held on Monday, Nov. 10, at the DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids. That marks the exact date the Marine Corps was founded 250 years ago; Nov. 10, 1775, in Philadelphia by Commandant Samuel Nicholas.
The Marines were the third branch of the US Armed Forces, arriving five months after the Army and one month after the Navy. Today, the Marine Corps is a component of the U.S. Department of the Navy, with nearly 200,000 active and reserve personnel.
Local veterans at the US Marine Corps War Memorial. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
The Skinny The event, slated from 5 to 9:30 p.m., begins with a cocktail and social hour, followed by an official ceremony at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 and dancing at 8 p.m.
The goal of Winters and VETS is to fundraise and support the Marines while honoring past and present service members and their families. They are partnering with Creative Community Entertainment (CCE) to host the event.
Additional festivities begin a few days before, with a drone light show at 555 Monroe St. from 5 to 9 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7 and 8. The light show features live music, vendors and a VIP booth offering alcohol sales.
On Sunday, Nov. 9, from 2 to 6 p.m., there’ll be bowling, arcade games and food at the Main Event Center, located at 3121 28th St. SE, Kentwood. Patrons can present their receipt from the Ball at the Main Event, which will donate 20 percent of all proceeds to it. A Veterans Day parade on Nov. 11 will cap off the weekend. Starting at 6 p.m, it’ll run from Lyon and Ottawa Street through Veterans Memorial Park.
“For Marines, this day is more than a celebration – it is a sacred tradition observed with the reverence of a national holiday,” Winters explained.
Grave Markers from the 22 A Day Suicide Awareness Program on the side of the US-131 highway in Grand Rapids in remembrance of the 22 veterans who take their own lives each day. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
Marine Ball shy of fundraising goal VETS set an initial fundraising goal of $250,000 by the 250th anniversary Ball, which Winters admits was ambitious. The group has currently raised just over $15,000, with the budget for the ball estimated at $30,000. Members of the public are invited to donate in any way they can to support the cause. Winters notes that VETS will allocate any extra funds raised toward the broader mission of CCE and VETS.
“Your support will not only help us celebrate this historic occasion, it will also empower veterans who have given so much in service to our country,” Winters said.
Tickets can be purchased through Nov. 3. The first 200 guests to register will receive an event T-shirt, a commemorative cup and a challenge coin. Tickets may be purchased at this link.
“Becoming a Marine is a lifelong badge of honor – one earned through dedication, sacrifice and pride,” Winters said. “Marines are not only members of the world’s most elite fighting force, but also part of a greater community that continues to serve and uplift others long after active duty ends.”
Marine Corps veteran Eric Winters (right) with a WWII veteran at a Comstock Park football game where veterans were honored on the field. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Godwin Heights continued their winning ways with a 41-22 victory over rival Kelloggsville Friday and in the process set up a winner-take-all scenario for the OK Silver championship at Belding.
The win kept Godwin Heights perfect in the OK Silver with a 5-0 record and sets up next Friday’s showdown in Belding against the Black Knights who are also 5-0 in the league. The two teams also have 7-1 overall records.
“It was a real battle with them last year,” said Godwin Heights Coach Brandon Kimble. “It was 14-7 at halftime and it was close in the third quarter before they ran away in the fourth quarter. The conference championship is going to be on the line and our boys are going to be ready to play. We have a real strong senior class that is used to going on the road and we’ve played in some really tough games already.”
The win against Kelloggsville was another one of those tough games. Godwin Heights fell behind the Rockets 16-7 in the first quarter before scoring the next five touchdowns to secure the win in the annual rivalry between the Division Avenue neighbors.
“It’s a big rivalry game for us,” Kimble said. “You can throw out the records when we play. Kelloggsville has been playing good as well this year and we knew they were going to give it their all. We battled back and forth early and it was a good game. They played hard, but our boys came to play.”
Wolverines averaging 33 points per game
Godwin Heights has been especially strong on offense this season as the Wolverines are averaging 33.6 points per game. Junior running back Julius Hoskins was among the offensive leaders for as he ran for four touchdowns against Kelloggsville. Hoskins finished the game with 202 rushing yards.
“Julius is really going to be something special,” Kimble said. “We actually have two stud running backs. Ka’Res Harris splits carries with Julius and he actually leads us in touchdowns.”
Godwin Heights sophomore quarterback Martellis Forest also was a big part of the offensive outburst. Forest passed for 171 yards.
“We are blessed with the athletes that we have at all of our skill positions,” Kimble said. “Martellis is one of the best quarterbacks in the area. He can really spin it. He can put the ball anywhere and can throw the deep ball. He puts a lot of pressure on opposing defenses.”
Forest also is blessed with a wide variety of receivers.
“We have some really good receivers on the outside,” Kimble said. “We have four receivers who are capable to taking it to the house at any time. Isziah Walker, Martise Raphael, Aidan Jackson and Taisjon Allen have all been doing a great job for us.”
Walker led Wolverine receivers with nine catches, 98 yards and a TD
Walker led the way against Kelloggsville as he caught nine passes for 98 yards and a touchdown.
Paving the way for the backs and providing pass protection is an offensive line anchored by Jeremiah Lee and Jayden Ingram.
“Jeremiah is our right tackle and he had over 10 pancake blocks,” Kimble said. “Jayden is our left tackle and he is just as good. Our entire offensive line has been doing a great job and we have had over 200 yards rushing in the last three games.”
While the offense has been putting up plenty of points this season, the Godwin Heights defense has been stingy when it comes to allowing points.
“Our defensive line is very strong,” Kimble said. “We are led up front by Louis Wilson who is a three-year starter. Lonnie Sanders and Josiah Cox flank Louis. Our defensive line is really strong.”
The Wolverines also are solid in the defensive backfield.
“Taisjon Allen is a team captain and he leads us in the back end,” Kimble said. “He had a pick on Friday.
Mikyius Witherspoon plays a rover position for us and he has led us in tackles in three out of the last four games. He is a big part of our defense. He had four tackles for loss on Friday. He has really been playing great for us.”
With a 7-1 overall record, Godwin Heights is heading to the playoffs regardless of the outcome of Friday’s game with Belding. The Wolverines are 13th in the state in Division 4 in playoff points.
Kelloggsville also is looking to punch its ticket for the playoffs next Friday when it hosts Holland. The Rockets are 5-3 for the season and a win against 2-6 Holland would secure a playoff spot for the Rockets.
Cameron Dunbar led Kelloggsville with a pair of touchdowns and Keyontae Gibson added one as well.
Women at Risk, International President Rebecca McDonald will lead the three main sessions of the Civilian First Responder conference (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
100,000 – 300,00 U.S. kids are at risk of trafficking. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)
One-third of teens are lured toward prostitution within 48 hours of leaving home. (National Runaway Hotline)
Fifteen = the average number of times a trafficked minor is sold per day. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)
Learning about human trafficking and how to prevent it can save lives (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Learn how to become a circle of protection around your loved ones by attending the Civilian First Responder (CFR) conference hosted by Women at Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) on Saturday, Oct. 25.
“No longer do we have the luxury of deciding whether or not we need to know about human trafficking,” states the WAR, Int’l website.
Circles of protection
A Michigan based, non-profit charitable organization, WAR Int’l is known for their fight against human trafficking and rehabilitation of trafficking victims.
Established to create circles of protection around those at risk, WAR’s programs and partnerships provide safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more in over 40 countries. The organization’s culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.
CFR – What to expect
The upcoming and highly sought-after CFR conference will bring President of WAR, Int’l Rebecca McDonald, human trafficking survivors, law enforcement officers and members of the U.S. government together to educate communities on human trafficking.
The CFR conference will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (EST) at Women at Risk Headquarters, 2790 44th Street SW.
Attendees will learn what makes a community susceptible to trafficking; how to identify a victim and signs of trafficking in your community; how to respond to and report suspicious activity; helpful tips, action plans, and ways to protect the innocent; and how to share this information with all ages of community members.
How to prevent human trafficking is information that should be shared with all ages (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
During the conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend three sessions led by Rebecca McDonald and breakout sessions led by various professionals involved in the fight against human trafficking. A question and answer session with conference session leaders, speakers and survivors will round out the day.
CFR conference schedule
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. SESSION ONE (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
Do you feel like you don’t know what trafficking is or how it found its way into our communities? This session will show you why it is vital for everyone to know the signs of human trafficking. You will also hear firsthand from a trafficking survivor as she shares her journey to freedom, bringing this topic home in a real way. Come and learn to “see the unseen.”
10:30 a.m. BREAK
10:45 a.m SESSION TWO (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
This session will explore common 21 lures used by sexual predators, discuss 21 trafficking flash points and the demographics in Western Michigan, and teach Homeland Security guidelines for Civilian Responders. The session will include interviews with law enforcement, teenage traffickers, Homeland Security, as well as a testimony about how one phone call rescued a woman and changed her life.
12:45 p.m. LUNCH
1:45 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Choose from a variety of Breakout Sessions that will be led by various professionals involved in the fight against human trafficking. Session topics may include Counseling, Parenting, Pornography, Law Enforcement, Hospitality, Outreach, or Survivor Testimonies.
2:30 p.m. BREAK
2:50 p.m. SESSION THREE (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
In this session, you will learn how to use your knowledge to respond to a human trafficking situation. You’ll also uncover helpful and appropriate ways to talk to children about this sensitive subject. Come find out how to be a beacon of light in the darkness, and discover the hope that is ours as we fight against human trafficking.
4:30 p.m. Q&A – THE EXPERTS PANEL
The Panel: The day will end by a time of Q&A taken from your question cards and answered by our panel of session leaders, speakers and survivors.
Event registration and digital programs
Registration for this event can be found here, and closes Oct. 22. Ticket cost is $35 and includes lunch and handouts.
Those unable to attend the conference on Oct. 25 can check out the WAR, Int’l Digital Civilian First Responder Program here.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Several Kent County organizations have partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host mobile pantries each month.
Below is a list of mobile food pantry locations open to the community. Each listing consists of date, time, location and drive-thru or walk-thru designation.
Though the selection of food varies each month, a variety of fresh and frozen items are always available at the mobile pantries.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since 2016 (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Local veteran Michael Hyacinthe created Wimee to help children learn through creativity (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since February 2016.
Michael Hyacinthe, local veteran and owner of the Has Heart Coffee Shop in Veteran’s Memorial Park, created Wimee after recognizing the power of creativity through his work with veterans and his experience as a father. Hyacinthe wanted to create a character that would also help children learn through creativity.
“I’m an entrepreneur passionate about using my talents to inspire veterans, kids and all human life – individuals – to connect with creativity,” said Hyacinthe.
Think it, See it, Share it
Hyacinthe created the Wimage app, allowing children to turn stories, thoughts and ideas into images. Through text or voice, words are instantly transformed into icons. Users can also include text, create patterns, and incorporate colors and additional images.
A Wimage can be personalized and messaged to friends, shared on social media, or posted on the website for others to see.
Soon, the idea for Wimee the Robot formed. Hyacinthe reached out to his friend and puppeteer, Kevin Kammeraad, and together they worked with puppet builder Joe Emory to make Wimee, the lovable robot puppet.
(Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe and Kammeraad began offering local preschool students hands-on workshops, combining imagination with the innovative technology of Wimage to create collaborative visual stories. Over the years, the duo also led collaborative visual story and collaborative books workshops in elementary school classrooms.
With humor and his love of words, Wimee helps children increase literacy and storytelling skills.
The next Sesame Street
Wimee the Robot and Michael Hyacinthe engage children at an in-person event (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimage app and Wimee the Robot continued to develop and grow.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hyacinthe and Kammeraad developed the web-based Wimee’s Words as an alternative to in-person workshops. Co-produced by Kent District Library, the interactive children’s show encourages imagination, vocabulary building and storytelling through puppetry, music and wordplay.
Through the PBS show, Wimee’s Words, Wimee the Robot reaches close to 40 million homes around the country.
“Our goal is to build the next Sesame Street for the digital age,” said Hyacinthe. “It’s a lot of work, but we’re passionate about the work that we do. We want to continue to create content to teach kids.”
Wimee’s Words viewers can join Wimee LIVE every Saturday at 11 a.m. EST on PBS.org and request songs, ask questions and suggest games to play. Wimee is also featured in the Wimee’s Words app.
Meaningful tech time
Wimee the Robot (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimee’s Words and Wimage teams consist of educators, librarians, technology developers, entrepreneurs, parents, kids and puppets who have joined together to empower all children to become producers of creative content – not just consumers of it.
The new interactive app and AI experience, Wimee’s World, was formed to incorporate the Wimage app and Wimee character, along with games, videos and conversations with the AI robot (Wimee).
Wimee’s World provides kids meaningful tech time by giving them the opportunity to become visual communicators and more creative producers using technology.
“Wimee’s World is designed with safety and creativity in mind, providing a secure environment for kids to explore, create and interact,” states the Wimee TV website.
Wimee provides a fun and safe environment for children to learn (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Parents can have peace of mind knowing that their children are engaging with content that is both entertaining and educational.”
Explore More sheets provide additional information and activities designed and tested by educators and families to spark imagination and curiosity.
The Wimee Creates and Wimee Learnsearly learning concept books, written by Stephanie Kammeraad and published by Zonderkidz/Harper Collins, are another great resource for families.
“Every day is a new chance to explore, learn and create together as a family.” (wimee.tv)
Purpose, empowerment and healing
Educating children through Wimee has helped Hyacinthe heal (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe’s journeys with Wimee’s World and Has Heart may be separate ventures, but both utilize creativity to empower and heal individuals.
As a veteran battling PTSD, Hyacinthe calls the mission of Has Heart and Wimee the Robot his therapy.
“There’s something really unique about veterans,” said Hyacinthe. “We tend to want to serve. If you give us a platform where we can continue to serve, they will find a medium to heal.
“And for me, this is continuing to serve through connecting veterans and giving them hope, giving them purpose through Has Heart, and by educating kids through Wimee.”
Resource links
Find out if Wimee the Robot will be visiting near you! Click here for Wimee’s event schedule.
More information about Wimee the Robot and additional Wimee resources can be found here.
More information about Has Heart and how you can help support veterans can be found here.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of their new pedestrian bridge over 28th Street with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free community event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new elevated pedestrian bridge spanning 28th Street on Saturday, Sept. 27 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free community event.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony was a family-friendly Run, Walk, or Roll event that encouraged community members to explore the pedestrian bridge and Wyoming’s extensive trail network. Also available were food trucks, music and sponsored gifts along the trails.
The opening of the pedestrian bridge was the culmination of several years of planning (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Purpose and vision
The new 12-foot wide, ADA accessible bridge will accommodate two-way pedestrian and bicycle traffic safely across 28th Street, and is part of the City’s [re]Imagined future.
“This project embodies the very best of what our community can achieve when we come together with purpose and vision,” said Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “This is just the start of the renaissance here in Wyoming.”
Since the 2008 economic decline, Wyoming has worked to create a defined downtown that encourages connection and economic growth in the City. City officials, boards and commissions invested time and resources in developing area plans, master plans, and securing funding over the past two decades to make this vision come to life.
“This really was such a labor of love for so many people,” said State Representative John Fitzgerald. “Public infrastructure, construction and visioning takes time. It takes time to create a long-term, successful plan that’s going to create economic and social impacts in our community.”
Wyoming pedestrian bridge at night (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
A lasting impact
Wyoming’s City Center project is a public-private partnership that includes public investment in a non-motorized trail infrastructure and private investment in a mixed-use development.
The pedestrian bridge is an essential piece in making the City accessible to all community members through its connection to 4.6 miles of new non-motorized pathways that link to key regional destinations.
“This marks more than just the opening of this bridge, but a celebration of the completion of critical infrastructure that will increase our walkability, mobility and economic opportunity in our downtown area,” said John Shay, Wyoming City Manager.
Kent County Commissioner Dan Burrill said he looks forward to seeing how the bridge will bring the community together and support future growth.
“The City of Wyoming set a bold vision and has delivered on promises made,” said Burrill. “As the 28th Street corridor continues to be revitalized with new housing and commercial development and rehabilitation, these types of public infrastructure investments are critical to driving private investment.”
The grand opening of the new Wyoming pedestrian bridge drew a large crowd (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A community member registers for the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Cyclists look at the trail map before the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Mayor Kent Vanderwood (right) talks with a community member before the event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Tandem bicyclists relax before the start of the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
For the people
Congresswoman Hillary Scholten thanked event attendees for investing in the City of Wyoming, and presented a Congressional Proclamation to Mayor Vanderwood and the City of Wyoming on the ribbon-cutting of the new pedestrian bridge.
“This is a project by the people of Wyoming, and for the people of Wyoming,” said Scholten.
As the City of Wyoming continues steady progress toward its [re]Imagined goals, Fitzgerald said community members can be assured that their priorities are being heard.
“We’re going to continue to invest in sites like this, in our communities, and in you,” said Fitzgerald.
See a list of the Wyoming pedestrian bridge funding partners here.
(Back, left to right) State Rep. John Fitzgerald and Wyoming City Manager John Shay (Front, left to right) Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten and Kent Co. Commissioner Dan Burrill (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wyoming [re]Imagined: Learn More!
Click the following links to learn more about the City of Wyoming, [re]Imagined:
See below for a list of funding partners for the Wyoming Pedestrian Bridge over 28th Street:
Wyoming City Council – ARPA funds
Kent County Board of Commissioners – $6 million of ARPA funds
Sen. Peters and Congresswoman Scholten (Federal Partners) – Secured $850,000 for the planning and design of infrastructure
Rep. John Fitzgerald and Sen. Winnie Brinks(State Partners) – Secured $20 million from the state budget
Grand Valley Metro Council – $1.17 million in carbon reduction program funds for Wyoming trails
Consumers Energy – Buried power lines to improve aesthetics
Michigan Department of Transportation – Permitting and facilitating bridge construction
Progressive Companies – Design and construction administration
In-line Construction
Katerberg-VerHage
Diversco Construction
Contact Bridge Solutions
PermaTrack
Western Wood Structures
Material Testing Consultants
Land Matters
SME
WSP Engineering
Magnus Capital (Private Partner) – Continued vision to develop vibrant mixed-use development, diverse housing options, pedestrian-friendly urban design and more
Jeff and Brandon Baker
General Motors
Weller
Grace Christian University
Wyoming Planning Commission
Wyoming Downtown Development Authority
Wyoming Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department
Wyoming City Staff – Notably, Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion 154’s new electric handicap doors (Courtesy, American Legion)
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion’s new electric handicap doors. Beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, participants can expect an afternoon of food and fun.
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The event is open to the public and includes prizes for: Best Score on Ballon Obstacle Course, Fastest Time on Scooter Straight Course and Best Overall Trim Package (includes Best Rider Costume, Best Ride Decorations, Best Pit Crew Spirt and Most Unique/Useful Adaptive Aftermarket Equipment). All abilities compete for prizes – including bragging rights and winner trophies.
There will be three independent judges for all competitions. Judges will be announced the day of the event.
Registration as a competitor, pit crew member, attendee, volunteer or vendor can be found here. Competition rules can be found here.
More information about the Mobility Scooter Competition can be found here.
Disability awareness
“Many of our members are veterans or family members who need a bit more assistance than in the past, whether that’s to enter the building, or to carry in a crock-pot for an event like our annual Chili Cook-off,” says Butch Hogan, Post 154 Facilities Manager. “So, upgrading the doors was the right thing to help all, including those with limited mobility.”
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The competition event is being held to celebrate both the new Post 154 accessibility and to increase disability awareness.
According to Ken Stockel, Co-chair of the Scooter Competition, “We’re designing the course will all abilities in mind. Although some may compete in a mobility scooter, power wheelchair, or regular wheelchair, we are also having an obstacle competition for able-bodied participants to compete—in a WHEELCHAIR!
“As most servicemen/women learn early in their military training, when you walk in someone else’s ‘boots’ is when you develop empathy – and that’s where disability awareness begins.”
About American Legion Post 154
The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with more than 1.6 million members who strengthen the nation through programs, services and advocacy for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, youth and communities.
Post 154 is named after Roger B. Chaffee (Feb. 15, 1935 – Jan. 27, 1967), an officer in the United States Navy, and died with fellow astronauts Gus Grissom and Ed White during a pre-launch test for the Apollo I mission.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show of the season.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
“It doesn’t matter what your goals are – running solely for a local election or running at the state or federal level; running next year or maybe in a decade – this program is for you,” said Amber Elder, KDL Programming Specialist. “This program is designed to support you as you dip your toes into the process of running for election.”
What to expect
The training session will take place from 1-4 p.m. and feature workshops designed to help women gain practical knowledge, confidence and experience needed to run for office. Attendees will practice building their networks and their elevator speech – both of which are key work for a campaign. A campaign simulation exercise will give attendees a better sense of what running a campaign entails.
The Elect Her program was developed by the Running Start organization to specifically support women in their run for office (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Attendees will also hear from local politicians – Kent County Commissioners Liz Morse (R) and Nancy Morales (D) – as they share their experiences and knowledge gained while entering the political arena.
“It will be a good mix of practical, hands-on learning opportunities as well as time to sit back and take notes, all while connecting with other people who are also considering taking the leap into running for an election,” said Elder.
Meeting an information need
Inspired by feedback from a previous GVSU Elect Her event, KDL decided to host a Wyoming Elect Her training session to help those who are considering running for election but are uncertain how to do so.
“KDL’s goal with programming is to provide events that meet patrons’ information needs, and this is a unique information need that isn’t met in a ton of places,” said Elder.
The training session can be valuable even if participants decide not to run for election (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Though all are welcome to attend the Elect Her event, the program was developed by the Running Start organization to specifically support women in their run for office.
“While women are around 50% of the population, they aren’t represented in equal numbers in our governments,” said Elder. “Our current Congress is made up of 155 women out of 535 seats, and Running Start is committed to supporting the women who want to decrease the gap between male and female elected officials.”
KDL has offered workshop programs and programs related to politics before, though Elect Her is the first time they have combined those two program styles. Elder said that if patrons find this program valuable, KDL will likely offer the event again in the future.
“Even if you end up not using what you learn at the event to run for election, the connections you make and the skills you learn will still be helpful no matter what your future holds,” said Elder.
Resource links
Elect Her event details can be found here. Additional KDL resources and information can be found on their website.
Several Kent County organizations have partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host mobile pantries each month.
Below is a list of mobile food pantry locations open to the community. Each listing consists of date, time, location and drive-thru or walk-thru designation.
Though the selection of food varies each month, a variety of fresh and frozen items are always available at the mobile pantries.
Mobile food pantry schedule for Sept. 12 – Oct. 10:
At the young age of seven, Samantha Perry was a “lucky” traveler on a small private plane which made a lasting impression.
“My dad was working for a fastener company and a large automotive organization needed an emergency part that was causing a production outage, and his company rented a small private plane to fly him from Michigan to Chicago to get the required part,” said Perry, who is on GE Aerospace’s cybersecurity team and president of the Great Lakes Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI). “It was because I tagged along with him in that plane that I caught the ‘bug’ for aviation, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
“While open to all genders, our initiative is designed to expose school-aged females to the aviation industry and spark inspiration about the career opportunities available in aerospace.”
Since becoming president, Perry’s highlights have included bringing Girls in Aviation Day back to Grand Rapids, expanding the chapter board to increase collaboration, and creating strong partnerships with other midwest WAI chapters (and partner organizations) to expand the reach of their professional network.
“Many Women in Aviation International Chapters across the globe host a Girls in Aviation Day event,” Perry said. “The Great Lakes Chapter has held about seven events since inception. However, this is our second year hosting the event with capacity to facilitate larger-scale attendance.”
Girls in Aviation Day set for Sept. 20 at Avflight. (Courtesy, Luke K/PistonFly)
Girls in Aviation Day Details
Time/Date: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20 Location: AVFLIGHT, 4211 Cassard Ln., Grand Rapids Featuring: –Stem activities –Themed crafts –Static displays –Airfield tours –Scavenger hunts
The Mission
“Women in Aviation International is the largest nonprofit organization that envisions a world where the sky is open to all, and where aviation and aerospace dreams are possible without barriers,” said Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “The WAI Great Lakes Chapter is building an inclusive, diverse and global aviation and aerospace industry – starting here in the Great Lakes Region.”
Members vary in age and career stage, from high school senior to retirees.
“In our chapter, some members are corporate pilots (business jets), some are airline pilots, some are certified flight instructors,” explained Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “We have some non-flying occupations too, including, aircraft mechanics, airport operations officers, flight dispatch personnel, trip schedulers, line technicians, aircraft management staff, aviation authors, avionics manufacturers, aerospace engineers, FAA employees, and more.”
“Goal is to increase female representation”
“There is a significant gender gap in most aspects of aviation, and our goal is to increase the female representation in all aerospace occupations. While there are certain aspects of aviation that have larger female populations (flight attendants, for example), other occupations (engineering and maintenance, for example) could benefit from increased diversity.”
Check out the exciting clips above from our first Friday Night Highlights show of the season featuring many of the local high school football teams in Kentwood and Wyoming.
Just like during basketball season, every week we’ll bring you most of the local high school football home stadium action from the Wyoming and Kentwood varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting 30-minute Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
A new era is dawning for Kelloggsville football and the Rockets have made it a successful launch in the first two weeks.
The new look starts with Justin Dennett, who stepped in as the new Coach. The early results are proving positive as the Rockets defeated Grant 43-14 to open the season, and beat Perry 48-28 Friday.
“We started out pretty good,” Dennett said of the opening day win. “We received the opening kickoff and went down and scored. Then on Grant’s first possession they fumbled. We were up 22-6 at halftime and then scored a few more times early in the second half. We got off to a good start and were able to maintain it.”
Quarterback Cameron Dunbar posts three TDs against Grant
Offensively, the Rockets were led by senior quarterback Cameron Dunbar (5-11, 185 pounds) who completed 7-of-10 passes for 82 yards and rushed the ball 12 times for 176 yards and three touchdowns.
Running back Keyontae Gibson logs 157 yards and three TDs in opener
Running back Keyontae Gibson added 157 yards on 14 carries and scored three touchdowns. Gibson also caught a pair of passes for 27 yards. Danyel White (5-11, 165) added two receptions for 25 yards.
A core of seniors led the way for Kelloggsville on the offensive side of the ball starting with Dunbar at the quarterback position.
“Cameron is a tremendous athlete,” Dennett said. “He is our fastest and strongest athlete. He really fits the offense that we want to run. He is a dynamic kid and a good leader for us.”
Gibson, White and senior Isaak Kowal (5-11, 180) provide plenty of options in the running and passing game.
“Keyontae had a breakout game for us,” Dennett said. “He is a really dynamic kid. He is fast and strong and broke a few long runs. Danyel is one of our fastest kids and has good hands. He is also a good blocker which is good for our offense. Isaak is a senior running back who is a good, tough runner and a good blocker.”
Up front, senior Zane Hendricks (5-10, 200) and Prince Bakara (5-6, 210) anchor the offensive line where they provide plenty of senior leadership for a young group of linemen.
The Rockets also turned in a productive game on the defensive side of the football in their opener.
“Defensively, I wasn’t sure how it would go in Week One,” Dennett said. “The defense played really well and forced four turnovers. They (Grant) only scored once on our first-team defense. I was pleasantly surprised with our defense. We have a lot of good athletes on defense. We still have to fine-tune some things and clean some things up, but for Week One it was a really good effort.”
With a small roster, the Rockets rely on several players to log minutes on both the defensive and offensive side of the ball.
Dunbar and White head up the defensive secondary. Kowal and Gibson lead the way at inside linebacker. Bakara and Hendricks anchor the defensive front.
The defense also is receiving contributions from senior Nasyre Walker (5-9, 170), who plays a hybrid outside linebacker/safety position, senior Jaquardre Montes (5-10, 160), inside linebacker, and Qubec Griffin, defensive back and receiver on offense.
Dennett brings plenty of head coaching experience to Kelloggsville. A native of Byron Center, Dennett was the Coach at Montague the past four seasons.
“We have a good group of seniors,” Dennett said. “They were all pretty committed over the summer. We have a lot of potential, but we need to focus on the little things.”
“We definitely had a good start,” Dennett said. “Our main focus right now is to grow our numbers. Hopefully we can grow them and have a junior varsity team. I was really happy with Week One and hope to build on it.”
Tuyen has been missing since Aug. 10, 2025, and her disappearance was just recently reported to police. She is considered at risk due to likely not having access to medication prescribed to her.
Tuyen is an Asian female with black hair and brown eyes. She stands approximately 5 feet tall with a slim build.
Tuyen was last seen in the area of Clyde Park Avenue and 32nd Street SW. She does not have access to a vehicle and would likely be walking. No description of her clothing is available, and a recent picture of her is featured at the beginning of this article. Her intended destination is unknown.
Wyoming Police continue to search for Tuyen and are requesting assistance from the public.
Anyone who may have seen Tuyen since Aug. 10 or who might have information regarding her whereabouts is asked to contact the Wyoming Police Department at 616-530-7300, Detective Ana Armstrong at 616-530-7332, or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
Nearly 65,000 children in West Michigan are at risk of hunger. Roughly 834 school buses filled with kids are dropped off at home each weekend with a risk of having little to no food for 68 hours.
Local officials, volunteers, Hand2Hand staff and Consumers Energy representatives all gathered to celebrate the new electric van donated by Consumers Energy (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Local nonprofit, Hand2Hand, works to eliminate that 68-hour gap by mobilizing schools, churches, organizations and individuals to provide a backpack of nutritious food over the weekend and extended school breaks. Food sent home consists of breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner items and often a recipe card.
Consumers Energy recently donated a new all-electric van to Hand2Hand through their electric vehicle program to assist in the nonprofit’s food deliveries.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
On Aug. 26, Hand2Hand celebrated the EVan (aptly christened Evan) donation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and volunteer food packing event – the first packing event of the 2025-26 school year.
Jeff Myrom, Director of Electric Transportation Customer Programs at Consumers Energy, said the van went to a great cause. “Helping kids who need more food, more nutrition, so they have successful lives is incredibly important.”
A mission of hope
Jodi Joseph talks about the impact and hope Hand2Hand food bags give local children in need (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Beyond physical nutrition, the Hand2Hand food provides hope for students experiencing hunger.
“If we can nourish that student through the weekend, then they can come to school ready to learn,” said Hand2Hand Executive Director Jodi Joseph. “They can know that there is a community here that sees them, that cares for them; it’s more than just food.”
This year, Hand2Hand will serve up to 15,000 students in 280 schools throughout 45 school districts in West Michigan.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt, Superintendent of Hudsonville Public Schools and Hand2Hand board member, attended Sandy Hill Elementary where Hand2Hand first began serving 19 students in 2008.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt talks about the community need for food assistance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Our kids have a lot of access to things, but there are families that are in need,” said VanderJagt, adding that nearly one hundred students are considered homeless in Hudsonville.
“Watching our students [receive the backpacks], their eyes light up…it impacts them more than you’ll ever know.”
Hand2Hand recognizes that every family’s story is different, with some families signing up for a short time while others sign up for longer. No matter the time frame or reason for the need, the nonprofit exercises discretion regarding student/family identities with each bag discreetly placed in student lockers without volunteers ever knowing student names.
A mission of efficiency
Jeff Myrom talks about Consumers Energy’s electric vehicle initiatives (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Evan the EVan” is the second all-electric van donated by Consumers Energy, with an anticipated 22 more to be donated across West Michigan over the next year and a half.
“As part of PowerMIFleet, we’ve been looking for fleets that serve income-qualified customers,” said Myrom, adding that electric vehicles cost approximately half per mile to operate than a gasoline vehicle.
“We’ve dedicated some funding to ensure that we can help them purchase those vehicles and the charging infrastructure that they need, so they can continue to operate as efficiently as possible.”
Myrom went on to say that the mission of Hand2Hand stood out to the Consumers Energy community affairs team for multiple reasons.
“The kids are excited to take those backpacks home, they love having the food on the weekends…and that’s just a win for everyone,” said Myrom.
“And when those kids also get to see an electric vehicle and understand the technology of the future, we hope it inspires them and keeps them on their journey as they continue to learn.”
It takes a village
Joseph said Hand2Hand is grateful to be part of the Consumers Energy electric vehicle initiative.
Hunger exists in every community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We cannot do this work without having a fleet, without having the tools that we need to do the work,” said Joseph. “By adding this van, it increases our fleet by 50%.
Joseph went on to say that Hand2Hand will serve any school, no matter the number of students in need.
“Hunger exists in every community; it doesn’t matter the zip code,” said Joseph. “We go into a school if there is one student that needs [help], or we go into a school that has 400 students that need it. We really concentrate on the student.”
While the Hand2Hand staff numbers 22, over 4,000 people help fulfill the nonprofit’s mission.
“We really couldn’t do this without the entire community helping us,” said Joseph.
Over 4,000 volunteers help make Hand2Hand’s mission a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Community support is vital to making Hand2Hand’s mission a success (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Ottawa and Kent counties are Hand2Hand’s largest distribution areas.
“We couldn’t even wash the van today for the ribbon-cutting because it was out in the field, it was already out delivering food,” said Joseph. “That’s just a testament to how this van is really going to bless our community and our families and our kids.”
Hand2Hand is expanding to the Forest Hills school district this year, as well as adding more students in their current school districts.
How you can help!
Community packing events take place each week. Volunteers are welcome and can find more information on the Hand2Hand website.
Food packing events happen weekly to ensure students have enough food (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
And while it takes volunteers to do the work, Joseph said, it also takes finances.
Those wishing to donate to Hand2Hand can do so online and also via Venmo. Those who wish to visit the Hand2Hand building with a check and a friendly hello are also welcome.
“We know the work that we’re doing here is impactful. It’s making a tremendous difference,” said Joseph.
Consumers Energy EV resources
Those thinking about obtaining an electric vehicle can visit consumersenergy.com/EV details and rebate offers. Businesses considering an electric vehicle for their fleet can reach out to PowerMIFleet at consumersenergy.com for rebates and professional guidance.
EVs operate at half the cost per mile of a gasoline vehicle (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Former WKTV intern and aspiring filmmaker Alex Bernhardt makes waves with his work on Roger Rapoport’s recently released World War II film, “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Real world experience definitely counts along with a college degree.
After graduating in 2022 from Ferris State University with a degree in television and digital media production, Alex Bernhardt worked an internship at WKTV Community Media.
Hands-on experiences as a WKTV intern
Alex Bernhardt honed several skills during his internship at WKTV (Courtesy, Alex Bernhardt)
He worked in many WKTV departments alongside Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director, and Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director/GM.
Bernhardt filmed and edited for many WKTV programs, including Friday Night Highlights, featuring local high school basketball. He also created videos for WKTV Journal stories, handled a portion of general news reporting and interviewing, promotional and sponsor events, and assisted with a documentary.
While at WKTV, Bernhardt became comfortable going to a location, setting up a camera, putting microphones on people, adjusting lighting for maximum exposure and learning how to deal with the ins and outs of video production.
“I really enjoy editing,” said Bernhardt, noting stringing together footage, reviewing it and putting it together represents his strongest work.
First stop at WWMT in Kalamazoo
His WKTV internship, especially becoming comfortable with a camera, along with his college education of course, helped Bernhardt land his first professional job at WWMT News Channel 3 as a videographer/news editor.
“A lot of the day-to-day news coverage I would end up doing helped me prepare for that position,” Bernhardt said.
After leaving WWMT in July 2024, Bernhardt moved back to his hometown of Muskegon and joined his family to work at The Corner, an innovative community center in downtown Muskegon in a former church building. Many organizations and groups rent the renovated space (www.facebook.com/thecornermkg/) and his two entrepreneurial sisters operate small businesses from the facility.
Enter Roger Rapoport and “Old Heart”
Roger D. Rapoport, author, movie producer, activist, journalist. (Courtesy, photo)
Bernhardt connected with Roger D. Rapoport, a family friend and successful writer and publisher and now an independent filmmaker. He ended up working on Rapoport’s film “Old Heart,” about an Army veteran who defies his family and flies to the Netherlands 60 years after World War II to find the love of his life. The film is based on Peter Ferry’s novel.
Bernhardt gathered the raw footage shot each day for review by Rapoport and editors, assisted with sound, lighting and camera setup, and underwent a “lot of gophering back and forth” to get footage.
WKTV’s Greer is not surprised by Bernhardt’s success.
“It’s no wonder Alex is out in the world making a name for himself not only handling editing, audio and marketing on the set of ‘Old Heart,’ but also playing the role of the farmer in the film,” Greer said. “Alex was a very dedicated, hard-working college intern at our station, who never said no to a challenge.”
Alex Bernhardt, left, as the Farmer in “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
“Old Heart” has heart
To date, “Old Heart” has screened before 130 audiences across the country and accumulated worldwide acclaim.
Accolades include Best Feature from an Adapted Screenplay at the Marina Del Rey Film Festival in Los Angeles, Best Editor (Gene Gamache) and Best Actress (Eva Doueiri) in the Sweden Film Awards, and Best Composer (Garth Neustadter) at the Auguri Film Festival in Naples.
Auguri Film Festival director Olga Sandi described “Old Heart” as a film of rare sensitivity and craftsmanship that weaves together themes of love, loss and resilience across generations.
“Ultimately, “Old Heart” is more than a love story—it’s a meditation on memory, identity and the endurance of human connection,” said Sandi in the review. “With its exceptional direction, stunning cinematography and strong production, it firmly establishes [Kirk] Wahamaki and [Leslye] Witt as filmmakers with both vision and heart.”
“Old Heart” is based on Peter Ferry’s acclaimed novel (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Currently, the film is set to play in Coldwater, Mich., at 12 p.m. on Sept. 24 at the NCG Theater. This event is sponsored by Southwestern Behavioral Health with the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs.
Rapoport said several more “Old Heart” screening events are pending, including five upcoming events in the Netherlands in late September. Updates on “Old Heart” screening dates and locations can be found here.
WKTV fosters community connections through innovative media (Courtesy, WKTV)
Still young…and still aspiring
What’s next for Bernardt besides building up the venue at his family venture?
He hopes to work on other films and enjoys projects like “Psycho Ape: Part II – The Wrath of Kong,” a “super low budget, fun to make, all action and no plot” film. He said “Old Heart” was Rapoport’s fourth movie and he hopes to work with him on future films.
Alex Bernhardt as he worked on “Psycho Ape 2: The Wrath of Kong” film.
“I plan to collaborate with Roger on any future projects he may have, film-related or otherwise,” said Bernhardt. “He is one of West Michigan’s most prolific producers, and he seems to really appreciate my effort.”
When asked what advice he would give to aspiring young filmmakers, Bernhardt gave a tongue-in-cheek reply: “Don’t look at me! I’m still young and aspiring!”
Godfrey-Lee’s varsity football program has not played a full season of 11-man football since 2019.
This off-season, Coach Lamar Marshall and his team prepared for a return to the traditional format. Due to low roster numbers, however, the Legends will once again compete in the MHSAA 8-man football division for the fourth-straight year.
“Unfortunately, we lost some players to transfer,” said Marshall, in his fourth year, whose Legends ended the 2024 season with a 4-5 record. “So we ended up making the decision to come back to the 8-man game.
“It will be business as usual to prepare for the season, and I’m excited for what’s coming up.”
Key players and dual roles
The 2025 Legends will boast an even number of seniors and lowerclassmen. Among the returning seniors is the wide receiver trio of Jaden Potts, Manny Ramos and Aidan Merriweather.
The trio accounted for 95 catches, 909 yards, and nine touchdowns from the graduated Anthony Blok.
Jaden Potts, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Jayden Sanchez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Daeden Lopez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Aidan Merriweather, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Manny Ramos, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Joseph Marshall, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Potts will find himself all over the field as he is a stout force on the defensive side of the ball as well.
“Jaden Potts is our offensive captain, our defensive captain. He gets us into position on defense, and offensively – if you need a key play – he can come up big,” Marshall said.
Merriweather also will play a dual role for the Legends. The dexterous wideout collected 25 tackles last season and also will play running back on offense.
“He’s going to be our gadget guy,” Marshall said. “He’s coming off a foot injury from track, so he’s knocking the rust off, but he’s going to be a monster for us this year.”
Junior Jayden Sanchez will convert to quarterback from running back, where he led the Legends in rushing with 622 yards and seven touchdowns, pinballing his way to 10 yards per carry.
The Lee Legends varsity football team prepares for its first game of the 2025-26 season (Ty Marzean/WKTV Contributor)
“He’s a load to bring down,” Marshall said of his new signal caller. “He played quarterback under me in middle school, so he’s been in the system for a long time.”
The offensive line will be anchored by a pair of four-year varsity starters, 6-4 guard Darnell Burton and 220-lb. center Daeden Lopez.
Legends Schedule
The Legends will kick off the 2025 season with a pair of home games, hosting Baldwin on Thursday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. and Sacred Heart Academy on Friday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. in the WKTV Game of the Week.
Ninety-eight comedians are now down to 42 as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition continues its quarterfinal rounds.
The competition began May 11 with its first of fourteen qualifying rounds. Six quarterfinal rounds will run Aug. 17-Sept. 21 with three semifinal rounds held Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and Oct. 19. Competition finals will be held Oct. 26.
Previous Kingpin of Comedy competition winners (Courtesy, Brian B.)
How it works
Seven comedians are given eight minutes to perform in each round. The line-up of comedians is random, with the order drawn as the show progresses.
Audience members are given a ballot before the show begins. After the last competing comedian of the night performs, the audience picks three comedians they feel should advance to the next round. Ballots are counted while a non-competing comic performs for the audience. Comics moving on to the next round of the competition are announced at the end of the show.
Prizes galore!
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Wyoming!” says Brian B., Founder and MC of the SNF.
The SNF Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a large check for $500 (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and Midtown GR, and prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex. The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy, personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt, and will headline the SNF 2026 LaughFest performance.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado on Saturday, Aug. 16 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and free community event.
Senator Hilary Scholten (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin cut the ribbon, officially opening Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The warm summer morning began at 10:30 a.m. with statements given by State Representative John Fitzgerald, U.S. Senator Hilary Scholten, City of Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin.
“The Godwin Mercado is a project that embodies the best of what our community can achieve when we come together with purpose and vision,” said Mayor Vanderwood. “It is a true honor to stand here today as we officially open the Godwin Mercado.”
Support from the community helped make Godwin Mercado a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Krashawn Martin echoed Mayor Vanderwood’s remarks, saying the marketplace would not have been possible without broad community support.
“My heart is beyond happy to see so many smiling faces, so many different pieces and pockets that really build the community that is Wyoming,” said Martin. “I’m so honored to be a tiny piece of making this beautiful space come together.”
Placemaking in action
Managed and programmed by the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility community event space will provide year-round usage opportunities to local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.
Godwin Mercado is recognized as Wyoming’s new gathering spot for the community (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Market days will also help fill key gaps in the area’s food system, helping support the well-being of residents in the Godwin Heights area and the entire Wyoming community.
Representative Fitzgerald expressed the value Godwin Mercado brings for this generation as well as future generations.
“This is placemaking in action for this community,” said Rep. Fitzgerald. “It’s going to bring attention, good attention, to this community. I cannot be prouder of the City of Wyoming and its investment in this space.”
After the ribbon cutting, community members gathered for several free activities, including a meal, games, face painting and live music, all provided by Wyoming food and artisan vendors.
Local Kona Ice provided refreshing treats (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Free face painting was enjoyed by both children and adults (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A free meal was served to all in attendance (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Large garage doors allow for easy access to and from the Mercado indoor event space (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Wyoming Police let children explore department vehicles (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Playing with bubbles is a must for all ages (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Wyoming firefighters and police officers chatted with event guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Celebration attendees enjoyed live music (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Rep. John Fitzgerald (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin visit with celebration guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The outdoor plaza was filled with fun, family-friendly activity while the main indoor event space allowed seating and shade for those eating or simply needing a break from the sun.
A thread of connection
An unveiling of the colorful mural on Godwin Mercado’s outer south wall also took place.
The Godwin Mercado mural tells the history of the City through “story stacking” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Installed by local nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, and painted by Filipina street muralist and visual anthropreneur Venazir, the mural is a testament to Wyoming’s history, resilience and spirit – and was inspired by a game of Jenga.
“I was playing Jenga with my friends, and then I thought of stacking all the bits and pieces of who was Wyoming, who is Wyoming,” Venazir told WKTV Journal.
As Venazir researched the City’s history, she recognized the importance of not only the Godwin Mercado space, but what the significance and impact of revitalizing that space means to the community.
Titled “Stacked Stories” and “Building Balance,” the mural’s stacked images reveal the many facets of Wyoming’s lifespan while giving a poetic nod to the layered narrative of Godwin Heights and Wyoming and emphasizing the balance between past and progress.
Mural artist Venazir continued working on the mural during the celebration (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Another prominent element of the mural is a red thread weaving through the images.
“The red thread is the most symbolic element in my work,” said Venazir. “It’s this unifying element that I use across all of my murals.”
Since 2017 in the Philippines, Venazir’s red thread has been weaving a tapestry of stories internationally as she explores the intricate relationships between human traditions and the ever-changing landscapes that shape them.
“It stitches us [together] in ways that we couldn’t even imagine,” said Venazir. “My journey as an artist is to visualize the process that there is a red thread that guides us. That thread stretches and tangles, but it is never broken.”
Learn more about Venazir and her dynamic art here.
An educational avenue
Godwin Mercado will not only provide fresh food options and space for events, it will also collaborate with local schools and organizations to host educational activities.
(Courtesy, Godwin Heights)
Chad Conklin, Superintendent of Godwin Heights Public Schools, said school staff and students are excited about the opportunities Godwin Mercado offers.
“What this building is going to bring with the agriculture – it’s going to be fantastic,” Conklin told WKTV. “We’re looking at ways to be able to incorporate our own curriculum within it and hopefully support that through our science classes.”
Conklin also appreciates the increased accessibility the Mercado parking lot provides for the adjoining Godwin Heights athletic complex activities.
Helping our city thrive
Sen. Hilary Scholten said Godwin Mercado will play an important role in helping support small businesses and local entrepreneurs in West Michigan.
“Close to 99% of businesses in the State of Michigan are considered small businesses,” said Senator Scholten. “That is what makes our economy so beautiful and so diverse.
“Places like the Mercado are going to continue to support those small businesses and help them to thrive.”
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Resource links
The Godwin Mercado full market grand opening is planned for spring of 2026. For updates, sign up for the Godwin Mercado newsletter here.
The Mercado provides various options for residents to embark upon their own personal entrepreneurial journeys. Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via a vendor application.
For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.
Watch this short clip to hear what City of Wyoming officials have to say about the opening of Godwin Mercado! (Courtesy, Tom Norton WKTV)
Whether you’re shopping for elementary-school kiddos or college-bound young adults, Woodland Mall is your one-stop destination for students of all ages.
“Having the right clothes, accessories and supplies can go a long way for boosting students’ confidence and comfort heading into a new school year,” Senior Marketing Director Lisa Wolstromer said. “For the 2025 back-to-school season, we’re seeing interest in both fashion and function. Popular items include updated denim styles, athleisure wear, sneakers, beauty, skincare products and tech essentials.
“With retailers offering everything you need and great food and beverage options to enjoy along the way, you can make a fun day out of back-to-school shopping at Woodland Mall.”
Enjoy a smoother experience prepping for school with Woodland Mall’s shopping guide:
Step into the school year with footwear from Aldo, Kids Foot Locker, Snipes, Vans and Zumiez:
Get fresh kicks for the first day, from Nike Air Force 1s to classic Vans slip-ons.
With trendy sneakers, athletic shoes and backpacks, grab exclusive styles perfect for gym class, after-school sports and campus walks.
Zumiez. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)
Shop style staples at Aerie, American Eagle, H&M, Hollister and Urban Outfitters:
Find outfit essentials for tweens, teens and college students, such as graphic tees, denim, layering pieces and on-trend accessories.
An A+ campus fit should balance comfort and style.
Find fall layers and outerwear at Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle, H&M and The North Face:
Lightweight jackets, hoodies and seasonal layers are perfect for chilly mornings and classroom comfort.
Pick up a blazer and similar polished jacket for high school and college presentations.
Grab backpacks and school gear from Barnes and Noble, Claire’s, Journeys and Journeys Kidz:
Fun items and accessories like hair clips, lip glosses and locker decorations can personalize the school experience.
Stay organized with notebooks, planners and other school supplies, and stay hydrated with colorful drinkware you’ll take with you everywhere.
Journeys Kidz. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)
Stay connected with tech and study tools from the Apple Store and Cricket:
Look for student and educator discounts on MacBooks, iPads and more, and don’t forget must-have accessories like headphones, styluses and portable chargers.
Consider data plans for staying connected on the go.
Stock up on self-care and dorm essentials from Bath & Body Works, Lush, Macy’s, Sephora and Von Maur:
Get first-day ready with makeup, hair tools and skincare kits, along with body mists and aromatherapy to beat stress.
Feel put together with must-have beauty products and organizers for your locker or dorm room.
Charleys Philly Steaks and Mango Thai. (Photo, Courtesy Woodland Mall)
Fuel up while you shop – stop by Auntie Anne’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Mango Thai, Red Robin and Starbucks:
Take a study break or refuel during your shopping trip with a coffee, smoothie or snack.
Treat the kids (and yourself) to dinner and dessert for completing your back-to-school checklist!
Girls field hockey and boys volleyball make their debuts with MHSAA sponsorship during the 2025-26 school year. Field hockey will be played in the fall, while boys volleyball begins its first season in the spring.
There are 37 varsity teams expected to play during the inaugural field hockey season. There will be one playoff division, with the first MHSAA Regionals in this sport beginning Oct. 8 and the first championship awarded Oct. 25.
Practices are set to begin Monday, Aug. 11, for an anticipated 100,000 high school athletes at Michigan High School Athletic Association member schools.
The fall season includes the most played sports for both boys and girls; 36,210 football players and 19,679 girls volleyball players competed during the Fall 2024 season. Teams in those sports will be joined by competitors in girls and boys cross country, field hockey, Lower Peninsula girls golf, boys soccer, Lower Peninsula girls swimming & diving, Upper Peninsula girls tennis and Lower Peninsula boys tennis in beginning practice next week. Competition begins Aug. 15 for cross country, field hockey, golf, soccer and tennis, Aug. 20 for swimming & diving and volleyball, and Aug. 28 for varsity football.
Pilot program in Boys Tennis Finals To conclude their season, Lower Peninsula boys tennis teams will begin a pilot program showcasing Finals for all four divisions at the same location – Midland Tennis Center – over a two-week period. Division 4 will begin play with its two-day event Oct. 15-16, followed by Division 1 on Oct. 17-18, Division 2 on Oct. 22-23 and Division 3 played Oct. 24-25.
Also in Lower Peninsula boys tennis, and girls in the spring, a Finals qualification change will allow for teams that finish third at their Regionals to advance to the season-ending tournament as well, but only in postseason divisions where there are six Regionals – which will be all four boys divisions this fall.
Football Finals now 3 days The 11-Player Football Finals at Ford Field will be played this fall over a three-day period, with Division 8, 4, 6 and 2 games on Friday, Nov. 28, and Division 7, 3, 5 and 1 games played Sunday, Nov. 30, to accommodate Michigan State’s game against Maryland on Nov. 29 at Ford Field.
Two more changes affecting football playoffs will be noticeable this fall. For the first time, 8-Player Semifinals will be played at neutral sites; previously the team with the highest playoff-point average continued to host during that round. Also, teams that forfeit games will no longer receive playoff-point average strength-of-schedule bonus points from those opponents to which they forfeited.
Boys soccer rule changes A pair of changes in boys soccer this fall will address sportsmanship. The first allows game officials to take action against a team’s head coach in addition to any cautions or ejections issues to players and personnel in that team’s bench area – making the head coach more accountable for behavior on the sideline. The second change allows for only the team captain to speak with an official during the breaks between periods (halftime and during overtime), unless another coach, player, etc., is summoned by the official – with the penalty a yellow card to the offending individual.
More game-action rule changes
In volleyball, multiple contacts by one player attempting to play the ball will now be allowed on second contact if the next contact is by a teammate on the same side of the net.
In swimming & diving, backstroke ledges will be permitted in pools that maintain a 6-foot water depth. If used in competition, identical ledges must be provided by the host team for all lanes, although individual swimmers are not required to use them.
Also in swimming & diving – during relay exchanges – second, third and fourth swimmers must have one foot stationary at the front edge of the deck. The remainder of their bodies may be in motion prior to the finish of the incoming swimmer.
In football, when a forward fumble goes out of bounds, the ball will now be spotted where the fumble occurred instead of where the ball crossed the sideline.
The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)
The City of Wyoming is inviting the community to celebrate the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado marketplace on Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event that Krashawn Martin, Director of the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, describes as a community block party.
“We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season,” said Martin at the July Godwin Mercado sneak-peek event.
A ribbon cutting will take place at 10:30 a.m. followed by free family-friendly activities, food and drinks from local vendors, live music, lawn games, face painting and more.
Former heavyweight champion Buster Mathis Jr. poses in front of some of the numerous press clippings of Pride boxing at the reunion. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
Memories came flowing back in waves Saturday as former boxers from the Pride Boxing Gym gathered together for a first-time reunion in Byron Center.
Grand Rapids has a long and rich amateur boxing history and the former Pride Gym, which was located near the corner of Division and Burton streets in Grand Rapids, was one of the shining stars of the amateur boxing scene in West Michigan during the 1980s and 90s.
The names and the accomplishments were the things of legend in the amateur boxing realm. Among the boxers, many of them who went on to successful professional boxing careers that trained at the Pride Gym were the legendary Floyd Mayweather Jr., Buster Mathis Jr., Juan Padin, Kevin Childrey, Tony Quintana, Sugar Ray Collins, Brian Blakely, Kevin “KP” Porter and a host of others.
Many of those boxers were on hand for a reunion and picnic Saturday. The stories were numerous and the laughs and smiles flowed as over 25 former Pride boxers took part.
Burr Elzinga of Wyoming was one of those boxers who brought home one of many Golden Gloves state championships during the storied run of the Pride gym that began in 1985 and continued until it closed in 2000.
“It was a great facility that provided so much benefit for a whole lot of young people who needed it,” Elzinga said. “It helped so many kids. It was really a beautiful place and we are all very thankful for it.”
The reunion was organized by the two men who got Pride Gym up and running in the mid 80’s, Bob Serulla and Bruce Kielty.
Founders Bruce Kielty (left) and Bob Serulla reminisce at the Pride Boxing Club reunion. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
Ionia State Prison ring purchased for one dollar
“Bruce and I opened the gym 40 years ago,” said Serulla, who’s also a boxing announcer and co-host for WKTV’s Golden Gloves programming. “We talked about opening a gym and we met with Buster Mathis Sr. We talked to him about opening the gym and having him train young men. We finally found a location, but we didn’t even have a ring. The Ionia State Prison had a boxing program way back and we found out they still had their old ring. We contacted the prison about seeing if they would donate the ring and they said that we could buy it for $1. It was an old Everlast ring, but it was perfect for us and we got the gym going.”
Kielty also fondly recalled the beginnings of the gym.
“It was quite a dream of ours,” Kielty said. “We brought in Buster Mathis Sr. to be our head coach and we also had Phil McConahy who was another great coach. We had a very successful 10-12-year run.”
In Buster Mathis Sr., the Pride Gym had a name that was sure to get the attention of young boxing prospects in West Michigan. One of the finest heavyweights in the 1960s and 70s, Buster Mathis Sr. fought the great Muhammad Ali as well as other notables Smokin’ Joe Frazier, Jerry Quarry and Ron Lyle.
Trainer Buster Mathis Sr. helped grow the Pride Gym
With a trainer like Buster Mathis Sr. working with the boxers, the Pride Gym grew rapidly and produced a wealth of boxing talent.
Mathis Sr. was not the only high-level trainer at Pride as Johnny Butler also trained boxers. Butler, an amateur national champion in 1958, who is over 90-years old now, was also on hand for the reunion Saturday.
Boxers came from all over the country to reunite
The former Pride boxers came from all across the country for the reunion that first started sending out invitations a few years ago.
“We have boxers coming in from California, Montana, Alabama, Florida, Atlanta, you name it,” Serulla said. “It is a heck of a group. Almost everyone was able to make it in.”
Kielty also was thrilled to see the reunion come to fruition.
“This reunion is also very special,” Kielty said. “We have former boxers living all over the country and this reunion was another dream come true. We started sending invitations out three years ago. Boxing is a unique fraternity and this was something we really wanted to do.”
Juan Padin (left) and Brian Blakely were two of the original boxers at the Pride Boxing Club. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
Juan Padin and Brian Blakely first to join Pride
The first two boxers who joined Pride in the beginning, Juan Padin and Brian Blakely, became the backbone of the team and both became captains.
“It started with Juan Padin and me, we were the first two,” Blakely said. “I started when I was 14-years old. We would be going to different shows and doing really well and people were starting to ask ‘who is Pride’. No one knew who we were, but before long people began to know. There were a lot of good people in Pride. We had really good coaches who gave us a lot of attention.”
Blakely and Padin won a number of state titles during their boxing days at Pride and also went on to compete for national championships.
Blakely eventually turned professional and actually made his professional debut in November of 1990 in a boxing show at the Welsh Auditorium in downtown Grand Rapids that featured the last match of Floyd Mayweather Sr.
The former boxers of the Pride Boxing Club get together for a group photo at the first-ever reunion of the gym. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
The new Pride Gym was a perfect spot for Padin to begin his boxing career. The then 16-year old Padin had just moved to Grand Rapids from Brooklyn, New York.
“I just moved to Grand Rapids and didn’t know anyone,” Padin said. “I just went into the gym one day after it first opened and I kept coming back. It was a great gym. One thing about Pride fighters is that they got us in shape. You never had to worry about a Pride fighter running out of gas.”
Padin made the trip to Grand Rapids from Birmingham, Ala., where he now lives.
“This reunion is just great,” Padin said. “I haven’t seen a lot of these guys in a long time. This is just awesome to see all my old teammates and coaches. It’s a lot of great memories. I wouldn’t have missed this for the world.”
Former champion Buster Mathis Jr. excelled at Pride Gym
The reunion also was special to Buster Mathis Jr., who grew into a champion amateur and professional boxer under the tutelage of his father and the team at Pride.
“I learned a lot of life lessons from my father,” Mathis Jr. said. “Boxing helped me in a lot of different areas in my life. The lessons I learned from boxing helped me to do a lot of other things later in my life.”
Taking up boxing as a 14-year old not only changed his life, but also changed the younger Mathis’ body.
“I weighed 280 pounds when I first came to the gym and started boxing,” Mathis Jr. said. “My dad trained me for a whole year and when I was a 15-year old I was down to 180 pounds. When I eventually fought Tyson as a pro I was at 225 pounds.”
After a highly successful amateur career, Mathis Jr. became a professional where he won 21 of 26 bouts and also won a USBA heavyweight championship. Mathis Jr. not only fought Mike Tyson, but also former world heavyweight champion Riddick Bowe.
For Mathis Jr., like the rest of the Pride boxers, the team atmosphere at the gym was one of the highlights of being a boxer at Pride.
“Everybody sparred with everybody,” Mathis Jr. said. “The atmosphere in the gym was just phenomenal. It was basically more like a family type of thing.”
Buster Mathis Sr. passed away in 1995 just prior to his son’s bout with Tyson. If the senior Mathis was alive today, Buster Jr. had no doubt where his dad would’ve been on Saturday.
“He would probably be at the gym right now training someone,” Mathis Jr. said. “The one thing my dad really liked was taking some young kid and making that kid into a champion. He loved working with and developing kids and teaching them to become a fighter.”
Kevin “KP” Porter, Leon Spinks, Michael Dokes to name a few more
Mathis Jr. was not the only successful heavyweight boxer to come out of Pride. Kevin “KP” Porter also had a long and successful pro career in the heavyweight division. During his professional career Porter defeated former heavyweight champion Leon Spinks and also fought some of the bigger-name heavyweights of the era like Andrew Golota, Greg Page, Michael Dokes and former Olympic champion Henry Tillman.
The reunion also fanned the flames of some of the boxers wanting to see a Pride comeback.
“I want to bring Pride back,” said Sugar Ray Collins. “I’d like to bring it back and have amateurs, pros and MMA fighters. I’d love to see it come back.”
One person is injured following a shooting in the 3700 block of South Division Avenue.
At approximately 1:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug.4, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers located evidence indicating that multiple shots had been fired; however, no victim was found at the scene.
A short time later, an adult male victim arrived at a nearby hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. He is currently listed in stable condition. At this time, no arrests have been made. Detectives from the Wyoming Police Department, along with members of the Forensic Science Unit, are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300, or to report anonymously through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345, 1-866-774-2345, or online at www.silentobserver.org.
