Category Archives: City of Wyoming

Godwin Heights basketball team continues to make progress, beats Comstock Park Tuesday

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
Godwin Heights senior Jamaan Hastings (0) led the Wolverines with 23 points in the win against Comstock Park. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)

By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org


Going into the season with just one senior on the roster, the Godwin Heights boys basketball team expected to encounter some growing pains. While the young Wolverine squad has encountered some rough patches in the early going, the team continues to show steady improvement as conference play swings into full gear.

With a roster loaded with talented juniors as well as a sophomore and a freshman, the Wolverines boast a squad that is poised to show dramatic improvement as the season rolls along. Godwin took another step in that direction Tuesday evening when it turned back OK Silver Conference rival Comstock Park 73-45. With the win, the Wolverines improved to 4-3 overall and 2-0 in league play.

“I felt like we played hard,” said Godwin Heights Coach Bernard Varnesdeel. “We have been figuring things out this season. We have a lot of talent. We have been figuring things out in terms of rotation, figuring out positions, and we have had some injuries and some other stuff that we have had to take care of. Once we got into the flow of the game, I felt that’s when we started to see our offense and defense improve. I was very proud of how unselfish we were tonight.” 

Godwin Heights took the early lead in the game with the Panthers and steadily built their advantage as the game progressed. The host Wolverines built a 15-9 lead at the end of the opening quarter. Godwin was paced in the opening quarter by junior big man Isaiah Guyton. The 6-foot-5 junior flashed his all-around skills on the offensive end of the floor by scoring eight points in the opening quarter to stake the Wolverines to an early lead.

Godwin continued to build the lead in the second quarter as they combined some strong, aggressive defense with efficiency on the offensive end of the floor. Jamaan Hastings, the lone senior on this year’s squad, paced the offense in the second quarter as he poured in seven points during the quarter as the Wolverines built a double-digit lead. Up 23-14 early in the quarter, Hastings helped key a 7-0 Wolverine scoring run that upped the Godwin advantage to 30-14. Heading into halftime the Wolverines led 34-23.

Coming out of halftime, Godwin picked up the intensity even more. The Wolverines took complete charge of the game by opening the second half with a 9-3 scoring run to take a 43-26 lead. Guyton led the charge on the offensive end of the floor as he scored the first seven points of the second half.

“I felt like we had a good game plan coming in,” Varnesdeel said. “Once we got settled in terms of taking care of some of those things in the game plan, I think we started to see some good things.”  

Comstock Park made a run near the end of the third quarter to cut the Godwin lead to 48-36 heading into the fourth quarter.

The Wolverines picked up the pace early in the fourth quarter to put the game on ice. The Godwin defense limited the Panthers to single digits in the final quarter while the Wolverine offense put up 25 points.

The win for Godwin was the second straight after falling to a Division 1 Clarkston team 46-33 at the Aquinas College Tournament prior to New Years. The win was also the fourth in the last five games for the improving Wolverines who have the talent on hand to post a big season.

“The season has been going good,” Varnesdeel said. “We had some things we had to work through early in the season. We had an injury and with a young team we had to get into the flow of the season.” 


 

Godwin Heights junior Isaiah Guyton (35) totaled 20 points as the Wolverines defeated Comstock Park 73-45 Tuesday. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)


Guyton and Hastings paced the Wolverines in scoring with a combined 43 points as Hastings totaled 23 points and Guyton added 20. Juniors Jaden Farmer and Xzaevier Guzman added six points apiece while fellow juniors Ka’Res Harris, Steven Manzi and Carlos McIver and freshman Martellis Forest added three points each.

“We have a ton of potential,” Varnesdeel said. “We talked to the kids about this. Potential is arguably one of the most dangerous words in the dictionary. Because it can mean so much, so many great things, but then it’s tough to reach that potential sometimes. Potentially, we can be really, really good. If you got potential and you got players, you got talent, then you can always get it fixed.”   


Godwin Heights junior guard Xzaevier Guzman (3) applies pressure in the backcourt during the game with Comstock Park. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)

Sunday Night Funnies holds first ever Winter Roast Battle

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) stand-up comedy show began the beginning round of its first ever Winter Roast Battle on Sunday, Jan. 5. The roast battle will run weekly through Sunday, Feb. 2.

(Courtesy, Brian B.)

“Comedy roasts have really taken off in popularity,” said Brian B., Founder and MC of SNF. “Everything from celebrity roasts like the one that recently aired on Netflix for Tom Brady, to roast battles done on a local level at comedy clubs throughout the country.

“I thought that it would be fun to do at the Sunday Night Funnies as well. It something different – a little change of pace for the show.”

What to expect

Winter Roast Battle Trophy (Courtesy, Brian B.)

During the four-week Roast Battle, up to four comedians will pair off to roast each other.

The audience serves as judge and jury each night, with one comic emerging as the winner and taking home the $25 weekly prize.

Each weekly winner advances to the Feb. 2 finals where one comic will be crowned the 2025 SNF Winter Roast Battle winner, and awarded an additional $100 and a personalized trophy.

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. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (fall/winter) and 8:30 p.m. (spring/summer) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

Voices of Freedom: Liz Midkiff – Part 1

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Going Local, Local Faces, Voices, Voices of Freedom, , , , , ,

Human trafficking survivor reveals how her life’s calling turned into a two-year nightmare

(Courtesy photo)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains sensitive information about violence and rape that may be distressing or traumatic for some individuals.


A two-month trip to Thailand at age 15 left Liz Midkiff passionate about fighting human trafficking.

At age 18, Midkiff herself was trafficked for two years.

Fifteen years later, human trafficking survivor and Women At Risk, International ambassador Liz Midkiff is giving voice to her story in the hopes that educating others through her own experiences will prevent other children from being subjected to the same horrors.

From perception to reality

During Midkiff’s mission trip to Thailand, she taught English at local universities and learned about Thailand culture. Part of that culture involved the red-light district.

Midkiff believed human trafficking only happened in other countries, not in the United States (Courtesy photo)

“Part of the trip also was to go to the red-light district and learn about what that looked like, and talk to the girls about the safe houses that we had worked with there,” said Midkiff. “We were walking on the streets and I was like, why are there other girls my age standing here in their underwear?”

Women and children were lined up along the street, waiting for people to buy them as their trafficker stood nearby, armed with a gun. Midkiff was flabbergasted, never having seen anything like it in the United States.

“I didn’t understand it because I was 15, and this never happens in America,” said Midkiff. “That’s what I thought: This is what sex trafficking is, and this type of thing only happens in other countries.”

Midkiff’s attention was drawn to a girl who looked about her own age, and asked the translator if she could talk to the girl. “For whatever reason, I just feel like I really need to talk to that girl.”

However, to take the girl off the street meant paying her trafficker so he didn’t lose money. Midkiff was undeterred. She pulled out her Thai money and paid the fee – the equivalent of $2.

But the experience was not what Midkiff expected.

“It’s just a bracelet”

“We got her dinner, but she wouldn’t eat it,” said Midkiff. “She’s just sitting there, swinging her legs, and she’s looking at my bracelet.”

Midkiff had no idea that a simple bracelet could mean so much to a trafficking victim (Courtesy photo)

The bracelet was nothing special, made out of cheap yarn that Midkiff braided together. Yet the girl continued to stare at it. The translator explained that the girl thought the bracelet was beautiful.

Midkiff was confused. “It’s cheap,” Midkiff argued. “It doesn’t have any value; it was $2.”

How much do you think we just paid to take her to dinner? the translator replied.

That simple question hit Midkiff like a lightning bolt, the reality of the situation hitting her full-on. “We took her to dinner, whereas most people would take her and do awful things,” said Midkiff.

“I gave her my bracelet. I ripped it off my hand, handed it to her, and this girl’s face lit up. She went from depressed and sad – she started glowing. From this bracelet.”

Midkiff tried talking the girl into going to a safe house, but the girl refused.

“Whatever the trafficker had over her was stronger than what we could try to convince her of,” said Midkiff. “That made me so upset. How could someone have so much power over someone that they wouldn’t come with us? We have a safe place for her, why wouldn’t she want to come with us?”

Heartbroken, Midkiff eventually returned the girl to her trafficker. “But she came back smiling because I had given her this bracelet.”

Identity is the only thing traffickers cannot fight against (Courtesy photo)

The trafficker argued with the translator, extremely angry. The translator told Midkiff and the mission group they needed to leave and not come back.

“It’s just a bracelet,” protested Midkiff.

“No, it wasn’t just a bracelet,” said the translator. “You gave her an identity, and that is the only thing stronger than what he has over her. You gave her hope, you gave her a way out, you gave her something that made her feel loved and valued, and he can’t beat that.”

At that moment, Midkiff said it felt as if God verbally spoke to her, saying she would be back to fight sex trafficking.

“I looked at that girl, and she looked at me, and it was almost like the movies, where you feel nothing even has to be said,” said Midkiff. “I looked at that trafficker and said, ‘You can’t have her. She’s not yours.’”

From dreams to nightmares

Midkiff and her mission group left, but Midkiff says that will always remain the starting point of her journey.

Her dream of returning to Thailand to fight trafficking, however, was cut short as Midkiff herself became a victim of sex trafficking at age 18.

Midkiff’s dream to fight human trafficking turned into her own personal nightmare (Courtesy photo)

An unexpected adversary

Midkiff had moved from Michigan to another state, four hours from her family and friends. While training at a professional ballet company, she also worked for a well-known corporation.

Midkiff became friends with an established manager at the corporation. She knew him for six months before this manager asked her out on a date.

“A lot of times people have this image of what traffickers look like,” said Midkiff. “They’re thinking it looks like the guy in Thailand who had the big gun.

“You’d never guess it would be a manager at a well-known corporate place that everybody knows.”

Having worked with this man every day for six months, Midkiff believed she knew him well enough to trust him on a date.

“We don’t go on a date,” said Midkiff. “He takes me to a hotel. He hit me over the head, and I woke up to 10 men gang-raping me at this hotel. In America.”

What followed was two years of violent sexual and physical abuse.

*Continue reading Liz Midkiff’s survivor story in part two of her Voices of Freedom series, coming to WKTV Journal on Jan. 13, 2025.

Take a S.T.A.N.D.

Liz Midkiff, human trafficking survivor and WAR, Int’l ambassador will lead the S.T.A.N.D. classes (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)

WAR, Int’l is hosting two S.T.A.N.D. classes on Jan. 25 at the WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming.

Created and designed by Liz Midkiff and Rebecca McDonald, these classes are teach safety awareness, trafficking signs, age appropriate communications/actions, and more.

– The Kids S.T.A.N.D. Session will be held from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. for children ages 5-10 years old.

– The Teen S.T.A.N.D. Session will be held from 12:30 – 2 p.m. for youth ages 11-17 years old.

More details and registration information can be found here.


Resources

*In an emergency, call 911.

– If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. It is a free, 24/7 service that offers confidential and multilingual support, information and local resources for victims, survivors, and witnesses of human trafficking.

The hotline can be reached:

– If you believe a child is involved, contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST or www.cybertipline.com, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

– Additional resources can be found here: Trafficking Resources.

– Women at Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) can be reached by phone at 616-855-0796, toll free at 877 END-SLAVERY (363-7528), or via email at info@warinternational.org. You can also reach them via their website contact form.

University of Michigan Health-West announces first baby of 2025

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Baby Jude with Skyler and Nick Kuiper of Jenison. (Courtesy, UM Health-West)
Baby Jude with parents Skyler and Nick Kuiper. (Courtesy, UM Health-West)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


The new year has brought its first bundle of joy to University of Michigan Health-West.

Baby Jude Hudson Kuiper was born to parents Skyler and Nick Kuiper of Jenison at 6:47 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, earning the title of the hospital’s first baby of the New Year.

Weighing in at 7 pounds, 10 ounces and measuring 20.5 inches long, Jude and his mom, Skyler, are both doing well.

Congratulations to the Kuiper family on their newest addition.

WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming offers FREE self-defense class Jan. 11

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
As part of their January campaign to bring awareness to human trafficking, Women At Risk, International is hosting a self-defense class for adults (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


January is Human Trafficking Prevention & Awareness Month. As part of their January campaign to bring awareness, Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) will host a free self-defense class on Saturday, Jan. 11.

(Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)

The self-defense class will be led by Luanne Shaw (DNP, RN, Certified ATA Instructor), from 2-4 p.m. at War Chest Boutique, located at 2790 44th St SW in Wyoming. Participants must be 18 years of age or older. Attendance is free, however, registration is required.

Instructor qualifications

Luanne Shaw is a third degree black belt in Songham Taekwondo, black belt in Shinsei Arnis, and has taken certification in Sexual Harassment and Rape Prevention (SHARP). She has been involved in martial arts instruction and training, including weapons and self-defense training, over the past 20 years.

Shaw holds her Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree in health systems leadership and teaches for several universities in nursing and health topics. Her nursing career includes practice in Emergency, Cardiovascular, professional development (education) and home/agency staff relief.

What to expect

Class participants will receive training that covers highlights on the impact of stress/fear on how one responds to threats in their environment, practical discussion, tactics to keep one safer in society, and physical skills to defend oneself against unwanted touch, potential attack or abduction.

Class participants will be taught physical skills to defend oneself (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

There will be an opportunity to practice some physical skills, though practice is not required. Many skills can be modified to meet a participant’s physical ability.

Peruse the boutique before or after the event to see products made by, or sold in support of, at-risk and rescued individuals from around the world (#shoptorescue).

Registration details

Register for this free event here. Registration will remain open until the class is full (maximum of 50 attendees).

Donations are welcome.

Questions can be directed to Joy at info@warchestboutique.com or (616) 530-1234.

Wyoming PD releases statement regarding domestic situation Dec. 29

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Hard News, Kent County, , , ,
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


On Sunday, Dec. 29, the Wyoming Police Department responded to an incident that occurred on Maplelawn Street SW in Wyoming.

Below is a statement released by Wyoming Public Safety to provide clarity regarding this incident:

“Earlier today, officers responded to a domestic situation near Maplelawn and Buchanan.

Following an argument, the male turned on the gas in the home and threatened to cause an explosion. Officers evacuated nearby homes out of an abundance of caution while DTE and the fire department turned off the gas.

After several hours, the man exited the residence and is now with the Wyoming Police.“

The Wyoming PD also revealed that the above situation was not a hostage situation, though additional details are not being released at this time.

DTE services restoration

Wyoming Public Safety does not have a restoration timeline for any DTE services. All inquiries regarding restoration timelines should be directed to DTE.

The Rapid announces winter service improvements

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(Courtesy, The Rapid)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Beginning Dec. 30, 2024, The Rapid will introduce improvements to weekday Route 33 service frequency by adding service to close the current mid-day gap. The Rapid will add trips to provide all-day service with departures at 10:43 a.m., 11:43 a.m. and 12:43 p.m. from Rapid Central Station to the Walker Industrial loop.

In addition, Route 33 will see four new trips running in the opposite direction along the Walker Industrial loop during the morning and evening peak hours. The bus head signs for these trips will read “Route 33+.” This change provides customers with the flexibility to take the most efficient route to their destination.

The four new trips on Route 33 will be designated by signs reading “Route 33+” (Courtesy, The Rapid)

These new trips will offer improved access and shorter commute times with 30-minute service to the Walker Industrial loop from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and again from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Improving evening traffic

Another improvement The Rapid is implementing addresses delays caused by evening traffic volumes. Starting at 5 p.m., the evening departures from Rapid Central Station and Kentwood Station will shift (“knockback”) by five minutes to assist customers in making their transfer connections.

For example, beginning Dec. 30, a bus currently scheduled to depart Rapid Central Station at 5:15 p.m. will now depart at 5:20 p.m., 5:30 p.m. to 5:35 p.m., and will stay five minutes later for the rest of the evening during the winter 2025 schedule.

These adjustments will improve schedule reliability, minimize delays that carry over to the rest of the evening service and provide customers and operators with more time to make connections during the evening rush period.

Transit app and myStop will reflect these changes on the Dec. 30, 2024 start date.

These improvements reflect The Rapid’s ongoing commitment to providing a dependable and customer-focused transit experience.

Transit schedule links

To view the Route 33+ schedule, click here.

To view the full transit winter schedule, click here.

Growing Hope: H.O.P.E. Gardens provides essential food and resources for Wyoming families

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Environment, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Local Food, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Volunteers, West Michigan, , , , , , , , , , ,
Growing Dreams: A New Community Garden for Families & Neighbors (Video courtesy of H.O.P.E. Gardens)


By AnchorPoint Christian School Youth Contributors


AnchorPoint students help plant garlic in the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

H.O.P.E. Gardens stands for Help Other People Eat. Located in Grand Rapids, H.O.P.E. Gardens is dedicated to making a positive change in local communities by helping families and individuals grow their own food.

Teaching community members how to cultivate fresh and sustainable food resources gives individuals and families better access to nutritious and affordable food.

Founded in 2015 by Rich and Julie Brunson, who each experienced food insecurity problems early in their lives, H.O.P.E. Gardens has expanded to educate local communities and organizations on the importance of sustainable food resources.

Family Network of Wyoming (FNW) has partnered with H.O.P.E. Gardens to provide that resource for local families.

“When we have gardens, and when we have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, it helps impact health,” said Javonte Tubbs, Executive Director at Family Network of Wyoming.

“If you eat healthy fruits and vegetables all day, you’re going to be in great health. Fresh fruits and vegetables have a lot of nutrients and vitamins and good things for your body.”

Realizing a dream, meeting a need

AnchorPoint Christian School – in collaboration with FNW, H.O.P.E. Gardens Executive Director Julie Brunson, and Express Employment Professionals & Specialized Recruiting Group of Grand Rapids owner Janis Petrini – recently helped install a no-till nature-based garden in Wyoming.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

This garden came to fruition as a way to honor Theresa Drost, a valued employee of Express Pros who recently passed away.

“Theresa’s passion was having a garden and a beautification place around the garden,” said Tubbs. “Janis and Julie got together to find a location to have a garden in memory of Theresa. Family Network of Wyoming had the space and wanted to do a garden as well. It was a perfect partnership.”

That dream was realized as AnchorPoint students prepared the land to begin a new garden where local families will come together to grow food and community.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

“The Kent County Needs Assessment states that one out of six adults experiences food insecurity,” said Tubbs. “That means we need more community gardens, we need more access to healthy fruits and vegetables. Pantries and gardens are places that provide that access.”

Tubbs says there will be people from the community who come to help plant the food, and who will also receive some of that food for their families. And Tubbs plans to join in the fun.

“I love to help,” Tubbs said. “What makes people want to help is a sense of community, a sense of togetherness.”

Butterfly gardens and toad houses – both excellent contributors to the environment – can also be found at H.O.P.E. Gardens.

A willingness to help

Tubbs joined FNW in October of 2023 and said he enjoys both the people and the work.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

“I like Julie and H.O.P.E. Gardens because they have a passion to connect people with healthy fruit and vegetables,” said Tubbs.

“My favorite part of working at Family Network is the volunteers,” Tubbs continued. “Their passion to help, their willingness to be there, to be present, and to be there with smiles. There is a lot of great energy there; everybody is willing to help.”

Growing food…and passion!

H.O.P.E. Gardens is making a change that begins with our youth and fostering a passion for growing food through interactive, eco-friendly learning experiences.

That passion is evident in the students at AnchorPoint. These local students will continue helping with the FNW garden by planting seeds in the spring and participating in the harvest.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

Resource links

For more information about H.O.P.E. Gardens, visit hopegardensgr.org. To learn more about the Family Network of Wyoming, visit fntw.org.

*View the “Growing Dreams” garden photo gallery below, courtesy of Kim Omanchi, APCS:

  • AnchorPoint students are welcomed and receive instruction on how to begin the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students begin laying the foundation for the garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students receive instruction on how to plant garlic (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students plant garlic in the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students plant garlic in the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students enjoyed donuts after their hard work (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

Contributors

This article was written and produced by the 3rd-4th grade students of Wyoming’s AnchorPoint Christian School under the direction of Team 2 teacher Kim Omanchi.

Team 2: Henry Bloomer, Elijah Ducher, Henrik Gagnon, Leonard Gagnon, Jaxon Glas, Logan Henderson, Toby Lehnen, Alan Perez, Nathan Simeon, Joseph Vasquez and Kareen Zuiderveen

Wyoming bus garage fire causes significant structural damage, minor injuries

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Hard News, Kent County, , , , , ,
Wyoming Fire Department responded to a fire located at a school bus maintenance building (Photo courtesy of Jen Baker)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The structure was quickly engulfed in flames (Photo courtesy of resident Kaylynn Dang)

Shortly after 10 a.m. on Dec. 18, the Wyoming Fire Department responded to reports of a school bus maintenance building on fire located at 2181 Prairie Parkway SW.

The fire was reported in the garage area used for servicing school buses for Wyoming Public Schools.

The first arriving fire units observed significant fire coming through the roof and the overhead doors of the building. The fire had already spread rapidly throughout the building causing significant structural damage. The fire was contained and extinguished preventing it from fully spreading to the nearby office structure.

There were minor injuries reported of smoke inhalation, however patients were treated at the scene and released.

An initial investigation conducted by the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the fire began while mechanics were performing maintenance on the buses. The garage sustained significant damage and total cost of damages is still being assessed.

Reducing fire risk

The Wyoming Fire Department would like to extend our gratitude to local and municipal partners involved with this fire either directly or indirectly to include Wyoming Police Department, Wyoming Public Works, Grandville Fire Department, Kent County Sheriff, American Medical Response (AMR), DTE and Consumers Energy.

The staff of Wyoming Public Schools was instrumental in assisting with moving buses and planning the timely pickup of all students during this incident.

First responders continue battling the Wyoming bus garage fire (Photo courtesy of Jen Baker)

In light of this incident, the Wyoming Fire Department would like to remind all business owners and residents of the importance of fire safety. Please ensure properties are equipped with working smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and clear emergency exit paths. Regular maintenance and adherence to safety regulations can significantly reduce the risk of fire.

Fire Marshal Contact

Anyone with additional information regarding this fire is asked to contact the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office Fire Investigator at 616-257-9764

WKTV Friday Night Highlights is Back! Check out our first show of the basketball season

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Kentwood Public Schools, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , ,



By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org


Check out our first WKTV Friday Night Highlights show of the basketball season featuring many area Boys and Girls high school teams in action.



Every week, we’ll bring you several high school basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give a snapshot of the latest conference standings.



Thanks for watching, and see you after the holidays!

Join the Sunday Night Funnies annual Ugly Christmas Outfit contest Sunday, Dec. 22!

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Upcoming Events, , , , , , ,
Ugly Christmas outfits from 2023 (Courtesy, Brian B./SNF)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) second annual Ugly Christmas Outfit contest is this Sunday, Dec. 22.

“We had a lot of fun last year at our second annual Ugly Christmas Outfit contest, so I figure why not do it again,” says Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “It’s our last show for 2024, so why not go out with a bang.

(Courtesy, Brian B./SNF)

“The winner received $25 in Woody’s/Spectrum Entertainment Complex gift cards. We’ll be using an actual decibel meter to determine who gets the loudest response and will win the gift card.”

Come out and show off your best ugly Christmas outfit!

Big events planned for 2025

The Sunday Night Funnies has an eventful year ahead with several events planned for 2025.

February 16 we’ll be doing our The SNF annual Black History month show featuring an all-black comedian lineup will take place Feb. 16, 2025. All women comedians will perform March 2 in honor of Women’s History Month.

The following Sunday, March 9, will be the annual Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids LaughFest SNF performance featuring an all-start lineup of comics. Closing that show will be Simon Carlson, winner of the 2024 Kingpin of Comedy competition.

May 4 will feature comics 50+ years of age to celebrate Older American Month. The Sunday right
after, May 11, will see the launch of the SNF’s seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition which will run through Oct. 26, 2025.

The community is invited to come out for these eventings of fun and laughs!

Sunny with SNF car (Courtesy, Brian B./SNF)

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. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (fall/winter) and 8:30 p.m. (spring/summer) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

December mobile food pantry dates/locations in Wyoming and Kentwood

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
(Courtesy, Feed America West Michigan)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Feeding America West Michigan (FAWM) works to provide a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and baked goods to people in need of emergency food at no cost.

The Mobile Pantry schedule may be updated or changed at any time, so please check often for updates.

Unless otherwise noted, all Mobile Pantries are scheduled in Eastern Standard Time.

Information on additional food resources can be found in map form on the FAWM Resource Map. If you have questions about a specific Mobile Pantry, please contact the host agency.

Many Mobile Food Pantry sites will allow you to pick up food as a proxy (stand-in) for another household that cannot physically attend. You will need to be prepared to provide the name, address and household size of any other family you are picking up for. Most Mobile Pantry sites have a limit on how many households you can pick up for and should tell you that limit if you ask.

Dec. 19, 2024 – Thursday (Wyoming)

5 p.m. – (Walk Up), Calvary Christian Reformed Church, 3500 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, MI 49519

Dec. 21, 2024 – Saturday (Wyoming)

10 a.m. – (Drive Thru), Community CRC, 150 Burt St. SE, Wyoming, MI 49548

Dec. 28, 2024 – Saturday (Kentwood)

9 a.m. – (Drive Thru), St. Mary Magdalen Church, 1253 52nd Street, Kentwood, MI 49508

*For more Kent County mobile food pantry dates and locations, click here.

Wyoming PD receives heartfelt thank you from community and iCI Nation

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Community members took turns verbally expressing gratitude for Wyoming police officers and their service to the community (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming police officers were the recipients of heartfelt appreciation and gratitude from community members on Thursday, Dec. 12.

While snow, wind and ice descended upon West Michigan – closing numerous schools and forcing many residents to work from home – Wyoming police officers donned uniforms and reported for duty.

As officers filed into the police station at 7 a.m. for a routine training session, they were met by 15 community members who took turns verbally expressing gratitude for the officers’ service to the community.

WPD officers listen as presentation participants share their personal ties to the law enforcement community (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Coordinated by iCI Nation founder Jennifer Franson and sponsored by W2W Healthy You, the Christmas Connect presentation featured a hot breakfast prepared by Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster, Captain Eric Wiler, and Captain Tim Pols, as well as over several dozen donuts from Marge’s Donut Den.

“In the spirit of the season, we get to lead with peace and goodwill,” said Franson in supplied material.

Voicing gratitude

In a show of love and support, local community members – including residents, pastors, media professionals, nonprofit leaders, and more – honored the gathered police officers by each voicing an individual thank you, sharing personal ties to the law enforcement community, and praying over the officers before leaving.

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“All of these people came here, in this weather, because they understand and appreciate everything you do,” Franson told the WPD officers during the presentation. “We know that you all are going out and dealing with things every day that we don’t want to have to deal with.”

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Franson went on to say that it is important for local law enforcement officers to know that the community recognizes and supports their work as they put their lives on the line each day to keep our community safe.

“We want you to know that we’ve got your back,” one community member told WPD officers during the presentation.

Strengthening our cities

iCI Nation has been building successful partnerships between community and law enforcement since 2016. The local nonprofit is dedicated to providing a healthy environment that brings citizens, police officers and organizational resources together to create a stronger and healthier city.

“ICI reignites police hearts and passion for the mission of protecting and serving,” says Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster. (iCI Nation website)

  • Javon Sanders (front) of the GRPD talks with WPD officers (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Tracy, W2W Healthy You Lead Education Instructor, explains to officers how their work positively impacts youth (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Those connections are forged through monthly iCI Nation events for the community and police, including prayer gatherings for the faith community, presentations, and lunch and learns. The organization also builds collaborations through various local organizations and events.

Craig G. Founder of the PeaceWalker Project says, “The difference that iCI has made in this community is nothing short of extraordinary.” (iCI Nation website)

Learn more about iCI Nation and how you can help honor local law enforcement here.

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Wyoming boys fall to Coopersville in defensive struggle Tuesday

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, WKTV Featured sports, , , , , ,
Wyoming senior Avonte’ Wiggins (2) lines up a three-point shot during Tuesday’s game at Coopersville. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org



Heading into the new basketball season, the Wyoming boys basketball team was counting on shooting as being a strong point for the team. Like the weather, however, the Wolves have gone through some chilly spells at times in the early going.

Coopersville (2-0) beat visiting Wyoming 49-40 Tuesday. The Wolves fell to 0-3.

“I thought we did a lot of things really well,” said Wyoming Coach Thom Vander Klay. “I thought we executed pretty well. We’re a little concerned with our turnovers and our shooting percentage, but I thought that our guys worked hard for some second shots. We got some looks that we wanted and they didn’t go in and it kind of snowballed almost on us.


“I think we really do have some pretty good shooters, you wouldn’t guess it tonight, but give credit to Coopersville of course on that and their zone defense.” 

Wyoming took the early lead in the game as the Wolves outscored Coopersville 12-8 in the first quarter. Senior Taeshon Wilson led the way for the Wolves early with a pair of first-quarter buckets.

Coopersville took a 17-16 lead midway through the second quarter and built a five-point lead before Wyoming closed the gap to 23-20 at halftime on a bucket by Wilson.

After halftime, the Wyoming offense was in the deep freeze for almost a full quarter. Coopersville upped its lead to 27-20 before a bucket by Wyoming’s Brayden Williams put the first points on the board for the Wolves at the 4:08 mark of the third quarter.

Coopersville outscored Wyoming 9-3 to close out the third quarter, taking a 36-25 lead into the final quarter.

Wolves claw back

The Wolves, however, began to heat up on the offensive end of the floor during the opening minutes of the fourth quarter as they began to mount a comeback. Trailing 42-29, Brayden Williams hit a three-point shot with 4:56 remaining in the game. That trey sparked a 9-0 Wyoming scoring run that cut the Coopersville lead to 42-38 when Avonte’ Wiggins scored with 3:21 remaining in the game.

Coopersville upped the lead to 44-38 on a bucket by Judah Bartels, but Wyoming cut the margin back to four points when Joshua Guevara scored on an offensive rebound putback with 2:23 remaining in the game.

The Wolves looked to have created a turnover that would’ve put them in position to make the game a one-possession contest, but the call on the play went Coopersville’s way. The Broncos then closed the door by scoring the final five points of the game.

Wyoming finished with balanced scoring as Brayden Williams led with nine points. Guevara added seven points, while Warren Williams, Brad Lewis and Wilson each finished with six.

The Wolves, who went 6-17 last season, have a core of veterans back from last year headed up by seniors Avonte’ Wiggins and Warren Williams and sophomore Brayden Williams, who is back after missing much of last season with a knee injury.



Senior Warren Williams splits a pair of Coopersville defenders as he drives to the basket. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)



Coopersville (2-0) was paced by Brooks Hadden with 15 points and Bartels with 12. 

With the loss, Wyoming fell to 0-3 for the season. The Wolves opened the season with a 56-54 loss to Caledonia and then dropped a 61-47 decision to Grand Rapids Christian.

“The execution is going to be OK,” Vander Klay said. “It’s going to be the matter, in our heads, can we put the ball in the basket, so I think this is a lot of mental for us.

“I’m proud of our effort tonight and we did a lot of good things. Just not enough to beat Coopersville. We just have to get better to win some games.”


Wyoming’s Tarren Calvert (1) brings the ball down the floor against Coopersville. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)


Wyoming returns to action Friday when it travels to East Grand Rapids and then returns home to host Kelloggsville next Tuesday and Zeeland West the following evening.

Wyoming also is preparing to compete in a new division in the OK Conference this season. Instead of playing many schools along the lakeshore like they have the past few seasons, the Wolves are playing in the OK Gold this season. The Gold also is different from the OK Gold that the football team played in during the fall as football is the only sport in the OK Conference that has its own unique divisions.


During basketball season, Wyoming will play a more localized schedule with Northview, Grand Rapids Union, Grand Rapids West Catholic, Middleville, Wayland and South Christian, all members of the new-look OK Gold.      



Legends lose in OT to Muskegon Heights Tuesday; seeking first win

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
Lee Legends new Boys Basketball Coach Gerard Oray. (Photo Courtesy, Wyoming Lee High School)



By Ty Marzean
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org



The start of the Lee Legends basketball season has been filled with overtime thrillers and valuable lessons. Still, the Legends are in search of their first win.

The early season schedule has had the Legends travel to crosstown rival Kelloggsville and D-1 East Kentwood. Lee also has hosted Grand Rapids Union, Forest Hills Eastern and Muskegon Heights.

The game at East Kentwood was a special one for Lee’s first-year coach and East Kentwood alumni Gerard Oray.

“EK was a great experience; it was a chance for our guys to experience playing in one of the biggest schools in Michigan,” Oray explained. “The atmosphere was exciting and not only being an alum, but currently working in the district, it was a great experience to be able to compete in that environment.”

The most recent game resulted in a 75-73 overtime loss to Muskegon Heights.

“It was a great atmosphere and a very exciting game to coach,” Oray said. “Experiencing multiple lead changes and overtime for the second time this year at home has taught this group of guys that we need to execute down the stretch to win ball games.”

Coach Oray emphasized to his team that the season can be divided into three phases: the non-conference schedule, the conference schedule and the playoffs.

“Our non-conference schedule is where we can experience all the lessons we need to grow and learn,” Oray said. “In Alliance League play, our goal is to take what we have experienced and continue the streak of conference championships. Finally, the postseason, in which we take all of our lessons from the first two phases and make a run at the state championship.”

Phase one has already showed areas for improvement, according to Oray. 

“Our areas of improvement are definitely limiting our turnovers and making free throws late in ball games,” Oray said. “0 and five has been a challenging journey for sure. We have a lot of new guys getting real varsity experience and figuring out their roles. What I have liked a lot about this group is their determination to get better and compete no matter the score; our guys play hard until the clock says zero.”

The Legends have not been without their share of bright spots in the early going. Braylon Huff, Jaden Potts and Troy Fox have been key contributors so far this season. 



Lee Legends Braylon Huff. (Photo Courtesy, Wyoming Lee High School)



“Braylon Huff has been phenomenal this season,” Oray exclaimed. “He’s taking on a big role offensively in the scoring column and defensively crashing the glass hard and defensively becoming a rim protector as well. Braylon is very coachable and spent a lot of time working on his game and competing at a high level.”

Huff filled the stat sheet against Muskegon Heights with 27 points, 15 rebounds and three blocked shots.



Lee Legends Troy Fox. (Photo Courtesy, Wyoming Lee High School)



“Troy Fox and Jaden Potts have been playing well for the Legends, helping out defensively and in the scoring column as well,” Oray added.

Fox and Potts have registered multiple double-digit scoring games so far this season. 



Lee Legends Jaden Potts. (Photo Courtesy, Wyoming Lee High School)



The Legends (0-5) look to get in the win column on the road against Kalamazoo Phoenix (2-1) Friday at 7 pm. 

Festive cheer and joyful giving kicked off the holiday season at Wrap Up Wyoming event

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Wrap Up Wyoming attendees generously donated warm clothing items for local students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Sgt. Shellenbarger decorates a cookie for a fellow law enforcement officer (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Reindeer, live music and cookie decorating were only a few highlights of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department’s second annual holiday event, Wrap Up Wyoming (WUW), that took place Friday, Dec. 6.


Not only did the holiday festivities help bring residents and neighbors together for an evening of fun at the Wyoming Senior Center, WUW also kickstarted a donation drive for local schools.


Attendees generously donated new warm clothing such as hats, gloves, scarves, coats and boots. The collected items will be donated to Wyoming area schools.


The free, family-friendly WUW event featured musical acts from the Wyoming Public Schools Jazz Band, as well as music from local music legend, The Reverend Jesse Ray. Cookie decorating, a hot cocoa station, crafts, games, a free photo station and live reindeer provided fun activities for all ages.


A WUW volunteer helps a young attendee with his craft (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Mayor Kent Vanderwood welcomed guests at the beginning of the event.


“Thank you for coming,” said Mayor Vanderwood. “We appreciate you coming, supporting the school, the band, and of course for the clothing items that you’ve given for the schools to hand out.


“Have a Merry Christmas!”

Donations accepted through December!

If you were unable to attend WUW but would still like to donate, donation bins are available at Wyoming City Hall throughout the month of December.

See WKTV’s Wrap Up Wyoming photo gallery below!

  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Mayor Vanderwood (second from right) talks with event attendees (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Capt. Eric Wiler (center) talks with event attendees (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Coloring pages were available for all ages to enjoy (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The cookie decorating station was a big hit for both children and adults(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Warm clothing donations were collected and will be distributed to local students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Sgt. Shellenbarger decorates a cookie for a fellow police officer (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Wyoming Jazz Band performed several lively tunes (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • City Manager John Shay (left) talks with Capt. Eric Wiler (center) and another law enforcement officer (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • A local first responder enjoys a WUW game (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Event volunteers take a cookie break (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • City Manager John Shay (left) talks with Councilmember Tommy Brann (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • A photo station offered free festive pictures (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • A first responder explains what he would like printed on his customized ornament (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Tommy Brann (left) talks with a local police officer (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Holiday Gift Guide at Woodland Mall

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(Photo Courtesy, Woodland Mall)



By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


The holiday season is in full swing, and it’s time to start tackling your holiday gift list. Find everything you need in one trip at Woodland Mall.



LEGO. (Photo Courtesy, Woodland Mall)



For the kids

  • LEGO: For a timeless gift that’s consistently popular, shop LEGO at the new LEGO store in the Von Maur wing.
  • Jellycat: These super soft and super cute plush toys from Von Maur make a great gift for any little one you’re shopping for. 
  • LOL Surprise: A fun surprise in every layer, unwrap this gift and reveal outfits, stickers, accessories and a doll. Find this gift at Toys “R” Us inside of Macy’s. 
  • Craft and science kits: Get hands-on with a fun and interactive craft or science kit from Barnes & Noble.



Victoria’s Secret pajama sets. (Photo Courtesy, Woodland Mall)



For the trendy teen

  • Charm necklace: Create a custom gift teens will love with charm necklaces from Pandora.  
  • UGG Minis: Shop for the cutest and coziest trendy shoe this holiday season at Journeys.  
  • Coach shoulder bag: Gift a timeless and versatile bag from Von Maur.  
  • Pajama set: The pajama sets from Victoria’s Secret are incredibly soft and comfortable. 
  • Bow accessories: Bows are an adorable accessory to enhance any outfit. Find them at Altar’d State. 
  • Adidas Sambas: The hottest sneakers of the year come in so many different colors, you’ll certainly find a pair they love. Find them at SNIPES.  


Glow Recipe kit from Sephora. (Photo Courtesy, Woodland Mall)



For the skin-care obsessed 

  • BYOMA gift set: This travel-friendly set from Urban Outfitters will keep skin looking fresh.
  • Lush bath bomb set: You can’t go wrong with a gift set from Lush – and it comes already wrapped! There are a variety of different products, ingredients and scents to choose from.  
  • LANEIGE Midnight Minis: Try out the bestselling lip sleeping mask from Sephora. 
  • Glow Recipe kit: This travel-friendly skincare kit at Sephora comes with multiple products – perfect for every beauty regimen.



Main Event. (Photo Courtesy, Woodland Mall)

Experiences for everyone

  • Movie tickets to Phoenix Theatres: Catch the newest movie with a gift card to Phoenix Theatres.  
  • Main Event: Give the gift of fun with a gift card to Main Event and experience a state-of-the-art bowling alley, laser tag, arcade games and delicious bites at their restaurant.  
  • Nail salon gift card: Treat loved ones on your list to a little pampering with a gift card for a nail appointment at Lynny Nails.
  • Gift card shopping spree: Give the gift that keeps giving and send someone on your list on a shopping spree at Woodland Mall with gift cards to their favorite stores.






For those always on the go 

  • Sephora men’s cologne sampler: Sample a variety of luxury colognes to find their signature scent at Sephora. Choose a few scents, then your loved one can take the included scent certificate and redeem it for a full size of their favorite cologne at no extra cost.  
  • AirPods Max: AirPods Max from Apple are perfect for making phone calls, messaging, listening to music and more wherever you are. 
  • On Clouds shoes: Feel like you’re walking on clouds with these comfortable and on-trend shoes from Tradehome Shoes.  
  • Owala bottle: Stay hydrated with these fun and colorful water bottles available at Urban Outfitters.



Detroit Lions sweatshirt from Abercrombie & Fitch. (Photo Courtesy, Woodland Mall)

For sports fans

  • Detroit Lions sweatshirt: Help the sports fan in your life represent their favorite NFL team with fashionable spirit wear from Abercrombie & Fitch. 
  • Detroit Lions hat: With how well the Detroit Lions are doing this year, their merch will be a hot gift for all fans. Check out the hats at Lids.

And of course, for the hard-to-buy-for, you can always give a gift card to one of their favorite retailers or restaurants at Woodland Mall. Find a complete list of options on ShopWoodlandMall.com.

WKTV launches “Create, Inspire, Connect” campaign to power community-driven media forward

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WKTV Community Media, 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW.



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


WKTV Community Media, one of the nation’s oldest continuously operated community television stations, today announced the launch of “Create, Inspire, Connect,” the first major fundraising campaign in its 50-year history.



The initiative aims to strengthen WKTV’s unique role as the only organization providing comprehensive media services that connect and strengthen Wyoming, Kentwood and greater Grand Rapids communities.

“Asking community to invest in our unique services”

“For half a century, WKTV has filled critical gaps in our local media landscape, from providing Spanish-language news coverage to helping nonprofits amplify their impact through professional media production,” said Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director and GM. “As traditional funding sources shift due to cord-cutting, we’re asking our community to invest in these essential services that no other organization provides.”


Marge’s Donut Den.


Marge’s Donut Den and Wyoming Community Foundation early supporters

The campaign has already gained early momentum, with a $1,925 grant from the Wyoming Community Foundation supporting WKTV’s Veterans Voices project and a $1,000 contribution from local business leader Marge’s Donut Den. These initial investments demonstrate how community support directly strengthens vital programs that preserve local stories and connect neighbors.

Wyoming Community Foundation.



WKTV’s community-driven media services include:

  • The WKTV Journal, the area’s only dedicated source for hyper-local news coverage
  • Professional media services that help local nonprofits multiply their community impact
  • Veterans Voices, preserving irreplaceable local veterans’ stories in partnership with GVSU
  • Soundbites en Español, the region’s only Spanish-language local news coverage
  • Youth media education programs that empower the next generation of community storytellers
  • Free access to media production tools and training that give community members a voice

“When community members support WKTV, they’re not just sustaining a media organization – they’re investing in a platform that amplifies every aspect of community life,” Norton said. “Today’s challenge is to strengthen our unique role in building community through media while embracing new platforms and technologies that expand our impact.”

“Create, Inspire, Connect” campaign supports:

  • Continued free access to media production facilities that enable community-driven content
  • Expansion of community partnerships that amplify nonprofit and civic impact
  • Enhanced hyper-local news coverage that keeps our community informed and connected
  • Youth media education programs that build tomorrow’s community leaders
  • Technology upgrades that expand the reach of community voices

Community members can multiply their impact on local media by visiting www.wktv.org or contacting Josh Weston at josh@wktv.org.

About WKTV Community Media 

Founded in 1974, WKTV serves the communities of Wyoming and Kentwood from its 10,000-square-foot facility on Clyde Park Ave., which features two studios, multiple edit bays, public spaces, and classrooms for media instruction. As the region’s only comprehensive community media center, WKTV operates with six full-time staff members and over 400 active volunteers, providing unique platforms for diverse local voices and fostering civic engagement through innovative, community-driven media.

Kent District Library announces Community Impact Scholarship

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Both trade-bound and college-bound students are eligible to apply for KDL’s $5,000 scholarship (Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Kent District Library and the KDL Board of Trustees are proud to offer a $5,000 KDL Community Impact Scholarship.

This scholarship will recognize high school seniors and adults returning to school who have worked hard to improve their communities and show potential to make long term impact. Both trade-bound and college-bound students are eligible to apply. All candidates must live within the KDL service area.

Making a difference

Strong candidates will be students who are passionate about making a difference, champions for inclusivity, innovators at heart and lifelong learners with a love for the library. These guidelines were shaped by those of the Library Journal Jerry Kline Award, an award KDL received in 2023 that afforded KDL the opportunity to begin this scholarship fund.

“Our mission at Kent District Library has always been to empower and uplift our community through education and opportunity,” said Andrew Erlewein, Chair of the Kent District Library Board of Trustees.

“By launching this Community Impact Scholarship, we’re thrilled to provide direct support to individuals in our area who are ready to pursue their dreams through college or trade school. We believe this scholarship can make a meaningful difference in the lives of recipients and in the community as a whole.”

Scholarship timeline

Applications will be accepted online at kdl.org/scholarship from Dec. 1, 2024 – March 1, 2025. Applications will include a form, two letters of recommendation, accepted enrollment letter, a library card number and optional supporting materials. Up to three scholarships will be given this year.

The scholarship recipient(s) will be chosen by the KDL Board of Trustees based on their overall impact on the community and alignment with the scholarship criteria as displayed in their responses.

Winner(s) will be announced May 1, 2025. The scholarship award in the amount of $5,000 will be disbursed directly to the recipient’s chosen college, university or trade school to be used for tuition, fees, books or other educational expenses.

For more information, visit kdl.org/scholarship.

Strengthening our cities: iCI Nation builds bridges between community and local law enforcement

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iCI Nation founder Jennifer Franson (second from left) has spent the last decade building bridges between community and law enforcement (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


First responders connect with community members at Resurrection Fellowship Church (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

iCI Nation has been building successful partnerships between community and law enforcement since 2016. The local nonprofit is dedicated to providing a healthy environment that brings citizens, police officers and organizational resources together to create a stronger and healthier city.

Leading that mission is iCI Nation Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Franson.

“We’re building relationships and trust between cops and community to strengthen the city,” said Franson. “That’s our mission. We’re building the connections and we’re building the bridges over the shared value of how we protect and serve together.

“It’s really just a reframing of value,” Franson continued. “Our shared value of how we protect and serve together.”

iCI Nation board member BJ (Barbara) VanStee agreed. “We support the community, we support the officers, and we try to bring them together and show our appreciation for all that they do for the community.”

A way to do more

Though Franson does not have a personal family connection to law enforcement, she has always been aware of the officers who put their lives on the line each day to keep our community safe.

Kentwood police officers connect with youth in the Kentwood Young Life group (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

For years, Franson prayed for law enforcement officers whenever she heard sirens, believing that was all she could do for them.

A women’s church group discussion regarding community connections prompted Franson to suggest hosting a “thank you” event for law enforcement. Franson emailed police chiefs at several local departments, requesting participation. Thirteen officers from five different departments attended.

However, as Franson met the officers at the event venue, an unexpected complication arose as she explained what was about to happen.

A Kentwood officer talks with a Kentwood Young Life youth (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“You’re going to go in to lights, music, and a standing ovation from the women,” Franson told the officers. “We’re going to tell you why we appreciate you, have kids do a song and dance, pray over you and have cookies and coffee.”

The officers asked what they needed to do.

Franson explained the process again.

Again, the officers asked what they needed to do.

Franson finally asked, “What aren’t you getting? Don’t you get invited by the community just to say thank you?”

The answer was a resounding no; law enforcement officers were only invited by communities to talk about neighborhood or policy issues.

Franson was stunned – and determined to launch a community-wide change.

Generating change – without an agenda

The church event became an annual occurrence, increasing from those original 13 officers to an average of 65 officers each year.

“Our biggest year we had 95 officers there from over 20 different departments,” said Franson. “Our normal average got up to about 65.”

During a Faith & Blue event, Grand Rapids SWAT and local youth connected during a basketball game hosted by Rev. Darryl S. Gaddy Sr. of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church (Courtesy, Pastor Gaddy)

The reason it grew, Franson continued, was due to trust.

“It built trust with the police community once they realized we didn’t have any agenda,” said Franson.

Though the women prayed over the police officers, the main event activity was presenting each department with a banner saying, Thank you to our protectors.

“All the women signed it and wrote personal notes on it,” said Franson. “And that was it. There was never any other agenda other than to thank them, and that really made an impact.”

Local youth keep the GR SWAT team on their toes during the game at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church (Courtesy, Pastor Gaddy)

The women began taking prayerful ownership of the police, and the officers began trusting the women.

“It was like a community becoming a family,” Franson said. “Somehow these ‘crazy church women’ made a difference.”

Franson became known as “Police Jen” by the community, often looked to for information about local law enforcement happenings.

For almost a decade, iCI Nation has provided a healthy environment for the community to build trust with law enforcement as they unite in their efforts to protect and serve local cities.

iCI Nation founder Jennifer Franson (left) prepares to spread good news on camera (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

iCI Nation hosts monthly events for the community and police, including prayer gatherings for the faith community, presentations, and lunch and learns. The organization also builds collaborations through various local organizations and events such as the national Faith & Blue campaign.

Franson then spreads the good news of these collaborations through a weekly email, social media and videos.

Building understanding through appreciation

Franson and VanStee both believe that showing appreciation for law enforcement is vital to officers understanding that the community knows and appreciates what they do.

First responders were treated to a Thanksgiving luncheon hosted by Pastor Gary Hankins at Resurrection Fellowship Church (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“We pray for them quite frequently,” says VanStee. “I am thankful for all that the officers do in the community to keep us safe.”

Building credibility with the law officers is also essential.

“We build credibility that the officers sent to our event will feel safe,” says Franson. “I want to honor them for agreeing to be the venue for this [collaboration].”

Learn more about iCI Nation and how you can help honor local law enforcement here.

WKTV Voices receives grant to continue storytelling by local veterans

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By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org


and

Josh Weston
WKTV Fundraising and Outreach Specialist
josh@wktv.org


WKTV is proud to announce receiving a grant from the Wyoming Community Foundation to help continue its mission of sharing stories of local veterans in West Michigan.

The grant will be used specifically for a WKTV program called Veterans Voices, an initiative designed to support GVSU’s Veterans History Project and to expand the reach of its impact.

“The Wyoming Community Foundation has recognized what a valuable asset WKTV’s Veterans Voices project is,” said Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director/GM. “For that we are very proud and grateful that they have chosen to start this important project off with this seed grant. Our goal is now to ask the surrounding community to step in and support veterans’ stories.”


  • A local veteran shares a story with the GVSU Veterans History Project at WKTV.
  • A local veteran shares a story with the GVSU Veterans History Project at WKTV.
  • A local veteran shares a story with the GVSU Veterans History Project at WKTV.



Key activities of Veterans Voices:  

  • Editing archives of over 200 interviews into engaging, shareable content for social media
  • Continuing to provide state-of-the-art studio and equipment for veteran interviews
  • Enhancing outreach efforts to involve more veterans, particularly those from recent conflicts

GVSU and the Library of Congress

For more than 12 years, WKTV has been a proud partner of Grand Valley State University and the Veterans History Project. This collaboration has resulted in the production of more than 200 in-depth oral history interviews, preserving and sharing the stories of U.S. veterans from World War II to present-day conflicts.

GVSU, in turn, works in partnership with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project as one of a small number of archiving partners across the country, posting their interview videos and other materials on a website that is part of the Special Collections of the GVSU Library.

“Truly special” veterans interviews

Every Veterans History Project interview captures something truly special. Sometimes it’s a harrowing story of survival and triumph over insurmountable odds; more often, it’s a relatable and self-deprecating anecdote of personal growth. 

Expanding the audience

The problem is, while these interviews are available through GVSU and the Library of Congress, very few people see them. It’s unrealistic to expect the general public to browse historical archives, much less to watch the interviews themselves, most of which run between 90 to 120 minutes in length.

$5,000 goal

WKTV is seeking $5,000 in funding to support this project over the next two years. This investment enables the station to draw from its archive of over 200 veterans oral histories to produce and publish 50 short-form highlight reels annually, and significantly expand the impact of this vital service.

As a community media center celebrating 50 years of service to Wyoming, Kentwood, and the surrounding region, WKTV has a reputation for providing a platform to the voices and stories that make up our community. 

Impact goes far beyond historical preservation…

The impact of Veterans Voices extends far beyond historical preservation. Many veterans report profound gratitude for the opportunity to share their stories, and their narratives serve as invaluable educational resources, enriching our society’s collective understanding of history and the human impact of military service.

WKTV is excited about the potential of this partnership and the positive impact it can have on veterans, their families, students, researchers and the wider community.

If you are interested in helping WKTV achieve its goal with supporting Veterans Voices, please email Josh Weston, WKTV Fundraising and Outreach Specialist at josh@wktv.org

“On the Same Page” – KDL announces books for community-wide reading initiative

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KDL is encouraging adults to get “On the Same Page” with reading (Courtesy, KDL)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


On the Same Page will feature “Wandering Stars” by Tommy Orange and “Martyr” by Kaveh Akbar (Courtesy, KDL)

Kent District Library (KDL) is encouraging adults to get “On the Same Page” with reading.

KDL is thrilled to announce the books that will build community as everyone reads and discusses the same titles  ̶ Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange and Martyr by Kaveh Akbar.

“Join us for On the Same Page, where our community comes together through the shared experience of reading,” said Hennie Vaandrager, Programming and Outreach Manager at KDL. “Dive into two thought-provoking books and engage in enriching discussions with fellow readers.

“Don’t miss this chance to connect, reflect and explore new perspectives.”

Book discussions and programs

On the Same Page will include book discussions and programs this spring focused on the themes in the books.

A meet the authors event will take place at the Godwin Heights High School Auditorium on Wednesday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Godwin Heights High School Auditorium. The author event will feature both Orange and Akbar, who share a long-standing friendship.

Wandering Stars has been described as “a lyrical, multigenerational exploration of Native American oppression” by Kirkus Reviews. The Washington Post said Martyr “approaches big questions about personal and civilizational death with a glorious sense of whimsy.”

How to participate!

Because Wandering Stars and Martyr are now the books that everyone will be reading, KDL has purchased many copies to keep the hold times as short as possible. Place your hold today.

A local young reader dives into a story (Courtesy photo)

Free registration for the author event will be required and will open on Monday, March 17 at 9 a.m. Sign up for updates and reminders at kdl.org/same page.

On the Same Page participants should also sign up for KDL’s Let It Snow Winter Reading Club, which runs from Dec. 1 – Feb. 28.

Adults and teens (grades 6 and up) who read six books in various categories will receive a collectible mug. The categories include “Tommy Orange Title” and “Kaveh Akbar Title.” Those who read an additional four books will be entered to win a Kindle Scribe. Learn more at kdl.org/snow.

To learn more about On the Same Page, visit kdl.org/samepage.

Get festive! Wrap Up Wyoming holiday event to be held Friday, Dec. 6

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This annual holiday event highlights giving back as Wyoming rings in the holiday season (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Rec)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Several craft opportunities will be provided (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Live reindeer will be available to view and pet (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Wrap up and get festive at the City of Wyoming’s second annual holiday event, Wrap Up Wyoming!

Hosted by the Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department, Wrap Up Wyoming (WUW) is a free, family-friendly event that will be held Friday, Dec. 6 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Wyoming Senior Center (WSC), 2380 DeHoop Ave SW.

The WUW event will feature musical acts from Godwin Heights High School percussionists and Wyoming Public Schools Jazz Band, cookie decorating, a hot cocoa station, several crafts and live reindeer.

Crafts and musical performances will take place indoors at the WSC, with a staging area set up outside for the reindeer.

Help local school children

WUW will be the kickoff event to a donation drive that runs throughout the month of December.

Attendees are asked to donate new, warm clothing such as hats, gloves, scarves, coats and boots. The collected items will be donated to Wyoming area schools.

Warm Clothing Donations Wrap Up Wyoming (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“What a lot of the schools need more than anything are coats, hats and boots for their students,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department Director. “Things that go well beyond the holidays into the colder months.”

Kick off the holiday season by having fun and giving back to our local school children.

Let the festivities begin!

WUW is open to everyone to attend, so come join in the spirit of giving and fun festivities.

WPD Officers Tyler Zbikowski and Jack Tromp joined in the fun at Wrap Up Wyoming 2023 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

If you are unable to attend but would still like to donate, WUW donation bins are available at City Hall now through the month of December.

“This event is a wonderful way to ring in the holiday season and spend quality time with friends and family,” said Martin. “It’s the perfect opportunity to talk to your little ones about the importance of lending a hand and giving back to your community.”

For more information about Wrap Up Wyoming, please contact the City of Wyoming Parks & Recreation team at 616-530-3164, parks_info@wyomingmi.gov or www.wyomingmi.gov.

Lee community celebrates beginning of Winter Sports Season 

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Lee seniors stand proud during the Legends Madness winter sports kickoff on Friday, Nov. 22. (WKTV, Ty Marzean)



By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



The “FamiLee” motto of Lee High School is not just a catchy phrase without substance behind it, but a rallying cry of the Godfrey-Lee community.

Last Friday, that community came out to The Legends Madness event to celebrate the opening of the winter sports season at Lee. The Boys and Girls basketball, Cheer and Wrestling teams are set to start their seasons.



Lee Legends Madness Winter Sports Kickoff 2024. (WKTV, Ty Marzean)



Attendees enjoyed a live DJ, meet-and-greets with student-athletes, and games for students and parents, which included a mixed-team game between the girls and boys basketball teams. The Lee cheer team also performed for the crowd. 

Two new basketball coaches

This event also served as a new beginning for both basketball programs, as both boys and girls teams have new coaches coming into the season. 

First-year coach Kevin Hinton will lead the Lady Legends. Most recently, Hinton was the head of the youth basketball program at Wyoming High School. Hinton also coached at Rogers High School before merging with Wyoming Park. Hinton hopes to stir interest in the youth in the Godfrey-Lee district.

“We developed our youth program this summer,” Hinton said. “We had about 30 girls in our youth program, so we’re just going to start there and keep building.”

‘Win the day’

Hinton is excited for the future and what the current team can bring to set a foundation for that future. Coach Hinton has impressed on his team to focus on daily improvements and win the day.

“Just take it one day at a time, one step at a time,” Hinton said. “Right now we have eight girls in our varsity program. We had picture day yesterday so our goal was to win picture day, to be the most focused, to be the most organized for that day.”



The boys and girls joined together for a mixed game at the Lee Legends Madness event Friday, Nov. 22. (WKTV, Ty Marzean)



The back-to-back Alliance League champion boys team also has a new coach at the helm. Gerard Oray replaces Dom Shannon, who left for Ottawa Hills this past summer. Oray played basketball locally at East Kentwood and Grace Christian University, and coached JV at East Grand Rapids last season.

The new Legend coach aims to continue the streak of conference championships.

‘Continue the streak’

“I’m excited for this group of guys to continue the tradition and hopefully win three in a row,” said Oray, who has embraced the tight-knit community of Lee, comparing it to his time at Grace Christian University. “What I learned at GCU is you are who you are and your support is who you have in a small community.”

Marc Whitfield hard to replace; scored over 1,000 points

The Legends will try to replace Marc Whitfield, one of the most prolific players in school history. Whitfield won back-to-back Alliance League Player of the Year awards and scored over 1,000 points in his time at Lee.

Senior Troy Fox will operate as team captain and leader on the floor for the Legends.

Junior Jaden Potts and senior Anthony Blok move from the gridiron to the court for Coach Oray. Braylon Huff also will play a pivotal role on the team.

The Lady Legends will start their season on Monday, Dec. 3, at home against Allegan.

The boys team started the season on Monday night against long-time rival Kellogsville with a 69-59 loss. Fox led with 20 points and four steals. Martez Jackson contributed significantly, scoring 18 points along with three assists and three steals. Huff also had a strong performance, finishing with a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds.

Lee hosted Grand Rapids Union on Tuesday night in its home opener with a 72-66 overtime loss. Huff led the team with 17 points.

The Legends look to get in the win column when they host Forest Hills Eastern on Monday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.

Wyoming breaks ground at future Godwin Mercado site on 36th Street

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Wyoming city officials broke ground at the future Godwin Mercado site, officially kicking off the start of construction (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Wyoming city officials reached a significant milestone as they broke ground at the future Godwin Mercado five-acre parcel of land on 36th Street.

“We are excited about this because it’s been in the works for so long, we weren’t sure it was going to come to pass,” says Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “This is a great day.”

Godwin Mercado will be situated on the north side of the Site 36 Industrial Park.

Formerly a General Motors stamping plant, the 75-acre parcel of Site 36 was sold to commercial real estate investment company Franklin and Partners (FP) with an agreement that FP would help Wyoming develop a community marketplace on the north side.

After years of community, vendor and market research, Godwin Mercado is now under construction.

The Godwin Mercado groundbreaking took place Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“This has been something that residents have been asking for for years,” says Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development for Wyoming. “To be standing here today and seeing the dirt moving and knowing that in eight months we’re delivering a promise to the community, I’m so excited right now.

“I’m very proud of the City of Wyoming team, all our partners and the ability to bring this to fruition after all this time.”

A community asset

City Manager John Shay says Godwin Mercado is part of the City’s [re]Imagined Wyoming.

“Our goal is to prioritize investments in the community that contribute to placemaking and strengthen Wyoming’s sense of identity,” says Shay, adding that this marketplace answers residents’ call for a community space to gather and hold private events.

An outdoor rendering of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

The 6,000-square-foot market space will provide year-round usage opportunities to support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.

Market days will provide fresh and healthy food options with access to all food assistance currencies. This will fill key gaps in the area’s food system and help support the well-being of residents living in the Godwin Heights neighborhood and greater Grand Rapids area.

A rendering of the indoor event space at Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

The Mercado space will also accommodate food education demonstrations, health and wellness programs, and more.

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

Celebrating culture

The name Godwin Mercado comes from extensive community input that included residents, community members and business leaders.

“We landed on a name that really connects us to this unique neighborhood and celebrates the community here in Wyoming,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Director of Parks and Recreation.

Godwin Mercado is a celebration of the neighborhood’s rich heritage and thriving modern culture (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Godwin Mercado not only serves as a gathering space and point of pride for the greater Wyoming community, it honors the rich heritage and thriving modern culture of the neighborhood where it sits.

The story of Godwin Heights is one of perseverance, ingenuity and grit. Beginning in a one-room schoolhouse in 1867, Godwin Heights has become a thriving destination shaped by its melody of cultures.

Mayor Vanderwood hopes Godwin Mercado will create strong community bonds.

“We’re such a diverse community, and we feel it’s time we start giving recognition to that diversity,” says Mayor Vanderwood. “By naming it as part of this proud neighborhood of Godwin, and giving it the Hispanic market name of Mercado, we think it will draw from all across the city.”

True community development

Krawshawn Martin (left) visits with guests before the groundbreaking ceremony (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“This project is really an example of true community development,” says Don Shoemaker of Franklin Partners. “We purchased this site from the City knowing that it was going to take a real community effort to get to this point.

“We’re really glad to be part of the team, and the City of Wyoming should be very proud of what they have accomplished here today because it really was a great community effort.”

Randy Thelen, President and CEO of The Right Place, agrees.

“This placemaking project with the market is going to help improve the quality of life of tens of thousands – if not hundreds of thousands – of people all across the region,” says Thelen.

“The partnership that brought this all together is powerful, and it allows for big things to happen. Our team is pleased to be a partner on this project throughout.”

It’s all about the people

State Rep. John Fitzgerald (left) greets Deputy City Manager Patrick Waterman (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)

Martin says the reaction from the community has been the driving force behind Godwin Mercado.

“The genuine excitement that Wyoming has about this project, it’s carried us through it,” says Martin. “People are just thrilled to see something happening after there being nothing here for so long.

“Feeling their excitement feeds our excitement and gets us where we need to go to make it happen. That’s what it’s all about – it’s about the people.”

Godwin Mercado

Godwin Mercado is funded in part by a $1.5 million contribution from real estate development firm Franklin Partners, assistance from The Right Place in securing a $450,000 RAP  2.0 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a $50,000 grant from Consumers Energy, and city funds from sale proceeds of Site 36.

Learn more about Godwin Mercado here.

Allegiant announces new routes to South Carolina and Florida with One-Way Fares as low as $59* 

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


Allegiant Travel Company today announced 44 new nonstop routes, including 11 to three new cities: Gulf Shores, Alabama, Colorado Springs, Colorado and Columbia, South Carolina. To celebrate this significant expansion, the company is offering one-way fares on the new routes as low as $39.*

The flights, starting in February, will expand the airline’s network options in 51 cities around the country, offering convenient, affordable air service to premier vacation destinations. With many travelers being mindful of their spending, Allegiant is committed to providing budget-friendly options that allow customers to enjoy their dream vacation. Additionally, the airline has added three airports to its network: Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF), Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).

“We’re excited to announce that Allegiant is expanding nationwide, offering even more travel options to our customers,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant’s chief commercial officer. “These additions reflect our ongoing commitment to meet customer demand. By connecting more cities, we’re making it easier for travelers to visit family and friends, access top leisure destinations, and create new memories. Our research shows that customers increasingly want affordability and convenience when they fly. Our low-cost fares and nonstop flights make Allegiant a top choice for leisure travelers.”

The new routes from Gerald R. Ford International Airport include:

  • Myrtle Beach, South Carolina via Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) – beginning May 22, 2025 with one-way fares as low as $59.*
  • Jacksonville, Florida via Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – beginning May 23, 2025 with one-way fares as low as $59.*

“This investment from Allegiant Air further connects West Michigan with the world,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “With the addition of Myrtle Beach and Jacksonville, Allegiant now offers 18 nonstop destinations for our travelers. We’re grateful for their continued partnership and excited for passengers to explore these new locations.”



*About the introductory one-way fares:

Seats and dates are limited and fares are not available on all flights. Flights must be purchased by Nov. 20, 2024 for travel by July 25, 2025. Price displayed includes taxes, carrier charges & government fees. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Optional baggage charges and additional restrictions may apply. For more details, optional services and baggage fees, please visit Allegiant.com.

30 years of fun in disguise: A beloved Wyoming icon will close its doors at year’s end

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Randy and Gayle Vaartjes are retiring after three decades helping customers disguise themselves year-round through The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Gayle and Randy Vaartjes have served their community for 30 years (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

A popular Wyoming icon will close its doors at the end of the year, concluding a 30-year adventure while ushering in a new chapter.

Randy and Gayle Vaartjes have spent over three decades assisting customers from all over the United States and Canada disguise themselves year-round through their family-owned costume retail store, The Kostume Room.

The Kostume Room provided costumes, professional makeup, wigs, and accessories for almost every event, including: Halloween, school and church plays, museums and the film industry.

But, to Gayle and Randy, costumes were more than just a business. It was fun.

“I enjoyed every single customer that came through our door,” said Gayle, adding that it was fun to help customers pick out their costumes. “It’s fun to help them create what they’re looking for.”

Many times, after seeing all The Kostume Room had to offer, customers would change their mind about what costume they wanted and walk out the door with a completely different ensemble.

When asked why people enjoy dressing up so much, Gayle said, “I think, personally, because they can be someone else, and they can act differently.”

“Disguise Yourself”

Randy and Gayle called their store “an adventure of a lifetime” that opened its doors in 1993 with a mission to help customers disguise themselves all year long.

Fun and daring wigs can spice up an ensemble (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The adventure began when Gayle and her sister decided to sell Halloween costumes they had made for their kids. When that endeavor met with success, the sisters continued making children’s costumes and selling them on consignment at a local thrift store.

“Back then there really wasn’t much [for costumes],” said Gayle. “Not only that, we didn’t even know where to get costumes – and we weren’t going to pay retail for them. So we put them in the thrift store.”

A hat for every occasion! (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

As the costumes continued to sell, the women became aware of a Halloween show for costume creators to buy goods. That discovery elevated their business to new heights. After the first year, the sisters found retail space in Rogers Plaza.

“We kept growing each year. After the sixth or seventh year, it was time to find a home,” Gayle said, gesturing around their current location.

The next year, they offered adult costumes as well. Gayle received special requests for costumes and made a few for the store as well – “but really not as much as I would have liked to.”

Gayle’s wish had been to spend time sewing costumes in the back room of the store. However, she was needed at the front of the store and much of the sewing fell to her mother and sister.

During retirement, however, Gayle will put her sewing skills to good use.

“My plans are to use my skills and make historical costumes, or whatever people would like me to do,” said Gayle, adding that she plans to sell them on eBay or Etsy.

  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • The Kostume Room (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

A unique business

Though the couple planned to sell the business within the next few years, their timeline was accelerated when they received an unexpected offer for the building. They decided to accept.

“Now we’re looking for a buyer to buy the business side of it, move it out and relocate it someplace else,” said Randy, adding that their wish is for the business name to continue on.

But that is not as easy as it sounds.

The Kostume Room has thousands of costumes and accessories (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The business, said Gayle, is extremely unique. Many people do not understand how much work is put in behind the scenes.

Special touches to service – such as re-curling Santa wigs after washing – combined with maintaining thousands of accessories and the 41 racks of costumes, is not for the faint of heart.

A desire to give back

Well, this seems like a hairy situation… (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)

Randy and Gayle gave back to various local organizations throughout the years, including Kids Food Basket, American Cancer Society, Paws with a Cause and Whooriders.

The Kostume Room also offers assistance to cancer survivors through the Wig Bank.

“I’m a cancer survivor,” said Gayle. “And I decided that I was going to give back. I donate really nice wigs to women going through chemo or any hair loss.”

Gayle originally helped provide wigs through the American Cancer Society (ACS), but when the program ended, Gayle took up the mission. Instead of returning the wigs ACS donated to the store, Gayle continued the program through The Kostume Room.

When asked what inspires the couple to give back, Gayle shrugged. “Just wanting to help,” she said simply.

The next chapter

Luscious locks…for your face! (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

What’s next for the retiring couple?

“We’re going to travel,” said Gayle with a smile. The couple has always wanted to visit the Netherlands – and now they will. “That’s our big trip. The rest will be small trips; there are so many places we haven’t been to in the United states.”

The Vaartjes’ upcoming adventure, however, will be bittersweet.

“I didn’t realize how much we meant to the community, I really didn’t,” said Gayle. “I was just doing my job.

“Throughout the years I’ve made good friends with people, and I don’t like seeing them sad because then it makes me sad.”

A message from Randy and Gayle Vaartjes

“Thank you for being our customers,” said Randy, adding that he has enjoyed seeing the generations change over time. “We see kids that are growing up coming in with their kids. And they’re telling us that they were kids when their parents brought them in here.”

“It was our pleasure, more than they know,” Gayle said. “Our customers are Number One. If we didn’t have them, we would have been gone a long time ago. That’s what makes this happen. We’re just the directors.”

But wait – there’s more!

Here comes Santa Claus… (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Though The Kostume Room doors will close for the final time at the end of the year, they are not closed yet!

“I just want to make sure everyone knows that we were not closed yet,” said Randy. “There is still a lot of inventory to choose from!”

The Kostume Room hours are Monday-Friday from 12-7 p.m., and Saturday from 12-5 p.m. They are now closed on Sundays.

Learn more about The Kostume Room here.

Don’t miss WKTV’s 24th Annual Turkey Bowl featuring our local football Games of the Week

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Holidays, Kent County, Kentwood Public Schools, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, WKTV Featured sports, ,
(Image Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director

greer@wktv.org


Please join us for WKTV’s 24th Annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving Day!


Our WKTV truck has been busy all season long covering exciting high school football Games of the Week in the Wyoming/Kentwood viewing area.

If you missed a WKTV Football GOTW, or would like to see one for a second time, be sure to watch on Thanksgiving Day. Our 15-Hour Special, starting at 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 28, highlights the best of our High School Football Games this season.
  

Relive the excitement right here on WKTV 25 Thanksgiving Day!

9 a.m.    Grand Rapids Sacred Heart @ Lee

11:30 a.m.    Wyoming @ South Christian

  1:40 p.m.    Hudsonville @ East Kentwood

  3:45 p.m.    Zeeland East @ South Christian 

  6:15 p.m.    Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville 

  8:30 p.m.    Jenison @ East Kentwood

10:30 p.m.    Catholic Central @ South Christian


 

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, Nov. 25

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS November Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, Nov. 25 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

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

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

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

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

Honoring those who served: Wyoming veteran provides comfort for hospice veterans

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Ryan Gadberry (pictured) is no longer on active duty, yet continues to serve (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Gadberry works to ensure veterans are recognized for their service (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)

Wyoming resident Ryan Gadberry served four years (2013-2017) in the U.S. Marines. While no longer on active-duty, the local veteran continues serving by bringing comfort and recognition to hospice veterans during their end-of-life journey.

Already serving as Property Manager for Hospice of Michigan, Gadberry stepped in to help when he heard Hospice of Michigan needed veteran volunteers.

For the past eight months, Gadberry has used his military experiences to make a meaningful impact.

“I am more than happy to give back,” said Gadberry. “It’s very heartwarming; it makes you feel like you’re doing something really important.”

Camaraderie and compassion

Hospice of Michigan strives to deliver the holistic, loving care veterans deserve. Veteran volunteers make a difference in the lives of others by sitting and visiting with fellow veteran patients.

Gadberry said there is a specific connection between veterans due to shared military training and history.

Wyoming veterans gather at an annual local breakfast (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

“You can meet a total stranger and, once you find out they are a fellow service person, there is an immediate connection,” said Gadberry. “You’re no longer a stranger.”

That connection has been frequently proven, but one instance made a lasting impact on Hospice of Michigan Volunteer Program Manager, Lauren Becker-Barkman.

A lifelong Marine within hours of the end of his life journey was restless, repeatedly reaching and calling out.

“There was no peace in this man’s world at this time,” said Becker-Barkman. “He’s uncomfortable, he’s restless.”

Veterans can make a difference in each other’s lives (Courtesy photo)

The hospice team asked a veteran volunteer to sit with the veteran in hopes of making a difference in his end-of-life journey.

“By the time [the volunteer] left,” said Becker-Barkman, “he was comfortable, he was at peace. He wasn’t calling out, he wasn’t reaching out.”

The veteran passed within a few hours – and what was said during that time together remains unknown.

“We don’t know what was said or what passed between these two veterans, but whatever it was allowed this man to find peace and to be able to go on peacefully,” said Becker-Barkman. “That’s the kind of connection you can’t make up. The impact is immeasurable.”

Gadberry personally cultivates that special connection with hospice veterans through empathy and understanding.

A desire to serve

Gadberry is thankful for his time in the Marines (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)

A first-generation serviceman in his family, Gadberry always knew he wanted to be a Marine.

“Even when I was a kid, that was the plan. Finish high school, join the Marines. That’s what I did.”

Gadberry served as an intelligence analyst, working with several overseas ops – and has no regrets.

“I love that I did it; it definitely turned me into the man I am today.”

And that man gets a visible bounce in his step when meeting fellow veterans.

An unexpected impact

“He gets a little pep in his step knowing that he’s going to meet a veteran,” said Becker-Barkman, adding that Gadberry is also asked to read poems or talk about the impact of veteran connections often. “He’s incredibly humble about being a veteran himself…so to know that he’s also getting some recognition and that he’s continuing to make an impact, it’s really cool.”

A local woman raises her voice in song at a vet pinning ceremony (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)

Gadberry said that volunteering has impacted him in ways he didn’t expect – especially the pinning ceremonies.

“What surprised me was the impact it has on the families,” said Gadberry. “It’s overwhelming to see. It’s important to make that veteran feel remembered and seen, but they’re on their end-of-life journey, they’re going to be gone soon. But that ceremony, and those memories, are going to be passed on and kept with the family members for many years to come.”

Though many veterans are recognized for their service through their communities, American Legion or VFW, there are just as many who never see recognition of any kind. Gadberry said giving that recognition to veterans during the last steps of their end-of-life journey is memorable for all involved.

“Every ceremony, every event is completely different,” said Gadberry. “Every time I do it, I take away something different and I learn a little bit more.”

Becker-Barkman said her time with Hospice of Michigan has also been life-changing.

“I’ve learned so much about end-of-life care and what that entails for us as human beings,” said Becker-Barkman. “I get to be surrounded by so many brilliant, loving, giving people that it’s changed my entire outlook on everything.

“It’s magical to be surrounded by people who are so willing to show up for people they don’t know at what can be the hardest time in their life; it’s rejuvenating.”

The value of serving in new ways

Hospice of Michigan is continually in need of compassionate veteran volunteers to provide that much needed support and camaraderie to hospice veterans. Regardless of how they served, the bond between veterans opens a door of trust and communication through mutual understanding.

“Veterans share a unique bond,” said Kathy Lietaert, Hospice of Michigan Statewide Volunteer Program Manager, in supplied material. “Through our veterans hospice program, every act of service by volunteer veterans brings comfort, connection and compassion to hospice veterans who need it most at the end of life.”

Volunteers can make a life-changing impact with a minimal time commitment (Courtesy photo)


Becker-Barkman said they are always looking for more volunteer support, in Grand Rapids and throughout the state – and their volunteering schedule is flexible.

“You could [visit] one patient a month, visit once a week, or whatever fits your schedule,” said Becker-Barkman. “We don’t have any rigid guidelines. We want volunteers to be able to fit this into their lives in a way that’s meaningful and not overwhelming for them.”

Volunteer orientations are hosted on an as-needed basis so prospective volunteers can learn in their own time. Training or previous volunteer experience is not needed. All veterans willing to donate their time and companionship to hospice care patients are welcome.

Gadberry believes that veterans will step in to help once they are aware of the need.

“I was more than happy to help out,” said Gadberry. “I think that will be the case for other veterans out there. If they hear that another veteran needs some form of help, they will always step up.”

Learn more!

Prospective volunteers can contact Lauren Becker-Barkman at 616-250-9110 or lbecker-barkman@hom.org.

Learn more about Hospice of Michigan and submit an online volunteer application here.

Wyoming Police investigate bank robbery, search for suspect

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(Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Police are investigating a bank robbery at PNC Bank, 220 28th Street SW.

At approximately 12:40 pm on Nov. 8, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to the PNC Bank in the 200 block of 28th Street SW on the report of a robbery that had just occurred. Upon arrival, officers found that a male suspect had entered the bank, demanded money, and subsequently fled with an undisclosed amount of cash. No one was injured during this incident.

The suspect is not in police custody. There is no suspect description available at this time.

Wyoming Police Detectives and Forensic Sciences Unit continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

UPDATE: Endangered missing person, Lucy Silverman, located

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Lucy Silverman, endangered missing person (Courtesy, Wyoming PD)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


UPDATE

Lucy Silverman was located safely. Wyoming Police Department thanks the public for their assistance in locating her.

Original Announcement

The Wyoming Police Department is asking for assistance locating 71-year-old Lucy Silverman.

Lucy was last seen at her residence near Clyde Park Avenue and Blanchard Street SW in the City of Wyoming on Nov. 1, at approximately 10:30 a.m. She is believed to be driving a silver 2005 Toyota Corolla with Michigan license plate EWP3022, possibly on her way to California.

A stock photo of a silver 2005 Toyota Corolla (Courtesy, Wyoming PD)

Lucy is a white female with brown hair, approximately 5’2” tall, 195 pounds, and it is unknown what she was last wearing. Lucy suffers from multiple medical disorders that require medical care.

Wyoming Police continue to search for Lucy.

Anyone with information regarding Lucy’s whereabouts is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or 911.

Wyoming Police investigates carjacking on South Division Avenue

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(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


At approximately 8 p.m. on Nov. 5, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to the 3300 block of South Division Avenue on the report of a carjacking that had just occurred.

When officers arrived, they located a male victim with his child. Preliminary investigation indicates that the victim’s vehicle was stolen with a child still inside. As the stolen vehicle fled the area, the suspect(s) removed the child, who was found safe and unharmed after being recovered by a parent.

Wyoming Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

The Tree Amigos to “spruce up” Wyoming Veteran’s Memorial Garden on Nov. 6

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Volunteers of two local commissions will plant four redbud trees at the Wyoming Veteran’s Memorial Garden for WWII and Korean War veterans (Courtesy, The City of Wyoming Historical Commission)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Members of the The Tree Amigos – City of Wyoming Tree Commission and the Wyoming Historical Commission will plant four redbud trees at the Wyoming Veteran’s Memorial Garden for WWII and Korean War veterans on Nov. 6 at 5 p.m.


Only one evergreen tree (not pictured) currently remains to the east of the monument. With funding from the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, The Tree Amigos and Historical Commission plan to spruce up the memorial originally erected in 1945 at the intersection of Lee Street and Porter Street. Plantings adjacent to the monument will be updated in the spring.

(Courtesy, The City of Wyoming Historical Commission)


“The Wyoming Historical Commission is grateful to The Tree Amigos for beautifying the Wyoming Honor Roll Memorial dedicated to our veterans from Wyoming who served during WWII and the Korean Wars,” says Vicki Briggs, board member of The Historical Commission.


“This memorial was dedicated on May 30, 1945. The original plantings had been removed due to their age and now will be renewed.”

Tree dedication ceremony

A brief ceremony dedicating the trees and remembering the veterans named on the monument will take place at 12 p.m. on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11.


Representatives from the City of Wyoming and the Historical Commission will say a few words, along with American Legion Post 154 Post Commander Keith Wakefield. The Tree Amigos will also make an announcement about future projects.


“That’s so exciting, and I  appreciate what Tree Amigos is doing to beautify the neighborhood,” says Kalene McElveen, owner of Tasteful Vegan Ice Cream Shop, a business adjacent to the planting site.

Local history

Boyce Slootmaker lied about his age to join the Navy at age 16 (Courtesy, Slootmaker family)

Among those named on the memorial are family members of The Tree Amigos chairperson, Estelle Slootmaker: Boyce Slootmaker (WWII), Howard Joyce (Korean War), and Clayton Burkholder (WWII).


Lieutenant Commander Roger B. Chaffee was added to the memorial in 1967. Born and raised in Wyoming, Chaffee died on Jan. 27, 1967 in the Apollo spacecraft flash fire during a launch pad test at Kennedy Space Center, FL.

Wyoming Schools superintendent delivers message to community regarding elections

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(Courtesy photo)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra delivers an important message to the community on the eve of national, state and local elections.

Read Hoekstra’s letter to the community below:

Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra (Supplied)

Dear Wyoming Public Schools Families and Community,

As we approach the upcoming national, state, and local elections, I want to highlight two important messages for our school community.

First and foremost, I encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote. This fundamental right is one of the most impactful ways we can shape our community, our state, and our nation. Voting not only allows us to have a voice in the decisions that affect us, but it also demonstrates to our children the value of civic engagement.

Secondly, as the election draws near and results unfold, it is vital that we, as a community, stay focused on our role as positive role models for our students. Regardless of the election’s outcome, our ongoing commitment must be to remain civil, respectful, and supportive of one another. Our actions and words will serve as powerful examples to our children on how to engage thoughtfully and constructively, even during challenging times.

Wyoming Public Schools is built on the strength of a supportive partnership between home and school. I am grateful for each of you and your dedication to fostering a positive environment for our students. Together, we can model the importance of kindness, empathy, and healthy discourse in all that we do.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support in helping us create a positive and respectful atmosphere within our schools and community.

Sincerely,

Craig Hoekstra

Superintendent

Wyoming Public Schools

WPS Superintendent Craig Hoekstra’s letter to the community (Courtesy, WPS)