Category Archives: Going Local

ENLIGHTEN holiday light show returns to Frederik Meijer Gardens, guests express high hopes

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, design, Entertainment, Going Local, Holidays, Kent County, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
ENLIGHTEN will be an outdoor, holiday-centric light show that will take place in the early winter evenings (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)


By Koy Flores

WKTV Contributor

deborah@wktv.org


Are you looking for a local event the kids, a group of friends, or even your parents can enjoy this holiday season?

Starting Nov. 24 and running until Jan. 3, 2026, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park (FMG) is bringing back the renowned light show event ENLIGHTEN from the year prior, which promises to appeal to all ages.

Art, culture and nature

FMG is known for its special dynamic of being both an art museum and botanical garden. Covering 158 acres, FMG features Michigan’s largest tropical conservatory and one of the country’s largest interactive children’s gardens.

“What makes FMG especially unique is the combination of art, culture and nature in one experience,” said Carol Kendra, FMG Chief Operations Officer, in a WKTV email interview. 

In spirit of the Garden’s outdoor trek already imbued with creativity, ENLIGHTEN will be an outdoor, holiday-centric light show that will take place in the early winter evenings between 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. The event stretches over a mile-long trail and will enhance specific artworks with light installations, music and interactive elements. (FMG press release)

80,000 tickets were sold for the first ENLIGHTEN holiday light show (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

Last year, ENLIGHTEN was named one of the must-see Christmas light displays in the Midwest by Midwest Living.

“80,000 tickets were sold in the first year, and 39% of the attendees were outside of Kent County,” stated Charles Burke, President and CEO of FMG.

The lighting production will be installed by Lightswitch, an international collective of visual designers known for installing lights for theme parks and performance events of artists such as Hans Zimmer, Imagine Dragons, Lionel Richie and Elton John. Upstaging will also assist with installation, and are known for delivering event lighting to Beyonce, Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones.

New and interactive sculptures

The park is continually expanding its impressive collection of over 300 pieces, but this year guests can look forward to two new sculptures featured in the ENLIGHTEN show: Bronze Bowl with Lace by Ursula von Rydingsvard is currently available to view, and Amalgam (Origin) by internationally celebrated artist Nick Cave is scheduled to be unveiled Oct. 3.

When informed, guests expressed interest and even shared their hopes for what the creative talent could do with ENLIGHTEN this year.

“I’d like to see how they incorporate lights with that monstrous horse I saw!” said Mike Kolb of Palm Bay, FL.

Neuron Sculpture by Roxy Paine is on display at Frederik Meijer Gardens (Courtesy, Koy Flores)

Kolb was not the only one who traveled to see FMG this past weekend. Chet Hearn and his partner also visited from the outskirts of Detroit.

When asked who he would take with him to ENLIGHTEN, Hearn answered, “Probably just the two of us. We definitely want more satisfying experiences made for adults; I feel like holiday events are more geared towards children. We’re looking for something that appeals to adults, but still has that playfulness and is almost nostalgic.”

Unlike the guests mentioned above, Michael Prokopchuk is a resident of Grand Rapids. Prokopchuk was also intrigued about the potential duality of having moving parts in addition to illumination.

“Anything moving would be a fun interplay,” Prokopchuk said. “We would want to see some light and movement, it would be interesting to see…it would add to the interaction and change the contextualization of the art piece.”

When asked, Kendra said her favorite sculpture was the interactive Neuron (2008) by Roxy Paine.

“The piece is a visual ‘WOW’ during ENLIGHTEN with its sprawling tree-like branches brilliantly color-controlled by the visitor with our custom, hand-held interactives,” Kendra stated.

ENLIGHTEN boasts several interactive options for visitors (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)

How to experience ENLIGHTEN

Ticket sales for FMG range from: $11/children aged 3-13, $16/students with ID, $17/seniors and $22/adults aged 14-64. Admission is free for FMG members and children aged 2 and under. Discounts are provided to SNAP cardholders.

ENLIGHTEN timed tickets are on sale now and range from $10 – $20 for members, and $12 – $24 for nonmembers based on date. Groups of ten or more receive special pricing. Public ticket sales are also available.

More ticket information and purchasing options can be found here.

World-renowned Mariachi Cobre to perform with Grand Rapids Symphony on Sept. 20

Citizen Journalism, Culture, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Upcoming Events, Weather, , , ,
Mariachi Cobre has performed with nearly 50 symphonies across the U.S. and Mexico (Courtesy, Mariachi Cobre)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


World mariachi ambassador, Mariachi Cobre, will perform with the Grand Rapids Symphony on Saturday, Sept. 20 at DeVos Performance Hall.

Founded in 1971 by Randy Carrillo, veteran of the first U.S. mariachi youth group, Mariachi Juvenil Los Changuitos Feos De Tucson, Mariachi Cobre is celebrating their 51st anniversary as a musical ensemble.

The group has been the world mariachi ambassador for the past 39 years, thrilling audiences with their vibrant and authentic mariachi sound. Mariachi Cobre has performed for millions of visitors at Epcot Center, Disney World, and with nearly 50 symphony orchestras across the U.S. and Mexico.

On Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m., Grand Rapids Symphony Conductor Bob Bernhardt will conduct a combined performance with the symphony and Mariachi Cobre.

Experience Mariachi Cobre’s energy live and locally in concert by purchasing tickets here.


(Courtesy Photo)

About Mariachi Cobre

The original Mariachi Cobre group included Randy Carrillo, Steve Carrillo on trumpet and Mack Ruiz on violin.

Current members of Mariachi Cobre are: Steve Carrillo – Director (trumpet), Miguel Molina (trumpet), Joe Baca (violin), Hector Gama (violin), Israel Molina (violin), Aaron Piedra (violin), Roberto Romo (violin), Carlos Gama (violin), Louie Ranjel (vihuela), Omar Olivas (guitar) and Alex Garcia (guitarron).

(Courtesy, GR Symphony)

The group has accompanied a wide range of mariachi and non-mariachi artists including Linda Ronstadt, Lucha Villa, Lola Beltran, Ana Gabriel, Guadalupe Pineda, Julio Iglesias and Vikki Carr.

Learn more about Mariachi Cobre here.

Mobile food pantry schedule for Kent County, Sept. 12 – Oct. 10

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

Mobile food pantry schedule for Sept. 12 – Oct. 10:

Sept. 12 – Friday

Sept. 13 – Saturday

Sept. 17 – Wednesday

Sept. 18 – Thursday

Sept. 20 – Saturday

Sept. 22 – Monday

Sept. 23 – Tuesday

Sept. 26 – Friday

Sept. 27 – Saturday

Sept. 30 – Tuesday

Oct. 1 – Wednesday

Oct. 2 – Thursday

Oct. 8 – Wednesday

Oct. 9 – Thursday

Oct. 10 – Friday

Resources

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

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

Wyoming Police seek public assistance to locate missing person

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, First Responders, Going Local, Hard News, Kent County, Local Faces, Police and Fire, West Michigan, , , ,
Tuyen Pham, Wyoming Missing Person (Courtesy, Wyoming PD)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Wyoming Police Department is asking for assistance in locating 50-year-old Tuyen Pham.

Tuyen has been missing since Aug. 10, 2025, and her disappearance was just recently reported to police. She is considered at risk due to likely not having access to medication prescribed to her.

Tuyen is an Asian female with black hair and brown eyes. She stands approximately 5 feet tall with a slim build.

Tuyen was last seen in the area of Clyde Park Avenue and 32nd Street SW. She does not have access to a vehicle and would likely be walking. No description of her clothing is available, and a recent picture of her is featured at the beginning of this article. Her intended destination is unknown.

Wyoming Police continue to search for Tuyen and are requesting assistance from the public.

Anyone who may have seen Tuyen since Aug. 10 or who might have information regarding her whereabouts is asked to contact the Wyoming Police Department at 616-530-7300, Detective Ana Armstrong at 616-530-7332, or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

Safeguarding our youth: Community connections forged to aid local juvenile services reform

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Culture, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Faces, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Police and Fire, West Michigan, , , , , , , , , ,
Twenty-five representatives from various organizations gathered at Neland Avenue Church to collaborate and share about local efforts to safeguard our youth (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Jennifer Franson, Founder and Executive Director of iCI Nation (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Wyoming resident and founder of iCI Nation, Jennifer Franson, is dedicated to strengthening communities by building relationships and trust between local police and community members. This mission is achieved through the work of iCI Nation on a daily basis.

Franson hosted an informal meet and greet in August with Kent County Juvenile Services (KCJS), the Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) South Service Area and various nonprofit organizations in the South Service Area.

The idea was born from an iCI Nation Lunch N Learn event in March featuring KCJS and the GRPD.

“I learned about Juvenile Services and how they are changing their system, looking to be much more reformative with kids, and looking to change and work with the community in new ways,” said Franson.

Knowing KCJS staff would benefit from knowing more about resources and nonprofits already available in the community, Franson began doing what she does best – forging connections.

“We want them to be able to learn about all of you,” Franson said during the meet and greet introduction, “but also, we’re going to learn about each other. If nothing else, this is encouraging for us to see and learn all the good that’s happening in our city.”

Creating partnerships

Twenty-five representatives from various organizations gathered at Neland Avenue Church to collaborate and share about local efforts to safeguard our youth.

“We are all here because we are all protecting and serving the city,” said Franson. “You guys are invested physically, mentally [and] financially in protecting and serving the city.”

Awareness of community resources allows for multiple avenues of reform (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Jana Forner, Captain of the Grand Rapids Police East Service Area, echoed Franson’s sentiments, saying that being aware of services available in the community helps law enforcement determine whether a situation is best resolved with reformatory action, connections to resources or enforcement action.

“Bringing everyone together regularly helps you serve the community, us serve the community, and then create partnerships to help our communities,” said Forner. “In this case, juvenile justice. This is just the first step in making sure we all can collaborate now and in the future.”

Intentional and focused efforts

Chris Burgess, Community Probation Supervisor for Kent County, highlighted several areas of reform currently happening in the court system due to juvenile justice reform legislation passed in 2023 by the Michigan State Legislature. The legislation gave courts increased opportunities to incorporate community-based services that are research-driven, evidence-based and culturally appropriate.

Intentional programming and positive interactions help keep youth on the right path (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“Programs that qualify underneath those different labels and documents are really what the state is looking for to evolve our kids in the community and provide rehabilitative services and potential alternatives for those kids so that we don’t keep them in detention,” said Burgess.

The court’s efforts have become much more intentional and focused on putting forward principles and programming that generate quality interactions and help youth build skills to cope with certain aspects of life, find resources, navigate the decision-making process and be solution-oriented.

After-school and evening programming that provide positive activities and interactions are essential to helping youth stay on the right path.

(Left to right) Chris Burgess, Frank Briones, Sandra Vanderhyde and Cara Lemmen (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Frank Briones, Program Director for Kent County Juvenile Services, develops this programming through collaborations and partnerships with community businesses and organizations. But developing relationships with our youth, Briones said, is the most essential component.

“Trust, rapport, and respect is big for us in building those relationships with our kids. Having that trust, having that rapport is huge.”

Protecting and serving…together

Building relationships and trust, Franson said, is vital for any reform to be successful.

“This is our government partnering with you because they want to better serve everybody and call out the value in everybody – even our troubled youth,” said Franson. “The system isn’t perfect, but we’re here and excited to partner with them.”

Building relationships and trust is vital in generating change (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Among those looking to provide positive life-changing resources and programming and help eliminate barriers for youth were representatives from several local nonprofits.

Information and resources offered by these nonprofits can be found at the links below:

Progress, not perfection

GRPD Captain Jana Forner (left), Jenn Franson and Amanda Afman (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

For Franson, the identity of a city is not one of perfection.

Looking at event participants, Franson said, “It’s this. It’s people who [say]: ‘We are a community, we’re a family and we’re going to do what we can, even sacrifice ourselves, our time, our talents, our treasures to benefit the city and everybody.’

“This really calls out the value of everyone…and I thank you all for protecting and serving together to make this city great.”

Renovated Villa Bar & Banquet and The Dungeon unveiled during special ceremony Aug. 28

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, design, Food, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Food, Local History, Our Cities, Restaurants, West Michigan, , , , , , ,
West Michigan is experiencing a new landmark in hospitality with the grand opening of Villa Bar & Banquet and its exclusive downstairs venue, The Dungeon (Courtesy, WKTV)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


West Michigan is experiencing a new landmark in hospitality with the grand opening of Villa Bar & Banquet and its exclusive downstairs venue, The Dungeon.

The official celebration began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in partnership with the Grand Rapids Chamber and the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 3594 Chicago Drive SW in Grandville. The public grand opening was held Friday, Aug. 29.

Owners Manoj Mulki and Nina Mahesh have transformed the venue into a world-class destination while honoring its legacy (Courtesy, WKTV)

Reimagined and transformed

Formerly home to the beloved GrandVilla Restaurant which closed in 2020, the property has been reimagined through a multi-million-dollar, three-year renovation. Owners Manoj Mulki and Nina Mahesh have transformed the venue into a world-class destination for events and entertainment while honoring its legacy by reviving the name The Dungeon for its lower-level bar and lounge.

“Our vision was to create a venue that blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication,” said co-owner Manoj Mulki. “Villa Bar & Banquet is more than just a space—it’s an experience where people can gather, celebrate and create memories that last a lifetime.”

Villa Bar & Banquet: Elegance Elevated

With the ability to host seated events for up to 300 guests, Villa Bar & Banquet is designed for weddings,
corporate galas, cultural celebrations and milestone occasions. Guests will enjoy ample complimentary parking, elevated décor and an ambiance that seamlessly blends warmth with luxury.

Villa Bar & Banquet will set the stage for unforgettable gatherings (Courtesy, WKTV)

Every detail has been carefully curated to set the stage for unforgettable gatherings.

The Dungeon: A Speakeasy Reimagined

Descending into The Dungeon, guests are transported into a sultry speakeasy atmosphere where locally
sourced flavors, a custom mixology program and immersive design come together. With its mysterious
yet refined vibe, The Dungeon promises an unmatched nightlife experience.

The Dungeon promises an unmatched nightlife experience (Courtesy, WKTV)

The lounge will be open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, offering both locals and visitors a destination unlike anything else in the region.

Venue Contact Information

Villa Bar & Banquet: 616.805.3103 | The Dungeon: 616.805.3525 | www.villabarbanquet.com

(Courtesy, WKTV)

Hand2Hand celebrates new electric van at community/volunteer event with Consumers Energy

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Volunteers, West Michigan, , , , , , , , , , ,
Hand2Hand celebrated the EVan (aptly christened Evan) donation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and volunteer food packing event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Nearly 65,000 children in West Michigan are at risk of hunger. Roughly 834 school buses filled with kids are dropped off at home each weekend with a risk of having little to no food for 68 hours.

Local officials, volunteers, Hand2Hand staff and Consumers Energy representatives all gathered to celebrate the new electric van donated by Consumers Energy (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Local nonprofit, Hand2Hand, works to eliminate that 68-hour gap by mobilizing schools, churches, organizations and individuals to provide a backpack of nutritious food over the weekend and extended school breaks. Food sent home consists of breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner items and often a recipe card.

Consumers Energy recently donated a new all-electric van to Hand2Hand through their electric vehicle program to assist in the nonprofit’s food deliveries.

(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

On Aug. 26, Hand2Hand celebrated the EVan (aptly christened Evan) donation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and volunteer food packing event – the first packing event of the 2025-26 school year.

Jeff Myrom, Director of Electric Transportation Customer Programs at Consumers Energy, said the van went to a great cause. “Helping kids who need more food, more nutrition, so they have successful lives is incredibly important.”

A mission of hope

Jodi Joseph talks about the impact and hope Hand2Hand food bags give local children in need (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Beyond physical nutrition, the Hand2Hand food provides hope for students experiencing hunger.

“If we can nourish that student through the weekend, then they can come to school ready to learn,” said Hand2Hand Executive Director Jodi Joseph. “They can know that there is a community here that sees them, that cares for them; it’s more than just food.”

This year, Hand2Hand will serve up to 15,000 students in 280 schools throughout 45 school districts in West Michigan.

Dr. Doug VanderJagt, Superintendent of Hudsonville Public Schools and Hand2Hand board member, attended Sandy Hill Elementary where Hand2Hand first began serving 19 students in 2008.

Dr. Doug VanderJagt talks about the community need for food assistance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Our kids have a lot of access to things, but there are families that are in need,” said VanderJagt, adding that nearly one hundred students are considered homeless in Hudsonville.

“Watching our students [receive the backpacks], their eyes light up…it impacts them more than you’ll ever know.”

Hand2Hand recognizes that every family’s story is different, with some families signing up for a short time while others sign up for longer. No matter the time frame or reason for the need, the nonprofit exercises discretion regarding student/family identities with each bag discreetly placed in student lockers without volunteers ever knowing student names.

A mission of efficiency

Jeff Myrom talks about Consumers Energy’s electric vehicle initiatives (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Evan the EVan” is the second all-electric van donated by Consumers Energy, with an anticipated 22 more to be donated across West Michigan over the next year and a half.

“As part of PowerMIFleet, we’ve been looking for fleets that serve income-qualified customers,” said Myrom, adding that electric vehicles cost approximately half per mile to operate than a gasoline vehicle.

Food bags are placed discreetly inside student lockers (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“We’ve dedicated some funding to ensure that we can help them purchase those vehicles and the charging infrastructure that they need, so they can continue to operate as efficiently as possible.”

Myrom went on to say that the mission of Hand2Hand stood out to the Consumers Energy community affairs team for multiple reasons.

“The kids are excited to take those backpacks home, they love having the food on the weekends…and that’s just a win for everyone,” said Myrom.

“And when those kids also get to see an electric vehicle and understand the technology of the future, we hope it inspires them and keeps them on their journey as they continue to learn.”

It takes a village

Joseph said Hand2Hand is grateful to be part of the Consumers Energy electric vehicle initiative.

Hunger exists in every community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“We cannot do this work without having a fleet, without having the tools that we need to do the work,” said Joseph. “By adding this van, it increases our fleet by 50%.

Joseph went on to say that Hand2Hand will serve any school, no matter the number of students in need.

“Hunger exists in every community; it doesn’t matter the zip code,” said Joseph. “We go into a school if there is one student that needs [help], or we go into a school that has 400 students that need it. We really concentrate on the student.”

While the Hand2Hand staff numbers 22, over 4,000 people help fulfill the nonprofit’s mission.

“We really couldn’t do this without the entire community helping us,” said Joseph.

  • Over 4,000 volunteers help make Hand2Hand’s mission a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Community support is vital to making Hand2Hand’s mission a success (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Ottawa and Kent counties are Hand2Hand’s largest distribution areas.

“We couldn’t even wash the van today for the ribbon-cutting because it was out in the field, it was already out delivering food,” said Joseph. “That’s just a testament to how this van is really going to bless our community and our families and our kids.”

Hand2Hand is expanding to the Forest Hills school district this year, as well as adding more students in their current school districts.

How you can help!

Community packing events take place each week. Volunteers are welcome and can find more information on the Hand2Hand website.

Food packing events happen weekly to ensure students have enough food (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

And while it takes volunteers to do the work, Joseph said, it also takes finances.

Those wishing to donate to Hand2Hand can do so online and also via Venmo. Those who wish to visit the Hand2Hand building with a check and a friendly hello are also welcome.

“We know the work that we’re doing here is impactful. It’s making a tremendous difference,” said Joseph.

Consumers Energy EV resources

Those thinking about obtaining an electric vehicle can visit consumersenergy.com/EV details and rebate offers. Businesses considering an electric vehicle for their fleet can reach out to PowerMIFleet at consumersenergy.com for rebates and professional guidance.

EVs operate at half the cost per mile of a gasoline vehicle (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Lee Legends call audible: Return to 8-man football for 2025 season

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Local Sports, Our Cities, Sports, West Michigan, , , ,
The Lee Legends varsity football team prepares for its first game of the 2025-26 season (Ty Marzean/WKTV Contributor)


By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org


Godfrey-Lee’s varsity football program has not played a full season of 11-man football since 2019.

This off-season, Coach Lamar Marshall and his team prepared for a return to the traditional format. Due to low roster numbers, however, the Legends will once again compete in the MHSAA 8-man football division for the fourth-straight year.

“Unfortunately, we lost some players to transfer,” said Marshall, in his fourth year, whose Legends ended the 2024 season with a 4-5 record. “So we ended up making the decision to come back to the 8-man game.

“It will be business as usual to prepare for the season, and I’m excited for what’s coming up.”

Key players and dual roles

The 2025 Legends will boast an even number of seniors and lowerclassmen. Among the returning seniors is the wide receiver trio of Jaden Potts, Manny Ramos and Aidan Merriweather.

The trio accounted for 95 catches, 909 yards, and nine touchdowns from the graduated Anthony Blok.

Jaden Potts, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Jayden Sanchez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Daeden Lopez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Aidan Merriweather, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Manny Ramos, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Joseph Marshall, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)


Potts will find himself all over the field as he is a stout force on the defensive side of the ball as well.

“Jaden Potts is our offensive captain, our defensive captain. He gets us into position on defense, and offensively – if you need a key play – he can come up big,” Marshall said.

Merriweather also will play a dual role for the Legends. The dexterous wideout collected 25 tackles last season and also will play running back on offense.

“He’s going to be our gadget guy,” Marshall said. “He’s coming off a foot injury from track, so he’s knocking the rust off, but he’s going to be a monster for us this year.”

Junior Jayden Sanchez will convert to quarterback from running back, where he led the Legends in rushing with 622 yards and seven touchdowns, pinballing his way to 10 yards per carry.

The Lee Legends varsity football team prepares for its first game of the 2025-26 season (Ty Marzean/WKTV Contributor)

“He’s a load to bring down,” Marshall said of his new signal caller. “He played quarterback under me in middle school, so he’s been in the system for a long time.”

The offensive line will be anchored by a pair of four-year varsity starters, 6-4 guard Darnell Burton and 220-lb. center Daeden Lopez.

Legends Schedule

The Legends will kick off the 2025 season with a pair of home games, hosting Baldwin on Thursday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. and Sacred Heart Academy on Friday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. in the WKTV Game of the Week.

Sunday Night Funnies seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition enters quarterfinal rounds

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , , ,
The seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition continues its quarterfinal rounds (Courtesy, Brian B.)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Ninety-eight comedians are now down to 42 as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition continues its quarterfinal rounds.

The competition began May 11 with its first of fourteen qualifying rounds. Six quarterfinal rounds will run Aug. 17-Sept. 21 with three semifinal rounds held Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and Oct. 19. Competition finals will be held Oct. 26.

Previous Kingpin of Comedy competition winners (Courtesy, Brian B.)

How it works

Seven comedians are given eight minutes to perform in each round. The line-up of comedians is random, with the order drawn as the show progresses.

Audience members are given a ballot before the show begins. After the last competing comedian of the night performs, the audience picks three comedians they feel should advance to the next round. Ballots are counted while a non-competing comic performs for the audience. Comics moving on to the next round of the competition are announced at the end of the show.

Prizes galore!

The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.

“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Wyoming!” says Brian B., Founder and MC of the SNF.

The SNF Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a large check for $500 (Courtesy, Brian B.)

The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and Midtown GR, and prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex. The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy, personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt, and will headline the SNF 2026 LaughFest performance.

About SNF

The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

Greatest Generation Celebration: A week of remembrance and tribute honoring WWII veterans to take place in Grand Rapids Sept. 1-7

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Local History, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, Veterans, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
This week of remembrance is an opportunity to express gratitude to the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation and ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten (Greatest Generation Day Flyover 2020 – Courtesy, GGCC)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


A heartfelt tribute to the Greatest Generation will take place in Grand Rapids, MI during the week of Sept. 1-7. This event marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and honors the millions of veterans and citizens who made sacrifices to ensure a world free of oppression.

This week of remembrance is an opportunity to express gratitude to the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation and ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten.

“People that are of the greatest generation are 98 years or older, so we don’t have much time to have them with us and be able to honor them anymore,” said Brian Hauenstein, Co-Chair of the Greatest Generation Celebration Committee. “I see this as our last opportunity.”

What to expect

Though the first Greatest Generation Celebration (GGC) in 2020 attempt had to be severely modified due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2025 Celebration is slated to produce a full line-up of events.

General MacArthur signing aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2, 1945 (Courtesy, GGCC)

GGC signature events include an Honor Parade and Wings of Honor flyover on Sept. 1 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in downtown Grand Rapids; a Bell Ringing Ceremony on Sept. 1 at 8:08 p.m. to commemorate the official end of World War II; a Victory Celebration at the Air Zoo on Sept. 6 from 6-9 p.m.; Perspectives on the Greatest Generation lecture series featuring keynote speakers Rick Atkinson, Garrett Graff, Sir Antony Beevor and Susan Eisenhower on Sept. 2-4; and more.

Details for these events can be found here.

A free pop-up exhibit of Greatest Generation photographs and artifacts will also be open to the public in the Ford Museum lobby from Aug. 23-Sept. 7.

Among the artifacts featured will be a mess hall table from the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, a piece of the USS Missouri that was gifted to Hauenstein’s grandfather from Washington, numerous West Michigan-made relics, and several stories of local heroes.

More information can be found here.

The GGC Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum exhibit will run from Aug. 23 – Sept. 7 and is open to the public (Courtesy, GRFPM)

Veteran event assistance

Over 30 members of the Greatest Generation will participate in the Honor Parade and the following post parade celebration.

“We’ve been working on this in earnest for at least two to three months now, realizing that we’re losing them every day.”

Hauenstein said the GGC Committee has means to help any veterans facing transportation or mobility issues attend the parade.

Greatest Generation Celebration Honor Parade Route 2025 (Courtesy, GGCC)

“We can come and pick them up,” said Hauenstein. “Ride Your Way is a partner in this, and they are willing to go anywhere in West Michigan to pick people up, bring them to the parade and bring them back home.”

Trolley buses and World War II era vehicles are available for veterans to sit in during the parade. After the parade, veterans will be taken to a VIP tent to relax and visit with parade attendees.

Hauenstein urges veterans and their families to consider attending. “I know that everybody that goes there will just feel a lot of love.”

Leading the parade as Grand Marshals are two World War II veterans, Eugene Khorey, age 99, of the 86th “Blackhawk” Infantry Division and Maxine Lay Boeve, age 101, a trailblazing wartime machinist.

Keeping legacies alive

“The parade that never happened.” Grand Rapids never held an end-of-war celebration parade. Instead, residents took to the streets and cheered – 1945 (Courtesy, Robinson Studio & GR History Center)

The Greatest Generation Celebration Committee is led by Joel Westphal, Deputy Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum and Professor of Global History at GRCC, Co-Chairs Brian Hauenstein and Neil Kirby, and honorary chairmen Hank Meijer and former Secretary of Energy, Spencer Abraham.

Hauenstein joined the GGC Committee because he believes in the importance of keeping the legacies of the Greatest Generation alive.

Hauenstein’s grandfather, Ralph W. Hauenstein, was Eisenhower’s Chief of Intelligence of European Theater of Operations and well-known in the Grand Rapids community. His legacy lives on in many ways, but Hauenstein said his grandfather’s legacy must also live on through him.

“I’m honored to do that, and this is one other way to do that,” said Hauenstein.


Group of boys carrying a sailor on their shoulders while walking down Monroe Avenue and celebrating the end of World War II – 1945 (Courtesy, Robinson Studio & GR History Center)

Hauenstein went on to say that a big focus of the GGC is connecting the youngest of our generations to the World War II Greatest Generation heroes.

Throughout his life, Hauenstein’s grandfather recounted the time he escorted a Civil War veteran around Grand Rapids in 1920.

“He spoke about what an amazing experience that was, to spend a day with this Civil War hero,” said Hauenstein. “That helped to shape him, who he was.”

Recognizing the impact that encounter had on his grandfather, Hauenstein arranged for the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Daughters of the American Revolution to participate in the Honor Parade.

“We’re hoping that we can get them to engage with the Greatest Generation while they’re there and create that similar mark on their future lives,” Hauenstein said.

How you can get involved!

Hauenstein says the GGC Committee has not had difficulty identifying volunteers for the weeklong celebration, nor identifying organizations to provide financial backing. In fact, over 30 organizations have stepped forward to offer assistance.

The GGC Committee is seeking 1930-1941 era drivable vehicles for the Honor Parade (Courtesy, Pat Moll)

“We’ve been very fortunate,” says Hauenstein. “There is such a lineup of organizations that have made a decision to support [this].”

Find a complete list of GGC sponsors here.

Hauenstein said the GGC Committee has approximately 20 Greatest Generation era (1930-1941) vehicles being showcased in the parade, but would welcome more.

“We want this to be a 1945-style parade,” says Hauenstein. “You will see a 1941 Studebaker, a Wildcat [airplane], things like that. We know they’re out there…and we want them in the parade.”

Those with vehicles from the Greatest Generation era can contact the GGC Committee at ggcelebration25@gmail.com.

Those who would like to honor a family member from the Greatest Generation with a tribute board can visit the GGC website for details. Tribute boards will be carried in the Honor Parade by volunteers.

This celebration is proudly organized by the Greatest Generation Committee, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum, Michigan Heroes Museum, the Hauenstein Center at Grand Valley State University, the City of Grand Rapids, the Air Zoo, Celebration Cinema, WZZM 13 On Your Side, the Gilmore Car Museum and the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan.

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

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Culture, Development, Economy, Education, First Responders, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, Local History, Our Cities, Police and Fire, Recreation, West Michigan, , , , , , , , , , , , ,
The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025 (Courtesy, Matthew Reed/WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Placemaking in action

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A thread of connection

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Venazir and her dynamic art here.

An educational avenue

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

(Courtesy, Godwin Heights)

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

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

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

Helping our city thrive

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

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

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

(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)

Resource links

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

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

For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.

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

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

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Culture, Economy, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , ,
The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

Resource links

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

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

(Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

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

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Entertainment, Going Local, Health, Kent County, medical moment, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Recreation, Senior Living, West Michigan, , , , , ,
Seniors enjoyed the opportunity to view a fleet of 12 antique cars at Care Resources (Courtesy, Care Resources)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Care Resources

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

Learn more about your local Care Resources here.

Draw outside the lines at Pinery Park in Wyoming on Aug. 9

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
Take over the walking path at Pinery with your boldest, brightest doodles (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Get ready to unleash your inner sidewalk Picasso at Chalk the Park on Saturday, Aug. 9 from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. at Pinery Park in Wyoming!

Chalk, stencils and good vibes will be provided by the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department – you bring your creativity!

Take over the walking path at Pinery with your boldest, brightest doodles. It’s free, it’s fun and it’s open to absolutely everyone.

All ages, all skill levels – all welcome!

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

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



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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


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

Celebrating and Strengthening Relationships

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

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


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


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

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

Wyoming National Night Out Details

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

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


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


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

*Locations and event times listed below:

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

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


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

Learn More!

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

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

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

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , ,
Covering music from Nirvana to Blink 182 to Melissa Etheridge – “and everything in between” – the five-piece rock band is known for its high-energy and dedication to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Concert details

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

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

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

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

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local History, Upcoming Events, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , , ,
The Cans Film Festival is celebrating Grand Rapids-based documentary filmmaker, Tran Hoang Calvin, during Filmmaker’s Happy Hour at Speciation Artisan Ales (Courtesy photo)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Filmmaker Tran Hoang Calvin (Courtesy photo)

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

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

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

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

What to expect at Happy Hour

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

(Courtesy photo)

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

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

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

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

About the Cans Film Festival

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

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

(Courtesy photo)

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

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

Celebrate community spirit

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

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

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


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

July 21 – Monday

July 22 – Tuesday

July 23 – Wednesday

July 24 – Thursday

July 25 – Friday

July 26 – Saturday

July 28 – Monday

July 29 – Tuesday

July 31 – Thursday

Aug. 2 – Saturday

Aug. 4 – Monday

Aug. 5 – Tuesday

Aug. 6 – Wednesday

Aug. 7 – Thursday

Aug. 8 – Friday

Aug. 9 – Saturday

Aug. 11 – Monday

Aug. 12 – Tuesday

Aug. 13 – Wednesday

Aug. 14 – Thursday

Aug. 16 – Saturday

Aug. 18 – Monday

Aug. 19 – Tuesday

Resources

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

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

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

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , ,
While many bands target one style or sound, Phabies creates songs that unashamedly cross genres (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

A DIY band

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friendship and trust

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More than just notes on a page

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lyricism as poetry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A curse…and hope

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Phabies and their music here and here.

Concert details

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

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

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

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

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , , , ,
The local band presents a premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience with six veteran musicians and decades of combined stage and touring experience (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

Growing up on rock-n-roll

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Honoring a legend

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

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

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

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

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

Concert details

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

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

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

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

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, medical moment, Mental Health, Our Cities, West Michigan, , , , , , , , ,
Catherine’s Health Center CEO Megan Erskine (left) shaking hands with Mel Trotter CEO Chris Palusky celebrating the joint partnership to operate a full-service medical clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

Additional care

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

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

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

Bringing integrated services to the community

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned!

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

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

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

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Culture, Going Local, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , ,
The City of Wyoming provided a tour of their new community market space, Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Cris Greer WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Fulfilling a vital need

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

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

A community hub

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

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


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

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


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


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

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

Events year-round

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


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


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

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

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

Restoring a previous historic Wyoming event is also under consideration.

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

Intentional connections

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

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


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

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

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

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


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


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

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

Come one, come all!

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

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

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

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

Resource links

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

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

For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.

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

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


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The importance of authenticity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Practicing what he preaches

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

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

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

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

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

Bringing people together

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

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

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

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

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

Concert details

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

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

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

#ShopWithPurpose at the WAR Chest Boutique’s annual summer Tent Sale in Wyoming

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Culture, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Voices, Voices of Freedom, , , , , , , ,
From now until Aug. 30, the WAR Chest Boutique invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale that features a wide variety of items at greatly reduced prices (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale.

From June through Aug. 30, a wide variety of items will be available under the gondolas in the boutique’s front lawn, including new and pre-owned products as well as imperfect merchandise at greatly reduced prices.

#ShopWithPurpose

Sale items are hand-crafted by at-risk women (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The retail arm of non-profit organization, Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l), the WAR Chest Boutique includes retail stores, an online boutique, and product parties held in homes, businesses and churches throughout the United States.

Specializing in hand-crafted items by at-risk women in WAR, Int’l partnering programs, each product in the online boutique and in the retail stores comes with a story card detailing personal stories of men, women, and children who have passed through WAR, Int’l programs.

WAR, Int’l seeks to help women at risk. Using culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships, WAR, Int’l provides safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more.

“Our mission is two-fold,” states the WAR Chest Boutique website. “We seek to market and sell handcrafted items made by at-risk and rescued men and women from around the world, supporting culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects, while educating our shoppers about the risks the vulnerable face in our world.”

Tent sale details

Tent Sale items include jewelry, scarves, keychains, books, bookmarks, toys, ornaments, fabric, home decor, craft supplies, jewelry-making supplies and more.

The summer months include indoor monthly specials as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Also featured during the summer months are indoor monthly specials. During June, customers can enjoy 30% off all orange-tag clearance items.

WAR Chest Boutique hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Boutique staff begin bringing Tent Sale items inside a half-hour before closing time, but customers are welcome to continue shopping indoors and outdoors until 5 p.m. During potentially stormy days, extreme heat conditions, or Mondays before the lawn service mows the grass, customers may shop Tent Sale items inside the boutique.

Shopping options are available online as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Summer exceptions to regular WAR Chest Boutique hours are June 26-27 (closed for inventory) and July 4 (closed for Independence Day).

Can’t make it to the tent sale? #ShopWithPurpose online here.

Purchases help free and empower survivors (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

All purchases from the WAR Chest Boutique help set women and children free from exploitation and slavery, and empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.

To learn more about the WAR Chest Boutique, click here. To learn more about WAR Int’l, click here.

Metro Cruise 2025 June-September Event Schedule

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Dream Wheels, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , ,
(Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org






June 26 – Thursday

Car Show @ Church of the Open Barn, 6421 56th Ave., Hudsonville

(More info to follow)

June 29 – Sunday

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Antique Car & Tractor Show

The Saint Patrick Parnell Festival, 4351 Parnell Ave NE, Ada

For questions, call 616-206-7093

July 4 – Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Allendale 4th of July Car Show

Allendale Township Park, Lake MI Drive & 68th Street

$10 entry fee

Dash plaques to the first 100 / 17 awards

Food available

July 5 – Saturday 8 a.m – 2 p.m.

Ninth Annual Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show

Hot Rod Harley Davidson, 149 Shoreline Dr., Muskegon

Gates open at 8 a.m. (Enter via the driveway off Western Ave (to the east of Hot Rod, off Shoreline Drive)

$10 pre-registration or $20 on event day

Food trucks, Seven award categories, 50/50 and 60/40 raffles

July 5 – Saturday, 10 a.m.

Patriots Motor Show and Festival

Chief Noonday Car Park, 11899 M-179, Yankee Springs in Wayland

July 6 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Living in Freedom Car Show

New Chapel Church, 1029 4 Mile Rd NW, Grand Rapids

No entry fee

Free food, etc.

Awards and ribbons given for Best in Show and Top 10 – arrive between 10 – 10:45 a.m. for placing

July 12 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Miss Metro Cruise Meet and Greet & Car Show

Moose Lodge in Wyoming

July 12 – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Registration 8 – 9 a.m.

Annual Zeeland Show & Shine Car Show

Downtown Zeeland on Main Street

$10 entry fee

July 11, Friday evening cruise from 6-7 p.m. Line up at Zeeland Stadium, 9900 Riley St, between 5-6 p.m.

July 12 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Downtown Ada Village, 7430 River St. SE, Ada

Register online / Registration opens June 16

July 13 – Sunday

Mad Dogs and Englishmen All-British Car Show

At the Gilmore

July 17-20 – Thursday-Sunday

Road America Weather Tech Vintage Weekend

July 20 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fiesta Car Show

Holland Civic Center, 150 W. 8th St., Holland

$25 entry (cash)

Food truck and entertainment

Best of Show Award $1,000 / Additional Awards

July 23 – Wednesday, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Vintage, Classic and Muscle Car Show

Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 1286 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland

Free “Elvis” concert

No awards

No entry fee (see below)

Driver and one passenger free, additional guests $5 at gate

July 26 – Saturday, 1 p.m.

Tillema Auto Car Show

2437 Prescott St SW, Byron Center (near 84th & Byron Center, upper parking lot of First Reformed Church)

$10 fee

Music, food and games

July 27 – Sunday, 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Coast Guard Festival Car Show

Downtown Grand Haven on Washington Avenue

Parking opens at 6 a.m.

Early registration $12 / Day-of $15

Awards 1:30 p.m.

Aug. 3 – Sunday, 4-7 p.m.

Pinups for Pups & Car Show

The Dirty Dog Bar & Grill

2411 Hall Rd, Muskegon

Aug. 8 – Friday, 5-8 p.m. (Check-in 3 – 4:30 p.m.)

MKD Classic Car Show

At the Grandville Summer Street Fare

Downtown Grandville on Chicago Drive

Registration $10 – Find the registration form online and reserve a spot

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. / Pre-Registration open until July 31)

Coopersville Car Show

Pancake breakfast 7-10 a.m. at City Hall, 289 Danforth $7

Awards at 3 p.m.

(Car cruise Friday evening: Line up at 4 p.m. at 68th and O’Malley Drive)

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Downtown Ada Village, 7430 River St SE, Ada

Register online beginning July 13

Aug. 9 – Saturday, 10 a.m.

Sparta Celtic Car Show

Balyeat Field, 190 Olmstead St., Sparta

$15 entry fee

Aug. 12 – Tuesday, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Second Annual Car Show

Berlin Raceway, 2008 Berlin Fair Dr., Marne

$10 entry

Awards 7 p.m.

(No vehicle entry between 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.)

Aug. 21 – Thursday, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

15th Annual Metro Cruise Warm-up

Fowling Warehouse, 6797 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids.

Parking is first come, first serve

Check in at registration desk upon arrival

Live music, food, K9 display, etc.

Aug. 22 – 23 – Friday & Saturday

28th Street Metro Cruise, MAIN EVENT

Rogers Plaza, 972 28th Street SW, Wyoming

Begins at 9 a.m. Saturday

Check schedule online, including Woodland Mall events

Aug. 23 – Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

All GM Show

Berger Chevrolet, 2525 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids

Free T-shirt and Hat to the first 400 entries

$20 per entry

Food trucks and donuts available

Aug. 24 – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Outdoor service at 10 a.m.)

Countryfest Cruise-in Car Show

Grace Lutheran Church, 2651 Shettler Rd, Fruitport

No entry fees or fundraising

Food and games available

For more info, call Tony at 231-740-7282

Sept. 1 – Monday, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Muskegon Annual Cars for Cancer, Labor Day Car Show & Sunday Night Cruise

The Lakes Mall, 5500 Harvey Street

Pancake breakfast 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Registration 7-11 a.m.

Voting 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Awards 3 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Star Customs Fall Festival Car Show, 29 N. Main St, Kent City

$15 fee

Awards 4-4:30 p.m.

Door prizes, food trucks, entertainment

Sept. 20 – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids

Artiflex Manufacturing, 2066 Bristol Ave NW, Grand Rapids

Register online

Registration opens Aug. 12

Sept. 21 – Sunday, 3-5 p.m. (Rain date Sept. 28)

Car Show & Little Kids Car Show, 2537 S. Stone Rd, Fremont

$10 fee

Awards 4:30 p.m. – Top ten and best of show original and modified

Sept. 28 – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Poker Run Car Show & Color Tour

Montcalm Township Complex, 1880 S. Greenville Rd (7 miles north of Greenville on M-91)

The Poker run is less than 55 miles

Awards to top 80, dash plaques to first 200

Food, door prizes, raffle

For info call Bruce at 616-835-3793

iCI Nation connects police and community members during annual Wyoming Fire Truck Pull event

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Entertainment, First Responders, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Police and Fire, Recreation, West Michigan, , , , ,
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The annual Wyoming Truck Pull took place at ResLife Church on Saturday, June 14. Coordinated by the Wyoming PD, this yearly event was a fundraiser for the Law Enforcement Torch Fun for Special Olympics Michigan.

Among the festivities was the popular fire truck pull competition. iCI Nation, a local non-profit dedicated to connecting police and community in positive ways, took part in the competition with a 10-member team sponsored by Siegel Jewelers.

The iCI Nation team consisted of local police officers, probation officers, surveillance officers, juvenile detention workers and youth. The team won a trophy for Most Money Raised for the fundraiser.

“Making history, not with our time, but our people!” said iCI Executive Director Jennifer Franson.

  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • iCI Nation founder and executive director Jenn Franson introduces the fire truck pull team (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • iCI Nation team won the trophy for Most Money Raised (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Jenn Franson (left) plays tug-of-war with a Wyoming K9 (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

iCI Nation thanks Siegel Jewelers for sponsoring their team, and the Wyoming PD for coordinating the Special Olympics fundraiser.

Empower Young Voices: The Ford Museum will host two youth leadership camps July 30 and Aug. 2

2-row, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local History, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , , , ,
Dr. Richard Weld will lead students in fun and informative activities and discussions as they learn how to become engaged in their communities right now (Courtesy, GRFPM)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (GRFPM) Education Department is hosting two Empower Young Voices: Community Leadership Camp sessions on July 30 and Aug. 2. These camps are open to students grades 6-8 and free to attend, though registration is required.

Government oddities and $10,000 bills

Dr. Richard Weld, Education Specialist for GRFPM, will be leading students, plus their accompanying adults, in a three-hour program of discussion and activities as they learn about becoming engaged leaders in their community.

“These camps are going to be both informative and fun,” Weld told WKTV Journal. “We’re going to cover some of the odder things about American civic sections and the government structure that people don’t know…and who is on the $10,000 bill.”

Encouraging students to get involved in their community and empowering them to use their voices is a main goal of the Museum’s Education Department and part of their general programming. In addition to the leadership camps, the Museum hosts an annual ArtPrize Create Art in Your Community program as well as a Use Your Voice program during National Writing Month or National Reading Month.

Youth learn that they can help their communities by using their voices now (Courtesy, GRFPM)

Ideas + passion + energy = empowerment

Empower Young Voices became a reality in summer of 2024 when the Museum partnered with various organizations throughout the Grand Rapids area that were looking for activities for youth. The success of those leadership camps inspired Weld to offer opportunities for public participation as well.

“The students are our future so we wanted to get them started sooner rather than later,” said Weld. “Talk about how you can know more about your community, connect to your community and use your First Amendment rights right away – they don’t start when you turn 18.”

Many youth are already dynamically involved in the world through reading and learning. Weld believes that channeling that knowledge is how the community will engage the next generation of citizens.

“The more we engage young people now, the better they are going to be engaged when they’re adults,” said Weld.

And engaged youth are empowered youth.

“A lot of young people don’t think that anyone is listening to them,” Weld said. “But that doesn’t mean they don’t have great ideas, it doesn’t mean they don’t have passion and energy. And they are more connected to their community than they know.”

The Museum’s leadership camps provide opportunities for youth to speak up about any concerns they have regarding their community – and to be part of the solution.

Students eagerly participate in a 2024 leadership camp (Courtesy, GRFPM)

What to expect:

Camp participants can expect a museum tour as well as discussions about the structure of government, President Ford’s 25 years of service in Congress, his vice presidency and presidency, and how President and Betty Ford led by example through engagement in their own communities.

“That’s one of the things we want kids to take away from this is: lead by example,” said Weld. “Be the people you want other people to be.”

Students will learn specific examples of how they can lead and engage in their communities through school, social media and more.

“A lot of them don’t even realize how engaged they already are,” said Weld. “We talk about networking for adults, but kids have already started building their communities even when they’re young.”

How to register:

Registration for the Empower Young Voices camp sessions is required, and space is limited.

Empower Young Voice: Community Leadership Camp registration links:

About Dr. Richard Weld

Dr. Richard Weld is a graduate of Hope College (BA, Ancient Civilizations), Yale University (MA, Archaeology) and Purdue University (PhD, Anthropology).

Dr. Richard Weld (Courtesy, GRFPM)

He began his journey as a professional educator in 1995 as a technology co-teacher in Michigan public schools, before moving into museum education at the National WWII Museum. After four years teaching English as a second language at public and private schools in Japan, he returned to the museum field to work at the Smithsonian Institution National Air and Space Museum.

He is now with the National Archives, as Education Specialist at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum, located in his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Kari Lynch Band to perform June 24 at Lamar Park with new “unapologetically authentic” hit songs

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , , ,
Kari Lynch shares about remaining true to her authentic self as a singer-songwriter – and how that has set KLB apart in the music industry (Courtesy, KLB)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The Kari Lynch Band (KLB) is returning to Lamar Park on Tuesday, June 24 at 6 p.m. with fan favorites and new songs from their upcoming album, including a new single being released June 27.

Dubbed a “force to be reckoned with,” Kari Lynch isn’t holding back as she prepares to take the stage during Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park second summer performance. The independent artist’s unapologetic authenticity continues to shine through in original music that weaves pop-rock nostalgia with modern singer-songwriter sensibilities – while circumventing mainstream expectations.

“I’ve always done what I believe is best for a song, and I’ve always tried to stay true to the type of music that I want to make outside of what’s popular,” Lynch says. “I’m not trying to make a song go viral, I’m just trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”

The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)

Alone and imaginative

Though currently residing in Nashville, TN, the young and imaginative Lynch grew up in Clare, MI. A self-professed introvert, Lynch began writing songs and poems at the age of seven as a way to process her emotions.

“As a kid, I just felt really different,” says Lynch. “I always wanted to go off alone and be with my thoughts.”

Lynch’s parents divorced when she was four years old, and she remembers that time as confusing and emotional.

“When you’re a kid, so much of that is so hard to understand,” says Lynch. “I had these huge feelings and I didn’t know where to put them.”

So she put those feelings on paper.

“My natural thing was to go in a corner, or close the door, and sing or write a poem or song,” says Lynch. “Nobody taught me how to do it. It was very much like music chose me.”

The practice of writing has remained constant throughout Lynch’s life when there is something she is trying to understand or process.

“It’s one of the best forms of release.”

Lynch uses her natural gift for storytelling to create songs that resonate with audiences (Courtesy, KLB)

Wildly creative

Lynch’s music career began when she moved to Grand Rapids and formed the Kari Lynch Band. The band has experienced various changes over the past 15 years, but Lynch says she grateful for all of them.

“All the iterations of the Kari Lynch Band have always been the greatest guys, the most talented people,” says Lynch. “I’m so lucky that these musicians rolled into my life and I get to play music with them.”

The artist says keeping friendships and communication as top priorities solidifies KLB members into a cohesive unit.

Creating something real

For Lynch, the most important part of music is connecting with listeners (Courtesy, KLB)

Lynch has never followed mainstream expectations and believes that is why her music stands out to audiences.

Though the songwriter does think about hooks and memorable melodies, her main focus is not writing a hit song. It is writing and telling a story that is honest and real.

“I’m trying to tell the story the way that I think it needs to come out,” Lynch says. “I’m trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”

And when Lynch releases her final product, it is with zero apologies and zero disclaimers.

“When I put it out in the world, I’m just going to put it out there. I wrote it in a way that feels really good to me, and I really hope it resonates with somebody else. Because at the end of the day, it’s really all about that connection for me.”

Shaking things up

Because Lynch’s songs can be intensely personal and introspective, releasing certain songs to the public is often be a nail-biting experience for the artist.

“It’s always a little scary when you’re sharing something because it’s so vulnerable.”

However, Lynch says that she ultimately feels good about releasing songs that make her nervous because those are the songs listeners relate to the most.

“I’ve found that some of the songs I am most scared to release are the ones people really connect with,” says Lynch. “I think people need real, tangible things like that to connect with sometimes.”

For Lynch, art is not always meant to be easily digestible. “It’s meant to shake things up a bit. It’s meant to make people think a little bit differently about things or feel something maybe they’re struggling to feel.”

The trendy bus

When youth reach out to Lynch about songwriting, the artist urges them to be true to themselves – even if that means going against the flow.

“When you’re younger, you have this inclination to go with the flow and do what everybody else is doing. It’s so easy to do the thing that’s popular.”

Lynch encourages those she meets to be authentic, even if it is not popular (Courtesy, KLB)

However, Lynch continues, authenticity is what shines through.

“Sometimes it takes longer if you’re not doing the popular thing, if you’re not riding the trendy bus. But I really believe that, if you keep doing it, authenticity always shines through.”

And what you create will find an audience.

“There’s somebody out there who needs to hear what you’ve created, and only the way that you create it is going to resonate with them,” says Lynch.

“Any time you’re creating from a place of honesty, it’s going to resonate with somebody.”

Lynch went on to say that she believes people are “aching for things that are real” – herself included.

“I truly want to be myself…I want to sound like Kari Lynch. At the end of the day, trends are trends. Everything has a time, and I’d rather make music that feels timeless or feels like it’s going to stick around than go after certain production notes or drum beats that are popular right now.”

A new season of music   

Lynch is excited to return to the Lamar Park stage, reconnect with fans and share new music. She hopes all concert attendees are able to immerse themselves in the moment and enjoy every aspect of the KLB show experience.

“My favorite thing about making music is truly connecting with people,” Lynch says. “That is what makes all the things about being an independent musician worth it, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to be able to do it.”

The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)

Concert details

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

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

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

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, June 23

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , ,
(Courtesy photo)


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 June Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, June 23 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.

The Soul Syndicate to provide soulful tunes at Lamar Park performance on June 17

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Entertainment, Music, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , , , ,
Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


It’s time to put your dancing shoes on! Local fan favorite, The Soul Syndicate, will take the stage at Park Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, June 17 at 6 p.m. for the first 2025 Concerts in the Park summer performance.

With their sophisticated appearance, masterful musicianship and trademark high-energy performances, the 10-member band will pay tribute to influential funk, soul and R&B artists in a soul-infused entertainment experience designed to keep the audience dancing.

“It’s always a ride playing Wyoming because the crowds are always fantastic; it’s just always fun,” says drummer Tom Taylor.

Soulful sounds from master musicians

The band delivers high-energy performances at every venue (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)

Audiences will be treated to the soulful sounds of Mike Coon on guitar and vocals, Matt Fouts on bass, John Neil on keyboard and sounds, Colin Tobin as lead male vocalist, Katie Sarb as lead female vocalist, Tim DenBesten on trumpet and vocals, Nate Hansen and Danny Giacobassi on saxophone, Jeff Carroll on trombone, Tom Taylor on drums, and Eugene Griffith as sound engineer.

No strangers to large events and festival stages, members of The Soul Syndicate deliver a unique sound and crowd-pleasing experience at every venue they visit with their carefully crafted multi-song medleys.

Though soul, funk and R&B genres are musically related with soul and funk often considered sub genres of R&B, it is only in the past five years that The Soul Syndicate has deviated from their original plan of playing pure, classic soul music.

“Eleven years ago the original idea behind the band was really more around being strictly classic soul,” says Taylor. “That late 60s Motown, Stax, Memphis, Philly soul music. We wanted to do something different, something that was unique.”

At the time, pure soul music was unique to the West Michigan area. Though many people enjoyed The Soul Syndicate’s performances, many songs were not well-known and did not generate the excitement band members were hoping for.

So they decided to change it up.

May I have this dance?

“About five years ago we started to think about becoming more of a pure dance band, adding a lot more funk elements, really keeping the popular songs but making it a little funkier,” says Taylor. “Like anything, it’s evolved from there based on audience reaction and some of the events that we started booking.”

The Soul Syndicate’s popularity soared when the band began playing their own arrangements of song medleys. Suddenly, people were coming to see them perform at multiple events and saying they liked the band’s new sound.

And those medleys, Taylor says, keep the audience on the dance floor.

“Folks don’t like breaks,” Taylor says with a laugh. “If they’re on the dance floor, they like to keep going until they get tired.”

The band may tweak the medleys from year to year, but they continue to add more to their playlist.

“We all love playing together and love seeing big crowds dancing. There’s nothing better.”


The Soul Syndicate performs at several venues throughout the year (Courtesy, The Soul Syndicate)

Band growth, awards and playing with stars…

Only half of The Soul Syndicate are original members of the band, but the past decade has brought plenty of growth, talent and new friendships.

“When we started, the horn section was just a trumpet and a saxophone,” says Taylor. “And now we’ve got a four-piece horn section: a trumpet, two saxes, and a trombone.”

Many band members, Taylor included, perform with other groups as well as with The Soul Syndicate. That has provided band members with opportunities to play with nationally known artists such as Hootie and the Blowfish, The Beach Boys, The Temptations, The Guess Who, Natalie Cole, Rosemarie Clooney, Elvis Presley Jr., The US Navy Commodores Band – and more.

“The longer you’ve been doing this, you make a lot of relationships and never know who you’re going to run into in different parts of the area, different parts of the country and different theaters,” says Taylor.

The band’s only original music album won a Jammie Award for Best New Artist during their first year of inception.

They chose to move away from original music, however, due to varying ideas about how important original music was to their shows and a level of audience disinterest when playing lesser-known songs.

“Original music is great but, for us, if someone doesn’t know the song, they may not dance to it,” says Taylor. “They may applaud politely, but then wait for that next well-known song.”


The Soul Syndicate performs at a previous Frederik Meijer Gardens concert (Supplied)

More than just notes on a page

For Taylor, music has always been his escape.

“It takes me away from my corporate job and lets me unwind and just play the drums and drive a large horn band,” says Taylor. “There’s nothing better than that.”

Taylor went on to say that each Soul Syndicate member relates to the feeling of escaping into music they love. And doing it together is an added bonus.

“The members of the band are great friends,” Taylor says. “We get along really well, we collaborate very well together. We all laugh, we have fun.”

And The Soul Syndicate enjoys seeing other people having fun.

“We just love making people happy. We love what we do.”

See the band perform – more than once!

The Soul Syndicate has some pretty cool swag too (Supplied)

The Soul Syndicate is available to play for weddings, corporate events and the festival stage. To reserve the band for an event, click here.

Taylor urges audiences to check out their website for additional summer events.

“Check out our website; all of our dates are posted there,” Taylor says. “We have a lot of public performances in 2025 for people to come see us, especially outdoor concerts.

“We love the support of folks coming out to see us numerous times during the summer.”

Concerts in the Park details

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

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

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

Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center awarded Center of Excellence certification

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, medical moment, West Michigan, , , , , ,
Trinity Health Grand Rapids is one of only 36 breast centers in the nation with this certification and one of only two in Michigan (Courtesy, Trinity Health Grand Rapids)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center was recently announced as a Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence by the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers (NQMBC).

Trinity Health Grand Rapids is one of only 36 breast centers in the nation with the certification and is one of only two in Michigan. Trinity Health Breast Center – Lakes Village in Norton Shores was also awarded this distinction.

Highest level of care

This is the highest level of recognition awarded by the NQMBC, a program developed by the National Consortium of Breast Centers. It recognizes a center’s quality performance based on several data-driven criteria, such as timeliness from biopsy to surgery, documentation of margins, genetic testing for patients, and much more.

This certification is the highest level of recognition awarded by the National Consortium of Breast Centers (Courtesy, Trinity Health Grand Rapids)

“It is always rewarding to see our hard work pay off,” said Bess Connors, MD, Medical Director, Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center.

“This award reflects years of efforts to ensure we are providing the highest level of care to breast cancer patients in West Michigan. This distinction demonstrates the commitment of our team to achieving excellence for each patient every day.”

Total care, total confidence

Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center focuses on total breast health, including all-digital mammography, genetic counseling, and the latest treatments.

“Along with Trinity Health Breast Center – Lakes Village, we are the only Michigan breast center to achieve this distinction,” said Dr. Connors.

“We want our patients to be confident in the care they receive, and this is just one way we can demonstrate that care close to home can also be world-class care. These certifications give us annual opportunities to review our work and make sure we continue to excel among breast centers nationally.”

Learn more!

Information about all services offered at Trinity Health Grand Rapids Comprehensive Breast Center can be found here.

Live music: Wyoming announces Concerts in the Park lineup

2-row, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Music, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , , ,
Get ready for a summer of live music! (Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org
May 23, 2025



Get ready for an unforgettable summer of live music! Beginning June 17, residents are invited to Lamar Park on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. for a free concert.

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

Concerts in the Park 2025 Lineup:

June 17 – The Soul Syndicate

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

June 24 – Kari Lynch Band

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 8 – Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 15 – The Insiders

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 22 – Phabies

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

July 29 – Project 90

(Photo courtesy of Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)

Splash pads are now open at Wyoming parks

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Environment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Recreation, Weather, , , , ,
Beat the heat at splash pads at local Wyoming parks (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Rec)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org
May 23, 2025


Get ready to beat the heat — Wyoming parks have officially opened their splash pads for the summer!

Grab your swimsuits, sunscreen, and smiles, and cool off with family and friends. Splash pads are open 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily. To turn on, gently tap the activators with your hand or foot.

Find a splash pad near you and start making sunny memories today!

Splash pads are located at:

📍 Lamar Park (2561 Porter St.)

📍 Oriole Park (1380 42nd St. SW)

📍 Jackson Park (3235 Robin St. SW)

📍 Gezon Park (5651 Gezon Ct.)

📍 Southlawn Park (4125 Jefferson St.)

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held TUESDAY, May 27 due to holiday weekend

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
WHS May Mobile Food Pantry will be held Tuesday, May 27 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. due to the holiday weekend (Courtesy photo)


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 May Mobile Food Pantry will be held Tuesday, May 27 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. due to the holiday weekend.

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.

Kentwood resident named among Kent District Library Community Impact Scholarship winners

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Education, Finances, Going Local, Kent County, Kent District Library, Local Faces, West Michigan, , , ,
Kent District Library announces Jamie Elgrably and Ania Fleszar as recipients of the KDL Community Impact Scholarship (Courtesy, KDL)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Kent District Library and the KDL Board of Trustees are proud to announce the two recipients of the KDL Community Impact Scholarship. Jamie Elgrably and Ania Fleszar will each receive $5,000 to further their education.

The award recognizes 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 were eligible to apply.

“An incredible blessing”

Scholarship winner Jamie Elgrably (Courtesy, KDL)

Elgrably, of Kentwood, is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Cornerstone University, with hopes of continuing on to earn a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling.

She is a wife and a mother of two, and after putting her education on hold for many years due to life circumstances—including several moves and raising young children—she finally decided to pursue her dream.

Elgrably said, “Receiving this scholarship is an incredible blessing. It lifts part of the financial burden and makes it possible for me to continue pursuing my calling with ease and peace of mind. I’m passionate about helping others feel seen, supported and valued, and I look forward to using my education to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.”

“It means so much…”

Scholarship winner Ania Fleszar (Courtesy, KDL)

Fleszar is a student at Lowell High School and plans to put the scholarship money toward her education at Western Michigan University. She is planning to pursue either secondary education in History and English or theater, maybe both.

“It means so much that this money is helping my education, of course, but it means even more that it’s coming from my community library,” Fleszar said.

“I’ve learned so much from KDL’s resources growing up, and now I am having my education furthered into college with their assistance.”

Passionate about making a difference

These winners are 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.

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.