Category Archives: Kent County

49th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon revisits tragedy, heartbreak and courage

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From left: Lee Ly, Bieu Duong and Phillip Nguyen, standing in front of The Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in Grand Rapids. (WKTV/Cris Greer)



Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor

greer@wktv.org



West Michigan resident Phillip Nguyen was 15 years old when he crammed into a 25-by-6 wooden boat with 57 other “boat people” to start a wild journey to a new life away from Vietnam.

“We packed them on; that boat was barely an inch over water,” said Nguyen, who produces a show called “VietSong” at WKTV and is President of Digital Marketing Solutions LLC.
 

Nguyen traveled by boat to small Chinese islands and learned English and American culture while in Hong Kong before making his way to the United States two years later.

He was fortunate to survive the very dangerous boat trips. Many Vietnamese people risked their lives to escape their war-torn country and seek a better life elsewhere, but did not survive the high seas.

“This isn’t a fiction novel, this is real,” Nguyen explained. “My brother-in-law told me his mother sent him and his two brothers on separate boats every couple of months because she feared if their boat would be lost, they would all die. His brothers never made it; they were completely gone. He was the only one to survive.”



From left: Lee Ly, Bieu Duong and Phil Nguyen at the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in Grand Rapids. This year marks the 49th anniversary of The Fall of Saigon. (WKTV/Cris Greer)



The Fall of Saigon, which occurred on April 30, 1975, marked the end of the Vietnam War and a pivotal moment in world history. The event not only signaled the collapse of South Vietnam’s government, but also triggered one of the most significant waves of mass emigration in modern history. This year marks the 49th anniversary of The Fall of Saigon.


On April 28, 1975, U.S. President Gerald R. Ford called for the emergency evacuation of American civilians and military from Saigon. Two days later North Vietnamese forces advanced into Saigon, leading to the collapse of the South Vietnamese government. The sight of helicopters lifting off from the U.S. Embassy in Saigon became an iconic image, symbolizing the end of the war.

According to borgenproject.org, in the aftermath of the fall of Saigon, South Vietnamese feared persecution under the new communist government. This fear led to a mass exodus, with many seeking asylum in other countries. Over 1.5 million South Vietnamese attempted their perilous escape by boat. Drowning, piracy, dehydration and failed vessels that would never make landfall would wipe out an estimated 10 percent of refugees. 



According to borgenproject.org, over 1.5 million South Vietnamese attempted their perilous escape by boat. (Courtesy, pxhere.com)



Under the cover of night

Before Nguyen fled Vietnam in 1982, he noticed people in his village disappearing overnight.

“I lived in a village … almost every day you wake up a family was gone over night,” Nguyen said. “Every day you wake up you hear neighbors say he’s gone, she’s gone, the family is all gone. It seems like everyone was trying to run to get to a better future.”

Vietnamese emigration to the United States

For Vietnamese who fled in 1975, most were received at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and settled in southern California, according to Michigan State Associate Professor of History Charles Keith. The initial wave of refugees consisted mainly of individuals with ties to the U.S. government, military and other South Vietnamese institutions. 

“The conditions of diaspora really differentiated Vietnamese experiences from those of other Asian migrants,” Keith explained. “Vietnamese were the only Asian-Americans who were virtually all war refugees when they came.

“Those who came throughout the 1980s relocated to many parts of the country. But many had a second, internal migration within the U.S. for various reasons: better weather, occupations they were familiar with, and to be part of larger Vietnamese communities, which intensified the size of the community in southern California into the largest Vietnamese community in the U.S.” 

Into the jungle

Loan Pham was five years old when the invading North Vietnamese took her hometown of Saigon, forcing her family and many more to the jungles of Vietnam. 

“The new government warned people to go live in the jungle,” explained Pham, who’s from Wyoming. “I went to the jungle with my mom and three siblings, we were city people now living in the jungle.”

Pham’s mother was injured by a falling tree while trying to build a shelter for her small family during their months in the jungle. Once they returned to city life they would remain homeless for the next 11 years.



Loan Pham was five years old when she and her family escaped to the jungle when North Vietnam took Saigon. (Photo Courtesy, Loan Pham)



“We had a rough life”

“We had a rough life,” Pham said. “I had to start working at seven years old because my mom was sick. I would work odd jobs. I would sell stuff, people would ask me to do some small jobs. I would give the money to my mom so she could buy rice to feed us.”

Coming to America 

Pham found a different way to the United States that most Vietnamese people including Nguyen could not take advantage of. Her father was an American soldier.

In 1983, Pham used her status as an American kid to start the process of emigrating to the United States. 

“When I was 13 years old I saw on the TV news … it said if you have American children, you fill out paperwork to get to the United States,” Pham explained. “Five years later, when I was 18, I finally had my papers. I went to the Philippines for eight months to learn English and American culture.



“They taught us the peace sign, the middle finger, and not to ask people their age, all the stuff we might need to get along in the U.S.”


  • Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
  • Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
  • Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
  • Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
  • Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
  • Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)



Nguyen came to America via Bethany Christian Services

Also in 1983, Nguyen made his way to Michigan through Bethany Christian Services. Nguyen was orphaned when he was five years old. His father was killed in the war, and his mother died a couple of years later.

“I was under the minors program sponsored by Bethany Christian Services,” Nguyen said. “I lived with my foster parents until I was 18.”

Nguyen had a typical American life of working small jobs and graduating from South Christian High School while living with his foster parents. Nguyen completed his bachelor’s degree at Western Michigan University where he met his wife. 

Nguyen gives back; has fostered 17 children

Nguyen and his wife have three adult children and have helped foster 17 others through Bethany Christian Services.

“I owe them one and paid back with 17,” Nguyen proudly said.

His household is still home to five foster children. 

“We have three from Afghanistan, one from Guatemala and one from Honduras.”

Upon arrival in the United States, Pham was helped out by the U.S. government, but that assistance would not be long-term, and soon she was looking for work in a foreign country.

“My first job was sewing baby clothes for $2 an hour,” Pham said.

Fortunately for Nguyen and Pham, they were able to avoid harsh racism and persecution that many of their fellow Vietnamese refugees had to endure.

“When I came to Michigan I didn’t see any racism against me, nothing like I saw when I lived in Vietnam,” Pham said. “South Vietnam was racist towards North Vietnam.”

And Nguyen said he was more fortunate than most.

“I’ve seen it happen to other people and I’ve heard horror stories, but me personally have never really felt it,” said Nguyen, who served as the president of the Vietnamese American Community of Grand Rapids Michigan for six years.


(VACGRM) is a non-profit community organization established to serve Vietnamese Americans in the city of Grand Rapids and its surrounding areas with charity and cultural work.

Events include: Remembering the Fall of Saigon, Lunar New Year celebrations and other cultural events throughout the year. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the VACGRM was able to supply food and medicine to those in need in the Vietnamese community in West Michigan.

The fall of Saigon created new beginnings for countless Vietnamese refugees who found hope and a new home in the United States.


Viet Benevolence Foundation

Nyguyn is Founder and Chairman of the Board of the Viet Benevolence Foundation.


“In July 2022, I went to Việtnam to work with the U.S. Consulate Office and with the Vietnamese government in an effort to preserve the former Vietnamese National Cemetery known as Nghia Trang Quan Doi Bien Hoa (now renamed Nghia Trang Nhan Dan) where over 16,000 former South Vietnamese soldiers rest. During this trip I learned that there are thousands and thousands of former South Vietnamese soldiers’ remains that still need help to bring home to their families, especially those who died in re-education camps after 1975.”


To learn more about Nyugen’s Viet Benevolence Foundation, who’s mission is “Healing the past and empowering the future through charitable causes,” check out VIETBENEVOLENCE.ORG



Prom night safety: Tips on encouraging teens to prioritize safety and make responsible choices

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Encourage prom attendees to take the Prom Promise to prioritize safety and responsible behavior (Courtesy Roman Boed, pxhere.com)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

As prom season approaches, it’s important to encourage teens to prioritize safety and make smart choices while planning their prom night.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one in three alcohol-related teen traffic fatalities occur during prom season, from April to June. American Medical Response Western Michigan would like to encourage students to make the Prom Promise to prioritize responsible behavior.
 

“Attending a high school prom should be a memorable event for all the right reasons,” said John Robben, Regional Director for Western Michigan from American Medical Response. “Talk to your teens and friends before prom night about making responsible choices and keeping their safety, and their peer’s safety, a top priority.”

American Medical Response offers these tips to keep in mind for a fun and safe prom: 

  • Stay sober. Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can impair your judgement and put you in danger. 
  • Under no circumstances should high school prom attendees drink alcohol. But if you have consumed alcohol, hand your keys to a sober driver so you can get home safely.
  • Plan ahead. Make transportation arrangements in advance, whether it’s with a designated driver, a ride-sharing service, or another option. 
  • Travel in groups. Stick with friends and avoid walking or driving alone. 
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for anything suspicious and report any concerning behavior to a trusted adult or authority figure. 
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the night to avoid dehydration. 
  • Have a backup plan. In case of an emergency, make sure you have important phone numbers readily available. 
  • Don’t let friends drive drunk. If one of your friends has had too much to drink, don’t let them get behind the wheel. Take their keys and help to find them a safe ride home.

American Medical Response is committed to helping the communities it serves stay safe and healthy. We encourage prom attendees to take the Prom Promise to prioritize safety and responsible behavior.

The 26th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, April 27

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(Courtesy, DEA)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

Residents can safely and anonymously bring expired, used prescriptions or over the counter medications to this free event for proper disposal.

Wyoming Police Department officers will be stationed at the University of Michigan Health-West Professional Building (2122 Health Dr) and at the Wyoming Police Department (2300 De Hoop Ave) from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 27 to assist in the medication collection process.

Prevent medication misuse and addiction

Unused prescription drugs often find their way into the wrong hands, creating dangerous and often tragic situations.

The DEA encourages the public to clean out their medicine cabinets and remove unneeded medications from their homes. This can help prevent medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting.

October 2023 Take Back Day results included:

  • Total Law Enforcement Participation: 4383
  • Total Collection Sites: 4675
  • Total Weight Collected:  599,897 lbs. (300 tons)
  • Total Weight All Time: 17,900,351 lbs. (8,950 tons)

Find a collection site near you

Locate a local collection site near you here.

Locate year round pharmaceutical disposal locations here.

From afterthought to mentor: Exploring the evolution and significance of the vice presidency

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The New York Times Chief White House Correspondent Peter Baker speaks at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The New York Times Chief White House Correspondent and MSNBC political analyst Peter Baker recently visited Grand Rapids to talk about an element of our constitutional leadership that often goes unnoticed – the vice presidency.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is celebrating its 50th anniversary (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Renowned for his incisive journalism and extensive first-hand knowledge of presidential administrations, Baker presented his journalistic view on the evolving role of the vice presidency at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on April 23. “Covering the Vice Presidency: Lessons Learned on the Road” brought insight to a role deemed by one historian as the resting place for mediocrity.

The first vice president, John Adams, defined his role as “…the most insignificant office that ever the invention of man contrived or his imagination conceived.”

But while those who hold the office of vice president may feel their job lacks significance, Baker believes understanding the often underrated role is more important than many people realize.

“It definitely is more important than people recognize,” said Baker. “We collectively ought to know more about our vice presidents because, in fact, a large number of them ultimately become president. Either because of the vacancy in the office or because they run for the office later.”

​​Baker continued, ”Aside from being next in line to the presidency, the office of the vice presidency has evolved a lot in modern times. It’s evolved a lot in the last few decades into a much more substantive and significant role.”

A useless appendage

Since our country was founded, vice presidents have struggled to find a foothold in the political realm.

With the office of vice president more of an afterthought to the Constitution rather than a priority, it is no wonder the person stepping into the role is left floundering to find purpose.

Nearly every vice president has struggled to feel seen and heard while in office (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Benjamin Franklin went so far as to suggest that the vice president should be addressed as “Your Superfluous Excellency.”

“They didn’t have an office in the White House,” said Baker. “No president actually gave them an office in the White House until Lyndon Johnson came along as the first one to argue he should have an office in the White House. And even then he didn’t get it in the White House itself – he only got it in the Executive Office Building across the street.”

Breeding insecurity

While reporting on the last five vice presidents, Baker said he learned the vice president’s job is far from easy.

“A vice president’s power is entirely derivative of the president that he or she works for,” said Baker. “You have as much as they’re willing to give you, and nothing more. You’re wholly dependent on the president.

“The vice presidents are always waiting for a president to tell them what they can do, what they shouldn’t do, and so forth. It just breeds insecurity.”

Even though the vice president is the second highest official in the land and the next in line for the presidency, the person holding that role can feel enormously uncertain about their place in the White House.

Refusing to be marginalized

“Walter Mondale called it,” said Baker. “He said the vice president, over American history, has always been standby equipment.”

President Ford was the first vice president to be chosen under the terms of the 25th Amendment (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Mondale took notice of his predecessors’ marginalized capacity – and refused to follow in their footsteps.

“When [Mondale] became Jimmy Carter’s vice president, he got Carter to agree to give him an office in the West Wing, just down the hall and around the corner from the Oval Office,” said Baker. “He got to be the first vice president ever to live in an official government residence.”

Most importantly, Mondale drafted a memo with an expansive interpretation of how he saw the job, and how he could be useful to the administration. That memo has been used by several vice presidents to make their own arguments to the presidents they serve.

Richard (Dick) Cheney, serving as vice president to President George W. Bush, was also a key player in expanding the role of vice presidents.

Cheney has been described as the most powerful vice president in history.

“He knew Washington, he knew his players,” said Baker.

But the most important factor lay in Cheney’s ability to build a relationship with President Bush, who empowered him to be an influential vice president.

“Bush gave Cheney access to every meeting, every decision,” said Baker. “He involved Cheney in every aspect of the presidency. It’s such a contrast to his predecessors.”

Through Mondale and Cheney, the role of vice president experienced extensive and unprecedented growth.

(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

From standby to partner

In the last several administrations, vice presidents have taken on more of a role as mentor and guide to the presidents they serve.

“[The vice president] has become more of a partner riding shotgun for the president heading into a political administration, given much more responsibility, and sometimes even more visibility, than in the past,” said Baker.

More from Peter Baker

The full “Covering the Vice Presidency: Lessons Learned on the Road” presentation at the Ford Museum will soon be available on the Museum website. Click here for updates.

To view Peter Baker’s interview with WKTV Journal Managing Editor Deborah Reed about the importance of journalism and its core values, and the evolution of our country’s presidential administrations, click on the video below.

Wyoming Police Department announces death of retired K9 Jett

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Police K9 Jett served with the Wyoming PD for six years (Courtesy, Wyoming Public Safety)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


It is with profound sadness that the Wyoming Department of Public Safety announces the death of retired police K9 Jett.

Jett was a dual-purpose dog trained in tracking and narcotics detection. He served with the Wyoming Police Department for approximately six years before retiring in 2021.

Upon his retirement, Jett went on to live the next three years at home with his handler, Officer Adam Sherman.

Jett was a loyal and beloved member of the Wyoming Police family and will be greatly missed.

Landmark conference to celebrate Betty Ford’s legacy as First Lady

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First Lady Betty Ford (Supplied)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


A free conference commemorating the enduring influence of first ladies in American history will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on Friday, April 26 at 2:15 p.m. Titled “In Celebration of Betty Ford’s 50th Anniversary as First Lady,” the conference will feature a special focus on the remarkable contributions of Betty Ford.

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, in partnership with the First Ladies Association for Research and Education (FLARE) and American University School of Public Affairs, are joining together to host this free public event.

National experts and enlightening conversations

The half-day event is FLARE’s first national conference. It will feature two panels and focus on Betty Ford’s leadership as first lady.

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (Supplied)

National experts on First Ladies will include Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President and Betty Ford; Anita McBride, second term chief of staff for Laura Bush; and other celebrated women who have published books on first ladies.

Attendees can expect enlightening conversations about the pivotal roles Betty Ford and other first ladies play in our nation’s history.

A pioneer of First Ladies

“We remember Betty Ford as the pioneer who started the systematic academic study of First Ladies,” said Gleaves Whitney, executive director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation. “We are proud to host the 40-year commemoration of a great event that took place right here on the Ford stage in Grand Rapids, Michigan.”

This conference builds upon the legacy of the historic 1984 conference, convened and moderated
by Mrs. Ford herself, which explored the multifaceted responsibilities and impacts of first ladies.

“Hosting the FLARE conference underscores our commitment to fostering collaboration, empowering women’s voices and honoring the lasting legacy of the indomitable Betty Ford,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.


FLARE serves as the primary association to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and outreach among scholars, institutions, first ladies’ staff, biographers, archivists, journalists, and public historians interested in research and education about the lasting legacies of U.S. First Ladies.

“FLARE is honored to host its first national conference with our esteemed partners, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, and American University’s School of Public Affairs,” said FLARE President Nancy Kegan Smith.

“This landmark event brings together an accomplished group of first ladies’ scholars, family, staff and the public to commemorate Betty Ford’s leadership, her groundbreaking conference on first ladies in 1984 and the important contributions of First Ladies.”

A celebration of groundbreaking leadership

The conference will feature national experts, including:

  • Susan Ford Bales, Author and daughter of President Gerald R. and Betty Ford.
  • Diana Carlin, Professor Emerita of St. Louis University. She is co-author of U.S. First Ladies:
    Making History and Leaving Legacies     and Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s
    History-Making Women    .
  • Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.
  • Dr. Stacy Cordery, Professor of History, Iowa State University, Author, and Bibliographer.
  • Myra Gutin, Professor Emerita of Communication at Rider University. She is the author of The
    President’s Partner: The First Lady in the Twentieth Century     and Barbara Bush: Presidential
    Matriarch    .
  • Lisa McCubbin Hill, Journalist and author of Betty Ford: First Lady, Women’s Advocate, Survivor,
    Trailblazer    , and co-author of Mrs. Kennedy and Me; Five Presidents: My Extraordinary Journey with
    Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford    ; and My Travels with Mrs. Kennedy.
  • Alison Jacknowitz, Interim Dean of the School of Public Affairs at American University and
    Professor in the Department of Public Administration and Policy.
  • Anita McBride, Executive in Residence at American University, School of Public Affairs and
    Director of the First Ladies Initiative, and second term Chief of Staff to Laura Bush. She is co-author
    of U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies and Remember the First Ladies: The
    Legacies of America’s History-Making Women    .
  • Nancy Kegan Smith, Former Director of the Presidential Materials Division at the National
    Archives and Records Administration. She is co-author of U.S. First Ladies: Making History and
    Leaving Legacies     and Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women.
  • Sheila Rabb Weidenfeld, Mrs. Ford’s Press Secretary, an Emmy-award-winning television
    producer, diplomat, and Chair of the C&O Canal Commission. She is the author of the book, First
    Lady’s Lady    .

*Seating is limited. Registration is open to the public until April 23 or until the event is filled.

Narcan vending machines with 24-hour access now available at four Cherry Health locations

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Narcan is a life-saving medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose (Courtesy, Cherry Health)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Cherry Health recently installed new Narcan vending machines at two of its Grand Rapids locations. These Narcan vending machines provide expanded 24-hour access to free opioid overdose reversal kits.

Narcan vending machine (Courtesy, Cherry Health)

The newest vending machines are located at Cherry Health’s Southside Health Center (2303 Kalamazoo Ave. SE) and Westside Health Center (669 Stocking Ave. NW).

A $20,000 grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBS) made purchase of these Narcan vending machines possible.

What is Narcan?

Opioid overdose is a leading cause of accidental deaths and has led to a decrease in life expectancy nationwide. Naloxone/Narcan is a nasal spray drug that restores breathing by blocking opioids’ effects on the brain. It has no potential for abuse.

24-hour access to Narcan could potentially save lives (Courtesy, Cherry Health)

“Narcan is a life-saving medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose,” said Cherry Health Chief Behavioral Health Officer Bob Smith. “With the support from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, we are able to expand Narcan access throughout West Michigan and potentially save more lives by providing safe and effective overdose reversal medication in the communities we serve 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

Jeff Connolly, Senior Vice President and President of West Michigan and Upper Peninsula BCBS of Michigan recognizes that there is a stigma often associated with substance abuse disorders. “People may be reluctant to seek treatment due to the potential judgment or disapproval of those around them. That’s why programs such as these are critical in equipping people with the life-saving tools they need while navigating a long-term treatment option.

“We’re proud to be part of this live-saving initiative and shifting the stigma toward more positive recovery solutions.”

Four locations: Narcan vending machines

Cherry Health now has four Narcan vending machines in West Michigan. All locations are listed below:

(Courtesy, Cherry Health)

Heart of the City Health Center, 100 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids

Cherry Health Southside Health Center, 2303 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids

Cherry Health Westside Health Center, 669 Stocking Ave NW, Grand Rapids

Montcalm Health Center, 1003 N Lafayette St, Greenville

One person is dead after an early morning house fire in Wyoming

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(Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


One person is dead after a house fire early this morning in the 2300 block of Collingwood Avenue SW.

At approximately 4:45 a.m. on April 18, 2024, the Wyoming Fire Department responded to a report of a fully involved structure fire at a residence in the 2300 block of Collingwood Avenue SW.

When firefighters arrived at the residence, they discovered that the fire had already spread through a
significant portion of the home. Firefighters began extinguishing the flames while simultaneously
searching for anyone that might be inside the home.

After the flames had adequately been controlled, firefighters discovered a body in the upper level of the house. The body has been identified as that of 42-year-old Sarah Martin, the sole resident of the home.

Fire investigation ongoing

At this point the cause of the fire has not been determined. The Wyoming Fire Inspector is working with
State Police Fire Investigators to determine the origin point and cause of the fire. Wyoming Police Detectives are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this fire and will be working with Fire Investigators to determine whether or not foul play is involved.

During this incident, the Wyoming Fire Department received mutual aid from both the Grand Rapids and
Grandville Fire Departments. We are grateful for these partnerships and for their assistance.

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

The Two Best Friends

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(Courtesy, pxhere)



By Maya and Victoria

4th Grade Youth Contributors

AnchorPoint Christian School


Once upon a time there were two best friends and their names were Maya and Victoria. They were watching a movie and eating rainbow popcorn with extra rainbow butter and rainbow gummies, and then someone spilled a Dragon fruit-drink on the remote, and then the whole house shook.

And then they got sucked into the T.V. Then they got pooped out of the portal, and they landed on a gargantuan marshmallow. Then they got stuck in a marshmallow to their waist, and they had to eat their way out. It took them an hour.

After that, they saw a dogocorn and a unicorn. Then, the dogocorn and unicorn ask Maya and Victoria to help them. They agree to help, but only if there is a way to get home. They said they need to beat the evil turtle.

The only way to destroy it is true love.

They all work together to find a boy turtle. When they do find him, he has an awesome singing voice. His name is Timmy. Then they bring him to the evil turtle’s castle.

Timmy knows she is really pretty, so then they get married. The evil turtle is no longer evil. She is really nice and sweet, and her name is Mia. Then Mia shows them a secret portal.

They go home and live happily ever after.

The End

P.S. Dogo Corn made everything a mess.



Victoria (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)
Maya (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Maya (left) and Victoria are 4th grade students at AnchorPoint Christian School.


The Two Best Friends was a collaborative effort between Maya and Victoria, and is their first published work.

Fortnite World

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(Courtesy, Nathan Simeon and Josiah Freeman)



By Nathan Simeon and Josiah Freeman

3rd and 4th Grade Youth Contributors

AnchorPoint Christian School


15 14 13…5, 4, 3, 2, 1

beep beep

“Thank you, bus driver,” said some of the people.

A quarter of the people landed in the UnderWorld. A quarter of the people landed in GrimGate. The rest landed in E. State.

It all happened at 5:45.

While Josiah and I were playing Fortnite, we got sucked into the game. Josiah and I were shocked. We found ourselves in E. State. We hid in a bush because we were scared. We hid there until 50 people died.

Now there are 25 players left. We defeated five players. Now there are 19 players left. There used to be a gargantuan amount of players. 10 of them died. We destroyed four of them.

Now there are three left, not counting us. The other people destroyed the guy. Now it is a 2v2 and Josiah destroyed one person.

Josiah died to his teammate, and I destroyed him from behind.


Josiah Freeman (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)
Nathan Simeon (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Nathan Simeon (left) is a 3rd grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School.

Josiah Freeman (right) is a 4th grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School.

Fortnite World was a collaborative effort between Nathan and Josiah, and is their first published work.

Sunday Night Funnies second annual 50+ comedy show to be held in honor of Older Americans Month

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(Courtesy, Brian B.)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) will perform their second annual Older Americans Month show featuring comedians ages 50+ on Sunday, May 5. The event will be held at Woody’s Press Box inside the Spectrum Entertainment Complex.

“There are more than 117 million Americans age 50 and older – 35% of the total population. I wanted to do a special show to honor and represent that age group,” says Brian B., founder and MC of the SNF. “This is the second year of special performances to recognize specific groups.

(Courtesy, Brian B.)

“In February, we did our special Black History Month show. In March, it was our Women’s History Month and Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids LaughFest performances. The SNF is a melting pot of comedians and audience members – different ages, nationalities, so why not honor all the groups that make up the show?”

The Older Americans Month lineup consists of seven different comedians at least 50 years of age. The show will feature former local radio personality Jojo Girard closing out the show. Also featured will be Detroit area comic Kathy Ryan, comedians from Ohio, and various local talent.

“The Sunday Night Funnies has got a big 2024 going on,” said Brian B.

In addition to the the Older Americans Month show, the following Sunday (May 12) will kick off SNF’s seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.

15 years of SNF

The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. Now in its 15th year, the SNF is a weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring over 1,200 performances from comics across Michigan and around the country.

The SNF is a free admission show on Sunday nights at 7:30 p.m. during the winter/spring, and at 8:30 p.m. during summer and early fall. All performances take place at Woody’s Pressbox inside The Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

Mrs. Omanchi’s Morning

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , , ,
Mrs. Kim Omanchi, AnchorPoint Christian School 3/4 Grade Teacher (Courtesy, Toby Lehnen)



By Toby Lehnen

3rd Grade Youth Contributor

AnchorPoint Christian School


This is Mrs. Omanchi. She is my teacher.

She wakes up and gets ready for work. She eats breakfast. Her breakfast is the homemade granola her mom made her.

Ezra gets up and she asks him what he wants for lunch and lays it out. They get in the car and drive to Potter’s House on the highway and Clyde Park Avenue.

When she gets to school around 7:40 a.m., she writes the morning message and prints the work we are going to do today.

She waits to greet her students at the door and see how we are doing.


Toby Lehnen (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Toby Lehnen is a 3rd grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School. Toby’s news article, Mrs. Omanchi’s Morning, is his first published work.


Led by teacher Mrs. Kim Omanchi, and in collaboration with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed, students created unique pieces for publication on WKTV Journal.

Stranded in Sharkland

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Pets/Animals, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , ,
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Alan Perez

3rd Grade Youth Contributor

AnchorPoint Christian School


The story is about sharks, there is a shark attack. It takes place at sea. It happened on July 12, 1916.

Once upon a time Jaxon and I were reading a book called I Survived Shark Attacks.

It was Feb. 10, 2024 when we were reading the book. We randomly got sucked into the book, and the teacher came and she saw that we weren’t there anymore.

It was July 12,1916. Jaxon and I were in the middle of the sea. Jaxon and I were scared because we thought we were gonna get eaten by a shark.

Afterwards, we saw  people running to the sand because of five great white sharks. Two people had gotten eaten, and three people were left. But two sharks got two other people, leaving one person named Nick. He was running towards me and Jaxon.

Jaxon and I were jittery and started running to land, but we saw that he had disappeared. He came out of the water fighting the shark and killed the shark. Running from the other sharks, he made it to land.

Then Jaxon and I disappeared, coming back to school reading Shark Attacks.

The End!!!!


Alan Perez (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Alan Perez is a 3rd grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School. Alan’s short story, Stranded in Sharkland, is his first published work.


Led by teacher Mrs. Kim Omanchi, and in collaboration with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed, students created unique pieces for publication on WKTV Journal.

A Flying Jewel: Two artists share love of art and science through seven-foot “Pixels of Life” mosaic

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kent County, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , , , , , , ,
“Pixels of Life” can be found at the Wyoming Branch of Kent District Library (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Using 10,000 hand-painted LEGO bricks, artist Aaron Liepman created the seven-foot hummingbird mosaic, Pixels of Life, that now hangs at the Wyoming Branch of Kent District Library (KDL).

The ruby-throated hummingbird is set to a 10-foot backdrop of a giant pink coneflower painted in a pixel style by Ann Arbor Visual Artist Katie Hammond.

Aaron Liepman (left) and Katie Hammond with their creation, Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)

Liepman entered the piece in ArtPrize 2023 and is happy the piece is now on display for the public.

“Pixels of Life was created to be shared and to be seen,” said Liepman. “I hope that library patrons, young and old, enjoy interacting with it as much as Katie and I enjoyed creating it.”

Art and science…together?

Liepman and Hammond share more than artistic talent – both artists also love science. 

A biology professor at Eastern Michigan University, Liepman says he was aware of an artistic side of his personality when he was young.

“I really enjoyed art class, but also went pretty hardcore into science.”

Hammond admitted to always having an interest in science. “I almost majored in biology instead of doing art in undergrad. The combining of science with art is something that I really enjoy.”

When Liepman reached out to Hammond about needing a backdrop for his hummingbird mosaic, Hammond couldn’t resist the opportunity to combine art and science.

The creation of a flying jewel

Pixels of Life is Liepman’s third ArtPrize entry.

“I love hummingbirds,” said Liepman. “They’re the most incredible creatures. So much color. The highlight of summer for me is watching hummingbirds at the feeders and appreciating how beautiful and agile and brilliant they are.”

Aaron Liepman with “Ruby” (Courtesy, Aaron Liepman)

Feathers on the neck of the male ruby-throated hummingbird can look either black or ruby red depending on the angle.

“If they turn, they can go from black to the greatest, most brilliant ruby that you’ve ever seen – and it’s immediate,” said Liepman. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Creating a Hummingbird mosaic, however, was not easy.

“It was so incredibly difficult because trying to reduce the color palette of this bird, of this flying jewel, down to a manageable number that I could create in my studio was just an exercise in futility.

“I did my best. This one has more colors than anything I’ve ever made before; it had 70 colors.”

However, Liepman knew his hummingbird was not complete – it needed a backdrop. But he did not have time to build an 8-foot flower out of LEGOs.

“When I was thinking of another way we could get a flower for this bird, I thought of Katie,” said Liepman. “I asked her what she thought of making a giant 10-foot painting. I thought it would be fun to have mixed media.”

A giant painting? No problem!

Liepman gave Hammond free reign over creation of the backdrop.

“Aaron giving me free reign, that’s always exciting, but it’s also intimidating,” said Hammond. “When you have the whole world of possibilities open, you have to think what’s going to look best in the end.”

She brainstormed for weeks before deciding to paint one of the hummingbirds’ favorite foods, the coneflower, in the style of Aaron’s LEGOs.

Hammond also wanted the backdrop to be modular.

“I wanted it to be made up of a lot of different little tiles, or pieces, so that it would mimic and mirror the feel of the Lego piece.”

However, painting a 10×10-foot canvas with squares the size of LEGOs was not feasible in the time allotted. Instead, Hammond chose to magnify the scale and paint much bigger squares.

“I painted all the squares different colors to match a photograph of a pixelated coneflower,” said Hammond. “I thought it was a fun way to relate to LEGOs. I wanted to do something that would connect them stylistically and thematically.”

Click on the slideshow arrows (located on right and left sides of each picture) below to view the complete process of creating the Pixels of Life backdrop (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)
  • Pixels of Life (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)

Every story has a beginning…

Liepman’s fascination with LEGO art began after seeing a LEGO wall mosaic in Chicago.

“I hadn’t seen anything like that before and was fascinated. I had never considered LEGOs as a 2-dimensional art form. I knew I wanted to try to create some art in that medium.”

Liepman decided to start with a small project, but quickly realized his “small” project needed to be quite a bit larger than expected.

“Watchful” (Courtesy, Aaron Liepman)

“This is a thing that many people don’t understand about this art form,” said Liepman. “A screen resolution, that’s 72 dots per inch. When you’re thinking about a LEGO brick, a LEGO pixel, you get approximately 3.4. Your smallest details – if you need a single pixel for something – that smallest detail relative to the overall size of your composition means that things are going to get bigger than you think.”

Liepman’s “small project” became 20 inches square – and consisted of 1,024 LEGO pieces.

He also realized that he needed more colors than the LEGO palette offered.

Liepman began to paint LEGOs, experimenting with spray paint, then airbrushing with craft paints. Finally, he settled on artist-grade acrylic paints.

“There were a lot of things I learned by doing that first piece,” said Liepman. “When I stepped away from it though, I was like, wow, look what I made. There were no instructions, and I figured this out myself. I bet I could do more. I bet I could do better.”

Each mosaic taught him a little bit more. “I was making them bigger and more complex, and they were looking better and better. I didn’t get here in a day; it took me a long time.”

Much of Liepman’s time is spent formulating colors.

His first grayscale mosaic, Watchful, is 45 inches square and has 12 levels of gray, black and white. With the increased levels of grayscale, Liepman realized he could make the mosaics appear lifelike.

“When you can step away from the actual piece by about 20 feet, it looks like the feathers are soft, which completely blows my mind because every single piece is a geometric angular thing.”

“TB10” – Tom Brady (Courtesy, Aaron Liepman)

Two of Liepman’s pieces have been auctioned at charity events – one being an autographed mosaic of Tom Brady.

“It’s been fun to be able to also give back to the community and to support good causes through my creativity.”

Commissions allow Liepman to afford the materials to continue creating and donate a piece from time to time to a good cause.

“These pieces really need to be seen and appreciated,” said Liepman. “It’s fun for me to have the opportunity to share these artworks with people because they don’t know what to think of them.”

20 years of funky…

Aaron Liepman (left) and Katie Hammond with Pixels of Life at Brush Studio in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, Katie Hammond)

Hammond says she has been an artist her entire life.

A dancer and visual artist as a child, Hammond then received a bachelor’s degree at the University of Michigan art school, followed by a master’s degree in fine arts at the Art Institute of Chicago.

She is now the owner and manager of a communal studio called Ann Arbor Artist Studios.

Hammond describes her painting style as “funky.”

“What I mainly do is acrylic painting on canvas and velvet,” said Hammond. “I like to experiment with a mixed media or non-traditional painting approach, using things like glitter, markers, or more experimental fabrics.

“My painting style is representational but it’s not realistic. It’s stylized and fun and poppy and bright colors and simplified.”

Hammond has completed several commissioned works featuring families and animals, two of her favorite subjects. She also paints murals, completing a large exterior mural in downtown Ann Arbor.

Hammond appreciates the ability to express herself through art – but also the connection it brings.

“From little kids through elderly people…I really enjoy being able to connect with all types of people through my art,” said Hammond. “The most rewarding thing about [art] is being able to see people have a positive experience with your work.”

Hammond says she purposely creates art people can recognize and connect with on some level.

“Powerful” is a depiction of Wonder Woman and can be found at the Grandville Branch of KDL. It was a community project led by Liepman in 2022 (Courtesy, Aaron Liepman)

“Anybody can do this; I’m not a genius”

Liepman hopes his artistic journey encourages other people who love art.

“Anybody can do this; I’m not a genius,” said Liepman. “I started with no experience. “I figured out that I could do something, and I kept leveraging the lessons I learned, thinking my way through problems and trying to come up with solutions. Bit by bit I have come up with a process.

“But it didn’t happen right away. It took a lot of practice. I figured out a process, and I’ve refined it over and over. After a while, you get good at stuff if you keep doing it.”

“Revolutionary” (Courtesy, Aaron Liepman)
“Revolutionary” (Courtesy, Aaron Liepman)
“Revolutionary” depicts Martin Luther King Jr. and contains 24 levels of grayscale

How to find Pixels of Life

Pixels of Life can be viewed in the teen area of KDL’s Wyoming Branch.

Liepman encourages people to view Pixels of Life from up close and far away so they can appreciate various details.

Share in the wonder of art and science

Aaron Liepman shares his artwork via Brickmaniac.com and Instagram. Liepman is also accepting commissions.

More information and examples of Katie Hammond’s work can be found on her website, Instagram and Facebook. Hammond is available for murals and other commissions.

My Invisible Day Playing Fortnite

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Voices, West Michigan, , , , ,
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Joseph Montoya

4th Grade Youth Contributor

AnchorPoint Christian School


Poof

Once upon time I was playing Fortnite, and I won the game. Suddenly I was invisible.

I went to Target and got a PS6. I set money on the counter which made the manager confused.

I took it home and plugged it in. I played Fortnite for 24 hours. My parents didn’t know because they couldn’t see me.

I took my dad’s credit card, so I could get the new XBOX Series and 10 Nintendo Switches. I charged them and played them for 10 hours, but I got bored. Then I decided to get the PS5. I liked it, however I got bored of that too. So I took a break to get ice cream.

When I came home, I went to sleep. I woke up and played Fortnite for 10 minutes. I got the Dub on Fortnite, but my invisibility ran out. And my parents caught me.

The end.


Joseph Montoya (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Joseph Montoya is a 4th grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School. Joseph’s short story, My Invisible Day Playing Fortnite, is his first published work.


Led by teacher Mrs. Kim Omanchi, and in collaboration with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed, students created unique pieces for publication on WKTV Journal.

Stuck in the Movie

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , ,
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Dahmari Lee

4th Grade Youth Contributor

AnchorPoint Christian School


Go! Fight! … Pop!

Suddenly, I am in the Ninja Turtle movie. I see if I can go meet the Turtles, and I become their friend. They show me around. They teach me how to fight. I fight the Krag with them. I have a sword and I can fight the Shredder and fight him with the turtles, and then I ride in the shell razor with the Turtles.

“Man, these buildings are gargantuan.”

Then I had my first fight.

“We went against the Krag. We won. It was easy with the Turtles. And the weapon I was using was a sword. It was cool.”

I was like Leo, but I was not the leader then we went home. It was stinky in the sewers but I had to deal with it.

Then it was time for bed. I slept on the couch, then I said, “That was the best day ever! And I know the Turtles are far-fetched.”


Dahmari Lee (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Dahmari Lee is a 4th grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School. Dahmari’s short story, Stuck in the Movie, is his first published work.


Led by teacher Mrs. Kim Omanchi, and in collaboration with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed, students created unique pieces for publication on WKTV Journal.

Thrilling Theater Time

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Voices, West Michigan, , , , ,
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Rozemarijn L. De Graff

4th Grade Youth Contributor

AnchorPoint Christian School


Once upon a time there were two friends going to a magical theater. Their names were Taylor and Ashley. They’re both 16 years old.

Taylor has waist-length blonde hair and brown eyes. She hopes to be an actress some day. Specifically, on BROADWAY! They both live in New York City!

Ashley has brown, straight, shoulder length hair and blue eyes. She hopes to be a director some day. Specifically, working with Taylor, on BROADWAY! In New York City!

Texting

Ashley! You are packed right?! From Taylor.

Duh! Are you packed Taylor? From Ashley.

I’m packed and you are! Good! From Taylor.

Real Life

Taylor and Ashley were asked to come to “Emelia’s Star Theater” to perform in a movie. Taylor would be cast as Queen Shoreanna of the Shore Fairies. Ashley would be cast as Queen Flamebelle of the Flame Fairies. These two queens were forever enemies but their daughters, Princess Shore and Princess Flame, were best friends. Unfortunately, Shore and Flame were Taylor and Ashley’s younger sisters. Shore is Taylor’s sister Zoe and Flame is Ashley’s sister Hallie, they’re very annoying. Then there was Prince Sand and Prince Fire. Taylor and Ashley’s younger sisters’ twins. The twins were all 13 years old. Sand is Shore’s twin and Fire is Flame’s twin. Sand is Jake, Zoe’s twin and Fire is Kayden, Hallie’s twin. Taylor’s younger twins have blonde hair and blue eyes. Ashley’s younger twins have brown hair and brown eyes.

“Hey Shore! Sand! Get over here!” Taylor yelled from her room.

“Don’t call us Shore and Sand!” they said from their room. Jake and Zoe are particular about names.

“Goodness,” Taylor mumbled.

“We heard that!!!” they yelled.

“Well are you two packed?”

“Yes!”

Meanwhile

“Hallie and Kayden you better be packed!” Ashley yelled.

“Duh, we are!” Hallie and Kayden yelled.

“Jinx!” Kayden said.

“Mm!” Hallie said/mumbled. She said “COOTIES!” not using words though.

“Not GIRL COOTIES!” Kayden yelled. “AAAHHH! Fine, Hallie!!!”

“Ugh,” Ashley said.

The next day Taylor, Ashley, Zoe, Hallie, Jake and Kayden arrived at…

“Emelia’s Star Theater!” Emelia herself said. “Welcome.”

“Thank you,” Ashley said, being polite.

“This is Luke and Matthew, my sons,” Emelia said. They were both 16 with blonde hair and green eyes, twins. “Luke and Matthew, the blonde one is Taylor and the brown hair one is Ashley, the queens. The younger girls are the princesses, the younger boys are the princes. More introductions later!”

“Looks like Ashley and I are the only ones with no twins,” Taylor said. Wow, Luke’s cute! she thought.

“How’d ya know we’re twins?” Luke asked.

“Same pale blonde hair, same emerald green eyes, DUH!” Ashley pointed out. Whoa, Matthew is super cute!  She also thought one of the boys was cute.

“True,” Matthew said.

“MWA HAHAHAHA!!!” someone said, “Tis I, Witch Lemon, and the Lime Lovers! I’m casting a curse so no one may exit this so-called ‘star’ theater!”

“WHAT?! NOOOOOOOOOO!!!” they all screamed.

TO BE CONTINUED…


Rozemarijn L. De Graff, Youth Contributor (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Rozemarijn L. De Graff is a 4th grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School. Rozemarijn’s short story, Thrilling Theater Time, is her first published work.


Led by teacher Mrs. Kim Omanchi, and in collaboration with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed, students created unique pieces for publication on WKTV Journal.

I Draw

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Voices, West Michigan, , , , ,
(Courtesy, Teddy)



By Teddy

4th Grade Youth Contributor

AnchorPoint Christian School


I think. 

I draw. 

I mess up. 

I retry.

I draw.

I draw for hours.

I look. 

I go back to working.

I look. I smile.

I work.

I work some more. I work.

I create a masterpiece.


Teddy, Youth Contributor (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi)

Teddy is a 4th grade student at AnchorPoint Christian School. Teddy’s poem, I Draw, is his first published work.


Led by teacher Mrs. Kim Omanchi, and in collaboration with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed, students created unique pieces for publication on WKTV Journal.

Wyoming Police Department investigates fatal crash

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Hard News, Kent County, Newscast, West Michigan, , , ,
One person is dead after a crash on 54th Street SW over US-131 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


One person is dead after a crash on 54th Street SW over US-131.

At approximately 2:30 p.m. on April 14, police and fire personnel from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to 54th Street SW over US-131 on the report of a single-vehicle rollover crash. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.

54th Street over US-131 will be closed in both directions while Wyoming Police Accident Investigation and Forensic Science Units investigate this incident.

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

Ford International Airport breaks ground on $135 Million Terminal Enhancement Project

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Local Business, Travel, West Michigan, ,
A rendering of the Terminal Enhancement Project. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority broke ground Wednesday on its $135 million Terminal Enhancement Project (TEP) representing a significant investment in the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

TEP will expand the west end of the terminal, aiming to increase capacity and incorporate sustainable elements to further optimize operations, minimize the Airport’s environmental footprint and enhance the guest experience. The expansion includes:

  • A Consolidated Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) on the lower level of the terminal, streamlining the checked luggage process from the airline ticketing counter through screening and onto the aircraft.
  • An Individual Carrier System (ICS) for baggage handling screening. This will make the Ford International Airport the first small-hub airport in the U.S. to install an ICS.
  • New ticket counter spaces and the consolidation of all airline ticketing counters to the west end of the terminal.
  • Expanded baggage claim area with larger carousels to facilitate a more seamless and modernized baggage claim process for arriving passengers.

“The Ford International Airport is experiencing tremendous growth, recently achieving a record-breaking year in 2023 for number of passengers served annually,” said Airport Authority Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. “The Federal Aviation Administration has recognized our Airport as one of the fastest growing in the country, and this investment in our facility will support this continued growth, serving our thriving community for years to come.”

TEP is part of the ELEVATE capital expansion program, which includes more than $600 million in critical infrastructure investments to accommodate passenger growth and air service demands.

Additional projects under the ELEVATE program include:

  • A federal inspection station (FIS) to support nonstop international commercial passenger flights.
  • The relocation of the federally owned air traffic control tower to make way for diverse terminal-area developments such as additional tenant hangars and more parking.
  • Michigan’s first consolidated rental car facility (CONRAC) to provide a dedicated facility for all rental car operations. The project broke ground in 2023 and is expected to be completed in 2025.
  • The expansion and widening of Concourse A which was completed in Spring 2024. This project added eight new gates, additional concession and retail options, modern amenities and more.
  • Additional parking capacity to accommodate increased guest traffic.



Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



“The Airport has been a cornerstone of West Michigan for more than 60 years,” said Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “We have strategically invested in our facility and campus to ensure we support our region’s economic prosperity and vitality.

“The expansion of our infrastructure is critical to fostering the growth of our vibrant region, ensuring our community has access to essential services through a robust transportation hub that increases opportunities for global connectivity.”



A rendering of the Terminal Enhancement Project. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



Congresswoman Hillary Scholten has been pivotal in supporting the airport’s growth, securing federal funds to support the construction of TEP.

“Amid this exciting growth, we have to ensure that GRR has the tools to keep up,” said Congresswoman Scholten, who gave remarks via video at today’s groundbreaking. “Adequate airport infrastructure makes all the difference in preventing flight delays, ensuring passenger safety and enhancing the traveler experience. Investments in GRR are investments in West Michigan’s future.”

As a key funding partner for TEP, TSA’s Michigan Federal Security Director Reggie Stephens provided remarks on the enhancements this project will make to the Airport’s safety and security screening operations from curb front to take-off.

“TSA is proud to enjoy a strong partnership with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Stephens. “The addition of the inline checked baggage screening system ensures that for years to come, GRR passengers will continue to enjoy a comfortable, convenient and safe airport traveling experience.”

Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Stan Stek, who spoke at today’s event, reaffirmed the importance of supporting the Airport’s expansion efforts to ensure the growth of the West Michigan community for generations to come.

“Kent County is not only one of the fastest-growing areas in the State, but also one of the few counties in Michigan experiencing growth in the critical 20- to 30-year-old demographic,” stated Commissioner Stek. “Growth in this demographic tells us that we can anticipate new entrepreneurial initiatives, business expansions and an increased demand for modernized and innovative public services.

“At Kent County our mission is to assure that everyone in this county has access to the best, most efficient and innovative public services in the State, and nothing exemplifies this better than what is being accomplished right here at the Ford International Airport.”


Kent County Commissioners. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



The project is expected to be completed in 2027.  The Christman Company is serving as the construction manager for TEP, while Corgan is the architect of record. VTC is the design team project manager with Fishbeck providing project engineering and Beumer Group serving as the contractor for the baggage handling system.

Construction will take place near the terminal entrance. Guests are encouraged to follow signage for temporary detours around the terminal curb front.

No local taxpayer dollars will be used to finance any of the projects included in the ELEVATE program, which will be paid for with a combination of federal and state grants, municipal bonds issued by the Airport and user fees. For more information about TEP and other ongoing ELEVATE developments, please visit FlyFord.org/ELEVATE.

Announcing 2024 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts series lineup at Frederik Meijer Gardens

1-featured, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Kent County, Local Business, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , ,
Greensky Bluegrass is racing to Meijer Gardens to perform for you! (Courtesy, FMG)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is pleased to announce the complete 2024 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens lineup, featuring 33 unique shows.

This lineup reflects our continued commitment since 2003 to bringing a diverse array of internationally renowned artists to the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. 

Black Pumas (Courtesy, Jody Domingue)

The Gardens and Sculpture Park, featuring works from internationally acclaimed artists, and lively acoustics create an intimate concert setting for guests of all ages. From its manicured general admission lawn seating to the ivy growing on the stage, the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater is the ideal summer setting for experiencing live music from world-class acts, right here in West Michigan.

Free and convenient on-site parking and the ability for concertgoers to bring a picnic or enjoy unique concessions offerings highlight the Meijer Gardens concert experience.

“We are delighted to present another summer of world-class live music in the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

“We’re extremely thankful to the entire Meijer family, Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids, Corewell Health, Grand Rapids Symphony, the Steve and Amy Van Andel Foundation, and all our partners for their commitment in helping make this series possible and allowing us to welcome more people to experience the arts at Meijer Gardens.”

NEW ticketing provider

Meijer Gardens is also happy to announce AXS as the new ticketing provider for the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series.

Orville Peck (Courtesy, FMG)

All tickets will be sold at AXS.com—and with AXS Mobile ID, your phone is your ticket. The move to AXS Mobile ID is designed to ensure a smooth purchasing experience, put tickets in the hands of our guests, and reduce ticket resale from unauthorized sites.

AXS Mobile ID is a digital ticketing technology that provides the flexibility and convenience of safely and securely managing tickets online or in the AXS mobile app.

AXS Mobile ID allows for convenience, flexibility, and security. Guests can manage tickets digitally, transfer tickets when needed, and remain assured that all tickets are authentic and secure. Guests are encouraged to set up an account at any time at AXS.com.

To help members and the public prepare for buying tickets, Meijer Gardens has created an Insider’s Guide to aid in making the ticket purchasing experience hassle-free.

Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens Lineup

Gate and show start times vary. Information and lineup subject to change. All shows take place rain or shine. Weather delays are possible.


Little Feat + Los Lobos (Courtesy, FMG)


Orville Peck with Durand Jones and Debbii Dawson, Wednesday, June 5: $57 presale |  $60 member |  $62 public

Greensky Bluegrass, Sunday, June 9: $68 presale |  $71 member |  $73 public

Tower of Power, Wednesday, June 12: $59 presale |  $62 member |  $64 public

O.A.R., Thursday, June 20: $82 presale |  $85 member  |  $87 public
Little Feat + Los Lobos, Friday, June 21: $75 presale |  $78 member  |  $80 public
Black Pumas with Abraham Alexander, Sunday, June 23: $80 presale |  $83 member  |  $85 public
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue with Devon Gilfillian,
Monday, June 24: $75 presale |  $78 member  |  $80 public
Bonnie Raitt with James Hunter, Wednesday, June 26: $99 presale |  $102 member  |  $104 public
Mat Kearney with Donovan Frankenreiter, Sunday, June 30: $54 presale |  $57 member  |  $59 public
My Morning Jacket, Monday, July 1: $77 presale |  $80 member  |  $82 public
Amos Lee with Mikaela Davis, Wednesday, July 3: $65 presale |  $68 member  |  $70 public
Old Crow Medicine Show with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway,
Wednesday, July 10: $67 presale |  $70 member  |  $72 public
Bruce Hornsby with Grand Rapids Symphony,
Thursday, July 11: $67 presale |  $70 member  |  $72 public
The Temptations + The Four Tops, Friday, July 12: $79 presale |  $82 member  |  $84 public
Jason Mraz, Wednesday, July 17: $95 presale |  $98 member  |  $100 public
The Wallflowers, Thursday, July 18: $45 presale |  $48 member  |  $50 public
Warren Haynes with Grand Rapids Symphony, Monday, July 22: $70 presale |  $73 member  |  $75 public
Charley Crockett, Wednesday, July 24: $60 presale |  $63 member  |  $65 public
Il Divo, Thursday, July 25: $69 presale |  $72 member  |  $74 public
Boyz II Men, Sunday, July 28: $130 presale |  $133 member  |  $135 public
Black Violin with Grand Rapids Symphony, Thursday, August 1: $65 presale |  $68 member  |  $70 public
Gin Blossoms + Toad the Wet Sprocket + Vertical Horizon,
Monday, August 5: $78 presale |  $81 member  |  $83 public
Kansas, Thursday, August 8: $79 presale |  $82 member  |  $84 public
Andrew Bird + Amadou & Mariam, Friday, August 9: $63 presale |  $66 member  |  $68 public
Five For Fighting, Sunday, August 11: $53 presale |  $56 member  |  $58 public
Blues Traveler + Big Head Todd and the Monsters,
Wednesday, August 14: $75 presale |  $78 member  |  $80 public
Grace Potter, Sunday, August 18: $55 presale |  $58 member  |  $60 public
Fitz and The Tantrums, Thursday, August 22: $55 presale |  $58 member  |  $60 public
Leslie Odom, Jr., Thursday, August 29: $70 presale |  $73 member  |  $75 public
Sierra Ferrell with Meredith Axelrod, Friday, September 6: $50 presale |  $53 member  |  $55 public
Michael Franti & Spearhead, Sunday, September 8: $65 presale |  $68 member  |  $70 public
Buena Vista Social Orchestra, Sunday, September 15: $50 presale |  $53 member  |  $55 public
Keb’ Mo’ + Shawn Colvin, Monday, September 16: $60 presale |  $63 member  |  $65 public

Members presale

Members may buy tickets during the members-only presale beginning 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, through midnight on Friday, April 26.

Grace Potter (Courtesy, Adrien Broom)

Members save $5 per ticket during the presale. After April 27, members save $2 per ticket. There is a limit of six tickets per show.

To join or renew a Meijer Gardens membership before April 20, click here or call the Membership Department at 616-977-7689.

Tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com. A $5 fee per ticket and 3% credit card fee per order is added.

Public ticket sale

Sales to the public begin at 9 am on Saturday, April 27. There is a limit of six tickets per show. Tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com. A $10 fee per ticket and 3% credit card fee per order is added.

Ticket purchasers are encouraged to receive and manage their tickets via the AXS mobile app. A $15 processing fee will be added for those who wish to have their tickets mailed to them by AXS. There will be a $6 processing fee for ticket purchasers who choose Will Call as their method of delivery.

Details about the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater

Leslie Odom Jr. (Courtesy, FMG)

The 1,900-seat Amphitheater Garden features general admission tiered lawn seating. Concertgoers are welcome to bring a blanket or low-rise chair to sit on. Low-rise chairs are defined as 12” maximum from front of seat bottom to ground and 32” maximum to top of chair back in highest position.

These rules are strictly enforced. No other chairs will be permitted in the venue. A limited number of standard-height chairs located in designated areas are available to rent for $10 on a first-come, first-served basis and may not be removed.

A selection of sandwiches, snacks, water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at the Eileen DeVries Concessions Center. Concertgoers are also welcomed to bring their own food, sealed bottled water and nonalcoholic beverages in their original sealed non-glass containers. Soft-sided coolers that do not exceed 25 quarts or 14″x14″x14″ are permitted.

Weapons are not allowed. All guests, bags and coolers are subject to search prior to entering the venue.

Concert series sponsors and career opportunities

The Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series is sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids, Corewell Health, Life EMS and US Golf Cars. Media sponsors are Star 105.7 and FOX17.

Join our team! Meijer Gardens has a variety of career openings, both full and part time. Please visit MeijerGardens.org/careers for a full listing of opportunities.

New York Times Chief White House Correspondent Peter Baker is coming to the Ford Museum

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Renowned journalist Peter Baker will present his journalistic view on the evolving role of the vice presidency on April 23 (Supplied)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum will host Peter Baker, Chief White House Correspondent for The New York Times and a political analyst for MSNBC, on Tuesday, April 23.

Having reported on the last five presidencies for The Times and The Washington Post, Baker will
present “Covering the Vice Presidency: Lessons Learned on the Road,” his journalistic view on the
evolving role of the vice presidency.

This public lecture will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Ford Museum, and is free to attend. There will be a Zoom alternative for those unable to attend in-person.


Admission to this Ford Museum event is free (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Knowledge & Insight

“We are honored to host the esteemed Peter Baker, renowned for his incisive journalism, at the museum,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. “The audience will be treated to Baker’s extensive first-hand knowledge of the last five presidential administrations and his keen insight into American politics.”

At The Post, Baker served as Moscow Co-Bureau Chief and covered the opening months of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. He is author of seven books written with his wife Susan Glasser of The New Yorker. The Divider: Trump in the White House, 2017-2021 and The Man Who Ran Washington: The Life and Times of James A. Baker III are two of Baker’s best-selling works. Baker is also a frequent panelist on Washington Week on PBS.

For more information about the event, click here.

Learning & Reflection

President Gerald R. Ford (Supplied)

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum allows visitors to experience highlights from the lives of President Gerald Ford, the 38th president of the United States (1974–1977), and his wife Betty Ford.

Museum exhibits teach democratic citizenship and allow for quiet reflection. In addition, changing temporary exhibits draw artifacts from partner museums nationwide.

Part of the presidential library system of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the Ford Museum is located in downtown Grand Rapids. The Ford Library is located on the north campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

The National Archives and Records Administration is the nation’s record keeper. It safeguards and manages the official records of the U.S. Government, ensuring the documentation of our nation’s history.

Community can help double donation to local Coats for Kids program!

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Coats For Kids has been keeping kids warm since 2009! (Courtesy, Doyle & Ogden Inc.)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Community members can vote to double the Make More Happen Award amount (Courtesy photo)

Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance have awarded Doyle & Ogden Inc. a 2024 Make More Happen Award for its volunteerism with Del J. & Jean B. Doyle Family Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to unite in transforming our world.

The award includes an initial donation of $5,000 for Del J. & Jean B. Doyle Family Foundation and its Coats for Kids program, which can be doubled to $10,000 just by having community supporters vote online.

The Doyle & Ogden Inc. and Del J. & Jean B. Doyle Family Foundation community story will be highlighted on the official Make More Happen microsite. Supporters can vote to help the team reach their donation goal.

If the featured story receives at least 500 votes, the $5,000 donation will be raised to $10,000.

A legacy of warmth and care

The Del J. & Jean B. Doyle Family Foundation was established in 2005 as a tribute to the founder of Doyle & Ogden, Del J. Doyle and his wife Jean, to continue their legacy of philanthropy and volunteerism.

As a part of this organization, Doyle & Ogden created the Coats for Kids program in 2009, providing winter coats to elementary children whose families are unable to afford one.

Doubling the $5,000 donation will help hundreds of children in need (Courtesy, Doyle & Ogden Inc.)

West Michigan winters are brutal, and a large percentage of children in need walk to school. Without a warm winter coat, students do not attend school. Subsequently, they do not have breakfast and lunch that day or receive their sack supper from Kids’ Food Basket. Without proper nutrition, students then fall behind in their education.

The $10,000 donation will allow the organization to supply an estimated 500 children with winter coats and expand the number of schools benefiting from this program.

“We are honored and incredibly grateful for being awarded the 2024 Make More Happen Award so we can continue to help our community and give back even more to local schools,” said Mike Doyle, agency owner and president of Doyle & Ogden. “The Coats for Kids program has had a significant impact in the Grand Rapids area and are thrilled to double the donation with community support.”

Expanding donations

In 2023, a total of 1,202 new winter coats were distributed among 18 schools and organizations in need. This year marks 15 years of the Coats for Kids program, and the agency is delivering more coats than ever.

Coats for Kids is providing more and more coats to kids in need each year (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

The $10,000 donation is vital in continuing to provide winter coats to those in need.

The entire team at Doyle & Ogden assists with the Coats for Kids program. The agency holds internal fundraisers and solicits donations from partners. Several staff members have knitted scarves and hats for each coat donated.

“Recognizing independent agents’ dedication to their communities and nonprofit partners is what the Make More Happen Awards is all about,” said Lisa Hartt, Safeco Insurance Midwest Region Senior Territory Manager. “Doyle & Ogden is a shining example of the amazing work independent agents do in Michigan, and we hope sharing inspiring stories motivates others to do the same.”

Apply for the Make More Happen Award

Throughout 2024, Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance will select up to 37 independent agents nationwide for a Make More Happen Award. They will donate up to $370,000 to the nonprofits they support.

Agencies became eligible for the award by submitting an application and photos demonstrating their commitment to a specific nonprofit.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held April 29

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Hard News, Health, Kent County, Local Food, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , ,



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 March Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, April 29 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.

Local organization addresses challenges women face in seeking substance use recovery services

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A grant from the Wege Foundation aims to help Arbor Circle remove barriers for women seeking substance use care (Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Caregivers often face unique challenges when seeking substance use care (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Women experience unique challenges when faced with a substance use concern. A local organization is focused on providing solutions for those challenges.

Arbor Circle recently received a two-year grant from the Wege Foundation that will support programming specifically designed to provide in-home and community-based substance use disorder treatment services for women and their families.

Arbor Circle seeks to provide an environment of understanding, trust, and empathy where women can receive the support they need to overcome their challenges and thrive.

What are some of those challenges?

“Women especially tend to be the caregivers, so they potentially are the ones who have children with them as they are also trying to navigate their own personal journey towards recovery,” said Taylor Greenfield, Director of Development for Arbor Circle. “When they’re struggling with substance use, they may also be facing fear around what that means for the children in their home.”

Women may be concerned about legal issues, but they also may encounter barriers when it comes to transportation and childcare.

“They may have challenges around childcare and having someone who is able to come and watch their children while they are seeking or receiving services,” said Greenfield.

Because of this, Greenfield has seen a regional decline in women seeking substance use recovery services – and that is concerning.

Increased substance use, decreased pursuit of care

“What’s really concerning about that is we know substance use concerns haven’t gone away,” said Greenfield. “We know that substance use has actually increased. What that says to us is that women need additional support to engage in services.

Family-related barriers are preventing women from seeking support in substance use recovery (Courtesy photo)

“They are going to need those barriers removed differently, they’re going to need help with those childcare pieces, they’re going to need to know that the services they’re receiving are built on trust and empathy.”

Arbor Circle has worked to find funds that will provide that environment for women looking to begin their recovery journey.

Support from the Wege Foundation will help strengthen Arbor Circle’s community-based, family-focused, and culturally responsive treatment through peer recovery support. This is a unique opportunity for individuals with lived experience with substance use concerns to help keep those in recovery – and their families – engaged throughout their journey.

How peer recovery/support is different

Peer recovery supports are designed to assist individuals and families with achieving long-term recovery from a substance use disorder by acting as “coaches” to provide community-based and strengths-based ongoing support, case management, and consultation.

Those with lived experience can provide a unique perspective to those seeking recovery (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“Peers are staff with lived experience in substance use,” said Greenfield. “They have been someone who has struggled with that, and they are on their own recovery journey. They are able to lend a really important and different perspective than a staff person who hasn’t gone through that.”

Greenfield went on to say that peer staff are still trained in their expertise, but have the additional element of their own background which allows them to share what the recovery journey is like later on down the line.

“They are serving as that catalyst for engagement, someone who’s able to encourage and support in a different way than a staff person might be,” said Greenfield.

Greenfield went on to say that a benefit to peers is that they are part of a team approach. Peers lend their unique perspective and are also surrounded by staff with a clinical background. Together, they ensure a mother has everything she needs to take that next step.

Peer-to-peer recovery support services are built on the recognition that individuals in recovery, their families, and their community allies are critical resources that can effectively enhance and improve formal treatment.

Community focus reduces barriers to care

Many of Arbor Circle’s 50+ services are based within the community. Staff often provide programming in homes and community centers. They also meet those seeking care at other locations such as churches or restaurants.

“There are folks that are really invested in reducing barriers wherever we can,” said Greenfield. “We have tried to build up programming that will meet folks where they are and regardless of their identity.”

Together, Arbor Circle and the Wege Foundation aim to increase accessibility of care for women raising children (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Funds from the Wege Foundation will support Arbor Circle in increasing the accessibility of these services for women raising children with a substance use concern.

The Wege Foundation has a long history of generosity in the West Michigan community, with a strong focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.

“They are deeply invested and involved in so many of the nonprofit conversations in the community that it just felt like a good fit,” said Greenfield. “We want to express our thankfulness to the Wege Foundation for their generosity.”

Arbor Circle’s Director of Community Based Recovery Services, Cathy Worthem, agreed. “We are deeply grateful for the Wege Foundation’s support of this work,” shared Worthem. “These funds will enhance our ability to work effectively with women and meet both their needs and the needs of their families.”

Resources

Learn more about Arbor Circle’s women-focused services here.

For those seeking additional services, or for those interested in becoming involved with Arbor Circle, more information can be found on their website.

Unlimited access to online content raises concerns about increased risks to adolescents and teens

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Director of Clinical Services at Wedgwood Christian Services, Brina Tiemeyer, talks about how unlimited access to social media and online content poses risks to our youth.


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Brina Tiemeyer, WCS Director of Clinical Services (Courtesy, WCS)

Concerns are being raised about the harmful ramifications of self-diagnosis and increases of mental illness due to adolescents and teens having unlimited access to online content.

Wedgwood Christian Services (WCS) Director of Clinical Services Brina Tiemeyer recently talked with WKTV Journal about children – especially teens – having devices and 24/7 access to the internet. This concern stems from the alarming uptick in depression, anxiety, loneliness and suicide resulting from social media.

“We may often think of the ability to connect on social media and access to endless content online as a huge benefit to awareness of a variety of mental health challenges,” said Tiemeyer.

“While there is certainly something to be said for increased accessibility to resources for those in communities where it is lacking, and the ability to find a wider circle of support of people dealing with similar challenges, the book and other research highlights that it can also come with some risks for children, teens and young adults, most notably self-diagnosis.”

While social media can be a place where teens can get advice and tips, it does not allow for fact-checking.

“A lot of the content on social media is from influencers or peers who maybe don’t hold the proper education or credentials or merit,” said Tiemeyer.

“The advice may work for that individual in their own lives, but when our teens are utilizing social media and the phone platforms so heavily, they are then going down that potentially harmful path of creating their own diagnosis, creating their own treatment plans. Which in return can decrease the mental health impacts on their lives.”

Fast-paced and oversimplified

Social media platforms such as TikTok, have short-form, fast-paced content that is oversimplified. Many influencers use that platform to post content regarding their personal mental health.

(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“Kids are lonely. Social media can be so enticing because they’re searching for community, a place to feel understood,” said Tiemeyer.

Youth find validation when they see other people experiencing the same struggles. While that is a benefit, Tiemeyer said, the content does not address the complexity and variation of mental illness and how the same diagnosis can present very differently in two individuals.

“Adolescents and teens see these quick, short-form lists, and they use them as a checklist for their own challenges.”

Examples: Depression and ADHD

Depression can present differently between age groups, genders, life experiences, health factors and severity.

“When you go to the social media platform, it’s just a checklist of what depression is,” said Tiemeyer. “It doesn’t go into the content or details that look very different depending on your individualization of the presentation.”

(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Another issue Tiemeyer often encounters are youth who feel they have checked all the boxes a social media video presents.

“A big one recently is ADHD,” said Tiemeyer. “They check all the boxes on ADHD, [but] ADHD can present as Generalized Anxiety Disorder. We’ll have teens come to an intake appointment, and they’re against taking the advice of the medical professional because they’ve had an excess of misinformation.”

Awareness and reduced stigma of mental health issues on social media is beneficial, empowering youth to seek care. However, those same youths often do not believe a medical professional if what they say goes against what they saw on social media.

“It has created a barrier within that therapeutic relationship prior to the relationship even starting,” said Tiemeyer. “Our therapists are trying to address the symptomatology of the individual sitting in front of them, but [youth] are coming in with this barrier of: But you need to treat me with what I’ve self-diagnosed myself with, what my favorite influencer on TikTok told me I had, versus what the medical expertise or professional is saying the true diagnosis is and what the treatment needs to be.”

Prevention through validation

How do we help our youth find the most beneficial path? Provide validation, Tiemeyer says.

“We’re all seeking validation,” said Tiemeyer. “That’s not necessarily bad or unhealthy, so providing validation that social media can be good, but then having those crucial conversations regarding the importance of lived experience and individuality, and how mental health can present differently based on different factors.”

Create space for conversation

(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“We need to create a space for crucial conversations in real life,” said Tiemeyer. “Not hide behind our screens.

“If I have a dialogue back and forth, it’s going to be very different than if I’m having a one-sided conversation by watching a clip.”

We all need to feel believed, capable and safe, Tiemeyer continued. Avoiding invalidation and all-or-nothing thinking – such as telling others not to believe what they see on social media – is vital.

“We need to have this open mind, curiosity to understand, and willingness to learn so we can empower them to feel believed, capable and safe,” said Tiemeyer.

Appropriate oversight

“When we prep our adolescents to drive, there are stages to that,” said Tiemeyer, citing hours of practice, oversight and guidance. “Some may feel that’s way too intense to do [for] social media usage, but it shouldn’t be.

“We should empower the act of using social media because digital content is not going away. Empower it, but then provide them with the skills to utilize it in a safe manner.”


(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Find help and guidance here:

WCS provides tip sheets for families on this topic. Mashable.com is also a reliable source of information on those hot topics of self-diagnosis and healthy online usage.

WCS also offers a six-week trauma-informed parenting class where one of the modules discusses appropriate social media usage.

Parent support partners connect families to active groups that provide training via role play to empower parents to have those conversations with their children.

Crossing that “line”

“If it gets to a point where you’re feeling suicidal or experiencing a crisis, it’s past the point of looking for that online community,” said Tiemeyer. “It’s time to talk to someone.”

(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Reach out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or consider using 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat.

Call Wedgwood Christian Services’ intake line at 616-942-7294 to connect with a medical professional and begin that step of treatment.

“We know there is an increase in de-stigmatization around mental health treatment,” said Tiemeyer. “However, we also know that the second leading cause of death for children is suicide. There is a time where we need to intervene as the adults in that child’s life and get them the help they need.”

As a mother, Tiemeyer empathizes with parents who don’t want to hinder their relationship with their child by intervening.

“My response to that is: They have to be alive to have that relationship,” said Tiemeyer. “When it comes to the point of hopelessness and suicidality, we’re past the point of worrying about that relationship, and we’re at that point of: Let’s keep my child alive so I can keep growing that relationship.”

Meeting community needs

Click here for a full list of programs and services available through WCS.

For more information about teen phone and social media use, Tiemeyer recommends reading Jonathan Haidt’s new book, The Anxious Generation.

Get the best view of the total solar eclipse right here on WKTV Government Channel 26!

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(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Kelly Taylor

WKTV Program Coordinator

kelly@wktv.org


WKTV Government Channel 26 is offering live coverage of the upcoming total solar eclipse!

Tune in Monday, April 8 from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and see this stunning solar display live from NASA’s view.

Experience this amazing event with us as a total solar eclipse moves across Mexico, the United States and Canada, and see incredible views from various sites along its path.

Coverage of the eclipse courtesy of NASA TV. For more information about the eclipse, go to www.nasa.gov.

Spring recycling guide released by Kent County Department of Public Works

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(Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has released its annual Spring Recycling Guide. The Guide informs residents on what they can dispose of and recycle as they begin spring cleaning.

(Courtesy, Kent County DPW)

The Spring Recycling Guide shares valuable tips on recycling and properly disposing of waste, including everything from cartons and cans to bulky plastic containers to chemicals and cleaners and propane tanks. Properly disposing of these household items can help Kent County reach its goal to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

Multiple options are available for disposal

“So many items that get placed in residents’ trash bins can be disposed of in a better way, and the DPW’s Spring Recycling Guide offers helpful information to help protect our environment,” said Katelyn Kikstra, Waste Reduction Educator at the DPW.

“We encourage residents to use the guide and our online Recycling & Waste directory to help reduce landfill waste.”

(Courtesy, Kent County DPW)


The guide details what can be recycled in Kent County including paper folders and shredded documents, corrugated plastic yard signs, aluminum trays and foil.

If items cannot go in residents’ recycling bins, there are additional options that help avoid items being sent to a landfill. Many household items may not be recyclable but can still be safely disposed of including paints and stains, garden hoses and electronics.

Resources

The DPW also offers a newly updated and user-friendly online directory in which residents can search virtually any item and find out how to dispose of or recycle it.

View the Spring Recycling Guide online

The Kent County DPW provides municipal solid waste disposal services, including Waste-to-Energy, Recycling and Education Center, North Kent Transfer Station and South Kent Landfill.

Fans young and old meet Grand Rapids Gold basketball players at recent Fan Appreciation Night

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, West Michigan, , , ,
A young fan shows off his mini Gold basketball with autographs from Gold players (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Young and old fans alike were able to meet Grand Rapids Gold basketball players at a recent Fan Appreciation Night on March 30.

GR Gold players wrapped up the 2023-2024 season with a game against Capital City Go-Go at the Van Andel Arena.

(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)

Fans received a free Gold pendant on a chain, presented by Founders Brewing Co. during their Gold Chain Giveaway.

After the game, Gold players lined up down the length of the court and signed autographs for fans.

Join the Gold excitement!

The Official NBA G League Affiliate of the Denver Nuggets, GR Gold provides ample opportunities for fans to enjoy the excitement of basketball. Fans can purchase tickets through a variety of options including season ticket memberships, 6-game plans, group packages and single-game tickets.

(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)

GR Gold also hosts an annual summer camp, the Grand Rapids Gold Basketball Academy, for interested youth. Registration for the 2024 summer camp can be found here.

For more Grand Rapids Gold information and events, click here.

Join the Solar Eclipse viewing party at Grand Rapids Public Museum on Monday, April 8!

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Environment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, Weather, West Michigan, , , ,



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


(Courtesy photo)

A celestial phenomenon will sweep across North America and the Northern Midwest on Monday, April 8, 2024 – and Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is inviting visitors to join them inside and outside the Museum for an eclipse viewing party.

Supported by WOOD TV8, this event will feature live streams from the path of totality on the Meijer Theatre with commentary from Museum staff, a special planetarium show schedule, astronomy-themed activities with community partners, and access to solar telescopes on the Blue Bridge with the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association (GRAA).

What is a solar eclipse?

An eclipse is defined as a phenomenon where the moon passes in front of the sun, blocking it completely and casting a shadow onto our planet.

Two things need to occur at once to see a solar eclipse: the sun, moon, and earth need to be in a straight line, with the moon between the sun and earth; and you need to be standing in the correct spot on earth.

What you need to know

(Courtesy, GRPM)

All eclipse events inside the GRPM are free with general admission. Telescope access along the Blue Bridge is free to the public.

Protective eyewear is necessary to view the eclipse safely. Eclipse glasses are available for purchase in The Curiosity Shop while supplies last for $1.75. The Curiosity Shop is open to the public, no admission required.

Don’t miss this opportunity!

(Courtesy, Amanda Pitts)

April 8 will be the last chance to witness an eclipse this close to Michigan for decades.

Observe the awe of a total solar eclipse as it graces North America, journeying from Mexico, cutting through states like Texas, Oklahoma, and reaching 100% coverage in Ohio and Indiana, before continuing through the Northeast and entering Canada.

Find GRPM Total Eclipse Day viewing party and event details here.

Find more solar eclipse information and GIF animations here.

Arbor Circle receives federal grant to serve LGBTQI+ children, youth and families

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Our Cities, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , ,
The Bridge of Arbor Circle is a safe, no cost shelter program for youth, ages 10-17, who are facing homelessness or considering running away (Courtesy, Arbor Circle)


By Taylor Greenfield

Arbor Circle Director of Development


One of eight awardees in the nation, Arbor Circle has received a three-year grant totaling $1.2 million from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The grant will be used to promote wellbeing for LGBTQI+ youth within Kent and Ottawa counties.

This work is a continuation of a 2017 initiative in conjunction with True Colors United (formerly The True Colors Fund), led in collaboration with Arbor Circle and other community organizations. The goal is to create responsive strategies that will advance the health and wellbeing of LGBTQI+ youth and young adults.

Meeting a significant need

(Courtesy photo)

The need for this ongoing focus on the health and wellness of LGBTQI+ youth is significant, as risks for these youth continue to be elevated both nationally and locally.

The Trevor Project reports that nationally, LGBTQ youth are three times more likely to attempt suicide as their non-LGBTQ peers. Locally, a January 2023 Trevor Project study found that 45% of LGBTQ Michigan youth considered suicide in the past year.

Additionally, local data from the Kent County Continuum of Care (2022) shows that nearly 27% of all Runaway and Homeless Youth in Kent County identify within the LGBTQ community.

With these funds, Arbor Circle will engage LGBTQI+ youth and their families and caregivers in counseling and support programs aimed to reduce behavioral health risks.

“We are humbled by the opportunity to continue seeking the answer to the question first posed by our work with True Colors United,” shared Susan Sheppard, Arbor Circle’s Vice President & COO. “How might we ensure all LGBTQ+ youth in West Michigan live in a safe, secure community?”

Arbor Circle’s community-based building on Leonard Street NE in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, Arbor Circle)

Community partnerships

This project will also bring together systems and community organizations that engage with youth and families to support increased acceptance and understanding. Training on successful interventions and awareness of available services will also be offered.

Collaborations and partnerships with local organizations include: Grand Rapids LGBTQ+ Healthcare Consortium, Grand Rapids Pride Center, Out on the Lakeshore, Kent Intermediate School District (KISD), Ottawa Intermediate School District (OISD), and the West Michigan Partnership for Children (WMPC).

“We are pleased to partner with Arbor Circle on this work to support the mental health and wellness of LGBTQ+ youth in our community,” shared Jennie Knight, Executive Director of Grand Rapids LGBTQ+ Healthcare Consortium. “Mental health is a crucial, but often overlooked, component of healthcare, and this grant will help us to address this need.”

Grand Rapids’ influential women share 100 years of resilience and unwavering community dedication

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Local History, Our Cities, Voices, West Michigan, , , , ,
WCC historians Carol Dodge and Marcie Woods published a history of the Club’s first 100 years (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


It was a hot summer evening in 1923 when a group of Grand Rapids women ignited the spark that would become the iconic Women’s City Club of Grand Rapids (WCC).

One hundred years later, the women of Grand Rapids continue to provide support for each other and for their community through charitable and educational outreach…and fun.


On March 14, the GR Stories program – hosted by the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) and the WCC – celebrated a century of resilience, influence and impact.

WCC historians Carol Dodge and Marcie Woods presented an oral history titled “Our First One Hundred Years” during the celebration. The presentation was derived from the WCC’s recently published centennial book bearing the same name and co-authored by Dodge and Woods.

“This Women’s City Club knows no boundaries,” said Judge Sara Smolenski during the event. “They’re in our community helping, reaching out and making an impact.”

This is the story of Grand Rapids’ most influential women and their legacy of resilience in times of challenge.

The year is 1923

It’s the roaring 20s. It’s a jazz age, another year of prohibition and speak-easies. Women have the right to vote. It was declared legal for women to wear trousers anywhere. It’s a year of prosperity, and there are new roles for women.

WCC historians Marcie Woods (left) and Carol Dodge present the history of the Club (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

On a hot July evening in 1923, a group of women sat on the steps of the Grand Rapids YWCA and dreamed about having a place to gather, socialize, entertain and inform. They longed to be women of common interest in the welfare of the city in public issues.

A spark was ignited. On January 4, 1924, an enthusiastic group of women came together in the first official meeting of the WCC.

“The Club was started at just the right time, with just the right people,” said Dodge during the presentation. “The community leaders among the women of Grand Rapids were the early leaders of the City Club, and they were diligent in inviting other civic-minded women to join.”

With annual dues set at $10 and meeting rooms at the Morton Hotel, the WCC was off and running.

When the Sweet House came on the market in 1927, the Club purchased and remodeled the building for their clubhouse. Almost everything inside the House was given or loaned to the Club.

By the end of the decade, the Club had 1,800 members and 165 on a waiting list.

The economy was down with the 1929 market crash, but optimism was high at WCC. It had become a welcoming second home for many women in the community.

The 1930s rolled in with a vengeance

The Club was not immune to the trouble following the Great Depression. Membership dropped to 800 in 1933. Losing over half of their members, the board worked diligently to keep the doors open.

WCC member Rebecca Sneller performed a song from each decade (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

WCC members were empathetic to those less fortunate during the Depression. Their auditorium was turned into a sewing and workroom, and clothing was made for families in need. Food, books, and toys were collected and distributed.

As the economy turned around, so did membership numbers.

In 1936, membership had become so desirable that a membership limit of 1,400 was set – and they also had a waiting list.

The 1930s featured teas and dances. Many well-known guests presented at the Club during this time. Among them were Winston Churchill’s son Randolph and aviatrix Amelia Earhart. The first Bob Cratchit Holiday Dinner was served, and became a tradition for 77 years.

“During these difficult Depression years, the Club did not miss a single mortgage payment, and we ended the 1930s on a high note,” said Dodge. “The mortgage of the Club was burned, and after 12 years we were debt-free.

The 1940s were called the War Years

A WCC Friendship Quilt made in 1993 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Hazel Whitaker Vandenberg, a charter member of the Club and Senator Vandenberg’s wife, kept Club members abreast with her monthly bulletin reports from Washington DC.

Monthly urgent pleas went out to members for volunteers to help in the National Defense program.

The WCC auditorium was once again turned into a workroom where surgical dressings were wrapped, sewing machines made surgical gowns, baby blankets and baby layettes. Women were trained to serve in city hospitals to relieve the shortage of medical staff.

“Our members were active,” said Dodge. “Many were heads of war relief programs in the city.”

The Club collected money to buy personal items for wounded soldiers, and monthly hospitality events were held to entertain the soldiers from the Army Air Force Weather School.

“At the end of the war, the Club celebrated and offered thanksgiving for victory,” said Dodge. “And now it was time to plan for the future.”

1950 brought a revolution of the WCC bulletin

The bulletin was an extremely important part of WCC right from the beginning with its first editor, Miss Christine Keck. The WCC’s third president, Keck was the first to realize that included ads would defray cost.

Marcie Woods (right) signs a copy of the centennial book for a member (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Next came Miss Mabel Allen, who edited the bulletin for 35 years. Allen was in charge of all ads and editing, but had two dozen women gathering information and writing articles. The bulletins were now 50 pages long, with 40 ads in the January 1950 edition alone.

The bulletin covered all Club activities, added humor, and kept local women in touch with the world. It presented local and national issues and urged members to vote.

“It showed us where we could be active,” said Woods. “The goal was for each woman to be noteworthy in the life of the city.”

WCC ended the decade with an all-time high of 2,400 members and another 400 on the waiting list.

The 1960s were a tipping point

WCC members talk during the reception (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Membership remained at a high of 2,400. Three hundred of those members were on committees. They gave over 40,000 hours of volunteer work each year.

WCC began a six-week series on local national and international affairs issues. Armchair Cruises were established with a Club dinner featuring food related to the country shown on the slides. Exceptionally well-attended, Armchair Cruises continued for 20 years.

At the end of the decade, the Club still had 2,400 members but the waiting list had dropped to 36.

The 1960s were a tipping point for the entire nation. Clubs, churches and civic organizations all showed declining numbers.

The 1970s introduced a time of firsts

The Club turned 50 years old. Women could register under their own names – they did not have to be “Mrs. Him.” They had the freedom of wearing more casual clothing, including sandals – and no hats.

Helen Claytor, the first African American woman in the United States to be president of a community YWCA, joined the WCC. It was also the national bicentennial and Grand Rapids sesquicentennial.

Membership dropped, decreasing Club income. At the end of the decade, the WCC dining room, bulletin, parking lot and library budgets were in deficit. After years aplenty, the Club had to dip into reserve funds.


Carol Dodge signs a copy of “Our First One Hundred Years” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The 1980s began with 1,700 members

Fashionettes continued, and the Travel Committee booked several trips. A WCC favorite was Barbara Rinella, who performed book reviews in costume for 15 years.

The women did what they could to save and raise money for the Club. But the decade still ended with a deficit, and membership dropped by 500, leaving only 1,200 members.

The 1990s was a decade of ups and downs

Mother Teresa and Princess Diana were lost. There was 24-hour coverage of Desert Storm. For the City Club, an “up” included $115,000 raised through a diligent campaign called Rising to the Future.

The board continued to vigorously promote membership and retention. The bylaws were amended to change the word “woman” to “person.” Joint ventures with the World Affairs Council and the Ladies Literary Guild were initiated, and the Club opened two Saturdays a month.

Budget issues remained a concern as house maintenance costs continued to mount. In 1998, a fundraising campaign was held, raising over $40,000 and enabling the Club to get through that decade.

It was apparent that changes needed to be made.

The world slipped quietly into the new century without Y2K predictions coming true

The world watched the horror of the 9/11 attacks and worried about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Women’s City Club stepped into the new century with anxiety, with anticipation of a committed membership, and a vision for the future.

The silver tea set is original to the Sweet House (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“It was a decade of transition for the Club,” said Dodge. “We did continue the tradition of excellent programs and activities. We learned from city and world leaders.”

The Club’s Women’s City Antique Roadshow brought in people from the community. Club members donated clothing and gifts for children and clothing for women needing interview attire.

Because of budget deficits, their dwindling assets became a critical issue. Something had to be done.

“We had talked about it a long time, but now we had to make changes,” said Dodge. “We had to take action.”

An automated bookkeeping system and a strong marketing committee diligently promoting the Club were a few of those changes. They also held additional evening programs that were met with rave reviews.

The WCC formed the 501c3 Sweet House Foundation, allowing members and the community to donate tax-free dollars for the maintenance and preservation of the House.

This helped the Club end the last three years of the decade in the black and do much-needed maintenance and repairs on the clubhouse.

At the end of the decade, WCC had 223 members and 15 additional 50-year members.

The new decade began with relief, hope and high tech

WCC entered the electronic age with a website and social media presence. Simultaneously, the History Committee preserved the past by acquiring all 75 years of Club records and archiving them at the Grand Rapids Public Library.

Women’s City Club of Grand Rapids 100th birthday luncheon (Courtesy, WCC)

As an ArtPrize venue, tens of thousands came through the Sweet House, attracting more women to try a trial Club membership.

Things were looking up. Then the computer system crashed. The Club manager retired. The new management software was too complicated for staff to use. The dining room manager quit. The treasurer quit. In the new year, the general manager quit.

“And then came the bad news,” said Woods.

WCC’s reserve funds were almost gone. The accountants gave the Club six months until bankruptcy.

“We had choices,” said Woods. “Do nothing and let the Club die, stay in the House but close the dining room, or move to a different location.” Woods paused. “We chose to leave.”

On April 28, 2018, the WCC left their home of 91 years.

But…guess what?

“We are alive and well,” said Woods.

The WCC overcame decades of challenges and found new locations to meet and new opportunities for giving. Club members continued to create a legacy of compassion and charity through countless donations, by creating the Impact Award for juniors at Union High School, and creating a legacy that is embodied in the Sweet House.

“But that’s merely our physical legacy,” said Woods. “Our living legacy is our members. Many of our members throughout our history have been active in nearly every influential organization in the city.

We are women of influence, of impact, separately and together. And have been for 100 years.”

Woods continued, “Together, we find the support, inspiration, enrichment and friendship that tie us all together. Our social and educational programs, classes, and the opportunities to build relationships continue to offer the women of Grand Rapids a place to belong, to give back to the community.

“That is the history of the Women’s City Club.”

About the WCC historians

Carol Dodge worked in the insurance industry for over 35 years, is one of the founding members of the Sweet House Foundation, was WCC president from 2005-2007, and is a Club historian.

Marcie Woods was a professional educator who taught at several area schools, is editor-in-chief of the WCC bulletin, and also serves as a Club historian.

Suspect in custody following bank robbery at Wyoming Fifth Third Bank

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Hard News, Kent County, Newscast, Our Cities, West Michigan, , , ,
(Supplied)



By Wyoming Police Department


One person is in custody following a bank robbery that occurred at the Fifth Third Bank at 2828 Michael Ave SW.

At approximately 9 a.m. on March 22, officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the Fifth Third Bank on Michael Avenue on the report of a bank robbery that just occurred.

A suspect entered the business and approached a teller. The suspect demanded money from the teller and implied he had a weapon. An undisclosed amount of cash was obtained by the suspect who then left the bank. As officers were searching the area for the suspect, an officer located a person matching the suspect description on 28th Street SW, between Buchanan Avenue SW and South Division Avenue. The suspect, a 65-year-old male, was taken into custody without incident and lodged at the Kent County Jail. The suspect’s identity is not being released pending arraignment.

In coordination with the FBI, Wyoming Police Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.

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

Annual Easter Egg Scramble to take place at Lamar Park on March 30

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , ,
The sixth annual JCI South Kent Easter Egg Scramble will take place on the soccer fields of Lamar Park (Courtesy, JCI South Kent)



By JCI South Kent


(Courtesy, JCI South Kent)

JCI South Kent will host the annual Easter Egg Scramble at Lamar Park (2561 Porter St. SW, Wyoming) on March 30.

JCI South Kent is excited to bring this event back for its sixth year. The Easter Bunny will be in attendance and ready for pictures.

To ensure each child comes away with a full Easter basket, more than 10,000 Easter eggs have been readied for the event.

This event will be held on the park soccer fields and is open to children ages 2-11. Registration opens at 10 a.m. and the event begins at 11 a.m.

Kids will need to bring a basket to hold their treats.

NOTE: Volunteers and community sponsors are needed! Email jcisouthkent@gmail.com for more information.


(Courtesy, JCI South Kent)

Personal and leadership development

JCI South Kent is a nonprofit organization dedicated to personal and leadership development through community service for people ages 18 to 40. The organization provides residents of Kentwood, Wyoming and surrounding areas opportunities to grow personally and professionally through volunteer community service.

To find out more information about membership, monthly meetings, projects and volunteer opportunities, visit jcisouthkent.com.

(Courtesy, JCI South Kent)

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held March 25

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Kent County, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , ,


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 March Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, March 25 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

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

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



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


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

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

Resources

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

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