Tag Archives: City of Wyoming

The summer favorite, Concerts in the Park, returns June 4

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By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

The music returns to Lamar Park next week as the WyomingCommunity Enrichment Commission (WCEC) kicks off the 2019 Concerts in the Park series.

The free nine-week summer concert series held at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW,  features a wide variety of musical styles, interactive themes, and local food vendors. 

“Concerts in the Park is an annual tradition for the community and provides a great opportunity to enjoy the park with neighbors, family and friends,” says Rebecca Rynbrandt director of community services. “We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the free concert series.”

The 2019 season features both perennial favorites as well as some newcomers. The entire program, according to Commission Chairperson Rennee Gardner is to make the event a fun, family-friendly one. 

“One of the most exciting things about the lineup for 2019 is the incredible variety of performances that we plan to offer,” Gardner said. “Over the course of the season, we are confident that just about everyone can find something they enjoy.”

Midlife Crisis performs June 4

The series kicks off on June 4 with local favorite Midlife Crisis, a classic rock band that was formed in 2001. The six friends and experienced musicians draw musical inspiration from every decade, so expert a variety of songs from originals to the classics.

On June 11 is Brena Band. This six-member band has a wide variety of songs ranging from classic rock to smooth RnB, country to high energy dance music. Having been part of the wedding entertainment circuit, the group is known for its dance party-style.

The Brena Band performs June 11.

For all the polka lovers, Ray Watkoski & Family will take the stage on June 18. Having been playing for more than sixty years, this group is truly a family affair with sons-in-laws and even the grandchildren helping to make it an evening of polka fun.

Wrapping up the month of June is the city’s popular WiFi concert on June 25. The evening will feature two southern rock groups, Paradise Outlaw and Jared Knox along with fireworks taking place after the concert. 

Paradise Outlaw performs at the WiFi concert on June 25.

Being that the June 25 concert is the city’s Fourth of July celebration, the Concerts in the Park takes a break the week of July 4.

The local group Jack & The Spare Tires picks up the music on July 9. Known for its sixties, seventies, and eighties covers, the band describes itself as “ a few guys that love music and just like to play whether it’s for a crowd or just jam on our own.”

Nationally known bluegrass group Nu-Blu performs on July 16.

On July 16 the national group Nu-Blu comes to the Lamar Park stage. Hailing from North Carolina, Nu-Blue has brought its unique sound of bluegrass music to the world. Earlier this year, the group was named as the permanent host of the television series “Bluegrass Ridge” and in 2018 became members of the Country Music Association.

On July 23 West Michigan country group Boardman Brown takes the stage with classic rock group Daddyz Breakdown following on July 30.

On July 23 Boardman Brown performs.

Wrapping up the Concerts in the Park series is the Shadows of the Night on Aug. 6. The group will pay tribute to the women of rock. This concert also will be part of the National Night Out event set for Aug. 6 as well. 

Performances begin at 7 p.m. and are located at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. For further details and up-to-date information, visit www.wyomingcec.org or www.facebook.com/wyomingcec.

Kentwood Memorial Day parade in the morning, Wyoming hosts evening program

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , ,
Wyoming residents gather for the city’s Memorial Day service. (supplied)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

The official start of summer comes this weekend as many have a three-day one due to Memorial Day being on Monday, May 27.

Memorial Day, usually observed on the last Monday in May, originally only honored those who were lost during the fighting of the Civil War. It has evolved over the years to include all American military personal who died in any of the wars. Communities throughout the country mark the event with parades and special ceremonies, which is what both the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood will be doing on Monday, May 27.

Wreaths are laid during the Kentwood Memorial Day ceremony. (Supplied)

Kentwood

In Kentwood, the Amvets Post and the American Legion D.W. Cassard Post 208 have shared the responsibilities of hosting the annual parade and service with one group hosting it one year and the other hosting it the next. For 2019, the Amvets Post has organized the event.

The parade is set for 10 a.m. Monday, May 27. It kicks off from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), near the corner of 48th Street and Eastern Avenue. From there, it will head west down 48th Street to Kentwood’s Veteran’s Memorial Park located in front of the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. At the park, there will be a ceremony including the laying of five wreaths, one for each of the branches of the military service: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The service will last about an hour. The Kentwood Memorial Day celebration will air at 12:30 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. on WKTV Channel 25.

Wyoming

The City of Wyoming will host its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 27 at Veterans Memorial Garden, 2380 DeHoop SW.

The ceremony will feature guest speaker Diane Cimochowski who retired after a career of service from the United States Navy in 1996. Cimochowski is a highly decorated photographer’s mate first class who earned many awards during her career including the Navy achievement medal, national defense bronze star and overseas bronze star. 

“The City of Wyoming is honored to recognize those who have served and those who continue to serve our country in the armed forces in order to protect our freedoms,” said City of Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll, who will serve as host to the event. “The Memorial Day Ceremony is a tribute to that service and protection and we are grateful to continue the tradition of this ceremony in our very own Veterans Memorial Garden.”

The ceremony will feature the Lee High School band led by Kevin Gabrielse and the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Honor Guard who will fire a rifle volley salute. WKTV will air the Wyoming Memorial Day ceremony at 8:30 p.m.

SpartanNash ‘keeps it real’ in unveiling new Family Fare redesign

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  • The Japanese ice cream, mocha, is one of many new items available at Family Fare.
  • Grab-to-go meals and ready-made starters are now available at the Family Fare stores.
  • The new Thrill on the Grill.
  • A selection of specialty cookies are on displayed next to the donuts.
  • The Fresh Divide offers a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, cut while you wait.
  • City officials and SpartanNash employees get ready to cut the ribbon.
  • The ribbon is cut.
  • The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps. performed the flag raising ceremony.
  • The Wyoming police and fire received a special thank you from Family Fare.
  • Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bob O’Callaghan presents a plaque to SpartanNash CEO Dave Staples.
  • All kinds of ‘characters’ roamed the Family Fare during the May 18 open house.
  • Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll with (left) SpartanNash CEO Dave Staples and (far right) Burlingame store manager Jake Brower.
  • The new Family Fare branding is featured in the store.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

It was quite the affair at the Wyoming Family Fare grocery store at 2900 Burlingame Ave. SW this past Saturday.

SpartanNash representatives, City of Wyoming officials, and community members celebrated the grand reopening of 18 Family Fare stores in the SpartanNash chain. The stores underwent about $18.3 million of renovations all designed to meet the changing needs of the community and the Family Fare customers.

“It is no surprise to me that they decided to have this ribbon cutting ceremony in the City of Wyoming,” said Mayor Jack Poll, who recently retired from Family Fare after serving as a pharmacist for 15 years. “Where else would you have it?

“We are very pleased to have two stores that are very successful in the city of Wyoming,” Poll said. “They are beautiful stores There are a lot of new things going on and we are really excited to have them here. We look forward to much success here with SpartanNash as they lead in the industry to make this a better place to work and live.”

The redesigned featured the new branding, “keeping it real,” which is centered around creating an exceptional customer experience based. The branding focuses on five promises:

Local: A commitment to supporting local farms, produce, businesses and the community. The store features local products in every aisle along with a commitment of about 60,000 volunteering hours each year by SpartanNash employees within the community.

With value beyond price: A commitment on low prices on items and conveniences such as Thrill on the Grill and lobster mac-and-cheese grab-and-go meals, ready-made sides and starters, plus Fast Lane shopping.

With affordable wellness: A commitment to offer affordable choices that are healthier on a number of items from medications to gluten-free, plant-based proteins, or natural and organic products.

SpartanNash CEO Dave Staples talks to the crowd during the ribbon cutting ceremony on May 18. (WKTV)

Socially smart: A commitment to social and environmental consciousness that include the stores being energy efficient along with supporting a variety of programs and reducing ingredients lists on the store’s products.

Fun and indulgent: This includes the Fresh Divide, the expert Family Fare pit masters, gourmet popcorn, and an in-store taquerias featuring a full-service taco and burrito bars along with fresh-made tortillas and tamales.

“This allows us to feature popular items such as the Japanese ice cream wrapped in sticky rice (also known as Mochi),” said SpartanNash CEO Dave Staples as he talked about all the options available through the redesign to a pack crowd at the Family Fare

In fact, the Burlingame store includes many of the new features of the redesigned such as the Fresh Divide and Thrill on the Grill along wth a Starbucks cafe upon entering. The enter store has gone through an intense remodel, making the store a shopping experience.

“We want people to have an experience when they come here,” said SpartanNash Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communication Meredith Gremel. “We want them to really enjoy coming to a Family Fare.”

With the desire to create that shopping experience, SpartanNash officials decided to focus on the Burlingame location, closing the one at Rogers Plaza, according to Gremel.

Other Family Fare stores that have been remodeled include the ones in Georgetown Township, Hudsonville, Byron Center, Grandville, Holland, Kentwood, Zeeland, and Grand Rapids.

Gas line repair on 54th Street, be prepared for traffic back ups

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Work on 54th Street is causing some delays.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

If your travel plans include heading down 54th Street between Clyde Park and Division Avenue you might want to consider an alternate route for the next week or so.

According to Wyoming City officials, the work currently taking place along 54th Street is a gas line reconstruction. It is not a city project.

“Unfortunately, it is located under the eastbound lanes which will require them to take out both lanes of eastbound traffic,” said Russ Henckel, the city’s assistant director of public works/engineer.

The work is expected to take about a week, Henckel said.

This fall, the city will begin its work on 54th Street with plans to widen and add a lane to the westbound lane from about the Home Depot to U.S. 131 interchange. That work is expected to go through the July MDOT biding process and start in August.

The 54th Street bridge over U.S. 131 also will be widen as well along the north side to accommodate the additional lane, Henckel said. When that phase of the project will be started depends on the fabrication of the pillars and other requirements.

In 2020, the city will widen the eastbound lanes which is slated to include a direct expressway entrance into Meijer. Henckel said the city is working on the approvals necessary for that entrance.

For a list of upcoming road construction, projects, visit Public Works page on the City of Wyoming’s website, wyomingmi.gov.

Residents offer insights into how Wyoming should ‘reimagined’ itself in next master plan

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City of Wyoming residents ponder the question “Wyoming would be better if…” at the May 2 master plan workshop.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Affordable housing. Connectability. Site 36. Sustainability. Green Space. Speed limits. West 28th Street. Division Avenue. Rogers Plaza.

These were just some of the many topics that Wyoming residents discussed during the first public workshop for the City of Wyoming’s master plan process, called Wyoming [re]Imagined. The workshop took place May 2 at the community room of the KDL Wyoming branch.

“I am really pleased with the turnout,” said Nicole Hofert, principal planner for the City of Wyoming. “I am really pleased that we pulled residents from all over the city.”

Share your thoughts about what areas in the City of Wyoming you would like to see preserved or improved at wyomingreimaged.com.


The purpose of the workshop, according to Brandon Nolin, of Houseal Lavigne Associates, the consulting firm that is working with the city on the master plan, was to gather information about how residents see their community. What are the things residents want to preserve and what are the items they would like to see change?, Nolin said.

The full room included residents, business owners, and community leaders. Those who attended the workshop were asked four questions.

Wyoming Mayor Pro Tem Sam Bolt talks to City Planner Nicole Hofert during the May 2 master plan workshop.

What do you like about Wyoming?

Residents indicated they enjoyed a number of city amenities such as the senior center, library, and parks. They liked that the city is close to everything such as Grand Rapids and offers convenient transportation options. They also liked that businesses were friendly and that the government offices were approachable and did a good job, and that overall, the city was open to diversity. Also top on the list was affordable housing.

Wyoming would be better if….

As to what Wyoming could improve on was affordable housing, connecting neighbors and neighborhoods with bike paths and wider sidewalks. It could have a viable downtown area, more public spaces and needs engaging activities that are not necessarily retail-related but are more social. Also trails and bike routes that allow for alternative transportation to stores and other businesses.

The single biggest issue facing Wyoming is…

Affordable housing also topped this list along with employment and lack of good paying jobs. Site 36, a friendly downtown area, sustainable/green space, speed limits/traffic congestion, walkable communities, bike trails, and the increase in crime were discussed as well.

If I could do one thing to improve Wyoming, I would …

As to the one thing to improve many residents agreed it was Site 36. The former GM site has left a void in the city, according to several residents, with the 92-acre parcel having been vacant since 2009 when the plant was closed. The void is the lost of job opportunities for residents, said Nolin who summed up the residents feelings. Residents also felt city officials needed to think outside of the box when it comes to the site, considering such possibilities as a convention center.

Other areas that residents felt needed improvement were Rogers Plaza, Division Avenue, and affordable housing.

Get interactive by visiting wyomingreimaged.com and creating your own map of the city. There you can highlight areas you feel need to be featured in the city’s new master plan.


Hofert said the comments that residents made at the May 2 workshop reflected what many have said at various events and one-on-ones the planners and city staff have hosted. Planners and staff will continue to engage and collect input from residents for the next summer months, Hofert said. adding that she has ” a pretty packed schedule for the summer.” City staff plans to be at a number of city events such as the summer concerts series at Lamar Park, Miranda’s Park Party, and Metro Cruise to collect input from residents, she said.

Nolin said the Wyoming [re]Imagined is just in the beginning process where staff and planners are collecting information. This process takes about three months. In the fall, the team will comeback to the city with a snapshot of the community. From there, the team will then begin to draft a master plan that the city and residents will have a chance to vet before any master plan is voted on and approved, Nolin said.

Along with the community meetings, residents, business owners, and community leaders can also share their thoughts and ideas on a website dedicated to the master plan project, wyomingreimagined.com. Click on the “Get Involved” tab for the questionnaires and an interactive map that allows you to mark what you feel is important in the city and areas you would like to see improved.

A look at the interactive map function on the wyomingreimaged.com website.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood weekend news you need to know

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By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“The fact is I don’t drive just to get from A to B. I enjoy feeling the car’s reactions, becoming a part of it. ”
 
                        ―  Enzo Ferrari, founder of Ferrari 
                           and an Italian motor racing driver

WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Metro Cruise Dust-Off is Saturday, May 4

Time to Star Those Engines

It’s the first weekend in May which means the 6th annual Metro Cruise Dust-Off is finally here! The annual start to the summer car shows, the event takes place Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Moose Lodge, 2630 Burlingame Ave. SW. Contestants for the annual Miss Metro Cruise will be on hand as well. Those interested in participating in Miss Metro Cruise have until noon Saturday, May 4. For more information on the Dust-Off or the Miss Metro Cruise contest, visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.

City of Kentwood will have its Community Clean-Up Saturday, May 4. (WKTV)

Kentwood’s Time to Purge

Kentwood residents wanting to “spring clean” their homes and yards may bring general debris, gently used items for donation, household hazardous materials and electronic devices to the Kentwood Recycling Center, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE. The hours are  8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Salvation Army will be on hand to accept gently used items for donations and the Kent County Department of Public Works will accept household hazardous waste items. Comprenew will also be present to recycle electronic waste, such as mobile telephones, computers and fax machines. For more information, visit kentwood.us.


Kentwood and Kelloggsville voters head to the polls on Tuesday.

Your Vote Counts

On Tuesday, May 7, both the Kentwood Public Schools and the Kelloggsville Public Schools will be seeking renewals for operating millages. Kentwood Public School voters are being asked to renew the current 10-year operating millage, an assessment of 18 mills on non-homestead properties. The millage would be renewed through 2029. Kelloggsville voters are being asked to renew its current operating millage, an assessment of 17 mills on non-homestead properties and to increase that millage by .5 or 50 cents per $1,000 taxable valuation. The millage proposal is for two years. With the change in election laws, residents can not request an absentee ballot with no reason. See you local clerk’s office for more information.



Fun fact:

83,700,000 cubic feet

That is how much snow on average that the Gerald R. Ford International Airport removes during the winter. That is enough to fill 20,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools! The Ford Airport was recently recognized for outstanding efforts in battling the elements by the  International Aviation Snow Symposium. (Source.)

Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming news you ought to know

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By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it.”
 
                        ― Kalpana Chawla, an astronaut, engineer,
              and the first woman of Indian descent to go into space

Front row, scholarship recipients (from the left) : Astrid Melissa Lopez Oroxom from Kelloggsvile High School; Luz Parada-Martinez from Godwin Heights High School; Kathryn Abbott from East Kentwood High School; and Crystal Gonzalez-Pineda from Lee High School. Back row, from left: Chamber Education Committee Chair Kathey Batey; Chamber CEO and President Bob O’Callaghan, and Chamber Foundation Director Danna Mathiesen. (WKTV)

Following Their Dreams

Four students from Lee High School, East Kentwood High School, Godwin Heights High School, and Kelloggsville High School were the scholarship recipients for the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. The students received lots advice from those attending a special luncheon such as connect, network, and have an open mind. The students also offered advice to the class of 2020, such as make sure to fill out those scholarship forms. For more, click here.

The City of Wyoming will be bring a new master plan process on Thursday with a public workshop on Thursday at the KDL Wyoming Branch. (WKTV)

Getting [re]Imagined

The City of Wyoming announced last week its plans to develop a new master plan for the city. The process, called Wyoming [re]Imagined will start with a public workshop set for Thursday, May 2 at the KDL Wyoming branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW. The workshop will be from 6-8 p.m. For more information, click here.


City of Kentwood Veterans Park, at 331 48th St. SE, will be the location of improvements this year. (WKTV)

Pardon Our Dust

The City of Kentwood has started several park improvements at Veterans Memorial Park, 355 48th St. SE; and Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Park Dr. SE. The improvements will bring a new splash pad and playground to Veterans Memorial Park, a covered entry to the Kentwood Activities Center and a new multi-use facility at Old Farm Park. “We are looking forward to opening the new and improved facilities in the fall and appreciate your patience as we make our facilities more accessible, functional and fun,” said Val Romeo, Parks and Recreation director. For more information, click here.



Fun fact:

Hot and Cold

If you think Hell, Michigan is the warmest city in our state, think again. It is actually Benton Harbor, which has an average high of 60 degrees. The coldest will probably come as no surprise as it is Ironwood, located in the Upper Peninsula, on the border of Wisconsin. It has an average low of 30 below. (Source.)

Wyoming ‘reimagines’ itself as it begins master plan process

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The City of Wyoming is starting the process for a new master place, called Wyoming [re]Imagined.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

There is an undercurrent of excitement building in the City of Wyoming as new developments get underway within the city.

With that in mind, the city has announced that it has formerly launched a new master plan process, called Wyoming [re]Imagined.

“The City of Wyoming is growing and changing at an accelerated rate, and it’s important that we take the time to develop an updated plan,” said City Planner Nicole Hofert. “Wyoming [re]Imagined will provide the city with a new land use plan, updated housing studies, goals for economic development, and a framework to guide strategic investments over the next 20 years.”

And the city is going to start this process next week with a community workshop set for Thursday, May 2, at the KDL Wyoming Branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW. The workshop will be from 6 – 8 p.m. 

The first public workshop on the new master plan will be at the KDL Wyoming Branch on May 2 starting at 6 p.m.

Residents, visitors, business owners, and anyone with an interest in the City of Wyoming may attend the workshop. At the event, participants will learn about the process as well as provide insight on local concerns that the master plan should address. According to Assistant City Manager Megan Sall, community leaders believe that resident feedback is critical as they identify important issues, opportunities and projects for the future. 

The city’s current master plan is about 13 years old and was revised about seven years ago in 2012. Since the revision, the city has implemented the first phase of its 28 West project, which included the redevelopment of the Wyoming Village Mall, now called 28 West Place. This project also has brought in a new apartment development.

City leaders and the council approved a new form-based code for the Division Avenue and 28th Street corridors. There also has been several housing developments underway, including the Granger Group’s The Reserve, which broke ground last fall and development continues at The Metro Health Village.

Sall said the city does have some green space. A vision for the city’s future growth and development will help in planning how that green space is used, she said.

“My fellow council members and I are proud to serve this community, and we are excited for what the future holds,” Mayor Jack Poll said. “The master plan will provide a platform to integrate plans from across the City and region, and it will unite us under a common vision and set of goals. It is my sincere hope that all Wyoming residents will lend their voices to this important work.”

The Wyoming City Council contracted with planning firm House Lavigne Associates who will carry out the work on the master plan with city staff.

In addition to the community workshop on May 2, the public engagement process includes the following:

·       Two additional community workshops

·       Pop-up meetings at locations across Wyoming

·       Student/youth workshops

·       Focus groups

·       Interactive website

·       Surveys, including innovative digital mapping tools


For more information visit www.wyomingreimagined.com.

Several new businesses join the Kentwood, Wyoming communities

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Bob O’Callaghan, Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce CEO and president, joins the Fresenius Kidney Care staff in opening the Fresenius Kidney Care Clyde Park South. (WKACC)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

As the weather warms up, there has been a lot of activity with in the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming as businesses open new locations, joining the Wyoming and Kentwood communities.

In March,  the Fresenius Kidney Care, the dialysis division of Fresenius Medical Care North America, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of its new clinic at 5311 Clyde Park Ave. SW in Wyoming.

The clinic, which can treat a maximum of 96 patients a week, enables Fresenius Kidney Care’s local team of expert medical professionals to better serve the Kent County area’s growing dialysis community. In Michigan, more than 14,600 people living with end stage renal disease are on dialysis.

The Fresenius Kidney Care Clyde Park South strives to empower people to thrive on and live the healthiest, fullest way possible with kidney disease treatments that fit in with life. The facility offers patient services and the latest dialysis treatment options including in-center dialysis and has Fresenius Rx renal-trained pharmacists who can help dialysis patients manage their medications.

To learn more about Fresenius Kidney Care visit its website, freseniuskidneycare.com or call 1-888-373-1470.

On April 11, the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the rebranding of Azpira Place of Breton at 4352 Breton Rd. SE. (WKACC)

On April 11, the chamber marked the rebranding of the Azpira Place of Breton (formerly Elmcroft of Kentwood), located at 4352 Breton Rd. SE., Kentwood. The 54,387-square-foot facility offers both an assisted living portion as well as the “A Knew Day” memory support neighborhood. The facility is part of the Pathway to Living community which owns or managers 29 communities comprising about 2,800 units in Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. 

For more about Azpira Place of Breton, visit the website or call 616-499-2357.

On April 18, the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for the new U.S. Army Recruiting Office now on 28th Street. (WKACC)

On April 18, the chamber helped celebrate the new location of the Wyoming Army Recruiting Center, which moved from Clyde Park Avenue to 1274 28th St. in the 28 West Place (formerly Wyoming Village Mall). Focusing on land operations, the U.S. Army organizes, trains, and equips active duty and Reserve forces to preserve the peace, security, and defense of the United States.

For more on the U.S. Army, visit its website, goarmy.com,or call 616-531-3700.

Time to purge Wyoming as city hosts fourth annual community clean-up day

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Residents unload trash into the dumpsters during Wyoming Community Clean-Up Day. (WKTV)

By City of Wyoming

The City of Wyoming is planning a Community Cleanup Day on Saturday, April 27. The event, set to follow Earth Day earlier in the week, is designed to encourage Wyoming residents to maintain their properties and dispose of unwanted items in a responsible manner.

Residents can drop off trash, household hazardous waste and donations for the Salvation Army from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grand Rapids First Church, 2100 44th St. SW. Plummers Disposal will provide refuse hauling while Kent County will accept household hazardous waste and recyclables. 

Residents are asked to enter the parking lot through the northeast entrance off of 44th St. SW and follow the relevant signage. All residents are asked to be in line by 1:30 p.m. in order to dispose of their items.

“Last year’s cleanup day was a huge success and we were able to assist hundreds of Wyoming families,” said event organizer Dave Rupert. “Our annual cleanup day helps to beautify our neighborhoods and reduce the risk of blight throughout the community.”

Residents will have the opportunity to dispose of household hazardous waste and recycling. (WKTV)

In addition to the refuse hauling, household hazardous waste disposal and recycling, the Wyoming Public Service Center Yard Waste Drop-Off site at 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are no limits to the size of branches or shrubs accepted at the site; however residents must unload the yard waste themselves and all containers must be removed from the facility.

Proof of residency identification is required at both sites. Some items, such as mattresses and tires, will have a modest disposal fee.

For more information and a complete list of items that are acceptable, visit www.wyomingmi.gov/cleanup or call the City of Wyoming at 530-7226.

Follow the City on Twitter @WyomingCityHall and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofWyoming.

Wyoming’s Spring carnival returns to Lamar Park

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By City of Wyoming

Spring is finally here and to celebrate, Wyoming’s spring carnival is coming back again this year.

West Michigan families are invited to come out to Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St SW, and enjoy carnival rides, food, and games April 26 – May 5. The carnival will be open Monday through Thursday from 4–8:30 p.m., Friday from 2– 8:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon–8:30 p.m.

“What says family fun like a spring carnival?” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, director of community services for the City of Wyoming. “The carnival is a great opportunity for the community to come out and celebrate the change in seasons in a fun and exciting atmosphere.”

Proceeds from the carnival support City of Wyoming parks and recreation services and the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance or GWCRA. Funds raised support youth scholarships and youth and family programming through the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department. The GWCRA distributes funds to the community through their annual grant awarding process.

The carnival will include various rides, games and food options. There is sure to be fun available for all ages. 

About Wyoming Parks and Recreation

The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department is a key service area of the community services department and is committed to providing leisure and recreation opportunities by developing and maintaining green spaces, facilities, and programs to enrich the quality of life for the citizens of Wyoming and the greater metropolitan area. For more information about Parks and Recreation programs and events please contact the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department at 616-530-3164 or parks_info@wyomingmi.gov or visit our web site at: www.wyomingmi.gov.

A wooden box reveals a sticky piece of Wyoming History

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

A few years ago when Bill Branz was visiting in Colorado, he found an old wooden box with the word “Tanglefoot” printed on the side. The Wyoming Historical Commission chair quickly snapped it up. 

Tanglefoot is one of the most well-known flypaper manufacturers, and while some know that the company got its start in Grand Rapids, many may not realize Tanglefoot had a factory operation in Wyoming.

“Back in the early 1900s we had this little factory operation here in Wyoming Township and it was a family of four brothers who worked with their father in the late 1800s in Grand Rapids,” Branz said.

The Thum family ran a drugstore in the late 1800s. Due in part to the horse-drawn carts, flies were a big problem during that time period, with farmers to lawyers visiting the local drugstore to have flypaper, paper covered in a sweet, tacky substance, prepared. 

“The two younger brothers discovered with the chemistry that their family played with that they could make this flypaper out of some of the chemicals they were using,” Branz said. The flypaper was a hit and the family patented the product. 

Where the former Tanglefoot building was located. The building is still there. (WKTV)

“They stated up a factory operation right along the old railroad track line that ran from the Kalamazoo/Allegan area into Grand Rapids,” Branz said. “They made enough money to become what is considered wealthy and moved to California, the Pasadena area, and the youngest brother, William, became the mayor of Pasadena.”

The wooden box is now housed at the Wyoming Historical Room, located in the KDL Wyoming Branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW. 

“I thought it was an interesting story and it is just fun to have something like this in our room to show people and bring back a little story involving our local history,” Branz said of the box.

The Wyoming Historical Room is always looking for items related to the history of Wyoming. If you have something you would like to donate or if you are interested in volunteering, call 616-261-3508 or visit the Wyoming Michigan Historical Room on Facebook. 

Deadline is Feb. 28 for Wyoming’s spring soccer program

3-bottom, City of Wyoming

Deadline for the City of Wyoming Spring Youth Soccer League is fast approaching. The registration deadline is Thursday, Feb. 28.

Those interested should register by the Thursday deadline to avoid a $5 late fee. The fee is $40 for a resident and $60 for a non-resident with $10 for additional children.

The Spring Youth Soccer League is April 9 – June 1. Practices, which are at Marquette Park, will begin April 9 or 11.

Preschool-kindergarten teems meet on Saturdays only. Every Saturday, teams practice for 30 minutes and then complete a 20-minute game. First – sixth grade players complete several weeks of practice prior to the start of games. Teams will practice once per week on Tuesday or Thursday nights and play games on Saturdays.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you need to know

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By WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

If life gives you limes, make margaritas.

Singer/Songwriter Jimmy Buffet

High Flying

Federal legislation, if passed, would increase safety and security for airport passengers and visitors outside of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened areas. (WKTV.K.D. Norris)

While the Polar Vortex locked down most of Michigan, it certainly did not stop the flights from entering and leaving the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Airport officials announced that the airport once again had record numbers for the month of January, proving what we all ready knew: that the staff is amazing when it comes to keeping the pathways clear and planes on time. For more, click here.

Life on the Farm

Sometimes the best stories are the stories about life. We are honored that Donna Troost was willing to share her story during a recent WKTV VOICES. Born in Wyoming, Troost had wanted to be a nurse. Discover how an engagement ring and two calves changed her life by clicking here.

Super Trouper

By day, she is the communications manager for the Kent County Road Commission. By night, she is a “dancing queen”… at least until March 17. That is because Maura Lamoreaux is in the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre production of “Mamma Mia!” which opens on Friday and runs through March 17. For more about this “super trouper,” click here.

Fun fact:

Bottoms Up!

That’s because it is National Margarita Day on Friday, Feb. 22 (hence our quote for today). Known to be the most common tequila-based cocktail to be served in the United States, there are several myths as to how the margarita came to be. It is known that a 1953 “Esquire” article included it as the drink of the month and in 1977, Jimmy Buffet’s song “Margaritaville” further popularized the drink. Speaking of Jimmy Buffet, his “Escape to Margaritaville” is part of the 2019-2020 line up for the Broadway Grand Rapids, with the season also including the outrageously popular “Hamilton.”

Christmas is over, so what do you do with that tree?

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Now that Christmas is over, the age old question of “What shall we do with the tree?” is on the minds of those who had a real tree.

Well, if you are are resident of the City of Wyoming, there is always the drop-off site at 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW. The drop-off site, which is open year round, will have special hours this Saturday, Jan. 5, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wyoming city residents may bring their Christmas trees and other yard waste to the site for free. Residents must register with an ID each time they use the site. Winter hours for the drop-off site Monday – Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. December through March.

For more information, visit the Wyoming City Department of Public Works website.

If you are a resident of the City of Kentwood, the city’s tree recycling site is now open through Jan. 31. Residents can drop off their trees at the city’s Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday.

Remember, before bringing tree to either site, make sure that all decorations, wires, and lights have been removed.

Wyoming Christmas Greetings

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WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

At the Wyomig Gives Back event held on Dec. 7, several city officials and community members stopped by the WKTV booth to record a personal Christmas Greeting. The greetings have been airing on WKTV. Here is the complete line up:

Mayor Jack Poll


City Manager Curtis Holt


Brian Bennett
Deputy Director of Wyoming’s Fire Services


Marcy Schaller’s Daughter
Wyoming Department of Public Safety


Krashawn Martin
Special Events and Marketing Planner, City of  Wyoming


Emily VandeGriend and family
Employee, City of Wyoming


Jim Ward
Wyoming Tree Commission


Bob O’Callaghan
President/CEO, Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce


Wyoming High School Jazz Band


Godwin Heights High School Choir


Lillian VanderVeen


Jesus


Lizzy and Natalie


Yelie


Malcom


Dolly


LaMar


Aaliyah


Tyrian


Serida


Shawn and Friends


Dinorah


Katherine and Family


Franchely


Esther and Family


Abraham Family


Michelle and Family


Eva Aguirre Cooper
Community Affairs, WOOD-TV8

Wyoming police offer tips on avoiding drowsy driving during the holidays

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At approximately 2:45 am on Dec. 20, 2018, an officer from the Wyoming Dept. of Public Safety was traveling southbound on US 131, near 44th St SW, when he observed a wrong way driver going northbound in the southbound lanes. The officer immediately activated his emergency lights and siren to warn other drivers of the possible impending danger and pulled alongside of the wrong way vehicle, which was traveling at approximately 50-60 mph. The officer noticed that the driver appeared to be sleeping and used his cruiser to push the car to a stop. This quick thinking action almost certainly prevented a head-on collision which could have injured or killed someone.

It does not appear that alcohol or drugs were a factor in this incident and there were no injuries to the driver or officer. The driver of the vehicle stated he had been awake for more than 40 hours and was sleep deprived.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety would like to take this opportunity to remind drivers of the dangers associated with “drowsy driving” or “fatigued driving.” The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) estimates that approximately 90,000 vehicle crashes in 2015 were caused by drowsy drivers in the United States. Additionally, there were 795 traffic fatalities in 2017 due to drowsy driving. Below are some tips from the NHTSA on how to avoid driving drowsy:

How To Avoid Driving Drowsy

1. Getting adequate sleep on a daily basis is the only true way to protect yourself against the risks of driving when you’re drowsy. Experts urge consumers to make it a priority to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. For more information on healthy sleep, see Healthy Sleep At A Glance (PDF, 1.81 MB) at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website.

2. Before the start of a long family car trip, get a good night’s sleep, or you could put your entire family and others at risk.

3. Many teens do not get enough sleep at a stage in life when their biological need for sleep increases, which makes them vulnerable to the risk of drowsy-driving crashes, especially on longer trips. Advise your teens to delay driving until they’re well-rested.

4. Avoid drinking any alcohol before driving. Consumption of alcohol interacts with sleepiness to increase drowsiness and impairment. 

5. Always check your prescription and over-the-counter medication labels to see if drowsiness could result from their use. 

6. If you take medications that could cause drowsiness as a side effect, use public transportation when possible. 

7. If you drive, avoid driving during the peak sleepiness periods (midnight – 6 a.m. and late afternoon). If you must drive during the peak sleepiness periods, stay vigilant for signs of drowsiness, such as crossing over roadway lines or hitting a rumble strip, especially if you’re driving alone.

Short-term Interventions

1. Drinking coffee or energy drinks alone is not always enough. They might help you feel more alert, but the effects last only a short time, and you might not be as alert as you think you are. If you drink coffee and are seriously sleep-deprived, you still may have “micro sleeps” or brief losses of consciousness that can last for four or five seconds. This means that at 55 miles per hour, you’ve traveled more than 100 yards down the road while asleep. That’s plenty of time to cause a crash. 

2. If you start to get sleepy while you’re driving, drink one to two cups of coffee and pull over for a short 20-minute nap in a safe place, such as a lighted, designated rest stop. This has been shown to increase alertness in scientific studies, but only for short time periods. 

Wyoming Fire Department receives $138,573 FEMA grant

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The Wyoming Fire Department received a grant that will go toward purchasing new rescue equipment.

The City of Wyoming will be able to purchase new emergency equipment – thanks to a $138,573 grant awarded to its Department of Public Safety – Fire Division.

The City has received an Assistance to Firefighter Grant through the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Association. The grant will be used by the department to purchase emergency equipment to aid with automobile extrications, hazardous material incidents, rope, water, ice and trench rescues, and medical and technical rescue incidents.  

City of Wyoming firefighters spend nearly 5,000 hours in training each year, with a large portion of that time focused on fire operations and technical rescue. The new equipment, which was carefully selected to serve multiple purposes, will allow them to grow their skills and further prepare for a variety of rescue situations that may arise in the community. 

“The safety and well-being of our residents is the focal point for everything we do,” said Deputy Fire Chief Dennis Van Tassell. “This new rescue equipment will enhance our current capabilities and allow us to demonstrate additional leadership related to a wide variety of emergency incidents and operations.

“We’re grateful for FEMA’s confidence in our department – both our skills and abilities, and the manner in which we steward our resources.”

About the Wyoming Department of Public Safety – Fire Bureau: The Wyoming Department of Public Safety – Fire Bureau is a citizen-focused provider of fire protection, emergency medical and rescue services. First established in 1968, the Department now serves more than 75,000 residents and covers approximately 27 square miles. From fire protection to EMS, inspections, training and more, each section of the Fire Bureau plays an important role in ensuring the safety of the citizens of Wyoming. For more information, please visit www.wyomingmi.gov.

Wyoming Gives Back in a big way

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  • Area residents had fun with the Christmas greetings at the WKTV booth.
  • Council members Rob Postema, Marissa Postler, and Dan Burrill
  • Mayor Jack Poll makes a few announcements before the event starts.
  • Mayor Jack Poll and WOOD TV 8’s Eva Agurrie Cooper
  • The boys and girls choir from San Juan Diego Academy
  • Many area businesses were sponsors of the Wyoming Gives Back event
  • Area businesses had booths at the Wyoming Gives Back event showing services and products.
  • SuperMercado Mexico showcased some of the products they offer at their store.
  • Several area businesses were at the Thursday night event.
  • The big goal of the evening was to fill that truck with toys.
  • Wyoming residents gave back with the truck overflowing.
  • Officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety were at the event.
  • It got to the point were the toys would not fit in the truck as it was so full.
  • Some Christmas greeting fun at the WKTV booth.
  • Toys were everywhere at the Wyoming Gives Back.
  • A big part of the night were the raffle prizes donated by area businesses.
  • Residents who donated were able to get a raffle ticket for prizes.
  • The Rogers Plaza Mall was packed for the Wyoming Gives Back event on Dec. 6.
  • A raffle winner receives his prize while others visit the booths of local businesses.
  • The crowd waits for the next group to perform.
  • Mayor Jack Poll announces the next raffle prize winner.
  • The choir from Godwin Heights High School await to go on to perform.
  • The Wyoming Fire Department members were also on hand for the event.
  • The choir from Godwin Heights performs.
  • The jazz band from the Wyoming High School performs.
  • The jazz band from the Wyoming High School wows the Wyoming Gives Back crowd.
  • Area residents fill the truck at the Wyoming Gives Back.
  • One full truck at the Wyoming Gives Back.
  • A bike awaiting to board the truck at the Wyoming Gives Back.

Thursday, Dec. 6, residents came out in full force to help those in need at Wyoming Gives Back.

 

By the end of the night, the Wyoming Department of Public Works truck was overflowing with gifts from residents for the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree. Residents were able to bring in a gift and for every gift donated, received a raffle ticket for prizes. The prizes were donated by area businesses. 

 

Many local business had booths sharing information about services and products they provided. Performances featured the choir from the San Juan Diego Academy, the jazz band from the Wyoming High School, and the choir from Godwin Heights High School. The Salvation Army was handing out hot chocolate and cookies and several area businesses had candy and other items for those who attended.

 

Organizers said they were pleased with the success of the event. This was the eighth annual Wyoming Gives Back. Mayor Jack Poll noted the city decided several years ago to move its annual holiday event indoors and to focus on the spirit of the season. He said the event has been well received every year with residents and staff looking for to it.


Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood weekend news you want to know

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WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Quote of the Day

"Sing, sing a song,
Make it simple to last your whole life long
Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear,
Just sing, sing a song..."
        - "Sing" by Joe Raposo, written for "Sesame Street" in 1971

 

The airport is alive with music

 

Several Wyoming and Kentwood high school choirs will be performing at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s Holiday Music Festival, which is Dec. 3 – 7. Some of the groups scheduled are Potters House, Legacy Christian, South Christian, Wyoming High School, Lee High School, and East Kentwood High School. Performances are daily  from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. andJe are free.

 

And the winner is…

 

Jennifer Lewis and Brian Jirous were declared the newest members of the Wyoming Board of Education this week. Both ran in the Nov. 6 election. Jirous was the only candidate who filed for one of the two open seats on the board. Lewis was one of two write-in candidates. It took a couple of weeks for the write-ins to be hand counted, according to school officials. The two will be sworn in at the Wyoming Board of Education meeting set for Jan. 14 at 6 p.m.

 

Santa is coming to town

 

While it is still a week yet until Kentwood hosts its annual tree lighting and parade, set for Dec. 7, and the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Santa Parade, Dec. 8, you can get your celebrating started at Byron Center’s community festivities this Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade portion has been cancelled due to the weather but  the chili dinner and holiday concert at Pathway Church, 8350 Byron Center Ave. SW, is still taking place.

 

Fun Fact:

Light It Up

Ever wonder how many lights you can fit on a Christmas tree? Well a group in Belgium did, managing to get 194,672 lights on a real tree on Dec. 10, 2010. Seven years later, Universal Studios Japan was not about to be out done, so they managed to place 570,546 lights on an artificial tree. You have to admit, that is a lot of lights. (Source)

Chamber hosts annual Santa Parade along Division Avenue Dec. 8

Citizen Journalism, , , ,

Five area high school bands will be performing at this year’s Santa Parade.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Santa is coming to town. How do we know? Because the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, along with the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, is hosting the 12th annual Santa Parade Saturday, Dec. 8, along Division Avenue.

 

The parade, which starts at 10 a.m. and lasts about 45 minutes, will feature more than 50 participants including five school bands. Participants will travel down South Division from 33rd Street to Murray Avenue. 

 

Chamber President and CEO Bob O’Callaghan said the Santa Parade provides an opportunity for many residents to attend a parade who may not get the opportunity to attend the big parade in downtown Grand Rapids. Another key element to the event is free photos with Santa, which takes place after the parade at Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 4157 S. Division Ave. Parade-goers and residents are encouraged to bring their children over to the restaurant along with cameras for free pictures with Santa.

 

Santa is scheduled to make his arrival at the annual Santa Parade hosted by the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.

“It is part of the Community Service we offer at the Chamber,” O’Callaghan said.

 

In the parade will be police vehicles and fire trucks from both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming. There also will be floats and vehicles from several of the parade sponsors such as The Rapids, Steelcase, Conumsers Energy, Diversified Protection, JX Peterbilt, Marge’s Donut Den, Supermercado Mexico, Two Men and A Truck, Liberty Tax Service, Godwin Plumbing, Celebration Cinema, and Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille. Also five local high school bands are set to perform as well.

 

This year the Chamber will be hosting a Float Judging Contest selecting the three best decorated floats with first place being a $1,500 office chair from Steelcase.

 

If you miss or can not make the parade, WKTV will be broadcasting the entire event on Comcast channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 at 12:30 p.m. and then again at 7 p.m. that day. It will re-air the program throughout the month. Check wktv.org for listings.

City of Wyoming hosts annual Candy Cane Hunt Dec. 8

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Candy Cane Hunt

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Linus had his “Great Pumpkin” patch, the City of Wyoming has the Great Candy Cane Hunt, which is set for Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop SW.

 

Children ages 3-14 are invited to hunt for the many hidden candy canes outside. Then everyone will head indoors for games, a craft project, and lunch with the man of the season, Santa. Children will have to the opportunity to meet with Santa and give them their holiday wish list. 

 

Pre-registration is required for the event. It is $5 for residents, $7 for non-residents, and $2 parents and others. 

 

To register click, here. For questions call 616-530-3164 or email parks_info@wyoming.gov.

Odd/even parking starts this Saturday in Wyoming

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WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

This Saturday is Dec. 1 which also happens to be the first day of odd/even parking in the City of Wyoming.

 

The odd/even parking allows for more effective snowplowing of the streets in the winter, according to city officials.

 

From Dec. 1 to Mar. 31, residents should park on the side of the street with even numbers (addresses ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) on even number days and on the side of the street with odd numbers (Addresses ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9) on odd number days. Residents living in a cul-de-sac may only park on the street on even number days. Streets with “No Parking: signs still have no parking restrictions. There is a grace period form 7 p.m. to midnight every evening when residents can park on either side. Just make sure to move your car to the correct side by midnight.

 

According to the city’s website, Wyoming has approximately 250 miles or 600 lane-miles of streets. Streets are prioritized with major streets that have the most traffic, such as 44th and 28th streets, plowed first, then collector streets plowed second, and finally, residential streets and cut-de-sacs third.

 

Sidewalks are plowed at night after there has been two or more inches of cumulation. Residents are asked to  keep the sidewalks clear of obstructions such as garbage cans and parked vehicles.

 

More information can be found on the city’s website.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you want to know

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WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Quote of the Day

"At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished…it’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.”
                                        - Actor Denzel Washington

 

Wyoming Gives Back

 

Mayor Jack Poll near the truck during a previous Wyoming Gives Back event.

You have just over a week to purchase a toy and help the City of Wyoming stuff a truck with donations for the Salvation Army Angel Tree. The 8th annual Wyoming Gives Back is set for Thursday, Dec. 6, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Rogers Plaza Mall. Residents are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the event and every person who does, will receive raffle tickets for prizes provided by local businesses. There will be holiday cookies, music and the biggest gift-giver, Santa, is planning to attend.

 

Pretty Lights

The Christmas Lite Show returns for its 21st year at Fifth/Third Ballpark, 4500 W. River Drive, Comstock Park. Billed as West Michigan’s largest, animated, drive-through light show, the attraction maintains almost two miles of lights, tunnels, and animated displays and entertained more than 70,000 visitors last year. The popular Memory Lane Train will returns this year giving visitors a choice to drive through the display or ride the train. The display is open every day from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. through Dec. 31.

 

And in case you haven’t heard…

NASA’s Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport — or InSight for short — landed on Mars yesterday. It took seven months for InSight to travel the 300-million miles to reach the Red Planet. InSight’s two-year mission will be to study the deep interior of Mars to learn how all celestial bodies with rocky surfaces, including Earth and the Moon, formed.  You can always check out the latest on NASA on WKTV’s Channel 26 or visit  Grand Valley State University’s “Mars: Astronomy and Culture.”

 

Fun Fact:

The 48th Tuesday

Today is actually the 48th Tuesday of 2018. It is the 48th Tuesday of the 48th week. There are only 34 days left to 2018 and, despite yesterday's storm, 24 days until winter, which officially begins on the Winter Solstice, which is Dec. 21. (Source)

City of Wyoming hosts breakfast program for Veterans Day

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Veterans lay a wreath during Wyoming’s 2017 Memorial Day ceremony.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

This year, the City of Wyoming has decided to switch things up when it comes to its annual Veterans Day program, replacing its outdoor evening ceremony for a morning breakfast event.

 

Set for Nov. 12 at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW, the breakfast is free for veterans, $5 for non-veterans. Those interested in attending need to pre-register for the program by Nov. 8 through the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department by calling 616-530-3164, emailing parks_info@wyomingmi.gov, or stop by the office located in City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW.

 

“The City of Wyoming is committed and proud to recognize those who have served, and continue to serve our country in the armed forces and protect our freedoms,” said Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt. “Our Memorial Day and Veterans Day Ceremonies are a tribute to that service and protection.”

 

Staff did note that there will be no changes to the Memorial Day program which is held in May.

 

This year’s Veterans Day program will feature Ken Jones, who served in all four branches of the military, as the keynote speaker. Jones has a decorated military career and retired after 22 years of service to the United States of America. He has a broad range of technical and administrative skills that include aircraft interior design, computer network programming and various federal government program analysis programs. Jones currently serves as a legal administrative specialist for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Major Jack Poll will host the breakfast.

 

According to Wyoming staff, response to the breakfast has been pretty good. Usually for the Veterans Day program, the city has about 100 attendees with RSVPs for the 2018 breakfast already pass the halfway mark.

 

As part of the event and during the whole month of November, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW, will be accepting donations for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Items sought for donation include $25 gift cards (local fast food restaurants, Meijer, Wal-Mart, Dollar Tree, gordon Food Marketplace, etc.), candy bars, pens, batteries, stamps, grooming, hygiene items and clothing (new or gently used.)

We the People: City of Wyoming Council Candidates

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WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

For the Wyoming City Council, there is only one seat contested out of the four seats on the Nov. 6 ballot.

 

Mayor Jack Poll is seeking his third term as the city’s mayor. He is running unopposed for the seat. Also running unopposed are Sam Bolt and Kent Vanderwood, both who are seeking re-election as council members at large.

 

For the city’s 1st Ward Councilor seat, incumbent Sheldon DeKryger will face candidate Pete Rickertson. DeKryger was appointed in March to fill the 1st Ward seat when longtime council member Bill VerHulst announced he would not be seeking re-election and stepped down from the council due to health concerns.

 

The city’s 1st Ward Wyoming’s encompasses Precincts 1 – 9. That area covers most of the eastern edge of the city which is Clyde Park Avenue to Eastern Avenue north of 36th Street and from Burlingame Avenue to Eastern Avenue south of 36th Street.

 

https://youtu.be/AxFQDq_eOis

 

Sheldon DeKryger – Incumbent

 

Occupation: Residential home builder

 

Why did you decide to run for the Wyoming City Council Ward 1 seat?

 

My wife and I believe in servant leadership, that is why our family has spent the last 20 years serving others in our community, school, and church. I believe the next step in serving my community is being the people’s voice on the Wyoming City Council. That is why when Bill Verhulst retired I applied for the position and was appointed last March. I would like to continue the great work the City is doing now.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on and why?

 

Public Safety- I believe the Police and Fire departments need the tools and equipment necessary to do their jobs. The city needs to maintain the current funding levels to keep our community safe and protected.

 

Pro Business- I want to work on getting good manufacturing businesses in the Site 36 property. It would bring in hundreds of well paying jobs and be great for our city.

 

Financial Sustainability – I believe the city needs to live within its means. We also need to keep taxes low and bring funds back to our city from Lansing.

 

https://youtu.be/PpBNGO-QqGk

 

Pete Ricketson – Candidate

 

Occupation: Bus Driver

 

Why did decide to seek election to the Wyoming City Council Ward 1 seat?

 

Well for one thing, I saw how the city council influenced things with The Rapids. I see how things could be for public transportation and how as I looked into the city, I was appalled to see thousands of dollars being wasted. The majority are putting there own interested above the people who elected them. For that reason, I believe there is a huge disconnect between the actions of the city council and the will of the people. 

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on and why?

 

I think we need to overhaul how we use our resources as a city, stopping unnecessary spending. I would like to see us bring back things for our community such as the Fourth of July parade or perhaps, create a Taste of Wyoming at Lamar Park.

City of Wyoming Hosts 15th Annual Pumpkin Path

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The Wizard of Oz takes us all back in time!

By Krashawn Martin

City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation

 

It’s time to get the kids together and pull out your favorite costumes because Pumpkin Path is right around the corner!

 

The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department is excited to once again host the 15th annual Pumpkin Path – a free event for kids and families on Saturday, Oct. 13, at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. The event will be held from 4-6 p.m. Local businesses, clubs and organizations will host spaces along the path and will hand out candy, coupons and other goodies.

 

About 6,000 children, parents, and grandparents attended the Wyoming Pumpkin Path last year.

“Pumpkin Path was created to be a fun, safe, family-friendly event for the fall, providing an alternative to traditional Halloween events,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, director of community services for the City of Wyoming.  “Pumpkin Path gives families the perfect opportunity to interact with neighborhood businesses while enjoying the outdoors, Lamar Park and the beauty of the fall season.”

 

Not only should children expect to receive treats, they should also look forward to a DJ and dancing, jumping in the bounce house and games. Participants are welcome to come in costume or in regular clothes.

 

In previous years, Pumpkin Path has welcomed over 65 local businesses and organizations, and more than 6,000 children, parents, grandparents and friends.

Redevelopment of Ferrand Park making an impression with Wyoming residents

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

For many driving on Byron Center Avenue pass Ferrand Park, their reaction might be very similar to that of the wife of Wyoming’s Council Member Kent Vanderwood.

 

“So my wife and I have lived in Wyoming for 13 years and my wife and I were driving by [Ferrand Park] recently and she said there’s a park in there,” Vanderwood said during an August Wyoming Council meeting.

 

Ferrand Park is one of the oldest city park areas in Wyoming having been donated by the Ferrand family and dedicated in 1971. However a deed restriction did not allow the city to remove any of the trees, with the city leaving the park in a natural state with a small playground area.

 

The ribbon cutting ceremony at the Ferrand Park rededication.

“So you see the beautiful trees?” said City Services Director Rebecca Rynbrandt. “We can not remove a tree unless it is in imminent risk to the public. So for years, we have to wait for them to die a little bit of their natural death allowing us to have space in the middle, which opened up for play.”

 

Now some 40 years later,  the city was able to invest more than $400,000 into the pocket park with money from the Parks and Recreation Fund and the Revolving Capital Improvement Fund. On Aug. 25, the city hosted a rededication.

 

“We are very excited to be rededicating Ferrand Park, one of our 21 parks in the city of Wyoming,” said Mayor Jack Poll. “We are excited for the major changes that have occurred in this park and we are most thankful for our citizens for once again supporting efforts in our parks that make them some of the most beautiful parks in all of West Michigan.”

 

The park features a number of new amenities such as a shelter, pathways into the park, architectural features that help to identify the park, and a new, expanded playground area. 

 

The new, expanded playground at Ferrand Park.

“I personally love the dragonfly teeter-totter ,” Rynbrandt said. “We try to make something special and unique for each park. 

 

“We also implemented the log and step rocks. We want this to be a marriage of the environment with the landscaping and then with the traditional land features. We added and expanded the playground that is available. There is climbing walls that they never had before. They have never had swing sets at this park, so we have provided an adaptive swing as well as a regular swing.”

 

Another important aspect is the accessible pathways into the park, Rynbrandt said.  

 

“We have an accessible ramp into the park,” she said. “We have a sidewalk area and we have a crush aggregate, so we also have different textures.”

 

There are other details as well such as a table area near the park with a handicap accessible spot facing the playground area, making it easier for all to enjoy the playground space.

 

All of these changes are making residents take notice of the neighborhood park. 

 

The butterfly teeter-totter at Ferrand Park.

“We have already seen an increase in dog-walkers, exercise walkers for health and wellness because now they know the park exists,” she said. “We put the architecture detail along the road of Byron Center so people are saying ‘hey what is there?’ 

 

“Before, the playground sat very low in the hollow in the area. So now people know there is a park and they are walking in, they have a safe route to access the playground and the shelter.

 

Now with Ferrand Park done, the City of Wyoming will turn its attention to its oldest park, Ideal Park, with work scheduled to start on that park soon and a grand reopening celebration set for 2019. 

GM Foundation awards grants to three local organizations making a difference in Wyoming

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

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

With more than a 1,000 traffic fatalities in the state of Michigan, distracted driving has certainly become a concern with law enforcement.

 

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety, through a recent grant from the GM Foundation, hopes to educate area students about the dangers of distracted driving from alcohol to cell phones.

 

“We are going to be going into all of our local high schools partnering with them and bringing in the Save a Life tour. We will have some presentations and hopefully some interactive displays with the teenagers there just showing them the potential of distracted driving and the consequences that could be,” said Wyoming Chief Kim Koster.

 

An interactive display from Save a Life.

The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, which received the grant, plans to help the Wyoming Department of Public Safety bring in the program Save a Life, an international campaign  designed to get the message out about the dangers of distracted driving. The program includes highly advanced impaired and distracted driving simulators that give participants a completely realistic, sober perspective on the effects of driving while impaired or distracted.

 

“We are receiving generously from General Motors a check that will be used specifically by our police department for distracted drivers,” said Mayor Jack Poll, who was at the opening ceremonies or the 28th Street Metro Cruise where the grants were presented. The 28th Street Metro Cruise is usually the last weekend in August.

 

For the past several years GM has recognized and supported local organizations that help with a number of projects within the community. The GM Community Grants program, funded by the GM Foundation, is providing about $2 million to hundreds of organizations in 48 communities where GM employees live and work. Of that amount, $30,000 was awarded to the GM Components Holdings LLC in Wyoming to give to local organizations.

 

GM Foundation awards three grants totaling $30,000 recently at the 2018 28th Street Metro Cruise.

That amount was split between three organizations, the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), and Feeding America.

 

WMEAC will use most of its grant money toward its Teach the Watershed program at Godfrey Lee Elementary School, said WMEAC Director of Development Mary Robinson.

 

“We work specifically with fourth graders to teach them about the watershed and air pollution and how then can be actors in stopping pollution,” Robinson said. “We will also have a fall water festival that will include kids from the elementary school but also from the early childhood center.”

 

The last group was the Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank which will utilize the grant to help support 14 school mobile pantries feeding more than 14,000 families. One of the locations is Wyoming’s Parkview Elementary.  

Wyoming’s original fire engine part of this year’s 28th Street Metro Cruise

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Dream Wheels, , , , ,

The City of Wyoming’s Engine No. 1 at its home, Fire Station No. 2on Division Avenue.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

It could be because it is red as a red vehicle always stands out. Then again, it is a fire engine which usually draws a crowd.

 

But more likely it is simply the fact that it is the City of Wyoming’s first fire truck that made Engine No. 1  so popular at last year’s 28th Street Metro Cruise.

 

“People love it,” said Wyoming firefighter Brad Deppe. “They’re honking. They’re waving. They’re thumbs up. They love to see it as much as we like to see it in and around the station.”

 

When restore, the truck’s details were done gold-leaf as it would have been done when purchased.

 

Deppe admits that participating in the 2017 28th Street Metro Cruise was almost an afterthought with him making the call rather late with organizers able to find a spot for the truck last year’s layout. This year, Deppe was one of the first to receive a call about this year’s event with the Engine No. 1 scheduled to be at Rogers Plaza on both days of the event, Friday and Saturday.

 

“There’ are not many communities that have the ability to say ‘Yes, we still have our original fire truck and it still goes down the road and we are still using it,” Deppe said. “It’s just really cool and a reminder of where we came from.”

 

The chase was purchased in 1931 with money raised by the Wyoming Park-Beverly area. As was typically during that time period, the body was built by the members of the department. It was put into service in 1932. The truck remained in active service until 1962 and for another eight years was used to fill and drain cisterns around the city.

 

In 1970, the truck was retired and for the next eight years, it sat in storage. That is until the question was raised on what the city should do with it, Deppe said. A group of about 18 Wyoming firefighters pushed for the truck to be restored. The restoration project started in May of 1978 and took about 14 months and approximately 610 man hours to complete, mostly done during off hours in evenings and on weekends. The cost was about $3,500.

 

During the restoration, the truck was dismantled and sent to Jackson to be repainted. When it was stripped, many of the original details and designs were discovered so the truck was restored to as much of its original look as possible, Deppe said, adding that included gold-leaf used in designs and pin stripping which was all done by hand.

 

Other details included the seat being reupholstered to as close at the original as possible. An original-style siren was located in New Jersey. Also original is one of the two ladders and the seat on the front fender which was not used when the truck was driving down the street, Deppe said, but was designed for a firefighter to sit in while helping to put out brush fires.

 

Firefighters would only seat on the fender seat when the city had a brush fire.

 

The restored engine was utilized in a number of events for several years but as those involved with overseeing the truck retired or moved on, Engine No. 1 once again was moved back into storage.

 

“About a year or so ago, the question came up again about what should we do with the truck,” Deppe said. The truck needed to be made road ready which included fixing any leaks and tracking down an era appropriate license plate.

 

The city’s firefighters knew what a gem it was to have Wyoming’s original fire truck and with that in mind, along with the help of Wyoming’s Steve Antique Repair — which is located in the old Wyoming Park/Beverly area — the staff was able to bring the engine out of storage.

 

“Now we are slowly piecing it back together,” Deppe said. “Finding some of things that use to be original on it the weren’t that have been changed at some point. Getting it back to its original state.”

 

The Wyoming’s Engine No. 1. which is housed in the Fire Station No. 2 on Division Avenue, has participated in parades, attended Department of Public Safety events, and of course, the 28th Street Metro Cruise. Deppe said the department hopes to continue to use the truck as way to engage the community, sharing a bit of the past to teach the importance of fire safety.

Wyoming celebrates grand opening of Ferrand Park

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , ,

The City of Wyoming hosts a grand opening of Ferrand Park Saturday, Aug. 25.

By Krashawn Martin

City of Wyoming

 

After almost six months of closure, the City of Wyoming is excited to re-open Ferrand Park, 4715 Byron Center Ave., on Saturday, Aug. 25, at 10 a.m. The community and neighborhood is encouraged to join the Mayor, City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission in celebrating the renovations.

 

Two new features at Ferrand Park is the green half-circle seesaw and the dragonfly seesaw.

The new park features new and expanded play equipment, including swings, custom powerscape playground structure, and dragonfly see saw. There are also universally ADA accessible walkways, improved turf conditions and a picnic shelter.

 

“The City of Wyoming and Parks and Recreation Commission are pleased to celebrate the grand opening of Ferrand Park,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, Director of Community Services. “We pride ourselves on excellent facilities and know that the improved accessibility of Ferrand will be a great asset to the families of our community.”

 

Ferrand Park is a small neighborhood park with a shady oak canopy. It also serves as a storm water collection area during large rains. The tree canopy is protected by a deed restriction that prohibits the removal of any trees unless dead or unsafe.

 

The grand opening celebration will feature Mayor Jack Poll and Parks and Recreation commissioner Doug Wustman.

 

The construction project, valued at $419,750, is made possible by the Capital Projects Revolving Fund and the Parks and Recreation Operational Millage.

Snapshots: Fun news you need to know from Wyoming and Kentwood

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

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

 

Quote of the Day

 

"Being the Queen is not all about singing, and being a diva is not all about singing. It has much to do with your service to people. And your social contributions to your community and your civic contributions as well." _ Aretha Franklin

 

Making a difference

 

Having lived in Wyoming all of his life — except for a short time when he was away at college — Chris Hall felt he knew a lot about the community he lives in. Then in 2003, he joined Wyoming’s Community Development Committee and discovered even more about his city. “It is really cool because you hear from folks who have been a part of [the Community Development Committee] and they’ve learned about stuff — me included — of things that I didn’t know existed and ways that I can help out, and I think I am a better resident, a better citizen. Because of my involvement in this committee, I am able to serve my neighbors better.”

 

 

 

Time to Sparkle

 

The Grand Rapids Ballet will celebrate the arrival of its newest artistic director, James Sofranko with a gala Oct. 18. The Wild Sweet Love Welcome Gala, so named after a ballet that will be performed that event, will start at the L3VEL at The B.O.B. and then head to the company’s Peter Martin Wege Theatre. To find out why “Wild Sweet Love” was selected and how it connects to Sofranko, click here.

 

Opa!

 

Or rather Yassou!, which is the Holy Greek Orthodox Church’s annual celebration of the culture and traditions of the Greek Orthodox community. The event takes place Aug. 17 – 19 and includes music, dancing, and of course, lots of Greek food favorites. This year’s event will be supporting the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County (CAC). The church is located at 330 Lakeside SE.

 

While My Guitar Gently Weeps

 

Also this weekend is the popular JazzFest taking place in downtown Grand Rapids at Rosa Parks Circle. The event, which is Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 18 and 19, features a host of jazz musicians from noon to dusk both days. Edye Evans Hyde, Kevin Jones, Grupo Ayé, and Marcus Anderson are just some of the performers slated for the seventh annual event. The entire two days are free, although if you plan on sitting, you might want to bring your own chair.

 

Fun Fact:

300,000 bulbs

That is how many tulip bulbs are planted in Holland every year for the annual Tulip Time, of which 50,000 are hand planted on the Window on the Waterfront Park. Organizers for Tulip Time just recently announced submission dates for the annual Art In Bloom competition, which are Sept. 29 - Oct. 4.

For one Wyoming resident being on a city committee has helped him become a better citizen

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

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Having lived in Wyoming all of his life — except for a short time when he was away at college — Chris Hall felt he knew a lot about the community he lives in. Then in 2003, he joined Wyoming’s Community Development Committee and discovered even more about his city.

 

“It is really cool because you hear from folks who have been a part of [the Community Development Committee] and they’ve learned about stuff — me included — of things that I didn’t know existed and ways that I can help out, and I think I am a better resident, a better citizen.

 

“Because of my involvement in this committee, I am able to serve my neighbors better.”

 

The Community Development Committee is an advisory board to the Wyoming City Council with its focus on the federally funded Community Block Development Grant program. Enacted by Former President Gerald R. Ford in 1974, the Community Development Block Grant or CDBG is one of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s longest-running programs. It funds local community development activities such as affordable housing, anti-poverty programs and infrastructure development. 

 

The funding is distributed mostly to state and local governments which controls how the funds are used.  

 

“As an advisory panel we kind of get to determine where those dollars should be spent,” Hall said. “So we make recommendations to the city council, usually it is around community development-type work, strengthening neighbors, helping with education with housing, those types of issues.”

 

Projects funded through the CBDG program have included several park improvements such as the snack area at Pinery Park and a monument at Veteran’s Park. The program has worked with various non-profits that provide affordable housing and home repair services along with helping with other needs such as English is a Second Language programs. 

 

The Community Development Committee is looking to fill some open spots. The person has to be a Wyoming resident and should be engaged in the community. The time comment is not much, about one meeting a month for a couple of hours, according to Hall.

 

“What you find you are doing is that you are more engaged between the meetings throughout the month looking for opportunities to find a nonprofit who can benefit from this or just be more engaged as a resident,” Hall said. “It’s a great opportunity for a resident of the city to participate and maybe be part of the solution.”

 

Hall went on to state that “A lot of people like to think of us as the suburbs. We are a pretty diverse city. From one end of the city to the other, there is a lot of different things happening in Wyoming. We have a lot of the same challenges we have in the urban core but the architecture is different. The cool thing is we have the ability to work on those as a community.” 

 

To learn more about the Community Development Committee or the other volunteer committees, commissions and boards at the city, visit the city’s website or contact the city clerk’s office at 616-530-7296.

Wyoming city leaders express their ‘thanks’ to voters for approving public safety renewal

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

Wyoming voters approved a permanent millage renewal for its public safety at the primary election.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

As Wyoming Public Safety officers and city leaders visited block parties and participated in activities for the annual National Night Out event last night, residents headed in record numbers to the polls to overwhelmingly approved the permanent renewal of the dedicated 1.25 mills for its public safety department.

 

A total of 11,432 people voted in Tuesday’s primary election, which determined party candidates for a number of races. That is 22.9 percent of the registered voters in Wyoming coming to the polls. The proposal passed 7,306 to 2,223.

 

The percentage turnout was one of the highest the city has seen in the past four primary elections, said City Clerk Kelli Vandenberg. In 2010, when Gov. Rick Snyder first ran, the city had a 20.1 percent voter turnout. In 2012, it was 9.26 percent, 2014, it was 13.5 percent and 2016, when President Donald Trump was elected, it was 10.6 percent.

 

“In talking to several other clerks in the area, the comment was it definitely felt more like a general election than a primary election,” Vandenberg said.

 

Indication that it could be busy primary election day started with the absentee ballots. The city received 2,261 absentee ballots which was about 600 more than in 2016. As to why the high turnout, VandernBerg said there could be a number of reasons such as the fact that there was a term-limited governor and this was the first time the Libertarian Party was included on the ticket.

 

As to the city millage renewal request, VandenBerg said it was certainly a nice surprise to see at the end of a very long night. City officials had no indication as to how the millage renewal would go as there was little commenting, except for a few positive posts on the city’s Facebook page, and no formal opposition presented.

 

This morning, city leadership expressed gratitude for the community’s continual support and stated they look forward to maintaining the excellent public safety programs and initiatives developed since the initial millage was first approved in 2010.

 

“We are pleased with last evening’s results and want to thank everyone who came out to vote yesterday,” says Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll. “Over the years, we have worked hard to be good stewards of the funding this millage provides, and it is clear our residents recognize we’ve made good on our promises.”

 

Public Safety Chief Kim Koster concurs with Mayor Poll’s sentiments, remarking the Public Safety Department’s efforts to work more closely with residents are bringing about excellent results for the community as a whole.

 

“Safety is at the core of the City’s mission, and the public safety millage allows us to maintain funding for critical services and programs,” Koster said. “We are fortunate to have the confidence of our residents and businesses, who continue to support our officers and firefighters. We look forward to working with the entire community to ensure Wyoming remains safe and welcoming.”

 

Following are some of the Public Safety Department’s accomplishments since the dedicated millage was first approved in 2010:

  • Achieved and maintained Gold-Standard police accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., putting the department in the top one percent of law enforcement agencies nationwide
  • Provided a professional public safety response to more than 37,000 calls for service every year
  • Implemented efforts to visit every school in Wyoming each school day, totaling 5,738 school visits last year
  • Conducted daily and nightly visits to businesses, making 8,606 contacts and 6,852 closed business checks in 2017
  • Equipped every police cruiser with an automated external defibrillator, or AED,  as well as supplying every officer with Naloxone, which reverses the effects of overdoses
  • Increased forensic laboratory capabilities providing faster, more comprehensive results which have contributed to a higher success rate in solving crime
  • Reduced response times with the 24/7 operation of the Gezon Fire Station and the addition of two quick-response vehicles, or QRVs
  • Added three full-time fire fighters
  • Utilized part-time employees to implement a peak load staffing model which employs more staff during times of high call volume
  • Crossed-trained and licensed 22 City employees as fire fighters and utilized paid-on-call staff
  • Secured grants that allowed staff to become licensed as EMTs and purchase CPR assisted compression device

Aug. 7 millage vote will maintain public safety services

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Even with a six percent increase in fire and emergency calls in 2017, the City of Wyoming has been able to achieve a 4 minute and 27 second response time throughout the city.

 

And in some areas of the city, such as the southwest end, those response times have improved to just over three minutes with the re-opening of the Gezon fire station to 24/7 and the addition of two quick response vehicles.

 

The city plans to maintain those response times and its level of service through the passage of a permanent renewal of its 1.25 mills for public safety, which is on tomorrow’s primary ballot. Chief Kim Koster credits a number of programs that have been developed over the past eight years — when the millage was first approved — that have helped provide more efficiencies within the department so the city could maintain services to its residents.

 

One of those programs was the training of 22 city employees from the parks and recreation and public works departments as firefighters. This training allowed the department to call upon the employees to help with fires and other emergency calls when needed.

 

From the Wyoming Department of Public Safety 2017 Annual Report.

“So in a matter of minutes we would have more than the eight or nine firefighters that we had on, but we could have fourteen or fifteen people who are trained in fire to an emergency,” Koster said during a recent interview on WKTV Journal In Focus. “That definitely increased our service to the community and gave us a lot. It also really provided safety for our firefighters as well because they had more (people) on the scene.”

 

The program is unique and Koster said she is not aware of another city that has trained city employees to be firefighters.

 

“We do have paid on-call as well, but in today’s society it is more difficult for employers to let a volunteer or a paid on-called firefighter to leave their job to go fight a fire,” Koster said, adding that the paid-on call staff are still important to the department.

 

“Between the part-time, the paid on-call and those dual-trained employees, we feel we are addressing our staffing issues efficiently and using tax dollars very wisely with that,” Koster said.

 

The city also purchased two quick response vehicles, medical vehicles that have firefighting capability, Koster said. These vehicles only require two people to man versus an engine which needs three to four. 

 

“So we were able to put two of those machines out along with an engine from our fleet and we would have three vehicles that would respond to emergencies versus the two,” Koster said. “So we increased our response times to our citizens that way.” 

 

Chase, the Wyoming K-9 dog, at a recent public safety open house.

Also in the fire department, three full-time firefighters have been added and a program was instituted to utilized part-time staff during high call volumes to help increase staff. 

 

In the police department, the city has been able to save dollars through consolidations and collaborations with other area departments that included the centralized 911 dispatch, Koster said. The police department is also accredited, which only about one percent in the United States are.

 

“And that, I believe, really tells the taxpayers that we take our job seriously,” Koster said. “That we are accountable and we are transparent using their tax dollars to the best of our abilities.”  

 

Showing that the city would use the money raised from the public safety to the best of its abilities was a key reason that the city decided to seek only a five-year millage in 2010, according to Major Jack Poll.

 

“So we went with the five-year millage so that after five years we could go back and say this is what we promised, this is what we accomplished,” he said.

 

However with costs continuing to climb and state funding shrinking, city officials see a need for those funds in order to maintain the current level of public safety services, which is why the 2018 proposal seeks a permanent renewal, Poll said.