An assessor from CALEA will arrive on Monday, Oct. 27 to conduct an on-site review over a four-day period. This visit is the final step in a rigorous four-year accreditation cycle and includes a comprehensive examination of the department’s policies, procedures, management, operations and support services.
The gold standard
CALEA Accreditation is considered the gold standard in public safety professionalism. It provides independent verification that a law enforcement agency meets internationally recognized best practices in areas such as accountability, transparency and community partnership.
For the Wyoming community, accreditation ensures:
Enhanced public trust, by confirming that department practices are ethical, transparent, and consistent with national standards.
Improved service delivery, through policies that promote efficiency, fairness, and responsiveness to community needs.
Reduced risk and liability, by ensuring clear, accountable procedures for critical incidents and daily operations.
Commitment to continuous improvement, with each accreditation cycle driving new opportunities to strengthen public safety services.
The assessment process
(Courtesy Photo)
As part of the assessment process, the department invites members of the community to share feedback through the CALEA Public Comment Portal.
Community members are encouraged to share comments regarding the department’s compliance with CALEA standards, community engagement, quality of service and overall professionalism.
Comments may include commendations or concerns and can be submitted directly to CALEA through the Public Comment Portal. Feedback provided through the portal goes directly to CALEA and will be acknowledged upon receipt.
The purpose of this process is to gather valuable input that helps the Wyoming PD and CALEA continue to strengthen the standards of professional policing.
Contact WPD directly
Individuals who wish to share comments or questions directly with the Wyoming PD may also do so by calling 616-530-7300, visiting the department in person, or submitting an online message through the Police Department Contact Form on the City of Wyoming website.
Kingpin competition finalists (Courtesy, Brian B.)
Ninety-eight comedians are now down to eight as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition enters its final round on Sunday, Oct. 26.
“We have a good mix of comedians performing in the Kingpin finals this year,” says Brian B., MC and founder of the SNF.
Participating comedians hail from the Grand Rapids and Detroit areas, Holland and Buchanan.
“It’s a diverse lineup as well,” says Brian B. “Of the eight comedians performing, two are women and four of the comics are of color.”
The Kingpin of Comedy final round will also feature a drawing for a pair of tickets to comedian Adam Degi’s first standup comedy special recording on Nov. 14 at the Pyramid Scheme in Grand Rapids.
Degi will also be closing out the Kingpin Finals while the votes are being counted.
Prizes galore!
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought that the overall winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Town,” says Brian B.
The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and GLC Live at 20 Monroe, as well as prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy and personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences.
Women at Risk, International President Rebecca McDonald will lead the three main sessions of the Civilian First Responder conference (Courtesy, WAR, Int’l)
100,000 – 300,00 U.S. kids are at risk of trafficking. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)
One-third of teens are lured toward prostitution within 48 hours of leaving home. (National Runaway Hotline)
Fifteen = the average number of times a trafficked minor is sold per day. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)
Learning about human trafficking and how to prevent it can save lives (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Learn how to become a circle of protection around your loved ones by attending the Civilian First Responder (CFR) conference hosted by Women at Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) on Saturday, Oct. 25.
“No longer do we have the luxury of deciding whether or not we need to know about human trafficking,” states the WAR, Int’l website.
Circles of protection
A Michigan based, non-profit charitable organization, WAR Int’l is known for their fight against human trafficking and rehabilitation of trafficking victims.
Established to create circles of protection around those at risk, WAR’s programs and partnerships provide safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more in over 40 countries. The organization’s culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.
CFR – What to expect
The upcoming and highly sought-after CFR conference will bring President of WAR, Int’l Rebecca McDonald, human trafficking survivors, law enforcement officers and members of the U.S. government together to educate communities on human trafficking.
The CFR conference will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (EST) at Women at Risk Headquarters, 2790 44th Street SW.
Attendees will learn what makes a community susceptible to trafficking; how to identify a victim and signs of trafficking in your community; how to respond to and report suspicious activity; helpful tips, action plans, and ways to protect the innocent; and how to share this information with all ages of community members.
How to prevent human trafficking is information that should be shared with all ages (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
During the conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend three sessions led by Rebecca McDonald and breakout sessions led by various professionals involved in the fight against human trafficking. A question and answer session with conference session leaders, speakers and survivors will round out the day.
CFR conference schedule
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. SESSION ONE (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
Do you feel like you don’t know what trafficking is or how it found its way into our communities? This session will show you why it is vital for everyone to know the signs of human trafficking. You will also hear firsthand from a trafficking survivor as she shares her journey to freedom, bringing this topic home in a real way. Come and learn to “see the unseen.”
10:30 a.m. BREAK
10:45 a.m SESSION TWO (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
This session will explore common 21 lures used by sexual predators, discuss 21 trafficking flash points and the demographics in Western Michigan, and teach Homeland Security guidelines for Civilian Responders. The session will include interviews with law enforcement, teenage traffickers, Homeland Security, as well as a testimony about how one phone call rescued a woman and changed her life.
12:45 p.m. LUNCH
1:45 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Choose from a variety of Breakout Sessions that will be led by various professionals involved in the fight against human trafficking. Session topics may include Counseling, Parenting, Pornography, Law Enforcement, Hospitality, Outreach, or Survivor Testimonies.
2:30 p.m. BREAK
2:50 p.m. SESSION THREE (Speaker: Rebecca McDonald)
In this session, you will learn how to use your knowledge to respond to a human trafficking situation. You’ll also uncover helpful and appropriate ways to talk to children about this sensitive subject. Come find out how to be a beacon of light in the darkness, and discover the hope that is ours as we fight against human trafficking.
4:30 p.m. Q&A – THE EXPERTS PANEL
The Panel: The day will end by a time of Q&A taken from your question cards and answered by our panel of session leaders, speakers and survivors.
Event registration and digital programs
Registration for this event can be found here, and closes Oct. 22. Ticket cost is $35 and includes lunch and handouts.
Those unable to attend the conference on Oct. 25 can check out the WAR, Int’l Digital Civilian First Responder Program here.
Several Kent County organizations have partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host mobile pantries each month.
Below is a list of mobile food pantry locations open to the community. Each listing consists of date, time, location and drive-thru or walk-thru designation.
Though the selection of food varies each month, a variety of fresh and frozen items are always available at the mobile pantries.
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since 2016 (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Local veteran Michael Hyacinthe created Wimee to help children learn through creativity (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since February 2016.
Michael Hyacinthe, local veteran and owner of the Has Heart Coffee Shop in Veteran’s Memorial Park, created Wimee after recognizing the power of creativity through his work with veterans and his experience as a father. Hyacinthe wanted to create a character that would also help children learn through creativity.
“I’m an entrepreneur passionate about using my talents to inspire veterans, kids and all human life – individuals – to connect with creativity,” said Hyacinthe.
Think it, See it, Share it
Hyacinthe created the Wimage app, allowing children to turn stories, thoughts and ideas into images. Through text or voice, words are instantly transformed into icons. Users can also include text, create patterns, and incorporate colors and additional images.
A Wimage can be personalized and messaged to friends, shared on social media, or posted on the website for others to see.
Soon, the idea for Wimee the Robot formed. Hyacinthe reached out to his friend and puppeteer, Kevin Kammeraad, and together they worked with puppet builder Joe Emory to make Wimee, the lovable robot puppet.
(Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe and Kammeraad began offering local preschool students hands-on workshops, combining imagination with the innovative technology of Wimage to create collaborative visual stories. Over the years, the duo also led collaborative visual story and collaborative books workshops in elementary school classrooms.
With humor and his love of words, Wimee helps children increase literacy and storytelling skills.
The next Sesame Street
Wimee the Robot and Michael Hyacinthe engage children at an in-person event (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimage app and Wimee the Robot continued to develop and grow.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hyacinthe and Kammeraad developed the web-based Wimee’s Words as an alternative to in-person workshops. Co-produced by Kent District Library, the interactive children’s show encourages imagination, vocabulary building and storytelling through puppetry, music and wordplay.
Through the PBS show, Wimee’s Words, Wimee the Robot reaches close to 40 million homes around the country.
“Our goal is to build the next Sesame Street for the digital age,” said Hyacinthe. “It’s a lot of work, but we’re passionate about the work that we do. We want to continue to create content to teach kids.”
Wimee’s Words viewers can join Wimee LIVE every Saturday at 11 a.m. EST on PBS.org and request songs, ask questions and suggest games to play. Wimee is also featured in the Wimee’s Words app.
Meaningful tech time
Wimee the Robot (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimee’s Words and Wimage teams consist of educators, librarians, technology developers, entrepreneurs, parents, kids and puppets who have joined together to empower all children to become producers of creative content – not just consumers of it.
The new interactive app and AI experience, Wimee’s World, was formed to incorporate the Wimage app and Wimee character, along with games, videos and conversations with the AI robot (Wimee).
Wimee’s World provides kids meaningful tech time by giving them the opportunity to become visual communicators and more creative producers using technology.
“Wimee’s World is designed with safety and creativity in mind, providing a secure environment for kids to explore, create and interact,” states the Wimee TV website.
Wimee provides a fun and safe environment for children to learn (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Parents can have peace of mind knowing that their children are engaging with content that is both entertaining and educational.”
Explore More sheets provide additional information and activities designed and tested by educators and families to spark imagination and curiosity.
The Wimee Creates and Wimee Learnsearly learning concept books, written by Stephanie Kammeraad and published by Zonderkidz/Harper Collins, are another great resource for families.
“Every day is a new chance to explore, learn and create together as a family.” (wimee.tv)
Purpose, empowerment and healing
Educating children through Wimee has helped Hyacinthe heal (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe’s journeys with Wimee’s World and Has Heart may be separate ventures, but both utilize creativity to empower and heal individuals.
As a veteran battling PTSD, Hyacinthe calls the mission of Has Heart and Wimee the Robot his therapy.
“There’s something really unique about veterans,” said Hyacinthe. “We tend to want to serve. If you give us a platform where we can continue to serve, they will find a medium to heal.
“And for me, this is continuing to serve through connecting veterans and giving them hope, giving them purpose through Has Heart, and by educating kids through Wimee.”
Resource links
Find out if Wimee the Robot will be visiting near you! Click here for Wimee’s event schedule.
More information about Wimee the Robot and additional Wimee resources can be found here.
More information about Has Heart and how you can help support veterans can be found here.
Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of their new pedestrian bridge over 28th Street with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free community event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new elevated pedestrian bridge spanning 28th Street on Saturday, Sept. 27 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free community event.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony was a family-friendly Run, Walk, or Roll event that encouraged community members to explore the pedestrian bridge and Wyoming’s extensive trail network. Also available were food trucks, music and sponsored gifts along the trails.
The opening of the pedestrian bridge was the culmination of several years of planning (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Purpose and vision
The new 12-foot wide, ADA accessible bridge will accommodate two-way pedestrian and bicycle traffic safely across 28th Street, and is part of the City’s [re]Imagined future.
“This project embodies the very best of what our community can achieve when we come together with purpose and vision,” said Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “This is just the start of the renaissance here in Wyoming.”
Since the 2008 economic decline, Wyoming has worked to create a defined downtown that encourages connection and economic growth in the City. City officials, boards and commissions invested time and resources in developing area plans, master plans, and securing funding over the past two decades to make this vision come to life.
“This really was such a labor of love for so many people,” said State Representative John Fitzgerald. “Public infrastructure, construction and visioning takes time. It takes time to create a long-term, successful plan that’s going to create economic and social impacts in our community.”
Wyoming pedestrian bridge at night (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
A lasting impact
Wyoming’s City Center project is a public-private partnership that includes public investment in a non-motorized trail infrastructure and private investment in a mixed-use development.
The pedestrian bridge is an essential piece in making the City accessible to all community members through its connection to 4.6 miles of new non-motorized pathways that link to key regional destinations.
“This marks more than just the opening of this bridge, but a celebration of the completion of critical infrastructure that will increase our walkability, mobility and economic opportunity in our downtown area,” said John Shay, Wyoming City Manager.
Kent County Commissioner Dan Burrill said he looks forward to seeing how the bridge will bring the community together and support future growth.
“The City of Wyoming set a bold vision and has delivered on promises made,” said Burrill. “As the 28th Street corridor continues to be revitalized with new housing and commercial development and rehabilitation, these types of public infrastructure investments are critical to driving private investment.”
The grand opening of the new Wyoming pedestrian bridge drew a large crowd (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A community member registers for the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Cyclists look at the trail map before the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Mayor Kent Vanderwood (right) talks with a community member before the event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Tandem bicyclists relax before the start of the Walk, Run, or Roll event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
For the people
Congresswoman Hillary Scholten thanked event attendees for investing in the City of Wyoming, and presented a Congressional Proclamation to Mayor Vanderwood and the City of Wyoming on the ribbon-cutting of the new pedestrian bridge.
“This is a project by the people of Wyoming, and for the people of Wyoming,” said Scholten.
As the City of Wyoming continues steady progress toward its [re]Imagined goals, Fitzgerald said community members can be assured that their priorities are being heard.
“We’re going to continue to invest in sites like this, in our communities, and in you,” said Fitzgerald.
See a list of the Wyoming pedestrian bridge funding partners here.
(Back, left to right) State Rep. John Fitzgerald and Wyoming City Manager John Shay (Front, left to right) Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten and Kent Co. Commissioner Dan Burrill (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wyoming [re]Imagined: Learn More!
Click the following links to learn more about the City of Wyoming, [re]Imagined:
See below for a list of funding partners for the Wyoming Pedestrian Bridge over 28th Street:
Wyoming City Council – ARPA funds
Kent County Board of Commissioners – $6 million of ARPA funds
Sen. Peters and Congresswoman Scholten (Federal Partners) – Secured $850,000 for the planning and design of infrastructure
Rep. John Fitzgerald and Sen. Winnie Brinks(State Partners) – Secured $20 million from the state budget
Grand Valley Metro Council – $1.17 million in carbon reduction program funds for Wyoming trails
Consumers Energy – Buried power lines to improve aesthetics
Michigan Department of Transportation – Permitting and facilitating bridge construction
Progressive Companies – Design and construction administration
In-line Construction
Katerberg-VerHage
Diversco Construction
Contact Bridge Solutions
PermaTrack
Western Wood Structures
Material Testing Consultants
Land Matters
SME
WSP Engineering
Magnus Capital (Private Partner) – Continued vision to develop vibrant mixed-use development, diverse housing options, pedestrian-friendly urban design and more
Jeff and Brandon Baker
General Motors
Weller
Grace Christian University
Wyoming Planning Commission
Wyoming Downtown Development Authority
Wyoming Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department
Wyoming City Staff – Notably, Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion 154’s new electric handicap doors (Courtesy, American Legion)
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion’s new electric handicap doors. Beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, participants can expect an afternoon of food and fun.
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The event is open to the public and includes prizes for: Best Score on Ballon Obstacle Course, Fastest Time on Scooter Straight Course and Best Overall Trim Package (includes Best Rider Costume, Best Ride Decorations, Best Pit Crew Spirt and Most Unique/Useful Adaptive Aftermarket Equipment). All abilities compete for prizes – including bragging rights and winner trophies.
There will be three independent judges for all competitions. Judges will be announced the day of the event.
Registration as a competitor, pit crew member, attendee, volunteer or vendor can be found here. Competition rules can be found here.
More information about the Mobility Scooter Competition can be found here.
Disability awareness
“Many of our members are veterans or family members who need a bit more assistance than in the past, whether that’s to enter the building, or to carry in a crock-pot for an event like our annual Chili Cook-off,” says Butch Hogan, Post 154 Facilities Manager. “So, upgrading the doors was the right thing to help all, including those with limited mobility.”
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The competition event is being held to celebrate both the new Post 154 accessibility and to increase disability awareness.
According to Ken Stockel, Co-chair of the Scooter Competition, “We’re designing the course will all abilities in mind. Although some may compete in a mobility scooter, power wheelchair, or regular wheelchair, we are also having an obstacle competition for able-bodied participants to compete—in a WHEELCHAIR!
“As most servicemen/women learn early in their military training, when you walk in someone else’s ‘boots’ is when you develop empathy – and that’s where disability awareness begins.”
About American Legion Post 154
The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with more than 1.6 million members who strengthen the nation through programs, services and advocacy for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, youth and communities.
Post 154 is named after Roger B. Chaffee (Feb. 15, 1935 – Jan. 27, 1967), an officer in the United States Navy, and died with fellow astronauts Gus Grissom and Ed White during a pre-launch test for the Apollo I mission.
“It doesn’t matter what your goals are – running solely for a local election or running at the state or federal level; running next year or maybe in a decade – this program is for you,” said Amber Elder, KDL Programming Specialist. “This program is designed to support you as you dip your toes into the process of running for election.”
What to expect
The training session will take place from 1-4 p.m. and feature workshops designed to help women gain practical knowledge, confidence and experience needed to run for office. Attendees will practice building their networks and their elevator speech – both of which are key work for a campaign. A campaign simulation exercise will give attendees a better sense of what running a campaign entails.
The Elect Her program was developed by the Running Start organization to specifically support women in their run for office (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Attendees will also hear from local politicians – Kent County Commissioners Liz Morse (R) and Nancy Morales (D) – as they share their experiences and knowledge gained while entering the political arena.
“It will be a good mix of practical, hands-on learning opportunities as well as time to sit back and take notes, all while connecting with other people who are also considering taking the leap into running for an election,” said Elder.
Meeting an information need
Inspired by feedback from a previous GVSU Elect Her event, KDL decided to host a Wyoming Elect Her training session to help those who are considering running for election but are uncertain how to do so.
“KDL’s goal with programming is to provide events that meet patrons’ information needs, and this is a unique information need that isn’t met in a ton of places,” said Elder.
The training session can be valuable even if participants decide not to run for election (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Though all are welcome to attend the Elect Her event, the program was developed by the Running Start organization to specifically support women in their run for office.
“While women are around 50% of the population, they aren’t represented in equal numbers in our governments,” said Elder. “Our current Congress is made up of 155 women out of 535 seats, and Running Start is committed to supporting the women who want to decrease the gap between male and female elected officials.”
KDL has offered workshop programs and programs related to politics before, though Elect Her is the first time they have combined those two program styles. Elder said that if patrons find this program valuable, KDL will likely offer the event again in the future.
“Even if you end up not using what you learn at the event to run for election, the connections you make and the skills you learn will still be helpful no matter what your future holds,” said Elder.
Resource links
Elect Her event details can be found here. Additional KDL resources and information can be found on their website.
Several Kent County organizations have partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host mobile pantries each month.
Below is a list of mobile food pantry locations open to the community. Each listing consists of date, time, location and drive-thru or walk-thru designation.
Though the selection of food varies each month, a variety of fresh and frozen items are always available at the mobile pantries.
Mobile food pantry schedule for Sept. 12 – Oct. 10:
Tuyen has been missing since Aug. 10, 2025, and her disappearance was just recently reported to police. She is considered at risk due to likely not having access to medication prescribed to her.
Tuyen is an Asian female with black hair and brown eyes. She stands approximately 5 feet tall with a slim build.
Tuyen was last seen in the area of Clyde Park Avenue and 32nd Street SW. She does not have access to a vehicle and would likely be walking. No description of her clothing is available, and a recent picture of her is featured at the beginning of this article. Her intended destination is unknown.
Wyoming Police continue to search for Tuyen and are requesting assistance from the public.
Anyone who may have seen Tuyen since Aug. 10 or who might have information regarding her whereabouts is asked to contact the Wyoming Police Department at 616-530-7300, Detective Ana Armstrong at 616-530-7332, or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
Nearly 65,000 children in West Michigan are at risk of hunger. Roughly 834 school buses filled with kids are dropped off at home each weekend with a risk of having little to no food for 68 hours.
Local officials, volunteers, Hand2Hand staff and Consumers Energy representatives all gathered to celebrate the new electric van donated by Consumers Energy (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Local nonprofit, Hand2Hand, works to eliminate that 68-hour gap by mobilizing schools, churches, organizations and individuals to provide a backpack of nutritious food over the weekend and extended school breaks. Food sent home consists of breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner items and often a recipe card.
Consumers Energy recently donated a new all-electric van to Hand2Hand through their electric vehicle program to assist in the nonprofit’s food deliveries.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
On Aug. 26, Hand2Hand celebrated the EVan (aptly christened Evan) donation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and volunteer food packing event – the first packing event of the 2025-26 school year.
Jeff Myrom, Director of Electric Transportation Customer Programs at Consumers Energy, said the van went to a great cause. “Helping kids who need more food, more nutrition, so they have successful lives is incredibly important.”
A mission of hope
Jodi Joseph talks about the impact and hope Hand2Hand food bags give local children in need (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Beyond physical nutrition, the Hand2Hand food provides hope for students experiencing hunger.
“If we can nourish that student through the weekend, then they can come to school ready to learn,” said Hand2Hand Executive Director Jodi Joseph. “They can know that there is a community here that sees them, that cares for them; it’s more than just food.”
This year, Hand2Hand will serve up to 15,000 students in 280 schools throughout 45 school districts in West Michigan.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt, Superintendent of Hudsonville Public Schools and Hand2Hand board member, attended Sandy Hill Elementary where Hand2Hand first began serving 19 students in 2008.
Dr. Doug VanderJagt talks about the community need for food assistance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Our kids have a lot of access to things, but there are families that are in need,” said VanderJagt, adding that nearly one hundred students are considered homeless in Hudsonville.
“Watching our students [receive the backpacks], their eyes light up…it impacts them more than you’ll ever know.”
Hand2Hand recognizes that every family’s story is different, with some families signing up for a short time while others sign up for longer. No matter the time frame or reason for the need, the nonprofit exercises discretion regarding student/family identities with each bag discreetly placed in student lockers without volunteers ever knowing student names.
A mission of efficiency
Jeff Myrom talks about Consumers Energy’s electric vehicle initiatives (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Evan the EVan” is the second all-electric van donated by Consumers Energy, with an anticipated 22 more to be donated across West Michigan over the next year and a half.
“As part of PowerMIFleet, we’ve been looking for fleets that serve income-qualified customers,” said Myrom, adding that electric vehicles cost approximately half per mile to operate than a gasoline vehicle.
“We’ve dedicated some funding to ensure that we can help them purchase those vehicles and the charging infrastructure that they need, so they can continue to operate as efficiently as possible.”
Myrom went on to say that the mission of Hand2Hand stood out to the Consumers Energy community affairs team for multiple reasons.
“The kids are excited to take those backpacks home, they love having the food on the weekends…and that’s just a win for everyone,” said Myrom.
“And when those kids also get to see an electric vehicle and understand the technology of the future, we hope it inspires them and keeps them on their journey as they continue to learn.”
It takes a village
Joseph said Hand2Hand is grateful to be part of the Consumers Energy electric vehicle initiative.
Hunger exists in every community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We cannot do this work without having a fleet, without having the tools that we need to do the work,” said Joseph. “By adding this van, it increases our fleet by 50%.
Joseph went on to say that Hand2Hand will serve any school, no matter the number of students in need.
“Hunger exists in every community; it doesn’t matter the zip code,” said Joseph. “We go into a school if there is one student that needs [help], or we go into a school that has 400 students that need it. We really concentrate on the student.”
While the Hand2Hand staff numbers 22, over 4,000 people help fulfill the nonprofit’s mission.
“We really couldn’t do this without the entire community helping us,” said Joseph.
Over 4,000 volunteers help make Hand2Hand’s mission a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Community support is vital to making Hand2Hand’s mission a success (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Ottawa and Kent counties are Hand2Hand’s largest distribution areas.
“We couldn’t even wash the van today for the ribbon-cutting because it was out in the field, it was already out delivering food,” said Joseph. “That’s just a testament to how this van is really going to bless our community and our families and our kids.”
Hand2Hand is expanding to the Forest Hills school district this year, as well as adding more students in their current school districts.
How you can help!
Community packing events take place each week. Volunteers are welcome and can find more information on the Hand2Hand website.
Food packing events happen weekly to ensure students have enough food (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
And while it takes volunteers to do the work, Joseph said, it also takes finances.
Those wishing to donate to Hand2Hand can do so online and also via Venmo. Those who wish to visit the Hand2Hand building with a check and a friendly hello are also welcome.
“We know the work that we’re doing here is impactful. It’s making a tremendous difference,” said Joseph.
Consumers Energy EV resources
Those thinking about obtaining an electric vehicle can visit consumersenergy.com/EV details and rebate offers. Businesses considering an electric vehicle for their fleet can reach out to PowerMIFleet at consumersenergy.com for rebates and professional guidance.
EVs operate at half the cost per mile of a gasoline vehicle (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Former WKTV intern and aspiring filmmaker Alex Bernhardt makes waves with his work on Roger Rapoport’s recently released World War II film, “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Real world experience definitely counts along with a college degree.
After graduating in 2022 from Ferris State University with a degree in television and digital media production, Alex Bernhardt worked an internship at WKTV Community Media.
Hands-on experiences as a WKTV intern
Alex Bernhardt honed several skills during his internship at WKTV (Courtesy, Alex Bernhardt)
He worked in many WKTV departments alongside Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director, and Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director/GM.
Bernhardt filmed and edited for many WKTV programs, including Friday Night Highlights, featuring local high school basketball. He also created videos for WKTV Journal stories, handled a portion of general news reporting and interviewing, promotional and sponsor events, and assisted with a documentary.
While at WKTV, Bernhardt became comfortable going to a location, setting up a camera, putting microphones on people, adjusting lighting for maximum exposure and learning how to deal with the ins and outs of video production.
“I really enjoy editing,” said Bernhardt, noting stringing together footage, reviewing it and putting it together represents his strongest work.
First stop at WWMT in Kalamazoo
His WKTV internship, especially becoming comfortable with a camera, along with his college education of course, helped Bernhardt land his first professional job at WWMT News Channel 3 as a videographer/news editor.
“A lot of the day-to-day news coverage I would end up doing helped me prepare for that position,” Bernhardt said.
After leaving WWMT in July 2024, Bernhardt moved back to his hometown of Muskegon and joined his family to work at The Corner, an innovative community center in downtown Muskegon in a former church building. Many organizations and groups rent the renovated space (www.facebook.com/thecornermkg/) and his two entrepreneurial sisters operate small businesses from the facility.
Enter Roger Rapoport and “Old Heart”
Roger D. Rapoport, author, movie producer, activist, journalist. (Courtesy, photo)
Bernhardt connected with Roger D. Rapoport, a family friend and successful writer and publisher and now an independent filmmaker. He ended up working on Rapoport’s film “Old Heart,” about an Army veteran who defies his family and flies to the Netherlands 60 years after World War II to find the love of his life. The film is based on Peter Ferry’s novel.
Bernhardt gathered the raw footage shot each day for review by Rapoport and editors, assisted with sound, lighting and camera setup, and underwent a “lot of gophering back and forth” to get footage.
WKTV’s Greer is not surprised by Bernhardt’s success.
“It’s no wonder Alex is out in the world making a name for himself not only handling editing, audio and marketing on the set of ‘Old Heart,’ but also playing the role of the farmer in the film,” Greer said. “Alex was a very dedicated, hard-working college intern at our station, who never said no to a challenge.”
Alex Bernhardt, left, as the Farmer in “Old Heart.” (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
“Old Heart” has heart
To date, “Old Heart” has screened before 130 audiences across the country and accumulated worldwide acclaim.
Accolades include Best Feature from an Adapted Screenplay at the Marina Del Rey Film Festival in Los Angeles, Best Editor (Gene Gamache) and Best Actress (Eva Doueiri) in the Sweden Film Awards, and Best Composer (Garth Neustadter) at the Auguri Film Festival in Naples.
Auguri Film Festival director Olga Sandi described “Old Heart” as a film of rare sensitivity and craftsmanship that weaves together themes of love, loss and resilience across generations.
“Ultimately, “Old Heart” is more than a love story—it’s a meditation on memory, identity and the endurance of human connection,” said Sandi in the review. “With its exceptional direction, stunning cinematography and strong production, it firmly establishes [Kirk] Wahamaki and [Leslye] Witt as filmmakers with both vision and heart.”
“Old Heart” is based on Peter Ferry’s acclaimed novel (Courtesy, Roger Rapoport)
Currently, the film is set to play in Coldwater, Mich., at 12 p.m. on Sept. 24 at the NCG Theater. This event is sponsored by Southwestern Behavioral Health with the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs.
Rapoport said several more “Old Heart” screening events are pending, including five upcoming events in the Netherlands in late September. Updates on “Old Heart” screening dates and locations can be found here.
WKTV fosters community connections through innovative media (Courtesy, WKTV)
Still young…and still aspiring
What’s next for Bernardt besides building up the venue at his family venture?
He hopes to work on other films and enjoys projects like “Psycho Ape: Part II – The Wrath of Kong,” a “super low budget, fun to make, all action and no plot” film. He said “Old Heart” was Rapoport’s fourth movie and he hopes to work with him on future films.
Alex Bernhardt as he worked on “Psycho Ape 2: The Wrath of Kong” film.
“I plan to collaborate with Roger on any future projects he may have, film-related or otherwise,” said Bernhardt. “He is one of West Michigan’s most prolific producers, and he seems to really appreciate my effort.”
When asked what advice he would give to aspiring young filmmakers, Bernhardt gave a tongue-in-cheek reply: “Don’t look at me! I’m still young and aspiring!”
Godfrey-Lee’s varsity football program has not played a full season of 11-man football since 2019.
This off-season, Coach Lamar Marshall and his team prepared for a return to the traditional format. Due to low roster numbers, however, the Legends will once again compete in the MHSAA 8-man football division for the fourth-straight year.
“Unfortunately, we lost some players to transfer,” said Marshall, in his fourth year, whose Legends ended the 2024 season with a 4-5 record. “So we ended up making the decision to come back to the 8-man game.
“It will be business as usual to prepare for the season, and I’m excited for what’s coming up.”
Key players and dual roles
The 2025 Legends will boast an even number of seniors and lowerclassmen. Among the returning seniors is the wide receiver trio of Jaden Potts, Manny Ramos and Aidan Merriweather.
The trio accounted for 95 catches, 909 yards, and nine touchdowns from the graduated Anthony Blok.
Jaden Potts, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Jayden Sanchez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Daeden Lopez, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Aidan Merriweather, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Manny Ramos, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)Joseph Marshall, Lee Legends (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
Potts will find himself all over the field as he is a stout force on the defensive side of the ball as well.
“Jaden Potts is our offensive captain, our defensive captain. He gets us into position on defense, and offensively – if you need a key play – he can come up big,” Marshall said.
Merriweather also will play a dual role for the Legends. The dexterous wideout collected 25 tackles last season and also will play running back on offense.
“He’s going to be our gadget guy,” Marshall said. “He’s coming off a foot injury from track, so he’s knocking the rust off, but he’s going to be a monster for us this year.”
Junior Jayden Sanchez will convert to quarterback from running back, where he led the Legends in rushing with 622 yards and seven touchdowns, pinballing his way to 10 yards per carry.
The Lee Legends varsity football team prepares for its first game of the 2025-26 season (Ty Marzean/WKTV Contributor)
“He’s a load to bring down,” Marshall said of his new signal caller. “He played quarterback under me in middle school, so he’s been in the system for a long time.”
The offensive line will be anchored by a pair of four-year varsity starters, 6-4 guard Darnell Burton and 220-lb. center Daeden Lopez.
Legends Schedule
The Legends will kick off the 2025 season with a pair of home games, hosting Baldwin on Thursday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. and Sacred Heart Academy on Friday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. in the WKTV Game of the Week.
Ninety-eight comedians are now down to 42 as the seventh annual Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) Kingpin of Comedy competition continues its quarterfinal rounds.
The competition began May 11 with its first of fourteen qualifying rounds. Six quarterfinal rounds will run Aug. 17-Sept. 21 with three semifinal rounds held Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and Oct. 19. Competition finals will be held Oct. 26.
Previous Kingpin of Comedy competition winners (Courtesy, Brian B.)
How it works
Seven comedians are given eight minutes to perform in each round. The line-up of comedians is random, with the order drawn as the show progresses.
Audience members are given a ballot before the show begins. After the last competing comedian of the night performs, the audience picks three comedians they feel should advance to the next round. Ballots are counted while a non-competing comic performs for the audience. Comics moving on to the next round of the competition are announced at the end of the show.
Prizes galore!
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a prize package worth over $1,000.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Human in Wyoming!” says Brian B., Founder and MC of the SNF.
The SNF Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive a large check for $500 (Courtesy, Brian B.)
The prize package includes $500 cash, gift cards from LaughFest and Midtown GR, and prizes from various Wyoming businesses and competition host Spectrum Entertainment Complex. The winner also receives a bowling pin trophy, personalized “Kingpin” bowling shirt, and will headline the SNF 2026 LaughFest performance.
About SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Now in its 16th year, over 1,275 different comedians have entertained SNF audiences. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (winter/spring) and 8:30 p.m. (summer/early fall) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
The City of Wyoming celebrated the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado on Saturday, Aug. 16 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and free community event.
Senator Hilary Scholten (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin cut the ribbon, officially opening Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The warm summer morning began at 10:30 a.m. with statements given by State Representative John Fitzgerald, U.S. Senator Hilary Scholten, City of Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin.
“The Godwin Mercado is a project that embodies the best of what our community can achieve when we come together with purpose and vision,” said Mayor Vanderwood. “It is a true honor to stand here today as we officially open the Godwin Mercado.”
Support from the community helped make Godwin Mercado a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Krashawn Martin echoed Mayor Vanderwood’s remarks, saying the marketplace would not have been possible without broad community support.
“My heart is beyond happy to see so many smiling faces, so many different pieces and pockets that really build the community that is Wyoming,” said Martin. “I’m so honored to be a tiny piece of making this beautiful space come together.”
Placemaking in action
Managed and programmed by the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility community event space will provide year-round usage opportunities to local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.
Godwin Mercado is recognized as Wyoming’s new gathering spot for the community (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Market days will also help fill key gaps in the area’s food system, helping support the well-being of residents in the Godwin Heights area and the entire Wyoming community.
Representative Fitzgerald expressed the value Godwin Mercado brings for this generation as well as future generations.
“This is placemaking in action for this community,” said Rep. Fitzgerald. “It’s going to bring attention, good attention, to this community. I cannot be prouder of the City of Wyoming and its investment in this space.”
After the ribbon cutting, community members gathered for several free activities, including a meal, games, face painting and live music, all provided by Wyoming food and artisan vendors.
Local Kona Ice provided refreshing treats (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Free face painting was enjoyed by both children and adults (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A free meal was served to all in attendance (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Large garage doors allow for easy access to and from the Mercado indoor event space (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Wyoming Police let children explore department vehicles (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Playing with bubbles is a must for all ages (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
All participating vendors are local to Wyoming (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Wyoming firefighters and police officers chatted with event guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Children enjoyed several fun activities (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Celebration attendees enjoyed live music (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Rep. John Fitzgerald (left) and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin visit with celebration guests (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The outdoor plaza was filled with fun, family-friendly activity while the main indoor event space allowed seating and shade for those eating or simply needing a break from the sun.
A thread of connection
An unveiling of the colorful mural on Godwin Mercado’s outer south wall also took place.
The Godwin Mercado mural tells the history of the City through “story stacking” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Installed by local nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, and painted by Filipina street muralist and visual anthropreneur Venazir, the mural is a testament to Wyoming’s history, resilience and spirit – and was inspired by a game of Jenga.
“I was playing Jenga with my friends, and then I thought of stacking all the bits and pieces of who was Wyoming, who is Wyoming,” Venazir told WKTV Journal.
As Venazir researched the City’s history, she recognized the importance of not only the Godwin Mercado space, but what the significance and impact of revitalizing that space means to the community.
Titled “Stacked Stories” and “Building Balance,” the mural’s stacked images reveal the many facets of Wyoming’s lifespan while giving a poetic nod to the layered narrative of Godwin Heights and Wyoming and emphasizing the balance between past and progress.
Mural artist Venazir continued working on the mural during the celebration (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Another prominent element of the mural is a red thread weaving through the images.
“The red thread is the most symbolic element in my work,” said Venazir. “It’s this unifying element that I use across all of my murals.”
Since 2017 in the Philippines, Venazir’s red thread has been weaving a tapestry of stories internationally as she explores the intricate relationships between human traditions and the ever-changing landscapes that shape them.
“It stitches us [together] in ways that we couldn’t even imagine,” said Venazir. “My journey as an artist is to visualize the process that there is a red thread that guides us. That thread stretches and tangles, but it is never broken.”
Learn more about Venazir and her dynamic art here.
An educational avenue
Godwin Mercado will not only provide fresh food options and space for events, it will also collaborate with local schools and organizations to host educational activities.
(Courtesy, Godwin Heights)
Chad Conklin, Superintendent of Godwin Heights Public Schools, said school staff and students are excited about the opportunities Godwin Mercado offers.
“What this building is going to bring with the agriculture – it’s going to be fantastic,” Conklin told WKTV. “We’re looking at ways to be able to incorporate our own curriculum within it and hopefully support that through our science classes.”
Conklin also appreciates the increased accessibility the Mercado parking lot provides for the adjoining Godwin Heights athletic complex activities.
Helping our city thrive
Sen. Hilary Scholten said Godwin Mercado will play an important role in helping support small businesses and local entrepreneurs in West Michigan.
“Close to 99% of businesses in the State of Michigan are considered small businesses,” said Senator Scholten. “That is what makes our economy so beautiful and so diverse.
“Places like the Mercado are going to continue to support those small businesses and help them to thrive.”
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Resource links
The Godwin Mercado full market grand opening is planned for spring of 2026. For updates, sign up for the Godwin Mercado newsletter here.
The Mercado provides various options for residents to embark upon their own personal entrepreneurial journeys. Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via a vendor application.
For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.
Watch this short clip to hear what City of Wyoming officials have to say about the opening of Godwin Mercado! (Courtesy, Tom Norton WKTV)
The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)
The City of Wyoming is inviting the community to celebrate the grand opening of the new Godwin Mercado marketplace on Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The new farmers market and year-round event facility located at 301 36th Street will be unveiled to the public in a free event that Krashawn Martin, Director of the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, describes as a community block party.
“We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season,” said Martin at the July Godwin Mercado sneak-peek event.
A ribbon cutting will take place at 10:30 a.m. followed by free family-friendly activities, food and drinks from local vendors, live music, lawn games, face painting and more.
One person is injured following a shooting in the 3700 block of South Division Avenue.
At approximately 1:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug.4, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers located evidence indicating that multiple shots had been fired; however, no victim was found at the scene.
A short time later, an adult male victim arrived at a nearby hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. He is currently listed in stable condition. At this time, no arrests have been made. Detectives from the Wyoming Police Department, along with members of the Forensic Science Unit, are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300, or to report anonymously through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345, 1-866-774-2345, or online at www.silentobserver.org.
The City of Wyoming is inviting community members to participate in National Night Out events throughout the city on Tuesday, Aug. 5.
An annual event celebrated across the country, National Night Out encourages residents to turn on their porch lights and gather with neighbors, community leaders, and police and fire personnel.
The annual National Night Out events help build relationships and trust within the community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)
Celebrating and Strengthening Relationships
Lieutenant Andrew Koeller of the Wyoming Police Department says National Night Out strengthens the vital relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve – and the Wyoming PD is proud to participate in the annual event.
“This evening is more than just a gathering—it is a celebration of trust, safety, and shared commitment to keeping Wyoming safe and connected,” says Lt. Koeller.
Wyoming officers help youth try on tactical vests at a local National Night Out event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)
While National Night Out formally highlights the Wyoming Police Department’s community partnerships, Lt. Koeller says those relationships are at the core of everything the police department does every day.
“The Wyoming Police Department places great value on building, maintaining, and growing meaningful connections with those we serve,” says Lt. Koeller. “Our dedicated Community Services Unit leads many of these efforts, but every member of our department shares the responsibility of fostering strong community ties.”
Wyoming National Night Out Details
Wyoming police officers, firefighters, and leaders will join residents at multiple gatherings across the city. Most events will take place between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Residents will have opportunities to explore police and fire equipment, including police cruisers, fire trucks and other emergency response vehicles, as well as learn about a variety of safety topics. Community members can also visit with the Wyoming Police Department K9 team.
Officer Willshire, Kentwood PD (left) Officer Klaassen, Wyoming PD (center) Officer Quintard, Wyoming PD (right) welcome community members at Celebration Cinema (Courtesy, Deborah Reed 2023)
Wyoming Police Department officers will be at Celebration Cinema at Rivertown Crossings from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., along with other local agencies. The department will also hold community events at Grace Christian University, Godwin Heights High School, Lifeline Church, Bayberry Farms and Buck Creek Church.
*Locations and event times listed below:
Celebration Cinema, 3728 Rivertown Pkwy from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Grace Christian University, 1011 Aldon St. SW from 5 p.m.-7 p.m.
Godwin Heights High School, 59 35th St. SW from 5:30p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Lifeline Church, 2929 Rogers Lane Ave. SW from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Bayberry Farms, 2768 56th St. SW from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Buck Creek Church, 3746 Byron Center Ave. SW from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
“We are grateful to our residents, local organizations and community leaders for their continued support and involvement,” says Lt. Koeller. “Together, we make Wyoming a safer, stronger place to live, work, and visit.”
WPD Captain Tim Pols hands a sticker to a young resident during a previous Wyoming National Night Out event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)
Learn More!
National Night Out began in the 1984 with a group of law enforcement agencies, volunteers, neighborhood watch groups, and state and regional crime prevention associations. It grew from porch vigils to neighborhood celebrations to promote safety in communities and build relationships with public safety.
To learn more about National Night Out, visit natw.org.
This advisory is due to smoke from Canadian wildfires moving into the Upper Peninsula Tuesday and into parts of the northern Lower Peninsula Wednesday morning (Courtesy, AirNow.gov)
An air quality advisory is in effect for West Michigan through Wednesday and Thursday, July 30-31.
According to AirNow.gov, The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has issued an Air Quality Advisory for elevated levels of fine particulate (PM2.5) across the state of Michigan. The advisory is due to smoke from Canadian wildfires moving into the Upper Peninsula Tuesday and into parts of the northern Lower Peninsula Wednesday morning with hourly PM2.5 concentrations ranging from USG to Unhealthy.
Air quality advisories and alerts are designed to help those who can be affected by poor air quality (Courtesy, AirNow)
“Smoke from Canadian wildfires moved into the Upper Peninsula Tuesday and into parts of the northern Lower Peninsula Wednesday morning with hourly PM2.5 concentrations ranging from USG to Unhealthy,” said Stephanie M. Hengesbach, Meteorology Specialist, Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
“Models show the plume continuing its southern trek across the state as a cold front moves south into the Ohio River Valley. As the smoke moves in, PM2.5 concentrations in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) range will expand south, while concentrations of PM2.5 in the Unhealthy range are more likely across northern areas.”
Sensitive groups are encouraged to take precautions.
This forecast will be evaluated Thursday morning to determine if the current statewide air quality advisory will need to be extended into Friday.
The air quality in West Michigan is currently considered unhealthy for sensitive groups (Courtesy, AirNow)
EGLE recommends:
When possible, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially those with heart disease and respiratory diseases like asthma.
Monitor for symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in nose, throat, and eyes.
Reduce or eliminate activities that contribute to air pollution, such as:
outdoor burning;
use of residential wood burning devices.
Keep windows closed overnight to prevent smoke from getting indoors and, if possible, run central air conditioning with MERV-13 or higher rated filters.
(Courtesy, AirNow.gov)
How air quality is measured
Air quality is an important measure for creating desirable communities and protecting public health. Air Quality Advisories and Air Quality Alerts are based on the Air Quality Index (AQI).
The AQI is a scale from 0 to 500 that indicates air pollution levels. Higher values mean higher pollution and more health risks. When AQI exceeds 100, it is unhealthy, starting with sensitive groups and worsening as it rises. There are six categories, each with a color, to easily gauge the level of health concern in communities.
Air quality advisories/alerts information:
Air Quality Advisory: Issued when ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5) or both are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) threshold. Those considered in the “USG” threshold include people with lung disease (such as asthma), children, older adults, people who are active outdoors (including outdoor workers), people with certain genetic variants, and people with diets limited in certain nutrients should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.
This is aimed to provide awareness for poor air quality, encourage people to limit activities that contribute to poor air quality, and to alert those who are especially sensitive to poor air quality.
Air Quality Alert: Issued when Ozone, PM2.5, or both are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy threshold or worse. This alert indicates a higher level of concern as everyone, not just sensitive groups, can be affected by poor air quality.
Covering music from Nirvana to Blink 182 to Melissa Etheridge – “and everything in between” – the five-piece rock band is known for its high-energy and dedication to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department)
Covering music from Nirvana to Blink 182 to Melissa Etheridge – “and everything in between” – the five-piece rock band is known for its high-energy and dedication to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music.
P90 was formed to pay tribute to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music (Courtesy, P90)
“All ‘90s All Night – Re-live the decade that brought us pogs and boy bands, furbies and Friends,” states the P90 Facebook site.
P90 was formed to pay tribute to the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock music – and does not disappoint.
Featuring lead vocals by Mark Gardner, guitars by Nolan Romzek and Brian Zeemering, bass and vocals by Matt Vail, and Stephen Legg on drums, P90 has been dominating the ‘90s music scene in West Michigan, boasting 9.6K fans on social media and large crowds at each performance.
Come out to Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park final summer performance at Lamar Park ready for the full ‘90s rock ‘n’ roll experience!
Concert details
Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks offer food for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab some food and enjoy the music!
A complete listing of Project 90’s performances and events through September 2025 (Courtesy, P90)
The Cans Film Festival is celebrating Grand Rapids-based documentary filmmaker, Tran Hoang Calvin, during Filmmaker’s Happy Hour at Speciation Artisan Ales (Courtesy photo)
The Cans Film Festival is celebrating Grand Rapids-based documentary filmmaker, Tran Hoang Calvin, during Filmmaker’s Happy Hour at Speciation Artisan Ales on Thursday, July 24 from 6 – 9 p.m.
Filmmakers and film-lovers are invited to this special event to meet Tran Hoang Calvin and get to know him through his work, all while sharing a drink from Speciation Cellars. This event is free and open to the public.
Tran Hoang Calvin is a director and producer with a Bachelors in Fine Arts in Film and Television Production from New York University Tisch. Calvin focuses on the developing field of new media including social media strategy, memetics and virtual reality.
Calvin worked at various major media companies including Anonymous Content, Decon-Mass Appeal, Vice Media, and ABC News. He then co-founded both Nodehaus Media, an animation studio and production company driven by Gen Z artists and entrepreneurs, and Dolphinger Memetics, a marketing research lab.
What to expect at Happy Hour
The July 24 Filmmaker’s Happy Hour will feature four of Calvin’s films: “Refuge: The Story of Viet Tran” (2021), “A Clean Slate” (2023), “Has Heart” (2025) and an exclusive preview of “Shoot, Shovel & Shut-Up” (2025).
(Courtesy photo)
The short documentary, “Refuge,” allows attendees to hear from Vietnamese refugee, Viet Tran, who talks about his past struggles with fleeing his country in search for a better life. IMDb
As Wisconsin reforms its expungement process, the opportunity for a second chance for the formerly incarcerated hinges on a local activist named Shanyeill McCloud in “A Clean Slate.” IMDb
“Has Heart” follows a Navy veteran and an artist as they empower veterans through art, helping them reclaim their voices. This inspiring documentary shows how creativity heals trauma, connecting stories of sacrifice, honor, and resilience. IMDb
The short drama, “Shoot, Shovel, and Shut up,” features the Clifford family as they attempt to start a new life by selling their dilapidated, impoverished farm. But when the discovery of an endangered bird on the property threatens to collapse the sale, the son Andy must decide whether to make the bird’s presence known or to shoot, shovel, and shut up. IMDb
About the Cans Film Festival
The Cans Film Festival organization works to support independent filmmakers by promoting film as an accessible art form to audiences everywhere, their website states.
The organization’s flagship event series, the Cans Film Festival (CFF), is a film screening series meant to give filmmakers another opportunity to show their work and to connect with each other and their local community. The price of admission is a donation of recyclable cans and bottles which are given to the top three filmmakers whose films were voted as audience favorites at the end of the night.
(Courtesy photo)
Filmmakers keep all proceeds through the 10-cent redemption system at most grocery stores across Michigan.
The festival is dedicated to showcasing the diverse range of short films created in Michigan. Local filmmakers are invited to submit their short films of 15 minutes or less (shorter runtimes are preferred), across any genre or subject matter.
Celebrate community spirit
Join the July 24 Filmmaker’s Happy Hour event and celebrate community spirit, support local artists and contribute to a greener future. For more event details, click here.
Several Kent County organizations have partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host mobile pantries each month.
Below is a list of mobile food pantry locations open to the community. Each listing consists of date, time, location and drive-thru or walk-thru designation.
Though the selection of food varies each month, a variety of fresh and frozen items are always available at the mobile pantries.
Mobile food pantry schedule for July 21 – Aug. 19:
Popular West Michigan-based band, Phabies, will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 22 at 6 p.m. with their eclectic mix of original alternative rock/pop songs.
A DIY band
The Phabies band is a direct reflection of its founder, Laura Hobson, and her refusal to be forced into one style or genre.
“I never really wanted to feel stuck or pigeonholed in any certain style or genre,” said Hobson. “I didn’t want to present as only one thing while we were still trying to figure out our sound.”
While many bands target one style or sound, Phabies creates songs that unashamedly cross genres.
The band does not shy away from creating a unique and eclectic sound (Courtesy, Phabies)
“It keeps my brain interested,” said Hobson. “I need a lot of mental stimulation to stay interested.”
Phabies not only creates their own sound, but their show sets and outfits as well – putting Hobson’s art degree to daily use and earning Phabies a reputation as a “DIY band.”
Even the band name was formed from an eclectic mix of Hobson’s personal experiences.
“It involves an old screen name, a run-in with a feral cat, a road trip to Canada, a book written by Steinbeck – there’s a lot of overlapping things that resulted in the name,” Hobson said with a laugh.
Friendship and trust
Though Phabies bears Hobson’s personal signature, the group formed in 2018 out of friendship and trust – and is stronger because of it.
The band members began as friends, and have remained close friends through the years (Courtesy, Phabies)
“I had been looking to start a band for a very long time, but I didn’t want to randomly hobble a group together that would later fall apart or wouldn’t feel exactly right,” said Hobson. “It took a long time to find my people.”
Band members Garrett Stier (guitar/bass/vocals), Joshua Holicki (drums), Max McKinnon (synth/keys), Andrew Deters (guitar) and Hobson (vocals/guitar/keys) have remained friends throughout the years, and Hobson believes that is due to the thoughtful construction of the band.
“General advice for people looking to start groups: don’t rush into it,” said Hobson. “Make sure you can really trust and feel safe with the people you’re playing with.”
That friendship and trust plays an important role in enjoying what they do.
“Every practice is fun; it never feels like work,” said Hobson. “It was really important to have a group of people that I can really laugh with and feel like my truest, freest self.”
More than just notes on a page
For Stier and Hobson, that feeling of connection and safety extends from the band to music itself.
Stier said music has been a constant source of joy for him over the last few years.
Music provides an experience unique to each individual (Courtesy, Phabies)
“It’s a place to go and be reminded that there are good things, there are things that bring people together.”
Stier went on to say that he has experienced music bringing people together in various ways through live concerts, recording albums and rehearsals with the band. The people he has met and friendships he has gained make him appreciate music even more.
Hobson associates returning to the stage time and again with facing her fears and the unknown.
“It’s knowing that you can do a hard thing or something that is scary,” said Hobson. “Every time I am done with a show, I remember that I can do it. I think that’s really important because it is scary to perform. There’s something to be said about musicians who get up there every single day and perform a new song on stage or tell a story or give away parts of themselves.”
Though Hobson has performed solo shows and appreciates the different ways she can interact with the audience during those shows, she said being part of a group makes performing less intimidating.
“All eyes split between five people is a little less scary than all eyes on just me,” said Hobson. “You are so vulnerable; it just feels safer when I’m with my friends.”
Hobson said being onstage also helps her tap into parts of herself that otherwise remain hidden.
“I think there are parts of myself that surface when I am up there that I am not in tune with off the stage. It feels like you’re tapping into something else, and I’m interested in that feeling.”
Lyricism as poetry
Hobson crafts her songs with care, putting time into both the lyrics and music.
“I like to approach lyricism as poetry, where there’s a lot of symbolism and a lot of things you could read between the lines and glean different information from if you looked for it,” Hobson said, adding that she loves how lyrics can be interpreted in the same way as paintings.
Hobson encourages different interpretations of her music by listeners (Courtesy, Phabies)
“I think the best compliment you could receive as a songwriter is somebody else’s interpretation. Even if it’s not what you intended, that’s okay. That’s what art is.”
Hobson said writing songs, like group performances, is a way to share the weight of life.
“A lot of times I will write songs to unburden myself, to share the load and get things off of my mind and disperse it. Because it’s easier to carry when it’s spread among many people.”
Simultaneously, Hobson uses her songs to help unburden her listeners.
“It feels important to remind people that they are cared for, that somebody else is considering their happiness.”
A curse…and hope
Phabies recently released their latest album, The Curse Of Caring, in June. The band has a full lineup of summer shows throughout Michigan, with hopes of out-of-state touring and recording in the fall.
“I didn’t let myself do any writing as we were pushing the album out,” said Hobson. “Now I have this backlog of energy that I’ve been furiously trying to capture on my instruments and probably will be going towards album number three.”
However, both Hobson and Stier are also focused on sharing songs from The Curse Of Caring.
“With writers or with musicians, whenever you release something into the world, it’s new to everybody else, but we’ve been holding on to these songs and working on them for the last two or three years,” said Stier. “We are really doing our best to stick with these songs and to share them.”
And the message contained within The Curse Of Caring is an important one, Hobson said. The album’s songs explore loss and grief while also holding space for happiness and joy.
Phabies’ latest album explores grief while also offering hope (Courtesy, Phabies)
“The curse of caring is that double-edged sword. If you do care for things, you’re also going to experience great sadness when things change or when you experience loss.
“But at the same time, caring is what makes us human,” Hobson continued. “In some ways, caring does often feel like a curse because those of us who care the most have the most to lose.”
The album’s last track provides listeners with an uplifting message of hope.
Phabies has released two full-length albums, Fire Seed (2022)and The Curse Of Caring (2025), as well as several EPs and singles over the years.
Hobson and Stier said they are grateful for the opportunity to record two music videos using the WKTV Community Media studio in Wyoming, and urge other artists to utilize the media station’s resources as well.
“It’s a great resource to use that exists in our community,” said Hobson.
Learn more about Phabies and their music here and here.
Concert details
Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks offer food for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab some food and enjoy the music!
The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.
Consumers Energy’s electric and natural gas customers who qualify for State Emergency Relief funds may now qualify for additional assistance (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Consumers Energy’s electric and natural gas customers who qualify for State Emergency Relief (SER) funds and haven’t received the full $500 annual payment credit may now qualify for additional assistance under a new Michigan Department of Health and Human Services policy in effect immediately.
State Emergency Relief dollars help certain income-qualified customers take control of their past due energy bills up to a maximum of $500. The one-time federal funds disbursed at the state level are distributed to customers who apply and whose household income is 150% of the federal poverty level or below.
How it works
Beginning July 7, new customer applicants who haven’t received relief in Fiscal Year 2025, which ends Sept. 30, are eligible to receive the $500 per commodity cap, regardless of their past-due balance.
Previous SER recipients who haven’t reached the $500 per commodity cap can apply for the remaining amount (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Previous SER recipients who have already received funding since Oct. 1, 2024—but haven’t reached the $500 per commodity cap—can apply for the remaining amount starting July 11 through Sept. 30. These payments may result in a credit on the customer’s account.
“We’re dedicated to equity, accessibility and affordability for Michiganders who count on us for reliable electricity and natural gas,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s senior vice president, chief customer and growth officer.
“Through our various energy savings programs, energy assistance offerings and partnering with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, we support the growing needs of our customers who experience challenges paying their bills.”
This new policy could allow customers to receive an additional $250 to meet the maximum annual allocation allowed (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Under the former policy, a customer who owes $250 to keep their account active could apply and, if approved, get a credit paid back in that amount but would not have been eligible for additional relief in the same fiscal year. Under the new policy, however, that customer could now receive an additional $250 to meet the maximum annual allocation allowed of $500 if they have accumulated additional arrears.
Additional energy assistance
Last year, 540,000 customers received $38.4M in State Emergency Relief funding. In total, 137,000 families across 30 Michigan counties received some type of energy assistance.
In addition to State Emergency Relief funds, there is additional help available for anyone who needs assistance with their energy bills by calling 2-1-1, a free resource that connects people with nonprofit organizations. Customers can also visit ConsumersEnergy.com/Assistance.
To make it easier for customers to find the help they need based on their situation, Consumers Energy recently launched “My Personalized Offerings,” an easy-to-use tool that empowers customers to identify and enroll in custom payment assistance and energy management programs. The optional tool is free and available to all customers at ConsumersEnergy.com/Offers.
According to a statement released by Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), this advisory is due to elevated levels for fine particulate matter (PM-2.5). The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) cites wildfire smoke originating from Canada.
EGLE noted that levels of particle pollution are expected to reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG, Orange AQI) through all of Monday, July 14 in southern parts of Michigan.
Sensitive groups are encouraged to take precautions.
The air quality in West Michigan is currently considered unhealthy for sensitive groups (Courtesy, AccuWeather.com)
Air pollution cause
“Wildfire smoke from Canada continues to push into Michigan on Sunday, with additional plumes expected Monday,” said Stephanie Hengesbach, Meteorology Specialist, Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
Increased fine particulate levels due to smoke were seen Sunday morning across the Upper Peninsula into the northern portion of the Lower Peninsula. The smoke continues to track east and south, expanding across the rest of the state and with additional plumes forecasted to move in on Monday.
Hengesbach said southern locations can expect levels of fine particulate in the USG to Moderate range.
EGLE recommends:
When possible, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially those with heart disease and respiratory diseases like asthma.
Monitor for symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in nose, throat, and eyes.
Reduce or eliminate activities that contribute to air pollution, such as:
outdoor burning;
use of residential wood burning devices.
Keep windows closed overnight to prevent smoke from getting indoors and, if possible, run central air conditioning with MERV-13 or higher rated filters.
How air quality is measured
Air quality is an important measure identified in SEMCOG plans and programs for creating desirable communities, protecting public health, and maintaining a positive regional image for Southeast Michigan. In partnership with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), SEMCOG is now implementing a two-tiered system of Air Quality Advisories and Air Quality Alerts.
There are six categories, each with a color, to easily gauge the level of health concern in communities (Courtesy, AirNow.gov)
The AQI is a scale from 0 to 500 that indicates air pollution levels. Higher values mean higher pollution and more health risks. When AQI exceeds 100, it is unhealthy, starting with sensitive groups and worsening as it rises.
There are six categories, each with a color, to easily gauge the level of health concern in communities.
Air quality advisories/alerts information:
Air Quality Advisory: Issued when ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5) or both are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) threshold. Those considered in the “USG” threshold include people with lung disease (such as asthma), children, older adults, people who are active outdoors (including outdoor workers), people with certain genetic variants, and people with diets limited in certain nutrients should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.
This is aimed to provide awareness for poor air quality, encourage people to limit activities that contribute to poor air quality, and to alert those who are especially sensitive to poor air quality.
Air quality advisories and alerts are designed to help those who can be affected by poor air quality (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Air Quality Alert: Issued when Ozone, PM2.5, or both are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy threshold or worse. This alert indicates a higher level of concern as everyone, not just sensitive groups, can be affected by poor air quality.
The local band presents a premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience with six veteran musicians and decades of combined stage and touring experience (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department)
Beloved rock and roll icon Tom Petty may have died in 2017 at age 66, his music lives on in soloists and tribute bands worldwide. One such band is West Michigan’s own The Insiders: A Tom Petty Tribute Band who will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 15 at 6 p.m..
According to The Insiders’ website, the local band presents the premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience with six veteran musicians and decades of combined stage and touring experience.
The Insiders’ frontman, Max Lockwood, is a songwriter, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist who grew up listening to Tom Petty.
Max Lockwood is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist (Courtesy photo)
“My mom would play the Greatest Hits record while she worked out,” Lockwood says on his website.
“I’d sit at the top of the stairs and listen to those songs—it was my most requested CD as a young kid.”
Lockwood’s high school band frequently performed Petty songs at local shows.
“Tom Petty was part of the great American landscape to me—a legend by the time I was musically conscious. We got a great crowd reaction with Petty tunes, and people frequently commented that I sounded a lot like him.”
Lockwood’s music is a combination of rock-n-roll with folk and pop genres, and is known for heartfelt lyrics that contemplate truths of love, adversity and growth. The musician’s powerful voice, raw emotion and flair onstage draw crowds at each performance.
Honoring a legend
After Petty’s passing in 2017, Lockwood organized the tribute band by performing a benefit concert with a group of his favorite musicians. The sold-out show raised thousands of dollars for a local domestic shelter – and The Insiders was born.
There has been no shortage of demand, and the band continues selling out shows across the midwest.
“We try to honor what Mr. Petty and the Heartbreakers have done for rock and roll each night,” Lockwood says on the website. “We’re fans of the music first and foremost. These songs are woven into the fabric of the American identity.”
The Insiders are based in Grand Rapids and are available for public and private functions. Find out more here.
Max Lockwood “catches air” at a recent Lowell show (Courtesy photo)
Concert details
Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!
The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.
Catherine’s Health Center CEO Megan Erskine (left) shaking hands with Mel Trotter CEO Chris Palusky celebrating the joint partnership to operate a full-service medical clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
Mel Trotter Ministries, the largest provider of services to people experiencing homelessness in West Michigan, announced an expansion of its partnership with Catherine’s Health Center. This expansion will result in increased health clinic services for guests staying at Mel Trotter’s shelter at 225 Commerce SW in Grand Rapids.
Catherine’s is now offering full-time medical care at Mel Trotter Ministries. This new partnership will provide 40 hours per week of comprehensive primary care services to guests, with plans to expand access to the broader Heartside community by early 2026.
Mishel Pollard of Catherine’s Health Center standing in the hallway at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
The clinic will serve as a “medical home” for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering walk-in appointments and a full spectrum of services including substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), immunizations, screenings, well-child visits, diagnostic lab services, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialty care.
Additional care
In addition to primary care, Catherine’s will provide:
16 hours per week of dental hygiene services
4 hours per week of psychiatric care
40 hours per week of case management support
The entrance to the full-service clinic at Mel Trotter Ministries (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
Bringing integrated services to the community
“We are grateful to Mel Trotter Ministries and their generous partners and donors for laying the foundation for this model of care,” said Megan Erskine, CEO at Catherine’s Health Center. “Their commitment over the past four years…has made it possible for us to expand our place-based care model and bring full-time, integrated services to this community.”
Catherine’s Health Center staff working in the full-service medical clinic. Left to right: Ollie Irwin, Mishel Pollard, Bettie DeChemin (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
Catherine’s has spent the last three years delivering healthcare directly to the unhoused in shelters, churches and encampments. The new clinic represents the next evolution of this work, complemented by a mobile medical van that will continue to provide outreach and services across the region.
“We’re extremely pleased to expand our relationship with Catherine’s Health Center so that we can deliver the best possible care to our guests,” said Chris Palusky, CEO at Mel Trotter Ministries.
“When our renovated clinic space opened two years ago, it was our goal to provide services that healed the body and the spirit of those in need of assistance. This new service agreement will help us do that by bringing a more complete spectrum of care for anyone coming to our shelter.”
Tammy Morgan of Catherine’s Health Center working in an exam room at the full-service medical clinic (Courtesy, Mel Trotter Ministries)
The initiative goal is to provide personalized and dignified care to guests while reducing non-urgent emergency department visits and unnecessary hospitalizations. Ultimately, leaders at Mel Trotter Ministries and Catherine’s Health Center believe that improved physical and mental health outcomes will enhance housing opportunities and stability for individuals trapped in the cycle of homelessness.
Stay tuned!
The clinic expects to open its doors to anyone experiencing homelessness starting in October. An open house at the clinic is planned for Oct. 22.
To view Catherine’s Health Center upcoming events, click here.
Kyle VanEerden, Market Manager (right), and Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City of Wyoming provided a tour of their new community market space, Godwin Mercado, on Tuesday, July 1.
Managed and programmed by Kyle VanEerden, Godwin Mercado Market Manager, and the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, the market space will support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.
Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department Director, provided a preview of the nearly completed 6,000-square-foot, $6.2 million facility.
“The Godwin Mercado is a year-round market facility that we are looking at as a really amazing and beautiful gift to the community here in Wyoming,” said Martin.
“A lot of work has been done to get us to this point,” Martin continued, noting that the Mercado groundbreaking was held seven months ago. “It’s amazing to see the progress that has happened in the building so far.”
The Mercado will be fully operational in fall of 2025 and will soon open for community reservations and events. The full farmers market will open in spring of 2026 to allow a full season for farm vendors.
Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department staff talk with local media in Godwin Mercado’s outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Fulfilling a vital need
Not only will the Mercado provide fun and educational activities and events, market days will provide fresh and healthy food options with access to all food assistance currencies. This will fill key gaps in the area’s food system and help support the well-being of local residents.
“This is definitely fulfilling a need,” said Martin. “We’re definitely trying to fill a gap in the food system over here. There are some options of grocery stores nearby, but we really want to be able to provide fresh food options to the community right here in this neighborhood while also providing some education.”
A community hub
On the west end is the Mercado outdoor plaza, a multipurpose space that can accommodate vendors, activities and live music, seating and can be rented for community events. Electrical power is available for food trucks and other event needs.
The Godwin Mercado outdoor plaza (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Imagine there’s live music happening, there’s a lot of community, there’s kids laughing, there’s people talking,” said Martin. “That’s what this space should feel and look like once we’re fully operational.”
Accessible from the outdoor plaza is the Mercado main entrance and lobby. Restrooms can be found immediately to the left upon entering the lobby. Down the hall is a multipurpose room that can be utilized for meetings and during events. Another small room offers appliances such as warmers, a freezer and a refrigerator with a window connecting to the main event space.
Godwin Mercado main event space (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The main event space includes automatic overhead doors and room for 20-24 vendors. Outdoor space for additional vendors is available along the building’s north wall.
Two utility rooms with storage space and a full AV setup at the east end of the building round out the market space.
Events year-round
Godwin Mercado is open all year – even during Michigan’s winter months. Eight automatic overhead doors that open and close facilitate that year-round possibility.
Large overhead doors can be opened or closed depending on weather (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“In those colder weather months, maybe you’ll see the garage doors down, maybe we’ll have a little breeze going,” said Martin. “But this gives us a great amount of space to be able to have vendors.”
A single market day will be hosted each week during the winter months. Two market days will take place during the summer months.
Planning is already in progress for both a fall festival and a holiday market. The City’s annual winter event, Wrap Up Wyoming, will also take place at the Godwin Mercado.
Restoring a previous historic Wyoming event is also under consideration.
“Wyoming historically has had a pretty significant flea market that used to take place on 28th Street,” said Martin. “We’re hoping to bring back a semblance of a flea market that will take place here.”
Intentional connections
A mural installed by the nonprofit, Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, will be painted by a local artist on the outer south wall of the Godwin Mercado building.
The north side of the building is equipped with two connecting paths to the surrounding neighborhood, space for outdoor vendors, seating, a play area for children, and a bike repair station.
One of the walking paths connecting Godwin Mercado to the adjoining neighborhood (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A neighborhood connecting walking path and the bike repair station site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Krashawn Martin talks about the various ways the market space connects to the community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
A seating area on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Space for outdoor vendors and community/family gatherings on the north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The north side of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The Godwin Mercado parking area connects with the Godwin Heights school athletic complex (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The City’s reconfigured trail network, its proximity to the highway and Silver Line bus route, and the walkable neighborhood location will make the Mercado easily accessible to everyone.
“We’ve tried to be really intentional with some of our neighborhood connectors,” said Martin.
Educational collaborations with local schools and organizations are also in planning stages. The goal is to provide youth with education about fresh foods, fun collaborations with the adjoining Godwin Heights school athletic complex activities, and encouraging entrepreneurial skills by bringing youth in as vendors for a special market day.
Godwin Mercado landscaping is well under way (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Martin is cognizant, however, that other local organizations provide much of what the Mercado will offer the community – and she has no intention of reinventing the wheel.
“There are a lot of programs that are doing this work already, so it’s just finding those partnerships and having this be the space that people need for the ideas they already have,” said Martin. “We really want this to be an asset to the neighborhood that’s right here around us.”
Come one, come all!
Godwin Mercado will host a free grand opening event on Saturday, Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We are really looking at that as a huge community block party, a gift to the community,” said Martin. “We want to give an opportunity for people to see and feel the space, and see some things that might be [around during] market season.”
Attendees can expect food trucks, local vendors, kids activities, live music, games, a free meal (while supplies last) and more.
Rendering of completed Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
Resource links
The Godwin Mercado full market grand opening is planned for spring of 2026. For updates, sign up for the Godwin Mercado newsletter here.
Interested vendors can sign up to participate weekly or for the entire market season via an online vendor application.
For more information about Godwin Mercado, click here.
The audience can expect a rockin’ good time as The Reverend Jesse Ray, accompanied by his Carolina Catfish band, treats attendees to new songs and fan favorites (Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Recreation)
Ray is back in Wyoming with new songs and authentic lyrics (Courtesy, Reverend Jesse Ray)
The Reverend Jesse Ray will take the stage at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, July 8 at 6 p.m. with his trademark rock ‘n’ roll sound. The audience can expect a rockin’ good time as Ray, accompanied by his Carolina Catfish band, treats attendees to new songs and fan favorites.
The majority of Tuesday’s Concerts in the Park show will consist of original tunes written by Ray and featuring the kind of authentic song lyrics his fans first fell in love with.
“My favorite record that I’ve ever recorded or written was Angry (2016), and I feel like I’ve gotten away from that raw, rock ‘n’ roll, fun, vintage-style energy,” says Ray.
However, the singer-songwriter has recently returned to writing those authentic lyrics. “I’m more uncompromising with the music that I want to make, and I think I’m writing some really fun stuff lately.”
In addition to Ray’s return to his musical roots is the return of Ray’s original drummer.
“Dingo is back in the fold and we’re playing together,” Rays says. “It feels magical.”
The importance of authenticity
When asked why he emphasizes authenticity in his music, Ray referred to a comment made by Justin Townes Earl, one of Ray’s favorite songwriters.
Ray’s music often reflect his life experiences (Courtesy, Aaron Rorick)
“[He said] you’re not supposed to write about things you don’t know anything about,” said Ray. “You can’t talk about it. You don’t understand it, you don’t feel it.”
Ray went on to say he ensures that even the cover songs he plays are pieces he can personally relate to – with one exception.
“‘Folsom Prison Blues’ isn’t really something that I completely identify with – that one’s just for fun,” said Ray with a laugh.
Ray’s newest album, ¡Adiós!(July 2024), dispensed with all hyperbole and cryptic lyrics, bringing a raw vulnerability to the album.
“When I did ¡Adiós! I was in a spot that I’d never been in before,” said Ray. “I was really upset, and I was a little unabashed in my songwriting, what I was singing about. For lack of a better way of putting it, I was pretty naked in ¡Adiós!.”
And though revealing his vulnerable side can be both easy and difficult, Ray’s fans say they relate to the honesty in his lyrics.
Practicing what he preaches
As with writing songs, Ray chooses to live life authentically. “I try to practice what I preach, live what I sing about.”
Characterized as an “old soul with a lead foot,” Ray can often be found zipping down the highway on his Harley or mugging for the nearest camera. But while Ray is known for going against the grain in music and in life, the musician said he does not nurture a reckless spirit or behavior.
The Reverend Jesse Ray performs at outdoor venue in Grand Haven (Courtesy, Jeff Brinn)
“I used to [live] in more of a destructive way; I used to live my life to my own detriment,” said Ray, adding that he has given up vices such as alcohol and cigarettes.
“I’m still going against the grain. I’m doing something that really isn’t supposed to work, but it’s out of this love for this life that I have right now. It’s not being rebellious for the sake of rebellion, but just living life and enjoying it.”
Bringing people together
Ray focuses on performing well so listeners enjoy the show (Courtesy, Reverend Jesse Ray)
The musician hopes fans walk away from his shows feeling good and having connected with other audience members.
“It’s fun to hear about people and different friend groups meeting up and getting to know each other,” Ray said.
“I really like bringing people together with music. I really appreciate people that come out, and I want to make it worth their while.”
To learn more about The Reverend Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, click here.
Concert details
Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!
The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.
From now until Aug. 30, the WAR Chest Boutique invites the community to shop with purpose at their annual summer Tent Sale that features a wide variety of items at greatly reduced prices (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The WAR Chest Boutique in Wyoming invites the community to shop with purpose at their annualsummer Tent Sale.
From June through Aug. 30, a wide variety of items will be available under the gondolas in the boutique’s front lawn, including new and pre-owned products as well as imperfect merchandise at greatly reduced prices.
#ShopWithPurpose
Sale items are hand-crafted by at-risk women (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The retail arm of non-profit organization, Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l), the WAR Chest Boutique includes retail stores, an online boutique, and product parties held in homes, businesses and churches throughout the United States.
Specializing in hand-crafted items by at-risk women in WAR, Int’l partnering programs, each product in the online boutique and in the retail stores comes with a story card detailing personal stories of men, women, and children who have passed through WAR, Int’l programs.
WAR, Int’l seeks to help women at risk. Using culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and partnerships, WAR, Int’l provides safe places to heal from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and more.
“Our mission is two-fold,” states the WAR Chest Boutique website. “We seek to market and sell handcrafted items made by at-risk and rescued men and women from around the world, supporting culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects, while educating our shoppers about the risks the vulnerable face in our world.”
Tent sale details
Tent Sale items include jewelry, scarves, keychains, books, bookmarks, toys, ornaments, fabric, home decor, craft supplies, jewelry-making supplies and more.
The summer months include indoor monthly specials as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Also featured during the summer months are indoor monthly specials. During June, customers can enjoy 30% off all orange-tag clearance items.
WAR Chest Boutique hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Boutique staff begin bringing Tent Sale items inside a half-hour before closing time, but customers are welcome to continue shopping indoors and outdoors until 5 p.m. During potentially stormy days, extreme heat conditions, or Mondays before the lawn service mows the grass, customers may shop Tent Sale items inside the boutique.
Shopping options are available online as well (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Summer exceptions to regular WAR Chest Boutique hours are June 26-27 (closed for inventory) and July 4 (closed for Independence Day).
Can’t make it to the tent sale? #ShopWithPurpose online here.
Purchases help free and empower survivors (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
All purchases from the WAR Chest Boutique help set women and children free from exploitation and slavery, and empower survivors to live and work with dignity and hope.
To learn more about the WAR Chest Boutique, click here. To learn more about WAR Int’l, click here.
Among the festivities was the popular fire truck pull competition. iCI Nation, a local non-profit dedicated to connecting police and community in positive ways, took part in the competition with a 10-member team sponsored by Siegel Jewelers.
The iCI Nation team consisted of local police officers, probation officers, surveillance officers, juvenile detention workers and youth. The team won a trophy for Most Money Raised for the fundraiser.
“Making history, not with our time, but our people!” said iCI Executive Director Jennifer Franson.
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
iCI Nation founder and executive director Jenn Franson introduces the fire truck pull team (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Fire Truck Pull (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
iCI Nation team won the trophy for Most Money Raised (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
Jenn Franson (left) plays tug-of-war with a Wyoming K9 (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
iCI Nation thanks Siegel Jewelers for sponsoring their team, and the Wyoming PD for coordinating the Special Olympics fundraiser.
Kari Lynch shares about remaining true to her authentic self as a singer-songwriter – and how that has set KLB apart in the music industry (Courtesy, KLB)
The Kari Lynch Band (KLB) is returning to Lamar Park on Tuesday, June 24 at 6 p.m. with fan favorites and new songs from their upcoming album, including a new single being released June 27.
Dubbed a “force to be reckoned with,” Kari Lynch isn’t holding back as she prepares to take the stage during Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park second summer performance. The independent artist’s unapologetic authenticity continues to shine through in original music that weaves pop-rock nostalgia with modern singer-songwriter sensibilities – while circumventing mainstream expectations.
“I’ve always done what I believe is best for a song, and I’ve always tried to stay true to the type of music that I want to make outside of what’s popular,” Lynch says. “I’m not trying to make a song go viral, I’m just trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”
The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)
Alone and imaginative
Though currently residing in Nashville, TN, the young and imaginative Lynch grew up in Clare, MI. A self-professed introvert, Lynch began writing songs and poems at the age of seven as a way to process her emotions.
“As a kid, I just felt really different,” says Lynch. “I always wanted to go off alone and be with my thoughts.”
Lynch’s parents divorced when she was four years old, and she remembers that time as confusing and emotional.
“When you’re a kid, so much of that is so hard to understand,” says Lynch. “I had these huge feelings and I didn’t know where to put them.”
So she put those feelings on paper.
“My natural thing was to go in a corner, or close the door, and sing or write a poem or song,” says Lynch. “Nobody taught me how to do it. It was very much like music chose me.”
The practice of writing has remained constant throughout Lynch’s life when there is something she is trying to understand or process.
“It’s one of the best forms of release.”
Lynch uses her natural gift for storytelling to create songs that resonate with audiences (Courtesy, KLB)
Wildly creative
Lynch’s music career began when she moved to Grand Rapids and formed the Kari Lynch Band. The band has experienced various changes over the past 15 years, but Lynch says she grateful for all of them.
“All the iterations of the Kari Lynch Band have always been the greatest guys, the most talented people,” says Lynch. “I’m so lucky that these musicians rolled into my life and I get to play music with them.”
The artist says keeping friendships and communication as top priorities solidifies KLB members into a cohesive unit.
Creating something real
For Lynch, the most important part of music is connecting with listeners (Courtesy, KLB)
Lynch has never followed mainstream expectations and believes that is why her music stands out to audiences.
Though the songwriter does think about hooks and memorable melodies, her main focus is not writing a hit song. It is writing and telling a story that is honest and real.
“I’m trying to tell the story the way that I think it needs to come out,” Lynch says. “I’m trying to write a song that I think is going to resonate with people.”
And when Lynch releases her final product, it is with zero apologies and zero disclaimers.
“When I put it out in the world, I’m just going to put it out there. I wrote it in a way that feels really good to me, and I really hope it resonates with somebody else. Because at the end of the day, it’s really all about that connection for me.”
Shaking things up
Because Lynch’s songs can be intensely personal and introspective, releasing certain songs to the public is often be a nail-biting experience for the artist.
“It’s always a little scary when you’re sharing something because it’s so vulnerable.”
However, Lynch says that she ultimately feels good about releasing songs that make her nervous because those are the songs listeners relate to the most.
“I’ve found that some of the songs I am most scared to release are the ones people really connect with,” says Lynch. “I think people need real, tangible things like that to connect with sometimes.”
For Lynch, art is not always meant to be easily digestible. “It’s meant to shake things up a bit. It’s meant to make people think a little bit differently about things or feel something maybe they’re struggling to feel.”
The trendy bus
When youth reach out to Lynch about songwriting, the artist urges them to be true to themselves – even if that means going against the flow.
“When you’re younger, you have this inclination to go with the flow and do what everybody else is doing. It’s so easy to do the thing that’s popular.”
Lynch encourages those she meets to be authentic, even if it is not popular (Courtesy, KLB)
However, Lynch continues, authenticity is what shines through.
“Sometimes it takes longer if you’re not doing the popular thing, if you’re not riding the trendy bus. But I really believe that, if you keep doing it, authenticity always shines through.”
And what you create will find an audience.
“There’s somebody out there who needs to hear what you’ve created, and only the way that you create it is going to resonate with them,” says Lynch.
“Any time you’re creating from a place of honesty, it’s going to resonate with somebody.”
Lynch went on to say that she believes people are “aching for things that are real” – herself included.
“I truly want to be myself…I want to sound like Kari Lynch. At the end of the day, trends are trends. Everything has a time, and I’d rather make music that feels timeless or feels like it’s going to stick around than go after certain production notes or drum beats that are popular right now.”
A new season of music
Lynch is excited to return to the Lamar Park stage, reconnect with fans and share new music. She hopes all concert attendees are able to immerse themselves in the moment and enjoy every aspect of the KLB show experience.
“My favorite thing about making music is truly connecting with people,” Lynch says. “That is what makes all the things about being an independent musician worth it, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to be able to do it.”
The Kari Lynch Band opens for Toby Keith, August 2021 (Courtesy, KLB)
Concert details
Concerts in the Park performances are free and family-friendly.
Food trucks will offer delicious bites available for purchase. Bring a comfy lawn chair or blanket, grab some food, kick back and soak in the tunes!
The complete 2025 Concerts in the Park lineup can be found here.
