Tag Archives: COVID-19

High school sports participation up 6.6 percent after COVID-19 pandemic

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Wyoming Potter’s House Christian’s Lezawe Osterink (left) was a state champion in the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs at last spring’s Division 4 track and field finals, and was a member of the winning 3,200-meter relay with teammates Ian Palacios, Jackson Rodriguez and Logan Swiney. Osterink also won the D-4 boys cross country individual title last fall. The boys team placed third at the track and field finals and 12th in cross country. (Courtesy of MHSAA)

By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Participation in Michigan High School Athletic Association sports rebounded tremendously during the 2021-22 school year, despite a slight decline in enrollment among the MHSAA’s 750-member high schools.



Big decline during COVID-19

The onset of COVID-19 during the spring of 2020 was followed by a significant decline in participation in sports during 2020-21. However, participation for the most recent school year concluding last spring saw an increase of 6.6 percent from 2020-21 to a total of 260,542 participants across the 28 sports for which the MHSAA sponsors postseason tournaments – even as statewide enrollment fell nearly 1 percent to 440,728 students this past school year.



Girls participation increased 6.8 percent to 109,128 athletes, while boys participation was up 6.5 percent at 151,414. The overall MHSAA participation totals count students once for each sport in which they participate, meaning students who are multiple-sport athletes are counted more than once.



“We’re excited to see participation beginning to rebound, and in a big way in a number of sports,” said Geoff Kimmerly, MHSAA communications director. “Something reaffirmed during the months of COVID-19 shutdowns and delays was the value of sports in our school communities, and we expect those participation numbers to continue to rise as more families feel comfortable and we continue to learn more and more about best practices for living and competing while the coronavirus remains with us.



“Something else to consider is how our participation has begun to bounce back even as enrollment in our member schools has continued to decline slightly. Michigan generally ranks higher in participation nationally than for student-aged population, and while we may not be at our pre-COVID levels yet, we do anticipate our numbers to keep growing during 2022-23.”

The Forest Hills Northern girls tennis team won the Division 2 state championship last spring. (Courtesy of MHSAA)

Track and field, boys skiing lead way

A total of 23 sports saw increases in participation during 2021-22 compared to 2020-21. Ten sports saw double-digit percentage increases, led by boys track & field (27.2 percent to 22,120 participants), girls track and field (22.4 percent to 15,594 participants), and boys skiing (22.4 percent to 1,001 participants).



Wrestling (17.1 percent) and boys bowling (16.2 percent) also saw double-digit increases, along with girls tennis (11.4 tennis), girls bowling (11.2 percent), girls competitive cheer (10.6 percent), boys golf (10.5 percent) and girls lacrosse (10 percent).

Girls boost wrestling numbers

Wrestling’s major boost came in part because of a nearly 300-percent increase in girls participants with 620 taking the mat for the first season of the MHSAA offering a girls championship division at its Individual Wrestling Finals.

Also enjoying increases in participation during 2021-22 from the previous year were girls golf (8.1 percent), girls skiing (7.6 percent), boys basketball (6.4 percent), girls soccer (6.3 percent), boys swimming and diving (6.1 percent), boys lacrosse (5.8 percent), softball (3.6 percent), girls basketball (3.1 percent), baseball (3 percent), boys tennis (2.8 percent), football (2.4 percent), girls volleyball (2 percent) and girls swimming and diving (1.2 percent).

Decreased participation

Five sports saw decreased participation in 2021-22, including boys soccer (0.21 percent with 28 fewer participants), girls cross country (1.4 percent), boys ice hockey (1.2 percent), boys cross country (3.9 percent) and girls gymnastics (4.6 percent).

Football highest participation

Football, with a combined 33,284 participants over the 11- and 8-player formats, remained the most-played sport during the 2021-22 school year. Boys track and field (22,120) and boys basketball (20,017) were next for total participants, followed by girls volleyball (18,798), the most popular girls sport, baseball (16,528) and girls track and field (15,594).

Golf and skiing enjoy high participation

While the majority of sports are still building back to their pre-COVID participation totals, golf and skiing posted some of their highest totals in some time. Boys golf (6,829) had its most participants since 2012-13, and girls golf (3,875) its highest total since 2003-04. The boys skiing total (1,001) was its highest since 2002-03, and the girls skiing total this past season (837) was the highest for that sport since 1998-99.

The participation figures are gathered annually from MHSAA member schools to submit to the National Federation of State High School Associations for compiling of its national participation survey. Results of Michigan surveys from the 2000-01 school year to present may be viewed on the MHSAA Website


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Local faith, medical leaders rally behind healthcare workers, stress dark COVID days remain but will pass
		

		
		

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The Rev. Khary Bridgewater and Kent County Chief Inclusion Officer Teresa Branson, at left, led the Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers” and pandemic awareness gathering. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)










By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






It is no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic seriously impacts the lives of all Kent County residents regardless of race, ethnicity and faith — although current statistics make clear it impacts the unvaccinated to a more serious degree.






It is not surprising, therefore, that speakers at a Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers”, attended by county clergy, the leaders of local hospital  networks, and Kent County officials, stressed three things: appreciation to frontline healthcare, the non-discriminatory nature of the virus, and the need to get vaccinated as an individual’s part in keeping themselves and their neighbors safe.






The prayer service was led by several local clergy. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)





“One of the realities that we are seeing — and I just came off the hospital floor — is the fact that there is not sector or section of this community that is not being affected by COVID,” Rev. Khary Bridgewater said to WKTV at the gathering at  Mercy Health Saint Mary’s downtown Grand Rapids. “Young. Old. Regardless of ethnicity. Regardless of creed … We are all in the same boat. We are all dealing with the same impact.






“Everyone is having the same sort of regrets as they struggle with this virus, particularly those at the end of life and they realize this was an avoidable situation. It doesn’t matter who you were when you get to a hospital bed. We are working very hard with every member of our community to stress the simple truth that COVID is dangerous.”






The gathering and prayer service was led by the Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, formerly known as the Kent County COVID-19 Task Force). The gathering’s stated goal was to “stand with our front-line medical workers, hospital staff and public health officials, as well as their families, who are sacrificing daily to provide the care that our community needs.”






Leading the gathering was Rev. Bridgewater, facilitator of the Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, and by his side was Teresa Branson, Kent County Chief Inclusion Officer, who as been a leader of the group since its inception. The pandemic-aware gathering was limited to local media, a few other people, and several persons remaining in their cars in the parking lot location.






The gathering also highlighted numerous churches and faith-based organizations “coming together to raise community awareness of the current situation in our hospitals; issue a public statement of commitment; and pray and bless our health care personnel and their families.”






Among the local medical leaders present were Dr. Matt Biersack, president of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s; Dr. Darryl Elmouchi, president of Spectrum Health; Kent Riddle, CEO of Mary Free Bed; and Dr. Ronald Grifka, chief medical officer of University of Michigan Health-West.






“In this season of hope, when so many workers turn to their home, their families, their traditions, remember many healthcare workers will be working around the clock taking care of their patients,” Grifka said to the gathering. “That selfless spirt embodies what we celebrate this time of the year. I ask that no matter what your beliefs, please keep our healthcare workers in your hearts.”






At a Monday, Dec. 20, “Prayer Service for Health Care Workers”, Kent County clergy, leaders of local hospital  networks, and county officials gathered. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)





The Kent County Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Team, according to supplied information, is a group of faith-based and non-profit community leaders that have partnered with the Kent County Health Department and its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office.






“Together, they have reduced the spread of COVID-19, provided space for church vaccination clinics and informed the community about the vaccine,” according to the supplied information. But in doing so, thy have also heard “the concerns of our hospitals who are beyond capacity and our health care professionals who are weary and overburdened.”






In response to the current pandemic situation, faith leaders from across the city and the county also pledged to eliminate all non-essential, indoor gatherings; restrict essential gatherings to less than 50 people per 2,000 square feet; require all attendees at indoor gatherings to wear a mask and abide by social distancing and COVID-19 hygiene; and — maybe most importantly — to encourage all members of our community to get COVID-19 vaccination and any appropriate booster shots.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Mat Kearney’s Aug. 13 Meijer Gardens concert delayed due to singer’s COVID positive test
		

		
		

			Community Health, Entertainment, Health, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , 					

	


		

		

By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park announced today, Aug. 11, that the Friday, Aug. 13, concert with Mat Kearney has been postponed until Sept. 8 due to a positive test for COVID-19 by the singer.






And while Kearney is full vaccinated, and is in good health, he is exercising caution.






Mat Kearney. (Supplied)





“Despite my best efforts, I have tested positive for COVID-19. I’m thankfully vaccinated, and just feeling a bit under the weather,” Kearney said in supplied material. “For the health and safety of the band, crew and fans, we will be rescheduling Friday’s show … I’m so bummed. I’ve only missed one show in my life, and can’t wait to see you all again.”






(He also asked for “Your binge-worthy tv recommendations,” and we respectively suggest “Queen’s Gambit”, if not already on his board.)






Tickets purchased for the Aug.13 concert will be honored on Sept. 8, according to the Meijer Gardens statement. But for those who cannot attend the Sept. 8, refunds will be available through Etix through Aug. 20. Please note, according to the statement, ticket fees are non-refundable. To request a refund, please click visit
bit.ly/KearneyRefundRequest.






Any returned tickets for the sold-out show will be available for purchase beginning on Aug. 21 via Etix.com.







Check MeijerGardens.org/concerts for more information.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			As state COVID-19 actions alter prep sports plans, again, MHSAA ‘disappointed’ for student-athletes
		

		
		

			3-bottom, Area Education, Community Health, Education, Health, Sports, WKTV Journal Sports Connection, , , 					

	


		

		

Dr. Joneigh Khaldun of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, at a Jan. 22 news conference. (State of Michigan)










By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Michigan High School Athletic Association, the governing body for high school sports in the state, has been dutifully working with the state health department and the governor’s office as rules and restrictions have repeatedly changed during the last 10 months.






And they will again work with the latest changes, announced Friday, Jan. 22, but they are expressing their “disappointment” both from their own scheduling and logistical standpoint, and from the expected impact on student-athletes across the state.






Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), in its latest directive, altered the allowed number of spectators at events such as this weekend’s prep football finals as well as delayed until at least Feb. 21 all contact sport’s full-contact practices and any possible beginning of those sports’ competitions.






Winter contact sports such as basketball, hockey, wrestling and competitive cheer currently are only allowed non-contract practice but they had been expecting to begin full-contact practice on Feb. 1 and completion later that week.






Mark Uyl, MHSAA executive director, from a previous Zoom meeting. (MHSAA)





“We found out about this decision at 9:30 a.m. (Jan. 22) like everyone else, and we will address it as quickly as possible after taking the weekend to collect more information,” Mark Uyl, MHSAA executive director, said in supplied material. “We did not anticipate this delay in winter contact practices and competition, and today’s announcement has created many new questions.






“Obviously, this is disappointing to thousands of athletes who have been training with their teams over the last week and watching teams in other states around Michigan play for the last two months.”






The latest state pandemic-related changes in rules and regulations also could have allowed more people to attend this weekend’s football finals — but news came too late for the MHSAA to alter established plans to meet now-altered MDHHS rules and regulations.






Also on Jan. 22, Gov. Whitmer and MDHHS announced that sports arenas with capacities of at least 10,000 spectators may allow up to 500 to attend events. But, the MHSAA later announced, “no additional tickets will be sold for today and Saturday’s 11-Player Football Finals at Ford Field” due to the lack of sufficient notice.






“We have been planning these Finals for weeks to include immediate family, and unfortunately this isn’t a process we can adjust midstream,” Uyl said. “Distributing more tickets would put stress on those plans and Ford Field staffing, and force schools to make more hard decisions on who will be able to attend, but at the last second instead of with prior planning.”


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			With more state assistance possible, independent music venues hanging on and hoping for better 2021
		

		
		

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COVID-19’s impact in 2020 have led to things being pretty quiet — really quiet — at Spring Lake’s Seven Steps Up and other independent music venues in Michigan. But there is optimism for 2021. (Seven Steps Up)










By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






In the spring of 2020, WKTV visited Spring Lake’s Seven Steps Up, one of more than a dozen West Michigan and more than 3,000 nationwide “independent” music venues, asking them how they could survive the crippling impact of COVID-19 and related government restrictions.






At the time, Michelle Hanks, who with husband Gary Hanks, own and manger Seven Steps Up, was cautiously optimist despite a total stoppage of the nation’s independent venue musical artist tours, not to mention restrictions that either limited venue attendance or shut them down completely.
 





“Out of crises, good things can sprout up,” she said, referring to a planned national independent venue advocacy group, to possible governmental support, and to fans of small music venues simply stepping and giving what they could give.






So, now more than six months — six hard months — later, with a new State of Michigan funded Michigan Stages Survival Grant Program now taking applications, following up on a successful GOFundMe campaign for Seven Steps Up and other support from various sources, Hanks remains optimistic despite the venue’s currently dark stage.






Michelle and Gary Hanks, owners and mangers of Seven Steps Up. (WKTV)





“As of now, we are still closed with no known opening date. Our employees are permanently furloughed. Our calendar is bare,” Hanks said this week to WKTV. But “we are cautiously optimistic that we will have regular concerts in the fall. We have many dates held and rescheduled, and the conversations are definitely increasing.”






Hanks credits the venue’s survival so far to several sources, both local and national.






“Seven Steps Up received GoFundme support in the second quarter of 2020,” she said. “We are extremely grateful for the support we received when we received it and we hope that every venue in Michigan that is eligible applies for this (Michigan Stages Survival) grant, as well as the federal Save our Stages grants.”






Seven Steps Up also received a grant through Live Music Society (livemusicsociety.org) in November 2020.






“We were one of only 20 venues in the U.S. and the only one in Michigan to receive the first round of grants,” she said. “Between the GoFundMe and this grant, we’ve been able to survive. (But) we really need the federal funding to get us past this and help us as we open our doors.”





Governmental grants and touring acts needed





The Michigan Stages Survival Grant Program will provide a total of $3.5 million in one-time grants of up to $40,000 to eligible entertainment and live music venues throughout Michigan “that have realized a significant financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and emergency declarations.”






The application window open Thursday, Jan. 21, and will close at noon on Thursday, Jan. 28. For more information on the grant, visit michiganbusiness.org/stages/. The Michigan Independent Venue and Promoter Association (MIVPA) will be responsible for accepting, reviewing and approving applications. The state will then distribute the grant funds based on the recommendation of the MIVPA.






The MIVPA is one of those small venue organizations which formed in the aftermath of the early 2020 industry shutdown. On a national level, the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) was first formed to advocate for the industry in Washington, D.C.






“The MI Stages Survival Grant Program is the result of a lot of hard work on the part of many venues involved in the Michigan Independent Venue & Promoter Association (MIVPA), a new trade association here in Michigan that came about through relationships developed through NIVA (National Independent Venue Association),” Hanks said. “These grants can be a lifeline to Michigan venues as we await for the Federal relief grant program.”






Seven Steps Up is a member of both NIVA and the MIVPA, and Hanks is one of the co-founders of the MIVPA.






But in addition to simply keeping the bills paid and awaiting the opening of venue doors, Seven Steps Up and other venues still need a regular schedule of touring acts.






A full house at an undated concert at Seven Steps Up in Spring Lake. (Seven Steps Up) 





“One of the things that is a challenge for us, and for other small venues like us, is we can’t just bring our employees back for one show,” she said in the initial interview last year. “We have to be able to get up and do a regular number os shows for it to make any kinds of sense for anyone.”






Seven Steps Up usually has 7-to-9 part-time employees for 132-seat sold-out shows.






“I think we may get an opportunity for some sporadic shows earlier in the year, but don’t think we will see regular concerts and tours before (fall),” Hanks said. “So much depends upon what is happening with the roll out of the vaccine, COVID cases, etc. I feel really good about the fall, and am hopeful for anything earlier.






“I think the entire industry is simply waiting to feel safe. If we open our doors and people don’t feel safe to come inside to enjoy the concert or artists don’t feel safe to travel, we won’t see this industry restart. … Hopefully, the vaccine will allow this to happen within the next few months.”






For more information on the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) visit their FaceBook page here. For more information on Michigan Independent Venue & Promoter Association (MIVPA), visit its Facebook page here. For more information on Seven Steps Up, located at 116 S. Jackson., Spring Lake, visit sevenstepsup.com.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			With free face coverings coming soon, state offers COVID-19 ‘Mask Up, Mask Right’ advice
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, gov-order, Health, Non-Profits, Senior Living, WKTV Projects, , , 					

	


		

		

What is the right, and not right, way to mask up, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. (MDHHS)










By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced this week that it is distributing 3.5 million free masks as part of the state’s Mask Up, Mask Right campaign.






The free KN95 masks provided by MDHHS will be distributed by community organizations, including local MDHSS offices, the Kent County Health Department, Kent County Community Action and Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan.






Even before the expected shipments of the state-provided masks are available locally, several local groups such as the county health department already have masks available.






The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced this week that it is distributing 3.5 million free  KN95 masks as part of the state’s Mask Up, Mask Right campaign. (MDHHS)





“We have a limited supply of free surgical type masks available at our main clinic at 700 Fuller NE,” Steve Kelso, spokesperson for the Kent County Health Department, said to WKTV. “If people want those they can simply come to the lobby and they will see a box labeled ‘Mask Up, Mask Right’ and they can remove a box of masks for their household. We expect to receive additional supplies of masks within the next 30 days.”






Kelso also advised people to call 211 to find all Kent County locations where the masks are available, but also stressed that “These are not for businesses to offset their PPE (personal protective equipment) needs. These are for individuals only.”






Some areas of the state will start getting the state masks as early as next week.






“The KN95 masks likely won’t be available until next week,” Bob Wheaton, spokesperson for the MDHHS, said to WKTV. “They are being shipped this week.”






The planned infusion of free masks to the public is part of a continuing effort by the state health department.






“We are urging Michiganders to Mask Up and Mask Right to protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities from COVID-19,” MDHHS director Robert Gordon said in supplied material. “Wearing the right kind of mask is important. Today’s distribution of effective masks will help more Michiganders limit the spread of COVID to save lives and get back to normal sooner.”






Masking right includes wearing one of three options of masks that provide stronger protection: three-layered washable cloth face coverings, three-layered disposable masks or KN95 masks. It also includes wearing the mask correctly: having it secured over the nose and mouth and snugly fitting without gaps.






The MDHHS announcement noted that KN95 masks are similar to but should not be confused with N95 masks that are intended for health care workers who are engaged as part of their work in higher-risk settings.






To find additional state distribution sites for masks, visit at Michigan.gov/MaskUpMichigan or call the COVID-19 hotline at 888-535-6136.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			When it comes to high school sports, state’s decision to allow resumption ‘guided by the data’
		

		
		

			Area Education, Community Health, Education, Health, Sports, WKTV Journal Sports Connection, , , 					

	


		

		

South Christian High School had their football team’s playoff drive halted in mid-November, after this game with Hamilton. (WKTV)











By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






When it comes to COVID-19 related restrictions, or allowances, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer often says her and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ decisions are “guided by the data.”






So as high school athletic departments across the state, including those in the Kentwood and Wyoming area, await an expected modification by Gov. Whitmer and the MDHHS of the current “pause” in competition and most practices, WKTV asked about the data — the numbers.






The MDHHS and the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) both responded, with numbers which might be viewed as telling a somewhat different story.






“There have been 42 outbreaks associated with athletics (K-12 schools, professional, collegiate, and commercial venues) in August and September,” according to a MDHHS statement prior to the Nov. 15 pause in athletics, along with indoor restaurant service and other COVID-19 related restrictions.






And “we do continuously track data on outbreaks, including outbreaks associated with high school sports, and we know that there continued to be high school sports associated outbreaks in (October and November),” Bob Wheaton, spokesperson for the MDHHS, said to WKTV this week.






But those “outbreaks” did not prevent high school sports teams across the state from safely completing the vast majority of scheduled contests, according to MHSAA numbers given to WKTV. Even in a sport considered by the state to be “high risk” — football — with nearly 600 teams playing on any given week the percentage of games not played due to COVID-19 outbreaks was never more than 4.1 percent and was under  3 percent five out of nine weeks of competition.






“Our schools, with athletic directors monitoring activities and trained coaches teaching their athletes best practices and holding them to high standards, have for the large part been able to keep their teams competing and free of infection this fall,”  MHSAA spokesperson Geoff Kimmerly said to WKTV this week. “We have maintained from the start of fall that schools are best equipped to provide athletics in the safest-possible environment, and we’re eager to restart our fall and winter seasons following the precautions that have been successful so far.”






(The complete data chart supplied my the MHSAA is at the end of this story.)






The MHSAA’s opinion on the effectiveness of high school sports programs’ COVID-19 safety efforts was echoed by David Kool, athletic director at South Christian High School, which had their football team’s so-far successful playoff drive halted in mid-November.






“Our staff and players have done a tremendous job navigating through this pandemic,” Kool said this week to WKTV. “The support and leadership from our coaches has been and will continue to be phenomenal. … We have followed the protocols and guidelines put on us to the best of our ability throughout the fall and now into the winter. We all realize that gives us the best chance for the student athletes to do what they love to do, which is to compete.”





MDHHS and athletics numbers





The MDHHS, in response to a questions about how much of a COVID-19 spreader problem high school sports has been this fall and early winter, referenced its late October update of its Interim Guidance for Contact Sports, which noted:






“There have been 42 outbreaks associated with athletics (K-12 schools, professional, collegiate, and commercial venues) in August and September of 2020. Outbreaks of this magnitude have the potential to affect more than just a sports team, but the community in which the players and coaches reside as well.”






The document also noted that contact sports are particularly concern, saying, “Given the available epidemiological data with concerning rising cases of COVID-19, contact sports such as football and wrestling pose a high risk of transmitting COVID-19 to athletes, coaches, and the general community, and should be avoided at this time.”






But under the mid-November order, while high school sports competitions and team practices were restricted, the MDHHS stated: “Gyms will remain open for individual exercise with strict safety measures in place. … (and) Professional and college sports meeting extraordinary standards for risk mitigation may continue without spectators, however all other organized sports must stop.”





And what’s next for high school athletics?





And what will drive Gov. Whitmer and the MDHHS’s decision to continue restrictions on, or allow resumption of, high school sports?






“As MDHHS’s order pausing gatherings for 3 weeks expires Dec. 8, we are reviewing the COVID-19 data and will make decisions on high school sports and other gatherings based on what that data shows us,” the MDHHS spokesperson said.






“We understand why the state health department paused activities for three weeks — we all have the same hopes for reducing COVID-19,” MHSAA’s Kimmerly said. “But we believe we have a good story to tell, and that we can continue to play a major role in keeping high school athletes safe while providing them a meaningful experience during this difficult time.”






And so local  high school athletic departments, coaches and athletes await the decision and guidance from the Governor, MDHHS and the MHSAA.






“Each and every day we are trying to do everything we can to give our student athletes as many opportunities as we can,” South Christian’s Kool said. “We are hopeful that we will be given the green light to continue with athletics on Wednesday, December 9 and look forward to being back in action.”







	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Virtual health forum on ‘Health Disparities and COVID-19’ public registration still available
		

		
		

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While COVID-19 testing is available to a wide range of the public in Kent County there are still many disparities in community care. (Public Domain)





By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






The Health Forum of West Michigan’s Friday, Dec. 4, forum on Health Disparities and COVID-19, a virtual presentation via Zoom webinar, is still accepting reservations for the general public in additional to health care professionals.

  





Registration deadline is noon on Thursday, Dec. 3, and information and registration is available at gvsu.edu/miperc/healthforum.






The presentation is free and open to the public. Participants will receive a link for this virtual presentation the day before the event.






The Dec. 4 event will run 8-9:30 a.m., with both presentations by guests speakers and a question and answer opportunity.






The event is part of the Health Forum of West Michigan’s  2020-21 series on the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts.






Panelists include Robert Orellana, PhD, COVID-19 Corps and senior epidemiologist with the Michigan Health and Human Services Department; Khan Nedd, MD, founder and Chief Medical Officer of Infusion Associates; and Leslie Pelkey, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Cherry Health.






The event’s welcoming remarks will be presented by Jean Nagelkerk, PhD, Vice Provost for Health at Grand Valley State University; and it will be moderated by Jesse M. Bernal, PhD, Vice President for Inclusion and Equity at GVSU.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			COVID-19 drives Lee middle and high schools to go virtual until late January
		

		
		

			3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Going Local, Health, , 					

	


		

		

Lee Middle and High School. (WKTV)





By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






Godfrey-Lee Public Schools announced today that due to confirmed COVID-19 cases among the Lee middle and high schools populations, and in consultation with the Kent County Health Department and the district nurse from Spectrum Health, the two schools would move to virtual learning and continue that way until at least Jan. 22, 2021.






In a Nov. 13 letter to middle and high school families signed by superintendent Kevin Polston and posted on the district website, it was stated that “today, we learned of additional students with confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 at Lee Middle and High School. This past week, we have had 4 staff/students with confirmed cases, 125 students in quarantine, 7 staff in quarantine.






“In addition, the rise in cases and positivity rate, as well as decreasing hospital capacity are causes for concern for the safety of all community members.”






In response to the situation, the letter continues, the district will shift to virtual learning at Lee Middle and High School (both schools share a building) starting Monday, Nov. 16 through Friday, Jan. 22, 2021.






At this time, the district will keep Godfrey-Lee ECC and Godfrey Elementary School open for in-person instruction. In addition, student meals will be available for curbside pick-up at Lee Middle and High School on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the building’s gym entrance off of Havana Avenue.






Also, according to the letter, “any student that has symptoms consistent with COVID-19, such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, headache, or fatigue, or has been identified as a close contact should quarantine and is eligible for a COVID-19 test kit at school. There is no cost to the family and results have been returned in 24 hours or less.”
 





Students that need a test can schedule an appointment by calling the district at 616-452-3296.






As far as athletics are concerned, high school athletics will continue practices as scheduled. But middle school Winter I athletic competitions are paused, while practices will continue.






“Please do not hesitate to contact Lee Middle and High School with any questions or concerns at 616-452-3296,” the letter concludes.






For more information visit Godfrey-Lee.org. To read a Spanish language version of the letter, fro the website click on Lee Update 11/13/20.




	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			As pandemic continues, The Rapid bus services adapt to continue safe travels
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Hard News, Health, Local Business, Our Cities, WKTV Projects, , , 					

	


		

		














By Tyler J. Bronsink-Newland
WKTV Intern





ken@wktv.org






Throughout 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has continued affecting the daily lives of the people of Grand Rapids, including commuters and other riders of The Rapid transit system. And as the community has moved forward and adapted, its public transit system has moved forward with cleaning procedures and safety protocols for its buses and the citizens who ride them daily.

 





WKTV took a ride on The Rapid’s SilverLine and spoke with Bill Kirk, Business Affairs Specialist of The Rapid, on the sanitization of the buses daily using antiseptic agents as well as how it encourages passengers to wear masks and practice social distancing.











And what they have learned about cleaning and sanitization will likely become standard operating procedure even in a post-pandemic future.






“We take pride in how clean our buses are, but after experiencing the situation, we want to maintain those policies even after the pandemic goes away,” Kirk said. “We just want to make sure we’re providing as safe and as healthy a ride as possible for our riders.”

 





The Rapid public transportation system provides services to the greater Grand Rapids area, including Wyoming, and Kentwood. Formed in 2000, The Rapid operates on fixed routes throughout Grand Rapids and works with people with disabilities for their services. They also provide the SilverLine, a transit started in 2014 that runs along Division Avenue south and loops around the Rapid Central Station in Grand Rapids.










For more information on The Rapid, visit ridetherapid.org.






The Rapid’s SilverLine bus at a stop on Division Avenue. (WKTV)






	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Wyoming high suspends football operations due to positive COVID-19 tests
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Sports, WKTV Journal Sports Connection, , 					

	


		

		

Wyoming high coaches talk to their Wolves team from an early season game. (WKTV)










By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra announced today, Oct. 6, the suspension of the Wyoming High School football program — both games and practices — through Oct. 18, after receiving notification of positive COVID-19 test results.






The team is expected to return to practice on Oct. 19, and will miss both junior varsity and varsity games against Muskegon Mona Shores (Oct. 8-9) and Muskegon Reeths-Puffer (Oct. 15-16).






The varsity team last played at Grand Rapids Union high on Friday, Oct. 2.






“Making a decision in the best interest of our students and staff was our primary focus,” Superintendent Hoekstra said in supplied material. “Given the number of individuals impacted it became necessary for us to suspend both Varsity and Junior Varsity football, practices and games, for the next two weeks.






“In making this decision, which is based on multiple factors, we relied on our partnership with the Kent County Health Department,” Hoekstra said.






According to the statement, “The welfare of our student-athletes is at the center of every decision we make regarding our ability to proceed forward. Thank you for your continued understanding, support, and trust in Wyoming Public Schools to keep our students and staff as safe as possible.”






For more information on Wyoming Public Schools visit wyomingps.org.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Online livestock auction hosted after Hudsonville Fair cancelled
		

		
		

			3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Health, Kids Activities, , 					

	


		

		

Emilee Vis show her dairy cow. (Supplied/Hudsonville Community Fair)










By Faith Morgan
WKTV Intern






Annually MSU and 4-H students show off their livestock for live auctions at the Hudsonville Community Fair as part of a final project. Due to COVID-19 the fair cancelled for 2020. This news left young individuals devastated without the opportunity to showcase their livestock that they had worked hard to train and raise. 






Some of these students have been preparing for live auctions since July of 2019. As families have been widely affected by the pandemic, these students also live in households of families struggling during this crisis. 






To warm the hearts of these young students, Hudsonville Community Fair partnered with Miedema’s Charity Auctions to host an online auction. This auction helps to provide financial means for these students seeking to attend college and showcase at future livestock auctions. 






Andrew Meekhof-Vanspyker show his sheep. (Supplied/Hudsonville Community Fair)





 





The auction contains a wide variety of beef, pork, and lamb for sale on Miedema’s website and is scheduled to end Thursday, Aug. 27. 


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Local volleyball, soccer seasons delayed by MHSAA pending state government regional approval
		

		
		

			Area Education, Community Health, Education, Health, Sports, WKTV Featured sports, , 					

	


		

		

The State of Michigan COVID-19 regions as designated by state government executive orders. (State of Michigan)










By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






A week after the announcement that high school football competition will have to wait until spring 2021 — at the earliest — an expected announcement by the Michigan High School Athletic Association on whether girls volleyball, boys soccer, and girls swimming and diving would be allowed in Wyoming and Kentwood high schools is being delayed until at least next week.






According to a statement today, Aug. 20, from the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), its Representative Council has “approved the start of competition in girls volleyball, boys soccer and girls swimming & diving in regions of Michigan authorized for that activity by Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders, with competition in those sports pending in regions where those activities are not yet allowed” as part of state actions preventing spread of COVID-19.






“Our Council has made clear it is ready to offer students these opportunities, pending approval from Governor Whitmer that we may do so,” Mark Uyl, MHSAA executive director, said in supplied material. “We have been told that within a week, future guidance will address athletic issues that exist in current executive orders. We are awaiting that guidance.”






Schools in the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula — designated as Regions 6 and 8, respectively, by Gov. Whitmer’s executive orders — are allowed to begin competition this week, on Aug. 21, as originally scheduled.






But schools in all other regions (1-5, and 7) must delay any competition for the time being, according to the announcement. Kent County is in Region 2.






Lee High School soccer practice (from 2019). (WKTV)





Local high school volleyball, soccer and swim teams may continue outdoor practice, “pending further executive orders allowing for the opening of indoor facilities and physical distancing while competing in those areas,” according to the announcement.






Teams began outdoor practice in volleyball, soccer, swimming and diving, cross country, golf and tennis on Aug. 12. Lower Peninsula girls golf and boys tennis could have  began competition Aug. 19, with cross country competition beginning Aug. 21.






Football practice began Aug. 10, but on Aug. 14 the Representative Council voted to postpone the Fall 2020 football season to Spring 2021, also due to COVID-19 concerns.






MHSAA staff, according to the announcement, was authorized by executive order to create all guidance for a return of school sports, “and over the last eight weeks has worked to fulfill this mandate while complying with all of Governor Whitmer’s executive orders. The Council was prepared today to approve competition in volleyball, soccer and swimming & diving for all schools in all regions, but was unable to do so because of questions remaining on which activities are still not allowed.”






So the MHSAA, like local high school athletes, coaches and parents, continues to wait state government action.






“The MHSAA and Representative Council are committed to following all current and future Executive Orders and safety precautions,” Uyl said in supplied material. “However, we need more answers before we can give all of our member schools the go-ahead to play each other again, and the majority of our schools are in regions that are not yet allowed to take part in volleyball, soccer and swim.”





Extra coach contact, practice days for football and others 





Also in the MHSAA announcement, it was stated that the MHSAA Representative Council did approve out-of-season coaching adjustments allowing football and spring sports coaches more contact with their athletes in advance of the 2021 season.






East Kentwood High School’s football team (shown at practice from the 2019-20 season). (WKTV)





To provide additional offseason activity for sports that have had their full seasons canceled or moved, the council approved 16 contact days for football and all spring sports to be used for voluntary practices among students from the same school only.






Football may schedule their contact days from Aug. 24 through Oct 31. Spring sports — baseball, softball, girls soccer, track and field, girls and boys lacrosse, boys golf, Lower Peninsula girls tennis — may schedule their 16 contact days for voluntary practices from Sept. 8 to Oct. 31, “if the school permits and all safety protocols are followed.”






Football and all spring sports then may conduct skill work with coaches and up to four players at a time beginning Nov. 1 until the first day of official practice this upcoming spring. Coaches also may work with an unlimited number of players on general conditioning during that time.






A calendar for the inclusion of football into Spring 2021 is expected to be released later this fall, “upon Council approval at a later meeting,” according to the announcement.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Wyoming’s Burlingame Family Fare one of several to offer free COVID-19 testing
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , 					

	


		

		






By SpartanNash






As part of its continued efforts to ensure the well-being and safety of its family of associates, customers and communities during the coronavirus pandemic, SpartanNash announced select Family Fare, which includes the Family Fare on Burlingame Ave. SW, and D&W Fresh Market pharmacies in West Michigan will offer free COVID-19 testing beginning on Monday, Aug. 3.






The company has partnered with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide the free testing, which will take place by appointment only.






“Our pharmacies continue to adapt to best respond to our customers’ needs during these uncertain times,” SpartanNash EVP and Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer Lori Raya said. “We are proud to offer this additional service to our customers and communities – free of charge – because we know how important testing is to our collective efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.”






COVID-19 tests are self-administered by customers using the drive-thru at participating Family Fare and D&W Fresh Market pharmacies, following CDC guidelines for testing criteria. SpartanNash pharmacists guide customers through the self-administered nasal swab, and results are shared within three to five days.






Participating pharmacies are located at:





  • D&W Fresh Market – 2022 Apple Orchard Ave. in Grand Rapids
  • Family Fare – 6370 Lake Michigan Drive in Allendale
  • Family Fare – 2245 84th St. SW in Byron Center
  • Family Fare – 2900 Burlingame Ave. SW in Wyoming
  • Family Fare – 993 Butternut Dr. in Holland






Testing is available for both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in accordance with state and local plans for public health monitoring. Both customers and SpartanNash frontline associates are able to schedule COVID-19 testing appointments on either shopfamilyfare.com/covid-19-testing or shopdwfreshmarket.com/covid-19-testing, depending on their nearest pharmacy location. Participants are asked to first complete a short survey, then schedule their appointment date and time.






“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our company has maintained two top priorities: the well-being and safety of our family of associates, customers and communities; and supporting health officials and government leaders to contain the virus,” SpartanNash EVP and General Manager, Corporate Retail Tom Swanson said. “By offering free COVID-19 testing, we are reinforcing our commitment to keeping our associates’ and customers’ health at the forefront of all our efforts.”

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Separating fact from fiction: the longterm health impacts from COVID-19
		

		
		

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

	


		

		

Dr. Conor Mullin





By Metro Health – University of Michigan Health






WKTV is committed to providing factual information about COVID-19. We have partnered with Metro Health – University of Michigan Health to present questions about COVID-19 and to help dispel the misinformation being spread through social media. 






Dr. Conor Mullin, a physician at Metro Health Southwest, answers this week’s question.






Question: What long term health impacts are people experiencing who have had COVID-19? 






Mullin: The long term health consequences of this virus are unknown and we will have to wait to see with time. We can infer from other similar viruses that in 6-12 months, there is likely to be a surge in autoimmune disorders such as diabetes, thyroid disease, lupus and multiple sclerosis.

  





There is a specific debilitating disorder affecting younger adults called ADEM which causes permanent and irreversible stroke-like symptoms caused by brain tissue inflammation. In the pediatric world, we have seen in increase in a syndrome that is comparable to Kawasaki disease, where there is potential for damage to the coronary arteries around the heart, that may cause heart attacks or even death.






Personally, I have seen some patients, especially younger folks, who have continued to have lung and breathing issues two months after the initial infection. This is most likely caused by scarring damage to the lungs. Whether these patients recover is yet to be seen. These patients were young and healthy and did not have pre-exiting conditions.






One of my colleagues also had a younger patient die of a heart attack a few weeks after recovering from COVID-19. He also had no prior known cardiovascular disease.






The short answer is that there are some isolated cases of very severe outcomes and time will tell how widespread and severe the long term outcomes will be.






If you have a COVID-19-related question, please email it to WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma at joanne@wktv.org.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Area Agency on Aging, supporting seniors in time of COVID-19, on WKTV Journal In Focus
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Senior Living, WKTV Journal In Focus, , 					

	


		

		









By K.D. Norris





ken@wktv.org






Given this time of COVID-19, and with seniors particularly at high risk, the work of the Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan has become all the more important.











WKTV Journal In Focus last week had a Zoom interview with Carly Whetstone, outreach specialist for the local agency, to talk about the group, its history, and the ways it is working for senior and senior caregivers.






The group is headquartered in Grand Rapids but serves a nine-county region that includes coverage in Wyoming and Kentwood. It is part of nationwide network of nonprofit agencies created in 1974 by the federal government to be one-stop shops with information about programs, services and housing options to seniors.






For more information on the Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan call  616-456-5664, visit their website at aaawm.org and for specific caregiver support visit caregiverresource.net.






WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (For dates and times on Channel 26, see our Weekly On-air Schedule. For dates and times on Channel 99, visit here). All individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.


	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			UICA moving to former Grand Rapids Art Museum space, putting 2 Fulton up for sale
		

		
		

			3-bottom, , , , 					

	


		

		

UICA will be moving to the Woodbridge N. Ferris building, the former home of the Grand Rapids Art Museum. (Supplied)





By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org






The Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA) announces its intention to relocate from its 2 Fulton West space to the Woodbridge N. Ferris Building, 17 Pearl Street, on the campus of Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, in Spring 2021. All in-person UICA programming, which has been paused due to COVID-19, will continue to be on hiatus until the organization reopens in the Ferris Building.






The decision was finalized June 17 by the Ferris Board of Trustees. 






The UICA identity and mission will remain when it reopens in the LEED-Gold certified Ferris Building, which, until 2007, was the home to Grand Rapids Art Museum. One of the biggest questions that came to light with the announcement is what would happen to the alternative movie offerings at UICA. According to officials, UICA is working on outdoor movies, movie panel discussion opportunities, and potential upcoming partnerships.  






“The impact of COVID-19 has led us to rethink how we work and provide programming in the future, and I’m confident our re-envisioning of UICA will help it succeed,” said Kendall Interim President Tara McCrackin. “We realize this is an unexpected announcement, but we believe it is a necessary move to ensure UICA continues to be a leading cultural arts destination in Grand Rapids.”






UICA Executive Director Miranda Krajniak has been actively participating in this process and believes that UICA’s future stability enhances, not diminishes, its commitment to the community, and strengthens its connection to Kendall.






“We believe a smaller footprint and associated expenses will allow UICA a more stable foundation going forward,” said Krajniak. “Additionally, for some time now, UICA has been managing Kendall’s student art exhibition spaces, so the move will provide for more efficient operations and present a stronger alignment between Kendall and UICA.”






After a University-wide review of all programming, and subsequent conversations between Ferris, Kendall and UICA leadership, it became apparent that UICA’s current location, the 2 Fulton West building, is too large and expensive for the University to maintain going forward. 






The intent is to immediately begin adjusting the space at the Ferris Building to accommodate UICA. The building offers a world-class space that will easily allow UICA to re-envision its public offerings including activating an outdoor area for the downtown and student community.






Although the location will be different, UICA’s exhibitions and programs will continue to present the voices of those who have been oppressed, marginalized and exploited by society.






“We pledge to continue to work to recognize and act against the inequities that systematically hurt artists, neighbors, and diverse communities and to show work that reflects our entire community,” Krajniak added.






“We look forward to enhancing our partnership with UICA and the arts in West Michigan,” said Ferris President David Eisler. “The UICA plays an important role in the Grand Rapids community, and Ferris State University is pleased to see the relationship strengthened with Kendall College of Art and Design.”

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Hand2Hand creates a win-win by helping families and keeping local restaurants busy
		

		
		

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

	


		

		










By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org






As food supplies diminished during the recent statewide Stay Home, Stay Safe order, Hand2Hand officials were left with how to secure large quantities of food to help feed the thousands of children who rely on the organization and its church partners for weekend meals.

 





“Our founder Cheryl Hondred was praying on how we could feed these families also knowing that area restaurants were deeply impacted by COVID-19 as well,” said Jodi Joseph, director of growth for Hand2Hand. “Then she had this idea and it just started to grow.”






The idea became the Win Win program where Hand2Hand was able to take matching grant money to purchase gift cards from local businesses which in turn the organization would give to families to purchase meals at the restaurant.






Lombardo’s Pizza, 2307 Lee St. SW, Wyoming, was one of the 30 restaurants that participated in the Hand2Hand Win Win program. (WKTV)





Local restaurants were asked to create meals, not including drinks, that  would feed a family of four but that the restaurant would still make a profit on, Joseph said. Gift cards would be purchased for $10, $15, or $20 and then distributed to the families who in turn could go to the restaurant to get the WinWin meal, she said.






“We were just blown away by the generous response of the community,” Joseph said. The Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation and the David and Carol Van Andel Foundation provided a $30,000 matching grant. Community members stepped up to foundations’ challenge contributing $40,000 to the program allowing Hand2Hand to raise a total of $70,000 in a short time. 






“We have given out 4,100 gift cards and have heard numerous stories and testimonies from families who were so grateful to receive a warm cooked meal from restaurants that treated them so well,” said Hand2Hand Founder and Executive Director Cheri Hondred in a wrap up video about the program.






Through the effort, Hand2Hand was able to connect with more than 30 restaurants from 17 of the 37 school districts that the organization serves.  Some of the restaurants were Two Guys Brewing, Lombardo’s, and Russ’s in Wyoming and The Candied Yam in Kentwood.






“At a very early age, my twin sissy and I experienced the pain of being hungry before we were adopted,” said Jessica Ann Tyson, owner of the Candied Yam as to why she participated in the Hand2Hand Win Win program. “Being able to partner with organizations, like Hand2Hand, gives us the opportunity to empathize and give back in a way that makes a big difference to someone. We are also grateful to keep our team working so we can continue making this food with great love to share with others.”






Wyoming’s TwoGuys Brewing also participated in the Hand2Hand Win Win program. Pictured is TwoGuys managing partnerTom Payne. (WKTV)





Nick Lombardo owner of Wyoming’s Lombardo Pizza, located at 2307 Lee St. SW, said the program did help in bringing traffic to his restaurant.






“The first couple of weeks we were down,” said Lombardo, who’s restaurant is mostly takeout and delivery. He added that the opportunity to be a part of the Win Win program gave the restaurant a chance to give back while keeping busy at the sametime. 

  





Hand2Hand, which is based in Hudsonville, partners with about 119 area churches and businesses to provide weekend backpacks to more than 8,000 area students in 206 schools. Gift cards were dispersed to families who are part of the Hand2Hand program.






Now that the Stay Home, Stay Safe order has ended, the Win Win program also has wrapped up as well. Looking back at its success, Hondred, through the Hand2Hand blog said the program really was a blessing to the families as it provided a break and a special treat to them while providing stability and income to the partnering 30 restaurants.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			KDL closes internet gap by offering hotspots; state hotspot map available
		

		
		

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

	


		

		

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org






According to the U.S. Census about 16 percent of the Kent County population does not have internet with about nine percent having no computers. However a recent initiative from the Kent District Library looks to help provide internet straight to resident’s homes.






The KDL has added 700 new hotspots to the collection, increasing the number to 8333. The hotspots are part of the Beyond Books Collection and are available to library cardholders age 18 and older.






Also announced this week, the State of Michigan is partnering to provide a map of public hotspots state wide. (See info below.)






A wifi hotspot is a small piece of equipment that will set up a wireless network that allows a houseful of people to connect to the Internet via cellular service. (Supplied)





“With an estimated 24,000 households without broadband access in Kent County, during this time of crisis, it is important to help as many people as we can,” said KDL Director of Library Services Carrie Wilson, who was referring to the recent COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in a quarantine. The result of the statewide quranrinte had many families working from home as well as students completing the 2019-2020 school year online. 






“With so many people working and learning from home, the need for Internet access is greater than every before.”






Outside of the COVID-19 crisis, the U.S. Census through its data had determined that computer usage and Internet access had become increasingly important of regathering information, looking for jobs and participation in a changing world economy. For example, in a U.S. Census report about computer and Internet usage, it is estimated that about 8 percent of households had a compute run 1984. That number jumped to about half of all U.S. households having a computer in 2000 with the number growing to 79 percent in 2015.






Wilson also noted that the wifi at the KDL branches is free and open with residents being able to connect from the parking lot. A library card is not needed to connect to the free wifi. 






To check out a hotspot, visit kdl.org and search on the term “hotspot.” Hotspots will be mailed to households while KDL branches are closed due to the Coronavirus pandemic. When KDL opens, hotspots will be able to be picked up at the branches. KDL branches are expected to open with limited services July 6. 






People who live in the KDL service area and do not have a library card can register for one online at kdl.org/virtual or by calling 616-784-2007.











Statewide map of hotspots





The State of Michigan, in partnership with the Connected Nation Michigan, released a statewide Wi-Fi hotspot map this week to assist residents who currently lack internet access at home. Currently on the map are only two in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on the map, but more are being added.






The COVID-19 pandemic and transition to remote and distance learning has only increased the need for residents and students to have easy access to broadband services.






The Wi-Fi mapping effort, spearheaded by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) and Connected Nation Michigan, along with the Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) and the Michigan Department of Education, is an interim step amid the coronavirus pandemic to spotlight publicly available broadband hotspots for households without internet access.






To find a hotspot site near you, click here.






WKTV Managing Editor Ken Norris contributed to this story.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Water exploration planned in Suttons Bay
		

		
		

			Entertainment, , , 					

	


		

		

By Fred Sitkins
Inland Seas Education Association











Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) invites the public to engage with water through their Going to the Water Summer Stewardship Series. Opportunities to connect with water include social distancing activities and events, a video series, a virtual fundraising water challenge, and programs aboard the ship. Every activity has a stewardship focus to encourage the protection of water.






“Research shows that being on, in, or near water has many benefits,” shared Fred Sitkins, ISEA Executive Director. “The purpose of this series is to engage people with water and, while they are there, take time to reflect on the experience.” Research referenced by Sitkins comes from the book Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols. In his book, Nichols shows how water can improve performance, increase calm, diminish anxiety, and increase professional success.






Two social distancing activities will take place in June. On June 18 at 10 a.m., families are invited to participate in an in-person Family Water Healer event. A story will be read about a little boy who overcomes his fear of water and participants will be asked to share their personal connection to water through written or visual expression. The event is free, but registration is required as space is limited. The second event is a self-guided Leelanau Trail Water Hunt. Participants walking or biking on the Leelanau Trail can look for answers to water-based clues. Once the clues are solved, a mystery word will be revealed.











In July, the Going to the Water Summer Stewardship Series includes To the Water Challenge, a virtual fundraising event where participants engage with water, reflect on their experience, and share on social media. People can boat, paddleboard, swim, scuba dive, relax, fish, meditate, or do any other activity that is on, in, or near water (e.g., lake, river, pond, fountain, etc.). Registered participants will receive ISEA multifunctional headwear and qualify for awards.






“We believe people care for the things they love,” explained Sitkins when describing the Going to the Water Video Series to be out in July. Local celebrities are being interviewed at the water locations they love and will talk about how they care for that water. “Through all the events in the Going to the Water Stewardship Series, we hope people make the connection that they need to protect the water resources they enjoy.”






ISEA public summer sailing programs aboard the schooner Inland Seas will begin in August. Capacity has been reduced by 50% to accommodate for social distancing and safety protocols will be in place for crew, instructors, and participants. Program content will continue to be the same as pre-COVID-19, but may be delivered slightly different. Tickets are on sale now.






“With the additional time people have by not attending festivals and events, we hope this Series encourages them to get on, in or near water,” said Stephanie Rustem, ISEA Program Coordinator.






Inland Seas Education Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Suttons Bay, Michigan, dedicated to STEM education on the Great Lakes. Its shipboard and shore-side education programs are designed to inspire people of all ages to provide for the long-term stewardship of the Great Lakes. ISEA offers programs to schools, groups, and the public. For further information, contact Inland Seas Education Association at (231) 271-3077 or on the web at www.schoolship.org.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			School News Network: Ending the school year
		

		
		

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

	


		

		

School officials and students celebrate the end of the school year in special ways with some graduates discussing the riots and the impact on them and their community. For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org. 





From left, on bottom of the screen, Wyoming High School 10th grader Margoth De Leon and ninth grader Lizbi Garcia talk about how their family coped when their dad was hospitalized due to COVID-19 (School News Network)





Wyoming: Father receiving from COVID-19 thanks ‘ Team Gladiola’ on Zoom





A father’s thank you for the support from his children’s school, Gladiola Elementary School, shows just how important the weekly parent meetings between staff and families became during the COVID-19 lockdown. To learn more about Gladiola’s Continuity of Learning Plan, click here. 






Schools had to adjust overnight to the new reality of the pandemic, and now face a funding crisis with literally billions of dollars at stake (School News Network)





All Districts: Our Kids, Our Future: COVID-19 and the looming crisis in public school funding





It is estimated that nationwide schools will need to spend $41 billion for COVID-19 pandemic related costs in technology and other social distancing guidelines. This is on top of an estimated $1.25 billion in lost funding. Want a better understanding of how this will all play out? Kent ISD Research Data Analyst Sunli Joy breaks down how school budgets are funded and the impact of the loss of funding and additional expenses. Click here for the story. 






Protestors flooded downtown Grand Rapids the night of May 30, with a peaceful demonstration followed later by rioting (School News Network)





Kelloggsville/Godwin Heights: Students speak out on protests, call for ‘a better America tomorrow’





The recent protests could be a teachable moment, a call to action or both. School News Network spoke to five newly graduated seniors that included one from Kelloggsville and one from Godwin Heights, as well as a Godwin Heights educator, about the impact the protests have had on them, and what they think is needed to address the root causes.  Click here to read more. 






Godwin staff and teachers wave to students during the last day of school parade (School News Network)





Godwin Heights: ‘This was good for our souls!’





After 11 weeks of staying home, “flattening the curve” and distance learning, Godwin Heights students got to see the staff and teachers in person, from a safe distance, on the last day of school, May 29. West Godwin Elementary Principal Mary Lang dreamed up the idea for the last day of school parade and Assistant Principal Casey Kroll led the effort to make it happen, devising a route that hit every neighborhood in the district and making sure the parade passed bus stops so students would have a familiar spot to watch. To get the full story, click here. 

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Wyoming offers more Rec at Home kits
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , 					

	


		

		

Wyoming Recreation staff handing out Rec at Home Kits (City of Wyoming)





By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org






The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department has announced round two of its Rec at Home Kids which will be handed out Thursday, June 11 from 12:30 -1:30 p.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW.






The kits will consist of fun activities for your children to do at home. In order to receive this kit, each child must be registered on the Wyoming Parks and Recreation website. Click here to register. 






There are about 300 kits available and they are expected to go quickly so register soon. 

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Metro Health brings free COVID-19 mobile testing to vulnerable communities
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Community Health, , 					

	


		

		






By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health






COVID-19 has exposed large health inequities both nationally and locally, resulting in devastating, even life-and-death consequences. In Michigan, where African Americans make up just 14% of the population, over 40% of the deaths from COVID-19 were African American.






“There are several reasons why racial minority populations are experiencing higher COVID-19 infectionrates,” said Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker, Vice President of DEI, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.“These include underlying health conditions, occupational environment and living situations.”






When it comes to seeking treatment, minority populations are often at a disadvantage with inadequate health insurance, a lack of transportation and language barriers.






Metro Health is working to combat these barriers by bringing free COVID-19 testing and resources into some of the most vulnerable communities in the Greater Grand Rapids area. Beginning the week of June 8, Metro Health mobile units will be rotating to two different sites each week for free walk-up testing and consultations.











Hispanic Center of West Michigan – Beginning the week of June 8





1204 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Tuesdays and Fridays from 8-11am






United Methodist Community House – Beginning the week of June 15





904 Sheldon Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507 Tuesdays from 1-4pm






Those desiring testing do not need to be current patients of Metro Health. They do not need health insurance or identification for the free test. They will simply be asked for their name and contact information so results can be appropriately delivered. In addition to COVID-19 testing, Metro Health will have providers available to answer questions and distribute important resources in both English and Spanish.






“During a crisis like we are facing with coronavirus, it becomes convenient to abandon commitments to principals of diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Dr. Booker. “We will not allow this to happen.”






In addition to our mobile testing, Metro Health also offers free COVID-19 drive up testing at the Metro Health Community Clinic located at 781 36th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. This site sees anestimated 6,500 patients a year that are medically underserved and may not be comfortable seeking care in other locations.






Even in the best of times, healthcare does not look the same for all people. It is not equitable. A pandemic shines a bright light on those inequities. Metro Health is taking an even greater responsibility and accountability so that no group of people is left behind.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			GVSU economics expert: Slow recovery begins
		

		
		

			3-bottom, Local Business, 					

	


		

		

By Dottie Barnes
gvsu.edu

                         





Brian Long is a local business forecaster. Credit: GVSU





Although local economic statistics for May are negative, it now appears the worst of the COVID-19 driven recession is over and the recovery has begun, said Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business.






Long surveyed local business leaders and his findings below are based on data collected during the last two weeks of May.






The survey’s index of business improvement (new orders) edged up to -32 from -45. In a similar move, the production index recovered to -35 from -48. The index of purchases reduced its loss to -32 from -44, and the employment index edged up to -38 from -41.






“Many of our survey participants are still working from home or working on a reduced office-sharing schedule,” said Long. “Many of our supply chains have been shaken, and restarting production will not be easy. As businesses around West Michigan continue to reopen, we can expect next month’s statistics to continue to slowly improve.”






Long said many analysts are thanking internet sales for saving the auto industry from total ruin; he said although May sales are significantly lower than in May 2019, the drop was not nearly as steep as some had expected.






Unemployment stats statewide are among the worst ever recorded, said Long. Of the 83 counties in Michigan, the estimated unemployment rate ranged from 14.5 percent to 41.2 percent. Ottawa County, which often boasts the lowest rate in the state, came in at 21.2 percent. Kent County was close behind at 21.6 percent.






Long said barring a relapse in the fall, history will record either March or April as the bottom of the 2020 Recession.






“We can expect some additional improvement in next month’s report,” he said. “We do not consider a recession to be over until we return to full employment, which took about seven years for the complete recovery from the Great Recession.”

 





The Institute for Supply Management survey is a monthly survey of business conditions that includes 45 purchasing managers in the greater Grand Rapids area and 25 in Kalamazoo. The respondents are from the region’s major industrial manufacturers, distributors and industrial service organizations. It is patterned after a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management. Each month, the respondents are asked to rate eight factors as “same,” “up” or “down.”

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Downtown Holland open for business
		

		
		

			Entertainment, , , 					

	


		

		






By Kara de Alvare
Downtown Holland






In light of Governor Whitmer’s recent Executive Order, shops and restaurants in Downtown Holland look forward to welcoming customers in their doors beginning this week and next. Retailers have opened for customers (without requiring an appointment) beginning June 4, while most restaurants will open for dine-in service beginning Monday, June 8. A handful of restaurants have delayed their opening until later next week or the following week to put the final preparations in place to operate safely.






“Our business owners have been working extremely hard these past few weeks to ensure that the proper protocol is in place so customers can shop and dine safely within their businesses,” said Downtown Holland Marketing Coordinator Kara de Alvare. “They have been eagerly awaiting the Governor’s announcement allowing them to open their doors and they are so excited to begin welcoming customers once again. They also want to express their sincere appreciation to everyone who supported them while their doors were closed.”






Businesses will be implementing a number of safety protocols to protect their employees and customers from the spread of COVID-19. Among these are front door signage outlining safety precautions and occupancy restrictions, installing hand sanitizing stations, requiring employees and customers to wear masks, increasing the sanitizing of all surfaces and ensuring that customers practice safe social distancing of six feet at all times.






Per the Executive Order, retailers will be able to operate with 25% of their total occupancy, while restaurants will be limited to 50% occupancy. To help businesses navigate these new occupancy restrictions, Downtown Holland will be allowing retailers and restaurants to expand their business operations onto the sidewalk and into the parking spaces for the time being. Retailers will be allowed to display merchandise outside, while restaurants will be allowed to expand their current sidewalk café operations into the parking spaces in front of their business.






Customers that are not comfortable shopping in-store at this time are invited to visit www.shopdowntownholland.com shop online and place orders for delivery or curbside pick from their favorite retailers. Likewise, customers who prefer to dine at home can visit www.dinedowntownholland.com for a list of restaurants offering take-out services.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Wyoming temporarily expands outdoor restaurant seating
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Wyoming, 					

	


		

		

Local restaurants like Lindo Mexico will be able to seek expanded outdoor seating due to an emergency order signed by the City of Wyoming mayor. 





By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org






The City of Wyoming has issued guidance that temporarily allows local restaurants to expand outdoor seating arrangements. Today, Mayor Jack A. Poll signed an emergency order that increases outdoor restaurant seating during the coronavirus pandemic. The order is designed to support local restaurants that are reopening with reduced indoor capacity.






To take advantage of the new guidelines, business owners will need to apply and be approved for the expanded seating area. Before submitting their application, applicants are encouraged to contact staff to discuss their plan and any questions they may have. The planning staff can be reached at plan_info@wyomingmi.gov or 616-530-7258, Monday thru Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Once an application with relevant plans and information is submitted to the planning office, they will be promptly reviewed for approval. The full emergency order with application instructions can be found online at wyomingmi.gov/coronavirus.






“Wyoming is home to a variety of excellent restaurants that feature cuisines from around the world,” Poll said. “I’m excited to give restaurant owners an opportunity to jumpstart their businesses as we rebound from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. With the support of the community I know they’ll be successful. I welcome everyone in West Michigan to join us for a meal in Wyoming.”






Wyoming City Hall building will reopen to the public on Monday, June 8 with visitor requirements such as answering COVID-19 screening questions, wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19. In-person visitors will be able to access City Hall through the 28th Street, front entrance. Community members are encouraged to continue using online and drive-up window services to limit contact points. City Hall’s hours remain Monday thru Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			2020 Metro Cruise cancelled, WKTV moves forward with Dream Wheels show
		

		
		

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

	


		

		

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org






WKTV Community Media does plan to broadcast and live stream its Dream Wheels classic car show in August. (WKTV)





While the 2020 Metro Cruise has been cancelled this year, auto car enthusiasts still will be able to enjoy a host of classic cars as WKTV Community Media will be broadcasting its popular Dream Wheels classic car show in August.






The Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce announced today that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has made the decision to cancel the 28th Street Metro Cruise for 2020.






The event was scheduled to take place for its 16th consecutive year on Aug. 21-22 on the 13-mile long stretch of 28th Street from Grandville to Cascade Charter Township. The central hub of the event takes place at Rogers Plaza in Wyoming, which features the famous Collector Car Row, local bands, event merchandise and more.






“While it is very unfortunate the pandemic has affected our society and events in so many ways, WKTV Community Media is committed to helping to keep the home fires for Metro Cruise burning,” said WKTV General Manager Tom Norton. “We’ve been in the planning stages for the televised coverage of Metro Cruise for the last few months and will be shifting to a live and streamed classic car program for 2020.”






Dream Wheels has become a popular attraction during Metro Cruise hosting a number of rare cars and popular favorites. Norton said plans for this year’s show will again focus on lots of car classics.






“At this stage, we can say that the program will feature many classic vehicles from the region, but without general public attendance,” Norton said. “We encourage everyone to stay with WKTV Journal to get more updates on the program as they develop and we heartily encourage everyone to continue to follow all rules and guidelines so we can see the COVID pandemic in the rear view mirror.”






Metro Cruise was started in 2005 to help drive traffic to 28th Street after M-6 was opened. (WKTV)





Started in 2005 to help drive business to the 28th Street corridor when the M-6 highway system opened on the south end of Grand Rapids, the Metro Cruise has become a known and loved West Michigan’s premiere car event. The Metro Cruise typically draws more than 275,000 people annually from across the United States and includes approximately 15,000 vehicles such as hot rods, low riders, muscle cars, performance cars, classics, antiques and motorcycles, in additional to numerous live events.  






“This event has become a community tradition, and we always look forward to welcoming car lovers from around the country into our communities each year,” said Bob O’Callaghan, president and CEO the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. “While it appears our state may begin to gradually reopen this summer, the event still poses a potential high risk of spreading COVID-19 in our community and beyond. 






“Out of an abundance of caution, the Chamber agreed it cannot risk a second wave of infection in a state that already has experienced enough loss. This was an extremely difficult decision for the Chamber to make, but the right one in light of health concerns for our community.”






The event is planned to return Aug. 20-21, 2021. For more information on the event, visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Local enterpreneur offers a taste of Africa – virtually
		

		
		

			3-bottom, 					

	


		

		






By Mirabel Umenei
Motherland Cooking Xperience






Motherland Cooking Xperience was founded with the aim of providing a platform for immigrants with ties to Africa to showcase their talent, through food, music, art, and storytelling in an effort to bridge the cultural gap between African immigrants, their families and their communities of residence. We also want to empower them financially and foster faster integration and participation in their communities.






At Motherland Cooking Xperience, we are passionate about showcasing the diverse and exciting cultures of Africa through delicious food, cooking demos, beverages, and music from Africa.






Due to the quarantine, the program has now gone online with the next event, “African Cooking in Quarantine 4: Chicken Pepper Soup, Peanut Soup with Rice, and Banana Puff, Puff,” set for June 5 from 5 – 7 p.m. To check out this show or any of the cooking experiences, go to motherlandcookingexperience.com.






Like to try it on your own? Below is the recipe for Plantain Porridge or Born House Plantains or Sese Plantains. This is a delicious savory Cameroonian dish usually prepared for a new mom and her guests.











Here are the ingredients I used:






Green Plantains 





Medium Onions, garlic, ginger 





Country onions 





Tomatoes 





Bitter leaves 





Fresh Turnip greens 





Fresh Kale Smoked fish and turkey 





Salt Seasoning cube 





Smoked crawfish 4-5 unripe plantains peeled and cut in halves 





1/2-1 cup palm oil 





1 pound smoked fish and meat of choice.  – I used home smoked turkey and fish.





1/2 cup crayfish 





2 teaspoons of bouillon powder 





2 tablespoons blended garlic and ginger optional 





1 habanero (hot) pepper optional 





1 teaspoon contri onions or rondelles (optional) 





Salt to taste 4-8 handfuls green leafy vegetable – I used rehydrated dry bitter leaf, Turnip greens and kale.






Instructions Cut the smoked turkey in smaller pieces and put them in the pot with plantains at the same time. Once the plantain is in the pot, add in all other ingredients. Let it cook for about 30 minutes until the plantain is cooked. Add more water if necessary. Turn off the heat and serve warm.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Local suppliers, county work to fill PPE gap as businesses begin to open up
		

		
		

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

	


		

		

Several local manufacturers are making personal protective equipment such as masks and hand sanitizer. (Public Domain)





By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org






Before many businesses can open, owners first must secure personal protective equipment with two local agencies stepping up to the challenge to help owners find and purchase what they needs.






This week, Kent County announced the Kent County Back to Work initiative where the Kent County Board of Commissioners has allocated $2 million of the County’s CARES Act funding to provide person protective equipment at not cost to qualifying small businesses and other employers. Available PPE includes eye and face protection, gloves, hand sanitizer and thermometers. 






“We need to focus on getting our economy back on track, making sure employers have what they need to safely reopen and employees fee safet to go back to work,” said Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Mandy Bolter. “Our Board listened to countless business representatives who were concerned about the ability to source PPE. We ant to remove that roadblock and use the County buying power to help where we can.”






To quality, employers must be located in Kent County and must employ 100 people or fewer. Qualified employers may place PPE requests either online or by calling the PPE fulfillment center at (616) 245-3636 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Calls will be taken in English or Spanish.






All qualifying requests received by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, June 4 will be entered into a random selection process. The first-round selection will take place on Friday, June 5, and a third-party fulfillment center will begin filling requests on that date.






Those selected in the first-round selection process will be contacted after their requests are filled, and they will be told where they can pick-up their order. Requests not picked up by employers within five business days of notification will be returned to inventory.






The program will continue accepting employer requests and running daily random selection process as long as program funding is available. If an employer is not selected in the initial drawing, they will remain eligible either until they are selected or until funding is no longer available.






Face shields are another PPE product available from local manufacturers.





Local PPE manufacturers





 The Right Place, Inc. has developed and launched the West Michigan PPE Supplier Directory. This directory features West Michigan manufacturers who are producing high-demand PPE supplies, along with contact information to procure the supplies.






As West Michigan begins the process of a phased reopening, including today’s restart of manufacturing operations, companies can use this directory to fulfill their critical PPE supply needs and ensure a safe workplace reopening.






“As the region’s employers begin the process of restarting operations, we are proud to offer this resource to assist them in securing PPE from local manufacturers,” said Birgit Klohs, President and CEO, The Right Place, Inc. “The depth and breadth of the PPE available showcases the manufacturing prowess of our region. We are still a community who makes things, and this expertise has served us well as the community navigates this crisis.”






Companies can use the directory to source a wide variety of commonly needed types of PPE such as face masks and shields, gowns, googles, gloves, sanitization products, thermometers and more. More than 60 local companies are featured in the directory.






The West Michigan PPE Supplier Directory lists several Kentwood and Wyoming business that are making PPE productions. Some of the Kentwood and Wyoming businesses listed and the products they have are:






Kentwood’s 3D Printed Parts is offering this comfort strap for masks.





3D Printed Parts, 4355 Airwest Dr. SE, masks, face shields, and comfort straps for masks





Ladder 34, 4980 Kendrick St SE, masks and face shields





Bluewater Technologies, 4245 44th St. SE, digital signs, face shields 





Nutra Foods, 4683 50th St. SE, masks, face shields, gloves, goggles, protective suits (not gowns) 





Winners Brand, 5090 Kendrick Ct. SE, masks, face shields





Laird Plastics, 3839 E. Paris SE, face shields





Superior Business Solutions, 3615 29th St. SE, gloves, goggles, safety signage, thermometers  





Southern Lithoplate, 4150 Danvers Ct. SE, hand sanitizer 





Total Plastics, 1652 Gezon Parkway SW, face shields, medical mobile carts 





Rapid-Line, 1475 Gezon Pkway. SW, hand free door pulls





Wyoming’s Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, environmental and health consulting






Additionally, products and manufacturers are being added on a regular basis.






If you are a manufacturer producing PPE and would like to be added to the list, contact The Right Place at PPEequip@rightplace.org​​.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			One local business goes virtual to help residents cut “those bangs”
		

		
		

			3-bottom, Local Business, Tech Trends, , , , 					

	


		

		

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org






Stylist Lindsey Williams admits she cringing when she saw the pictures of home haircuts and coloring coming across her social media.






After months of waiting, people had just had enough, and like CNN’s Anderson Cooper, taking scissors to their bangs and seeking out at-home color kits. Hair salons had seemingly become the speakeasies of 2020 with a few people sneaking off to a hairstylist working out of his/her home or having one swing by and cut their hair on the back porch.






When Williams, owner of East Grand Rapids’ Bang Blow Dry Bar and Salon, 2180 Wealthy St. SE, received a call from a customer asking about over-the-counter color kits, she knew she had to come up with a new way to help meet the needs of her customers.






“I offered to put together a color kit, drop it off, and then have a virtual session with her to talk her through applying the color,” Williams said. And bam, Williams’ had joined the growing list of virtual hair stylists.






As noted by NPR, in several major cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, virtual haircuts and styling have become increasingly popular as people seek relief from their hair. In fact, tech entrepreneur Greg Isenberg recently launched the app You Probably Need a Haircut, where customers are paired with freelance hair stylists who, for a fee, will talk the client through on cutting his/her hair.






Williams said during Michigan’s state of emergency, she has done several virtual counseling on bang trims and blow drying for customers. She also has a package where she will put together a color kit, deliver it, and schedule a time to meet the customer on FaceTime or Google Meet to walk the customer through the steps. The average session length is between 20 – 30 minutes with totally time depending on the customer.






“One of the biggest feedbacks I get from doing these is that it allows people to connect with someone, “Williams said. “It is kind of hair therapy, where you get to sit and talk to someone who is outside of your family.”







Stylist Lindsey Williams talks to her daughter, Willa, about hair care during a Google Meet virtual meeting. (WKTV)




While Williams has not been charging for her services, except for the color kits, as most of her virtual clients have been regulars. However, as word-of-mouth has spread, Williams said she probably will need to determine price structure for the virtual services.






While most stylists in the Greater Grand Rapids area have made their hair products available online, Williams appears to be one of the few people the area to offer virtual hair services, but she suspects that some salons or hair stylists may include it in their offerings to clients.






“Hair salons were one of the first businesses to close,” Williams said. Many hair salons started shutting down about a week before the Stay Home, Stay Safe order went into effect on March 24. Because of the close contact to clients, having to touch a person’s head and hair, Williams said the styling business probably will be one of the last to reopen.






Williams is hoping she will be able to reopen her salon on May 28, when Michigan’s state of emergency ends. This week, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that sections of the state would reopen with Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and northern Michigan set to open this Friday. The governor has not put any restrictions on specific businesses opening in those areas.






Even with reopening, Williams said her team will need to clean all the surfaces. The salon has three chairs and Williams said they will be making sure that the chairs are at least six feet apart along with complying with other social distancing guidelines.






“We are going to try and make customers as comfortable as possible,” Williams said, but she acknowledges that there will be some not willing to come to a salon for a haircut. Coupled with the facts that there are many people who hope their first venture out is to a salon and once you open the Pandora box on a new idea it tends to stay, Williams said her future plans may include offering virtual cuts and styles for a while.






“Life is going in a different direction,” Williams said. “I’ve always tried to be forward thinking in what we can offer our customers and this is an opportunity to provide a service that could meet the needs of some of them.”

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Camp Curious program goes virtual for Summer 2020
		

		
		

			Entertainment, 					

	


		

		






By Kate Kocienski
Grand Rapids Public Museum






The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will offer its Camp Curious summer camp programs will be offered virtually to ensure the safety of the community due to the current COVID-19 situation. This summer, kids pre-K through ninth grade can use the Museum as a virtual learning lab, right from their home, to explore the wonders of science, history, culture and more through a variety of camp offerings. Virtual Camp Curious is set to begin on Monday, June 15. 






“Although camps will look different this year, we’re thrilled to continue offering favorites online to the community,” said Rob Schuitema, Director of Public Programs for the Museum. “We’re eager to present this unique experience for curious minds this summer, while continuing to share the Museum’s digital resources and the expertise of our staff to create an engaging experience for our campers.”






Summer camps are divided by school grades with different options for each age group. The GRPM offers options for one-day or three-day camps with a variety of themes, including Slimy Science, Fossil Hunters, Dream it, Build it LEGO® Bricks, Young Wizards Academy and more. These virtual programs allow campers to explore and investigate through hands-on experiments and activities, while using common items in their homes as well as artifacts and specimens in the GRPM’s Collections.






Camp participation will require access to the internet and the use of a device to watch presentations and receive daily instructions. The Camp Curious program will utilize the virtual platform SeeSaw, featuring a live kick-off and wrap up with instructors each day of camp via Zoom. Most activities will take place off-line. Screen time is dedicated for directions and questions for the instructors, with the primary focus of the program being on the hands-on activities. Recordings of each live session will be posted to the SeeSaw classroom following the stream, to allow flexibility for campers to learn at their own pace.






Camp Curious sessions are designed for campers to do projects independently; the Museum recommends that parents of young children (pre-K – 3rd grade) be present. Camp supplies include common items from around your home, and can be interchangeable based on what campers have access to. Recommended lists can be found at grpm.org/CampCurious.






Pricing for camps vary, starting as low as $20 for one-day camps and $40 for three-day camps, with discounts available for Museum members. For more information on Camp Curious and to register today, visit grpm.org/CampCurious. Early registration is recommended. Once registered, campers will be contacted by the Museum with specific instructions for each camp. Camp Curious runs from June 15 through August 7. 

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			2020 Lowell Showboat Summer concerts cancelled
		

		
		

			Entertainment, , 					

	


		

		

The 2020 Lowell Showboat Summer concert season has been cancelled.





By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org






In mid-May LowellArts and Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce sent out a survey to gauge responses from its community on whether to move forward with this summer’s Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts. There were more 350 replies with comments. 






“We know that these concerts provide summer fun and times to gather with friends, celebrate our fantastic regional musicians and provide an opportunity to dance and engage with the performers,” Lorain Smalligan, executive director of LowellArts.

 





The Boards of Directors of both organizations have made the imperative decision to cancel the 2020 series because of COVID-19. The boards strongly trust the decision is a way of honoring health providers, vulnerable community members and visitors. 






“We are saddened, because this decision has not come easily; we have weighed both sides of the scenario through a thoughtful and heartfelt process. Our organizations have a responsibility to follow Executive Orders set forth and we owe it to everyone to keep our community whole.” said Liz Baker, Executive Director of the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce.  Both organizations look forward to returning in 2021, twenty years since launching this series together in 2001. 






Musicians scheduled for 2020 have been placed at the top of the list for consideration for the 2021 lineup.






‘Like musicians everywhere, Soul ACCESS is saddened by the recent inability to make music together,” said Roger MacNaughton of Soul ACCESS. “We were so looking forward to bringing joy to the Lowell crowd this summer, but fully realize that it is far better to err on the side of safety during this pandemic. Hopefully, we will be back making music for our Lowell friends sooner rather than later.”

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			Metro Health aims to educate the community on health inequities caused by COVID-19
		

		
		

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

	


		

		

Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (From Metro Health video)





By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health






Race, gender, socio-economic status and sexual orientation are all common factors that determine risk in a health crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic is no exception. This public health crisis has exposed large health inequities in many populations, resulting in devastating and even life-and-death consequences.






“During a crisis like we are facing with coronavirus, it becomes convenient to abandon commitments toprincipals of diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “This cannot be allowed to happen.”






As of mid-April, African Americans made up 33 percent of all confirmed cases in Michigan – and 40 percent of the deaths from COVID-19. In addition, the Kaiser Family Foundation has reported that those with a lower household income level are at higher risk of serious illness if infected with the coronavirus.






Screen shot from one of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion videos from Metro Health-University of Michigan Health





There are several reasons why these populations are experiencing higher COVID-19 infection rates including underlying health conditions, occupational environment and living situations. There are also barriers to seeking treatment that put some minorities at a disadvantage such as a lack of health insurance and transportation, language barriers and a fear of trust.






Metro Health is educating the community on these health inequities through a video series released today at https://metrohealth.net/covid-19-updates/diversity-equity-inclusion/. Featuring Dr. Booker, these five videos address the important topics of: Health Inequities, Economic Impact, Building a Culture of Equity, Xenophobia and Preparing for the Future. Along with each video are valuable resources for people to continue to educate themselves on the topics.






“Even in the best of times, healthcare does not look the same for all people. It is not equitable. A pandemic shines a bright light on those inequities,” said Dr. Booker. “Metro Health is taking an even greater responsibility and accountability to educate the community on this topic and ensure no one is left behind.”






Please visit metrohealth.net/covid-19-updates for the most up-to-date information from the CDC and resources to protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			GVSU alumna launches ‘Headband Aid’ to relief to those wearing masks for extended hours
		

		
		

			3-bottom, Local Business, , 					

	


		

		

The Headband Aid features buttons to help secure a face mask. (Supplied)





By Dottie Barnes
gvsu.edu






Frontline workers responding to COVID-19, along with many others who are returning to their jobs, are wearing masks all day long. Some are experiencing irritation, especially around their ears.






Katarina Samardzija, a 2019 graduate of Grand Valley State University and founder of Locker Lifestyle, took notice. Locker Lifestyle produces athletic clothing with storage pouches.






“I had all of these athletic headbands in stock that have been tested for comfort and fit by marathon runners,” said Samardzija. “I recruited my grandmother, who is a seamstress, to help sew buttons on the headbands. The buttons allow you to attach a surgical mask to relieve irritation behind the ears.”






The Pocket Headband for women and men has non-slip gel dots and a pocket in back, secured by Velcro®, to carry money, keys or even a spare mask. In April, Samardzija made a demonstration video, which went viral. She and her work crew, consisting of her mother and grandmother, have shipped about 600 Headband Aids all over the country.






Katarina Samardzija’s grandmother (left) helped Katarina with the design of the Headband Aid. (Supplied)





Samardzija earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Grand Valley with a double major in marketing and entrepreneurship. She was also a member of the GVSU Women’s Tennis team. She was headed to tennis practice in 2016, when she got the idea for Locker Lifestyle.






“I got tired of carrying all of my belongings to the gym. The first product I made, which is our best seller, is the Wrist Wallet. It holds items like an ID, money, keys, lip balm. My friends started knocking on my door wanting one,” she said.






Samardzija connected with Grand Valley’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and began competing for startup funds. She has participated in about 14 competitions to date to help fund patents and to manufacture products.






“Runners World” magazine named Locker Lifestyle products the top gear to have in 2020; in 2019, Samardzija was named one of the Newsmakers of the Year by the “Grand Rapids Business Journal;” and in 2018, she was the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest Bronze Prize Winner.






Samardzija said her education and connections at Grand Valley have proven invaluable.






“The support from the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation has been a continual resource,” she said. “I connect with Shorouq Almallah and Matthew Larson from CEI on a monthly basis to stay in touch and discuss growth.”






Find out more about her products at www.lockerlifestyle.com

	

	
	

		
			



							


	

				

					

		
				

			From the editor: In time of COVID-19, WKTV urges readers be informed, be personally responsible
		

		
		

			3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, 					

	


		

		






By Tom Norton





tom@wktv.org






Considering the medical science surrounding what we already know about the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for people to continue the practice of wearing a mask while in public. The personal policy of behaving as if you are carrying the virus is ultimately a wise one as it directly saves the lives of those around you.






We encourage everyone to remember that COVID-19 is a newly discovered virus and the medical and science community is the best source of it’s characteristics.






Because of the ability for anyone to put anything up on the internet and social media and pass it off as legitimate, we also encourage caution when absorbing what you may read or see. Please stay with mainstream news sources and with the CDC (Center for Disease Control).

 





We also encourage everyone to be aware that minimizing the spread of COVID-19 is the surest and fastest way for our society and State to get beyond this pandemic. Practicing this behavior, as recommended by medical and science professionals, will also likely bring a more solid and sustainable re-opening of our local economy.






The following link, to a recent article by writers at the magazine Science, who’s COVID-19 reporting is supported by the prestigious Pulitzer Center, is an example of good reporting on the science of COVID-19. (Linked with permission.)






SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can severely damage lungs, but in serious cases it doesn’t stop there.