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Articles by Hannah Riffell
'We all come together': Nonprofit partners with GRPD for community conversations
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — One local organization is staying true to its name with its latest series of community events. This year, LINC UP is partnering with local law enforcement to foster community conversations. This nonprofit’s mission is geared towards making connections. Through these community conversations, the organizers want to bridge the gap between police and people in Grand Rapids. “We have had past community conversations,” Sumika Douglas, LINC UP’s community liaison, said on Thursday.
Meijer Gardens opens summer concert series with sunshine, sold-out shows
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Frederik Meijer Gardens opened its gates Thursday and welcomed fans to the first of its crowd-favorite summer concert series. People of all ages swept into the outdoor amphitheater, where the bluegrass band Nickel Creek performed the sculpture garden's inaugural summer show. One dedicated fan, Ty, described Nickel Creek's sound as "progressive bluegrass"— and he would know. "This is the second time I've seen Nickel Creek.
Ferris State football team gets rare invite to the White House
BIG RAPIDS, Mich. — After taking home a NCAA Division II national championship, the Ferris State Bulldogs may be notching another #1 spot in athletic history. Invited by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden for a ceremony in the nation's capital, the Bulldogs are believed to bethe first Division II football team to visit the White House.
Grand Haven puts paid parking to a vote
GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — On Monday evening, the Grand Haven City Council will discuss a recommendation to introduce paid parking around the city, including waterfront areas. The recommendation is the result of a months-long study. In 2022, council members asked staff members to analyze the potential benefits and drawbacks of paid parking, focusing on the summer season.
More MI families may qualify for WIC with program expansion
LANSING, Mich. — More families could qualify for food support with the Michigan Department of Health & Human Sciences announcing an expansion of a key program. Michigan's income guidelines for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)have inched up, meaning a greater number of families may now qualify. "The 2023 federal income guidelines reflect a significant increase as of June 1," Christina Herring, WIC director, said.
Grand Rapids reveals designs for riverfront amphitheater downtown
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — By transforming the site of several municipal buildings into the groundwork for an 85,000 square foot amphitheater, Grand Action 2.0 is drafting plans for what could be a reinvention of the Grand Rapids riverfront.
GR zoning changes allow for taller buildings, more housing opportunities
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Grand Rapids may soon reach new heights. On Thursday, city leaders validated a zoning amendment that would allow buildings in certain areas of downtown Grand Rapids to build up to 20 stories, potentially varying the city's skyline. As zoning restrictions currently stand, only developments in the main district of downtown Grand Rapids, along Monroe Avenue and Division Avenue, can pile up stories without limitation. Other areas are restricted to a maximum of 5-16 stories.
Grand Rapids city leaders sign off on $643M budget
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Grand Rapids city commissioners gave the greenlight to a budget for the fiscal year 2024 after it was unanimously approved by the city's Committee of the Whole on Tuesday morning. The latest budget encompasses more than 644 million dollars, representing a 46 million hike from last year's budget. When originally proposing the spending plan, city manager Mark Washington pointed to the rising cost of labor and goods as one reason for the jump.
Man accused of shooting Right to Life volunteer gets probation, community service
IONIA, Mich. — Accused of shooting an 83-year-old canvasser, who was door-knocking for Right to Life, one Ionia man plead no contest and received his sentence on Tuesday. Richard Harvey, of Ionia County, will get 12 months probation and 100 hours of community service. READ: Man charged with shooting Right to Life volunteer According to the Ionia County Prosecutor, Harvey will also face other consequences. His gun will be forfeited, and he can have no contact with the victim.
PHOTOS: Wyoming firefighters rescue ducklings from drain
WYOMING, Mich. — What lucky ducks! On Monday, the Wyoming Fire Department got a call about a flock of feathered friends fallen into a drain. Firefighters flew to the scene to find 11 ducklings stuck in the drain. Thanks to the work of five firefighters, and a few neighbors, the ducklings were successfully rescued and returned to the mama duck. The city thanks firefighters Sam Jones, Mike Jones, Jesse May, Steve Boetsma and Mickey Healey for their.
Kentwood city commissioner says community needs to unite, support youth
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Clarkston Morgan has been working with local teens and children since he was one himself. Starting as a youth pastor at 17-years-old, Morgan has served in Detroit, Muskegon and Grand Rapids. Now, as a Kentwood city commissioner, Morgan says he jumped at the chance to collaborate with FOX 17 on the Path Forward Advisory Council because he spotted a new spotlight for stories from “the small leaders” who are making profound impacts in the community.
'Never Forget': Art contest honors Holocaust survivors, helps students understand history
According to family lore, Henry Pestka, a young man from Poland during World War II kept himself alive in the concentration camps by convincing guards he was an accomplished painter, eventually escaping and immigrating to Grand Rapids in 1946. Now, his family uses art to honors Henry and the horrific memory of history.
'Let's do it': Ionia Library gets funding for accessibility projects after millage fails
IONIA, Mich. — Accessibility is all about making sure people can get in the door. For one rural library, this definition is quite literal. “We’re operating out of literally a 153-year-old Victorian home,” says Dale Perpus, who runs the Ionia Community Library as director. “The doors are probably original to the place.
Former Kalamazoo superintendent candidate placed on administrative leave
DEARBORN HEIGHTS, Mich. — The superintendent of a Dearborn Heights district, who was a top candidate for the superintendent position for the Kalamazoo Public Schools, has been placed on administrative leave. On Wednesday, Dr. Ty Weeks was placed on paid administrative leave by the board of education in Dearborn Heights District #7, according to a report from Detroit's WXYZ. The board said they made the decision based on three pending Title IX complaints and one civil rights complaint.
AG Nessel supports emergency shutdown of Pipeline 5, files in Wisconsin court
LAKE SUPERIOR, Mich. — Michigan’s attorney general pushed once again for a shutdown of Enbridge’s Line 5, an oil pipeline shuttling millions of gallons of oil under the Straits of Mackinac, saying Line 5 poses an environmental hazard to the Great Lakes.
WMU grad could win 4th Tony for new Broadway show 'Fat Ham'
NEW YORK CITY — Once a student at a West Michigan university, Dareen Johnston could be coming home with a fourth Tony after helping to pilot a unique adaptation of a theater favorite to the Broadway stage.
Belvidere Twp Fire Chief passes away after cancer battle
BELVIDERE TWP, Mich. — Montcalm County firefighters are mourning the loss of a leader. On Wednesday, the Belvidere Township Fire Department announced the passing of Fire Chief Rick "Rocky" Rockafellow. Chief Rockafellow died overnight, and the department said his passing comes at the end of a struggle with cancer. He was 65. "The Fire Service community will once again bow their heads to honor the life and service of one of our own," the department said on Wednesday.
WATCH LIVE: Kalamazoo Public Schools interviews three finalists for superintendent job
On Monday, board members with the Kalamazoo Public Schools district will get to hear more from the three finalists for the open superintendent position— and so will residents. The finalists will meet the board in person. At Monday's meeting, the board welcomes feedback from community members on the three candidates for the district's top job.
GRPS committee recommends tearing down Kensington School building
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A former Grand Rapids high school could potentially be torn down and replaced with a green space. After sitting vacant for years, the Kensington School building has become a matter of discussion as the district unrolls its Master Facilities Plan, an effort to deal with underutilized school buildings and reduce operating costs.
New Grand Rapids Fire Chief officially sworn in
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — After working for twenty years in the Grand Rapids Fire Department, Dr. Brad Brown is officially the chief. On Monday night, city leaders held a swearing-in ceremony certifying Dr. Brown as the successor to Fire Chief John Lehman, who is now retired. The ceremony took place at city hall and was open to the community. Mayor Rosalyn Bliss and City Manager Mark Washington both attended.
Founders Brewing Company closes Detroit taproom
DETROIT, Mich. — A Michigan brewing company with taprooms in the state's two largest cities announced the closure of one location. On Monday, Founders Brewing Company closed the doors on its Detroit taproom, which hosted thousands of visitors since it opened in 2017.
Inspired by son, Ferris professor invents new device for hearing impaired Original
BIG RAPIDS, Mich. — Like many people, 5-year-old Britt Taylor needs glasses. However, Britt was also born deaf. Given cochlear implants when he was about one year old, the devices that help him hear also get in the way of the glasses that help him see.
Grand Rapids Police Department continues push for drones at public hearing
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — With the Grand Rapids Police Department pitching a plan to acquire drones, the public has a chance to weigh in. On Tuesday, at 7:00 p.m., the Grand Rapids City Commissioner will hold a public hearing discussing the police department's proposed use of drones. Back in March, Chief Eric Winstrom first presented to the Public Safety Committee, making the case for adding “small unmanned aerial systems” to the department’s equipment.
Plane damaged in crash at Muskegon County Airport Original
NORTON SHORES, Mich. — A single-engine plane was damaged after crashing at an airport in Norton Shores. The plane crash happened at the Muskegon County Airport and was confirmed by the Norton Shores Fire Department. Norton Shores Fire Department Around 4:00 on Tuesday, Chief Robert Gagnon said a plane crashed at the Muskegon County airport after making a hard landing. The noise wheel broke off, he said.
Mishap leaves some Meijer Gardens members out of summer concert tickets
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Shows are selling out for the Frederick Meijer Gardens’ summer concert series, with headliners like Maren Morris, Train, and the Beach Boys headed to Grand Rapids in a few months. The concert series takes place every summer at the Meijer Garden's outdoor amphitheater and regularly draws musicians from across the country to West Michigan. But this time, not everyone who tried to buy tickets got a seat.
Board of Education begins interviewing candidates for next KPS superintendent
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — On Monday night, board members will hear from three potential candidates for the open superintendent position. The Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education picked six semi-finalists in the district's search for a new superintendent, after former superintendent Dr. Rita Raichoudhuriresigned in December.
Sheen in Millennium Park pond is not unsafe, EGLE says
WALKER, Mich. — Fishers are now free to cast their lines into a Millennium Park pond nearly two weeks after a mysterious sheen was discovered. On April 15, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) said a heavy sheen had been detected on a pond near Millennium Park, a popular spot in Walker. At first, authorities said they were testing to see if the sheen was oil. As EGLE investigated, the pond was closed for fishing and other public use.
Federal parts of Portage Northern lawsuit dropped
PORTAGE, Mich. — Federal charges have been dropped in the case against Portage Northern High School, after the district was sued in March when a student alleged religious discrimination because the district's graduation date fell on a Jewish holiday. The case will continue, but will play out in county courts. Previously, the district petitioned to move the case to federal court, arguing that federal judges had more expertise in the areas of religious expression and the First Amendment.
Former Ottawa County administrator hired as Wyoming City Manager
WYOMING, Mich. — Three months after being removed from his position as Ottawa County administrator, John Shay has been hired as the city manager for Wyoming. On Monday, the Wyoming City Council announced the decision to appoint Shay as the city's next manager, the result of a nationwide search involving 48 candidates. “I am delighted to offer John the city manager position,” said Mayor Kent Vanderwood.
'Are you ready kids': Nautical-themed Seafood Street Food coming to Grand Haven
GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — New life could be coming to a vacant downtown Grand Haven storefront. A local developer wants to turn the former Mr. Kozak’s Gyros restaurant into the Fish Shack. The building has sat empty since 2021. "38 Washington will be a destination for 'Seafood Street Food,'" wrote Jim and Karen Avery, the property owners, in a letter to city leaders.
Grand Rapids Griffins parts ways with four coaches
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — After five seasons as the head coach of the Grand Rapids Griffins, Ben Simon will not be back for a sixth. On Sunday, the Grand Rapids Griffins general manager Shawn Horcoff announced changes to coaching staff for the city's professional hockey team.
Power outages reported near downtown GR; cause unknown
KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Thousands of people are out of power on a rainy Sunday afternoon. Over 2,000 people lost power in Kent County, according tothe Consumers Energy Outage map. Most of the outages are reported near downtown Grand Rapids. The outage is mapped just south of I-196 and east of Division Avenue. Right now, Consumers Energy has not released the cause of the outages but says crews have been assigned to the area.
Stabenow, Scholten applaud lowered cost of insulin, prescription drugs
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — In the late 90's, Senator Debbie Stabenow drove a busload of seniors into Canada, hoping to catch prescription medicine at a lower cost. "It just did not seem right to me, that crossing a bridge from Detroit to Windsor would drop prescription drug prices," said Stabenow, nearly thirty years later. "But it did. And it still does, because Canada negotiates best price." "The United States has not done that," Stabenow continued.
Stabenow, Scholten applaud lowered cost of insulin, prescription drugs
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — In the late 90's, Senator Debbie Stabenow drove a busload of seniors into Canada, hoping to catch prescription medicine at a lower cost. "It just did not seem right to me, that crossing a bridge from Detroit to Windsor would drop prescription drug prices," said Stabenow, nearly thirty years later. "But it did. And it still does, because Canada negotiates best price." "The United States has not done that," Stabenow continued.
Man accused of shooting to Right to Life volunteer pleads no contest Original
IONIA, Mich. — The man accused of shooting an 83-year-old woman who was canvassing against Proposal 3 back in September has pled no contest. On Monday, Richard Harvey of Ionia County pled no contest to three charges, including assault with a weapon and two other weapons charges. It's unclear when he will be sentenced, but county clerks say scheduling could take 4-8 weeks. He says it was an accident.
Grand Rapids warehouse could be turned into apartments, restaurants, and more
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Developers have a plan in the works for the southwest side of downtown Grand Rapids, a site that's currently home to an industrial warehouse. Factory Yards Development LLC is designing a large-scale, mixed-used redevelopment project and will be updating Grand Rapids city leaders on Tuesday. The plan includes a cocktail bar, gym, food hall, apartments, and even an outdoor plaza.
Crews resolve natural gas leak near Hastings; cause still unknown
HASTINGS, Mich. — After a gas leak in Barry County left thousands of people without access to natural gas, crews have got things mostly back to normal. On Monday, Consumers Energy said crews have reconnected gas lines for most of the 4,500 people who lost power after a gas leak was detected five , in a steel pipe beneath the Thornapple River.
Firefighters battling fire at Walker apartment complex
WALKER, Mich. — Firefighters are working to put out a fire in a Walker apartment complex, authorities confirm. Around 7:20 p.m., firefighters were called to 910 Four Mile Road for an apartment fire. FOX 17 sent a crew to the address and saw several fire crews on scene at the Orchards at 4 Mile apartment complex. Heavy smoke was seen in the area. At this time, authorities don't know if anyone is hurt or how extensive the fire is. This is a developing story.
Laketown Township turns down solar panels pitched for town hall
LAKETOWN TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A town in southwest Michigan voted not to power the township hall with solar panels after nearby homeowners objected. On Wednesday, the board of Laketown Township, south of Holland and north of Saugatuck, discussed and denied a proposal to install 48 solar panels on Beeline Road, near the township hall, as a new way of powering the hall. The board decided to veto the project for several reasons.
Kent County renters can apply for assistance now
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Renters who are struggling to keep up with payments have a chance to catch up. The Kent County Community Action Division is taking applications for rental assistance starting Thursday and ending this June. Anyone who lives in Kent County and is falling behind on rent can apply. However, renters who live in the cities of Wyoming and Grand Rapids are not eligible for funding. The KCCA encourages people to apply as quickly as possible, as funding is limited.
Sparrow, U-M Health officially merge
LANSING, Mich. (WXMI) — A mid-Michigan health care system is marking a "new chapter" as it officially merges with University of Michigan Health. Back in December 2022, Sparrow Health announced an upcoming merger with U-M Health, after the boards of both systems agreed to move forward.
Pastor was man killed in US-131 wrong-way crash
Early Sunday morning, a wrong-way driver hit and killed a man on US-131, who was later identified as a local pastor on his way to preach. Dean Elliott, 63-year-old man from Byron Center, died on Sunday after a southbound vehicle struck his car as he was traveling north on US 131, just south of Burton Street. He is mourned by his former congregation at Fennville Assembly of God Church, who said Elliott served as the interim pastor there for two years.
Sparrow, U-M Health officially merge
LANSING, Mich. — A mid-Michigan health care system is marking a "new chapter" as it officially merges with University of Michigan Health. Back in December 2022, Sparrow Health announced an upcoming merger with U-M Health, after the boards of both systems agreed to move forward.
Student broadcasters get to keep learning, thanks to donated laptops
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — In Grand Rapids, the next generation of broadcasters might be a dozen students telling stories after school. The leaders of NextGen Media GR certainly hope so. "We teach kids the power of their voice," says Dione Boles, the executive director, when she described the after-school program in partnership with Grand Rapids Public Schools.
Grand Rapids Police Department puts forward a plan for drones
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A proposal from the Grand Rapids Police Department is still up in the air. On Tuesday, Chief Eric Winstrom presented to the Public Safety Committeeand made the case for small, unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) to be added to the department’s store of equipment. In other words, the police chief thinks the department should have drones. “Just a short time ago, we revised the strategic plan and focusing our priorities of safety, innovation, and engagement.
Grand Rapids plans to support city's Third Ward with new fire station
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The city of Grand Rapids plans to buy land and build a new fire station. The new station is slated for a corner on Kalamazoo Avenue SE and Kendall Street SE, just north of 44th Street. The site lands in the historically-underfunded Third Ward, which has the largest Black population in the city. According to city documents, the Grand Rapids Fire Department has monitored metrics in the Third Ward, where performance has been “lagging" since 2015.
County recycling center closes after cardboard build-up pushes through wall
Click here for updates on this story GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan (WXMI) -- The Kent County recycling center is closed due to "structural damage," the county said on Monday. In a release, the Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) announced all tours and education programming at the Kent County Recycling and Education Center would be canceled indefinitely. The center will be closed temporarily, but the DPW did not give an indication as to when the center might re-open.
County recycling center closes after cardboard build-up pushes through wall
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Kent County recycling center is closed due to "structural damage," the county said on Monday. In a release, the Kent County Department of Public Works announced all tours and education programming at the Kent County Recycling and Education Center would be canceled indefinitely. The center will be closed temporarily, but the DPW did not give an indication as to when the center might re-open.
Michigan's largest United Methodist Church votes to leave denomination
CALEDONIA, Mich. (WXMI) — The largest worshipping congregation of United Methodists in Michigan voted to separate from the denomination and become independent. Cornerstone Church, based in Caledonia with two satellites in Grand Rapids, announced the decision on Sunday.
Cornerstone Church, the state’s largest United Methodist church, votes to leave denomination
CALEDONIA, Mich. — The largest worshipping congregation of United Methodists in Michigan voted to separate from the denomination and become independent. Cornerstone Church, based in Caledonia with two satellites in Grand Rapids, announced the decision on Sunday.
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