John Rothwell currently resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he is a freelance photojournalist and reporter. In December of 2017, he finished his Communications Degree at Grand Valley State University and is currently working on adding a second degree in Multimedia Journalism. In addition to his academic work, he contributes photos, photo essays and local news coverage to The Rapidian, a hyperlocal citizen journalism platform, powered by the people of Grand Rapids.
John believes that everyone has a story to tell and that story needs to be told in a medium that best suits the situation, either in photos, video, audio, word or a mixture of all.
People must be informed on events happening in and around their lives and have their voices heard.
Grand Rapids, MI — Hundreds of protesters lined the sidewalk in front of the Tesla dealership on 29th St. Ave. SE in Grand Rapids on Saturday, March 29, as part of a nationwide demonstration against the electric vehicle giant.
The protest, dubbed “Tesla Takedown,” was one of many held across the country over the weekend in opposition to Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s expanding political influence. Specifically, demonstrators targeted Musk’s role as the head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—a position that has granted him access to sensitive federal data and the authority to shut down entire government agencies in an aggressive push to cut spending.
Musk, whose estimated $340 billion fortune is largely tied to his Tesla holdings, continues to lead the company while simultaneously working alongside former President Donald Trump. Critics argue that his growing influence is a threat to democratic institutions.
Protesters held signs with slogans such as “No Kings, No Felons,”“Don’t Buy Swasticars,” and “Tesla is Funding the Coup.” Organizers say this is just the beginning of a larger movement aiming to challenge Musk’s role in both business and politics.
With additional demonstrations planned, the “Tesla Takedown” movement signals escalating public concern over the intersection of corporate power and government control.
Marcher line up to take to the streets of Grand Rapids
GRAND RAPIDS — The streets of downtown Grand Rapids echoed with chants of “¡Sí se puede!” and “Aquí estamos” on the afternoon of Saturday, February 1, as hundreds of demonstrators gathered for the Stand Up & Fight Back rally. Organized by the Grand Rapids Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression (GRAARPR), the rally aimed to highlight issues impacting marginalized communities under the current administration, particularly immigrant rights and Palestinian lives.
The demonstration began at Fountain Street Church, where local organizers and community leaders addressed the crowd before leading a march through downtown. Protesters held signs high and voiced their concerns over policies they believe disproportionately affect immigrants, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other vulnerable groups.
Among the marchers was Marianna Silva, who attended the rally in honor of her immigrant parents. “My parents are immigrants, but it’s okay. They’re out here making the world better for me,” Silva said. “It actually makes my heart bigger. It makes my heart melt. There are so many people out here who have immigrant parents, and they’re standing in solidarity. That’s how it should always be.”
Yasmin Montoya echoed that sentiment, saying she was marching to be a voice for her parents. “I want to be their voice, since they really can’t use theirs as much as they’d like to. I’m here to advocate for them and for our community,” Montoya said. “It’s a blessing to see so many people coming together to support one another.”
For Sherlyn A., the event was an emotional experience shared across borders. “My parents came to this country legally, and they work hard every day,” she said. “I was just on FaceTime with my dad, showing him all the people who came out to support. He looked like he wanted to cry.”
The rally brought together over a dozen organizations, including Planned Parenthood, Palestine Solidarity Grand Rapids, and GR Rapid Response to ICE. Organizers emphasized the importance of unity among different movements fighting for justice.
“We have to stand in solidarity with all these different movements,” said Julian Cortez of GRAARPR. “We’ve already seen a lot of executive orders, and we see the direction this administration wants to take the country. We are standing here to say we are not going to take it.”
Cortez highlighted that the fight is far from over. “We are here standing in solidarity with the Two-Spirit LGBTQ+ community, with Palestinians, with Black lives, and with workers’ rights. This is only the beginning.”
Saturday’s rally marked the first large-scale protest in Grand Rapids since the new administration took office, but organizers made it clear it would not be the last.
“We cannot let fear make us apathetic,” one organizer told the crowd. “Let’s make 2025 the people’s year.”
As the marchers returned to Fountain Street Church, the energy remained high, with many attendees discussing ways to stay involved and continue the fight for human rights. With the momentum gained from this event, activists in Grand Rapids are making it clear: they are ready to stand up, fight back, and keep pushing for change.
LANSING, MI – A powerful display of transgender solidarity unfolded at the Michigan State Capitol on Thursday as more than 200 people gathered to voice their concerns over recent executive orders by President Donald Trump. The rally, organized by the Transgender Unity Coalition, was one of nine held nationwide to protest policies that activists say threaten the rights and well-being of transgender individuals.
Concerns Over Executive Orders
The executive orders in question include measures that cut federal support for gender-affirming health care, limit legal recognition of gender identities beyond male and female, and restrict transgender individuals from serving in the military. Rally leader Mallory Fournier spoke passionately about the fear and uncertainty these policies have created within the transgender community.
“We’re concerned for our access to health care. We’re concerned for our existence in society,” said Fournier. “If the federal government isn’t there to protect us and is actively trying to erase us, then some of our transgender siblings won’t be able to make it with us.”
Photos from the Rally
The rally featured signs with messages of support, pride flags waving in the wind, and powerful moments captured on the steps of the Michigan Capitol.
Testimonies from the Community
The rally featured a series of speeches from transgender individuals and their allies. Many shared personal stories about how the executive orders could affect their lives. Alexandra Hulscher, a volunteer with the advocacy group Trans Unity, emphasized the importance of feeling seen and supported.
“When you wake up in the morning feeling like yourself, you want to stay that way,” Hulscher said, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll of restrictive policies.
Taylor Bumgardner, another speaker, stressed the life-or-death importance of gender-affirming health care.
“I think access to gender-affirming care is literally life or death,” said Bumgardner. “It’s impossible to live uncomfortably in your own body, and that’s why everyone should have the right to exist as they are.”
Waabano Mandosking, who traveled from Sault Ste. Marie to attend, drew on her Indigenous heritage for strength.
“As a trans person and also an Indigenous person, it doesn’t feel good obviously,” Mandosking said. “I just keep reminding myself my ancestors persevered through worse administrations, and we survived.”
A Clash of Views
The rally was not without opposition. A small group of counter protesters, including members of Turning Point USA’s Michigan State University chapter, voiced support for the executive orders. Alex Bitzan, the group’s president, defended the federal government’s position.
“The idea that people can just be whatever they want to be without having to be accountable to objective reality is a fundamentally harmful one,” Bitzan said.
Tensions flared at moments, but the rally remained largely peaceful, with the transgender rights activists maintaining their focus on unity and resilience.
Political and Community Support
State representatives Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia) and Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing) were among those in attendance, showing support for the transgender community. Rep. Julie Brixie (D-Meridian Twp.) also addressed the crowd, recalling her role in amending the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to protect LGBTQ+ Michiganders.
“We see you. We love you. We are protecting you,” said Brixie. “Do not give up. Engage, participate, join us, help us. You matter.”
The rally took place just two days after President Trump signed an executive order cutting federal support for gender-affirming care for minors. The move has sparked widespread criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates, who argue that denying health care to transgender youth is cruel and harmful.
A Long History of Struggle
Among the speakers was Grace Bacon, 84, widely regarded as the mother of Michigan’s transgender community. She founded Crossroads in 1977, the state’s first transgender support group. Bacon urged attendees to remain strong in the face of adversity.
“We’re being picked on, and we’ve been picked on, and it’s not gonna let up,” said Bacon. “Trump’s emboldened a lot of hatred toward all of us. And we’re all targets. But for the rest of you, you’re gonna come out of this eventually, and I hope we all do. We’re here to stay. We’re here; we’re queer; we’re gonna stay here.”
Hope and Resilience
Danny Jones, a nonbinary attendee, shared a deeply personal reflection on choosing hope over bitterness.
“It would have been so easy to walk through that door and to become bitter and cynical, but I don’t want to go through that door,” said Jones. “Hope is a choice. It’s something we can feed. It’s something we can put those logs on the fire and keep alive. And we can do that for each other.”
The rally closed with chants of solidarity and messages of perseverance. Organizers emphasized that this gathering was just the beginning of a continued effort to advocate for transgender rights and push back against restrictive policies.
“I hope that people know that there is a community,” Fournier said. “We’re here, we’re organizing, and we’re doing our best to combat any legislation that tries to erase us. Because we exist. We will still exist. And together, we can make it through this.”
The Transgender Unity Coalition confirmed that similar rallies were held Thursday in California, Colorado, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Ohio, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin. The national effort aimed to unite the transgender community, assert their presence, and demand justice from elected officials.
As the sun set on the Capitol, one message remained clear: the fight for transgender rights is far from over, but the community remains steadfast in its determination to exist, resist, and thrive.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – In a thrilling display of grit and determination, Marcus Mast of Middlebury, Indiana, emerged victorious at the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Grand Rapids event, held inside the electrifying Van Andel Arena. With the dirt settled and the dust cleared, Mast stood atop the leaderboard, capturing his first Velocity Tour event title of the season.
The seasoned rider started strong on Friday night during Round 1 of the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour competition. He delivered a solid 72-point ride atop The Frey (Mike Miller Bucking Bulls), securing a fourth-place finish in the opening round. Determined to build on his performance, Mast returned to the chutes in Round 2, where he successfully conquered Helena’s Pet (J Bar W) for 77 points, positioning himself as a top contender heading into the championship round.
With the pressure mounting and the championship within reach, Mast delivered his best performance of the weekend in the final round. He electrified the crowd with an event-high 85-point ride on Dr. Campbell (Nancy Haverty/Clay Struve/Dakota Rodeo/Chad Berger), sealing his victory and catapulting to the top of the leaderboard. This landmark win not only marked his first-ever Velocity Tour event triumph but also secured him 120 coveted Velocity Global points, propelling him up the season standings.
Podium Finishers Showcase Consistency and Skill
Finishing second was Cody Teel of College Station, Texas, who showcased remarkable consistency throughout the event. Teel’s campaign began with a strong 74.5-point ride on Foul Play (J Bar W) in Round 1, followed by an identical 74.5-point effort on Real OG (Dave Martin/Mike Miller Bucking Bulls) in Round 2. He carried that momentum into the championship round, where he delivered an 83.5-point ride on Ponotoc (Dakota Rodeo/Chad Berger), ensuring a perfect weekend and earning 80.5 Velocity Global points.
Claiming third place was Cody McCandless of Derry, Pennsylvania. McCandless got off to a solid start in Round 1, conquering Chainsaw (Mike Miller Bucking Bulls) for 73 points. He then surged up the rankings in Round 2 with an impressive 83.5-point ride on Jillian (J Bar W), positioning himself for a potential event title. In the final round, McCandless managed a 75-point ride on Peanut Butter Falcon (Clay Stuve/Dakota Rodeo/Chad Berger), securing his place on the podium and earning 71 Velocity Global points.
Rounding Out the Top 5
Fourth place went to Bob Mitchell of Steelville, Missouri, who made a strong push for the title. He kicked off the event with a round-winning 84.5-point ride on Maximus (Dakota Rodeo/Chad Berger). In Round 2, Mitchell kept the momentum going with an 82.5-point effort on Say Your Prayers (C Check Bucking Bulls). However, his championship aspirations were dashed in the final round when he bucked off Catching Gears (C-B Bucking Bulls) in just 3.17 seconds. Despite the setback, he secured 66 Velocity Global points.
Hometown favorite Matt Allgood of Saline, Michigan, rounded out the Top 5 with an impressive comeback. After being bucked off by Nahewdak (Dave Martin/Mike Miller Bucking Bulls) in just 3.17 seconds during Round 1, Allgood rebounded in Round 2 with a 79-point ride on Duffy (C Check Bucking Bulls), earning a spot in the championship round. There, he showcased his resilience with an 83.5-point ride on First Class (Dave Martin/Mike Miller Bucking Bulls), earning 47 Velocity Global points for his efforts in front of the home-state crowd.
Bull of the Event Honors Shared
In the highly competitive bull pen, Best Bet (C-B Bucking Bulls) and Pocket Change (J Bar W) each delivered standout performances, earning matching 43.5-point scores to share the prestigious Bull of the Event title.
While the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour delivered electrifying action in Grand Rapids and Tulsa, Oklahoma, the elite Unleash The Beast series captivated fans in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at PPG Paints Arena. As the season progresses, riders continue to chase Velocity Global points, which determine their path to the elite Unleash The Beast tour and a coveted spot at the PBR World Finals in May.
On January 20, 2025, as the nation observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Donald J. Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States, marking a historic return to the White
Donald J Trump speaking in Grand Rapids, Michigan December 21, 2015. photo by John Rothwell
The ceremony, held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to a polar vortex, was attended by dignitaries including Elon Musk, who was appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency.
In his inaugural address, President Trump declared the onset of “the golden age of America,” outlining priorities in trade, immigration, and national security.
He signed several executive orders, including the reinstatement of military personnel dismissed over COVID-19 vaccine refusals and the imposition of tariffs on imports.
Concurrently, former President Joe Biden issued preemptive pardons to close family members and associates, citing ongoing threats against them.
This move was perceived as a defensive measure against potential actions from the incoming administration.
The juxtaposition of the inauguration with Martin Luther King Jr. Day sparked discussions on the state of unity and compromise in the nation. Civil rights activists, including Al Sharpton, held rallies to honor Dr. King’s legacy and express concerns over the new administration’s direction.
As the day unfolded, Americans reflected on the lyrics from the classic song from the Rolling Stones ‘Street Fighting Man”
“Hey, think the time is right for a palace revolution, ‘Cause where I live the game to play is compromise solution.”
These words resonated deeply, highlighting the nation’s ongoing struggle to find common ground amidst political and social upheaval.
Grand Rapids Mi – On Saturday July, 20, 2024 The Grand Rapids Fire Department and GRPD responded to a call of a missing child in the Grand River in the northern section of Riverside Park on Monroe near 3 mile NE. Firefighters and police officers “immediately” went into the water to seek the 9-year-old. A release from the city said. After several minutes, officials say the child was found and brought to shore. CPR was administered and the 9-year-old was taken to the hospital, where they later died.
There are no photos of the family or the child. Nor will I post photos of the CPR being administered. I am documenting the hard working members of GRFD that put their lives at risk everyday. Having to get up and do it again. This is the second drowning death I have witnessed in the past few years at this park.
Please keep the boy, his family and the rescuers in your prayers and thoughts
Grand Rapids, Michigan – Thousands of supporters of former United States president Donald Trump crowded the streets of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan arena district on Saturday July 20, 2024 waiting for the doors to open to attend Trump’s first campaign since announcing running mate JD Vance, a senator from Ohio. The campaign rally also took place one week after an assassination attempt on Trump in Butler PA.
The lengthy line to get into the event was close to two miles long at one point. As people waited the excited crowd remanded peaceful and chants of TRUMP! TRUMP! TRUMP! and USA! USA! USA! Could be heard echoing in between the buildings on the streets.
Many people attending had their own reasons for attending the rally, but all wanted to see Donald J Trump a man that they consider the savior of America.
Paul Teatro of Holland, Michigan just wanted to see Trump.
“We, you know, we’ve been inspired by everything that’s happened to him. And we obviously believe that he’s the only chance we have to turn the country around,” Teatro Said. “Trump’s the only guy that could stand up against all the resistance that he gets, think about eight years of just going after him relentlessly in the press, everywhere. And here he is still standing still with his chin out saying, we’re going to turn this thing around. So who else could do that?”
When asked about what policies attracts him to Trump Teatro said,” What policy attracts you? Oh, there’s a whole slew of them. I think what he did with the economy was incredible. What he did with securing the border was also incredible. No wars. You know, being energy independent. You know, all those things, I think are and you know, the thing that always gets me as you listen to you turn on the TV and you hear these people, Trump’s gonna kill democracy as like, hang on kids. Trump was our president for four years, and it was everything in our country was better than it is today. So pick, pick it, pick a category. It’s better today than it was. It’s better when Trump was president than it is today.”
Aaron Staeven of Newago, Michigan was also there to show his support of Trump Staeven said he is worried about the economy and immigration.
“Our current administration and Democrat Party is just destroying the whole economy by mandating electric vehicles, no gas stoves, things like that. Some of the core principles our country works around on the we live off these items and they’re trying to delete them,” Staeven said, “And as far as the immigration if we can’t allow millions of millions of undocumented immigrants, that many of them do not support the economy they they’re not able to fill decent positions are a drain on our social systems.”
Arriving late Hedi Newton of Jenison, Michigan sat across the street from the arena knowing that there was no way that she was getting into to see Trump. Yet she still wanted to show her support.
Newton was a die hard Obama fan said, “. I think it was weird because I really liked him and he kind of brought our country together. But then I realized that we were falling apart. And since I’ve seen the Democratic Party come into fruition, they’ve done nothing for us.”
When I asked Newton about reproductive rights her eyes began to tear up as she said. “Thank you for asking. It means a lot to me. I actually had two abortions in my life. I don’t agree with that it’s bad, not okay. Makes me sick what I did. I vote for Trump all the way because he is with Jesus Christ.
The issues of immigration, border security and the economy were the two main issues people that brought up the most. The colors of red, white and blue along with the red MEGA “Make America Great Again” Hats brought them together.
The Winter’s a DRAG event at Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids, part of the World of Winter festival, aimed to create an inclusive and carefree atmosphere, emphasizing fun and acceptance regardless of skill level. The participation of drag queens from Michigan Drag Brunch added glamour and entertainment, appealing to attendees of all ages.
However, beyond the festivities, the event also had a significant philanthropic aspect. All drink purchases were directed towards supporting AYA Youth Collective, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding youth experiencing homelessness, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community. Andy Allen, Vice President of Advancement for AYA Youth Collective, highlighted the importance of addressing the overrepresentation of LGBTQ+ youth facing homelessness in Grand Rapids and emphasized the event’s role in raising awareness and funds for this cause.
With approximately $6,000 raised at the event, AYA Youth Collective aims to provide support and stability for vulnerable youth, prioritizing empathy, relationships, and a sense of belonging within the community. Attendees like James Krueger saw the event as an opportunity to educate future generations about equality and acceptance, with drag queens symbolizing positivity and beauty.
Overall, the success of the Winter’s a DRAG event not only brought joy to attendees but also made a meaningful contribution to a vital cause, demonstrating the power of celebration and support in effecting positive change.
Streaking Marco Rizzo Finishes Third After Winning Round 1
Grand Rapids, Mi – In a thrilling display of bull riding prowess, Cody McCandless from Derry, Pennsylvania, emerged victorious at the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour’s Tractor Supply Co. PBR Grand Rapids, claiming his first PBR event title. McCandless demonstrated unmatched skill, going a perfect 3-for-3 in the final night of competition.
The Pennsylvania cowboy began his trek to the top from the eighth position on Saturday after a successful 78.5-point ride on Little Hornet (Mike Miller Bucking Bulls) in Round 1. Determined to clinch his first PBR event buckle, McCandless rode Rip VanWinkle (J Bar W) for 82.5 points, securing his spot in the championship round.
The over eight thousand in attendance at Van Andel Arena roared as the 21-year-old cowboy soared to the lead by rocketing out of the gate on Muss Buss (C-B Bucking Bulls) for an impressive 85.5 points. McCandless’s flawless performance earned him 116 Velocity Global points, propelling him to the No. 3 spot in the Velocity Tour standings.
Qynn Andersen from Koumala, Queensland, Australia, maintained the second-place spot after a strong Round 1 performance. Despite being bucked off Blaze (J Bar W) in 7.13 seconds, Andersen rebounded in the championship round, claiming victory with an event-high 87.5 points on The Undertaker (Cornwell/Riley/PCP Bucking Bulls). This success propelled him into the Top 10 in the Velocity Tour standings with 96 Velocity Global points.
Round 1 winner Marco Rizzo from Quitman, Georgia, secured a third-place finish. Rizzo maintained his top spot in the event standings after riding Money Maker (C Check Bucking Bulls) for 84 points in Round 2. Despite a valiant effort in the final round on Shazam (Dave Martin/Mike Miller Bucking Bulls), he was bucked off in 1.84 seconds. The bronze finish earned Rizzo 80.5 points, preserving his hold on the No. 1 ranking in the early Velocity Tour standings.
In fourth position was Rubens Barbosa from Iaciara, Brazil, who went 2-for-3 with notable rides on Kiss This (J Bar W) and Sierra’s Dance (J Bar W). Barbosa’s first Top 5 finish of 2024 secured him 54 Velocity Global points.
Grayson Cole from New Riggold, Pennsylvania, rounded out the Top 5 with impressive rides on Recall (J Bar W) and Monkey Doo (C-B Bucking Bulls). Despite being bucked off Bad Hart (Mike Miller Bucking Bulls) in the championship round, Cole left Van Andel Arena with 48 Velocity Global points.
Tyler Manor from Portland, Indiana, claimed the sixth position, putting together two solid rides. Manor’s Top-10 finish, including a successful ride on Funny Farm (Cornwell Bucking Bulls/PCP Bucking Bulls) in the championship round, earned him 43 Velocity Global points.
In the bullpen, The Undertaker and Muss Buss shared the Bull of the Event title, marking an exceptional display of skill and strength.
The Tractor Supply Co. PBR Grand Rapids showcased remarkable performances from riders and bulls alike, creating an unforgettable event for fans and participants.
Grand Rapids, Mi-Following his triumphant win at the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour (PWVT) in Charleston, West Virginia, Marco Rizzo of Quitman, Georgia, is taking the lead after the opening round of the Tractor Supply Co. Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event in Grand Rapids. Ranked No. 1 in the Velocity Global standings, Rizzo showcased his skills by conquering Air Shift from Mike Miller Bucking Bulls, earning a round-winning score of 87 points on Friday night. This victory extended his lead in the standings, garnering an impressive 28 Velocity Global points.
Qynn Andersen, representing Koumala, Queensland, Australia, secured the second position in Round 1. Teaming up with Cash Goblin from Dave Martin/Mike Miller Bucking Bulls, Andersen thrilled the crowd with an 85.5-point ride, adding 18 points to his Velocity Global standings.
The last spot on the podium currently belongs to Hunter Ball of Carsonville, Michigan. With the support of his home state fans at The Van Andel Arena, Ball successfully rode Down N Dirty from C Check Bucking Bulls for the requisite 8 seconds, earning 85 points. The 17 Velocity Global points propelled him to the fourth position in the standings.
The Tractor Supply Co. PBR event, hosted at The Van Andel Arena, home to the Grand Rapids Griffins Ice Hockey team, is currently underway. The arena, typically known for ice hockey, has transformed into a battleground for thrilling PBR action. The final round is set to return on Saturday night, promising more intense matchups between skilled riders and powerful bulls. As the competition heats up, Grand Rapids remains the epicenter of this adrenaline-pumping event, captivating audiences with the fearless spirit of bull riding.
PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour
Tractor Supply Co. PBR Grand Rapids Van Andel Arena – Grand Rapids, Michigan
Media Works of John Rothwell 