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Bio Star Disaster Restoration Services
Dustin Anger
1267 Belsay Rd, Burton, MI 48509
Water Damage Restoration in Grand Blanc, MI
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Grand Blanc, MI is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Grand Blanc. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Grand Blanc.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Dustin Anger
Bio Star Disaster Restoration Services
Disaster Response Introducing Bio Star Disaster Restoration Services: The Premier Choice for Emergency Clean-Up**
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From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( Bio Star Disaster Restoration Services ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( Bio Star Disaster Restoration Services ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.
When you choose Disaster 911 and ( Bio Star Disaster Restoration Services ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.
1267 Belsay Rd, Burton, MI 48509
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Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Grand Blanc, MI
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Grand Blanc, MI, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Grand Blanc?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Grand Blanc, MI, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Grand Blanc restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Grand Blanc, MI, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Grand Blanc, MI
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Grand Blanc, MI, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Grand Blanc rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Grand Blanc, MI
Michigan zoo eyes polluted former landfill for $370M massive waterfront aquarium
Ehren Wynderhttps://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2025/06/michigan-zoo-eyes-polluted-former-landfill-for-370m-massive-waterfront-aquarium.html
KENT COUNTY, MI — John Ball Zoo is considering a contaminated former landfill site in Walker for the location of its highly anticipated aquarium.The zoo is undergoing due diligence for a collection of parcels at the site of the former Fenske Landfill along the Grand River in the city of Walker, according to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).“We are currently performing due diligence on a 190-acre site in Walker where this project could be located,” Peter D’Arienzo, CEO...
KENT COUNTY, MI — John Ball Zoo is considering a contaminated former landfill site in Walker for the location of its highly anticipated aquarium.
The zoo is undergoing due diligence for a collection of parcels at the site of the former Fenske Landfill along the Grand River in the city of Walker, according to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).
“We are currently performing due diligence on a 190-acre site in Walker where this project could be located,” Peter D’Arienzo, CEO of John Ball Zoo, said in a statement.
“This is an important step for expanding the zoo’s mission of protecting wildlife and wild places and to ensure the aquarium is accessible to our community, has a positive impact on the air, land and water, and connects guests with other attractions in Kent County for the benefit of our entire region.
John Ball Zoo has teased the prospect of building an aquarium in West Michigan for several years. In May 2023, officials announced it would pursue building the aquarium in Kent County after also considering Muskegon County.
Last month, D’Arienzo told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press the project is estimated to cost upwards of $370 million, and that he wanted to build the aquarium on a waterfront site and open the facility by 2031.
The development would generate more than $3.4 billion in net economic impact, contribute more than $268 million in new state and local tax revenue during its first 11 years of operation and create about 2,500 new local jobs, D’Arienzo said.
The aquarium, along with Acrisure Amphitheater and Amway Stadium, was highlighted by Destination Kent as a potential beneficiary of the successful 2024 ballot measure to raise Kent County’s hotel tax from 5% to 8% to help fund tourism-oriented projects.
D’Arienzo has said the aquarium will need at least 15 acres of land, but that he would like to have as many as 30 acres. The acreage is needed not only for the aquarium but also pump rooms, a warehouse, filtration systems, emergency fish tanks and 2,000 parking spaces.
The Fenske property is owned by New Era Land, LLC, a company associated with Dan Hibma, a prominent West Michigan developer who owns a host of apartment complexes across West Michigan.
The property’s history of industrial pollution will need to be addressed with any redevelopment. The former landfill accepted liquid industrial waste, solid industrial waste and solid municipal waste, from 1967 until solid waste regulations were passed in the 1970s, according to EGLE.
Metal hydroxide plating sludges were also stored on-site, in a waste pile. Clean closure of the waste pile was achieved in June 2008.
Hibma purchased the former landfill in 2001 and had been trying for years to redevelop the property.
In 2002, the Walker City Commission denied Hibma’s request to rezone the property from industrial and agricultural to a planned unit development for an 848-unit apartment complex.
Residents voiced concerns about the amount of traffic the development would generate near Kenowa and Wilson avenues.
Hibma came back a year later with another proposal for 102, four-plex condominium buildings on the site, as well as a nine-hole golf course along the Grand River to the south. He also proposed two commercial lots along Wilson Avenue west of Butterworth Street SW and I-196. That proposal, too, failed to come to fruition.
Over the years, he’s also discussed building a marina and seasonal campground on the property.
Due to the previous acceptance of industrial and municipal wastes, and the management of metal hydroxide plating sludges, EGLE sampled the site’s groundwater for the presence of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in July 2021. The site was found to have a low level of PFAS contamination. The highest result in groundwater was 91 parts per trillion for PFAS.
The substances also were found after landfill leachate was indirectly sampled through a gas vent well in August 2021.
Kent County, which owns John Ball Zoo, did not say whether it was for or against redevelopment of the contaminated site.
“We look forward to reviewing John Ball Zoo’s proposal once it has completed its due diligence on a potential aquarium,” Assistant County Administrator Lori Latham said in a statement.
“Given the site’s history, any future use must address environmental liability and meet all regulatory requirements to return the property to productive use while safeguarding the environment and the health of those who may work on or visit the site.”
MLive reporter Brian McVicar contributed to this article.
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Grand Blanc, MI - Injury Crash Reported Near Kroger on S Saginaw St
Michigan Legal Centerhttps://www.michiganlegalcenter.com/2025/06/14/grand-blanc-mi-injury-crash-reported-near-kroger-on-s-saginaw-st/
Grand Blanc, MI (June 14, 2025) – Emergency responders were dispatched to a vehicle crash that resulted in personal injuries on Friday evening, June 13, in Grand Blanc. The accident occurred around 8:45 p.m. in the area of 12731 South Saginaw Street, near the Kroger store.Police and fire crews arrived at the scene shortly after receiving reports of the incident. At least one person suffered injuries and received treatment from medical personnel. That individual was later transported to a local hospital for addit...
Grand Blanc, MI (June 14, 2025) – Emergency responders were dispatched to a vehicle crash that resulted in personal injuries on Friday evening, June 13, in Grand Blanc. The accident occurred around 8:45 p.m. in the area of 12731 South Saginaw Street, near the Kroger store.
Police and fire crews arrived at the scene shortly after receiving reports of the incident. At least one person suffered injuries and received treatment from medical personnel. That individual was later transported to a local hospital for additional care. The number of vehicles involved has not been officially confirmed.
Authorities secured the area to assist those hurt and investigate what led up to the crash. As of now, that investigation remains active.
We hope those injured in this accident recover in a timely manner.
Car Accidents in Michigan
In Michigan, personal injury crashes are unfortunately common, with more than 70,000 injury-related accidents recorded in a recent year. Intersections and commercial areas like the South Saginaw corridor in Grand Blanc tend to see higher traffic volumes, making collisions more likely—especially during busy evening hours.
After a crash, injured people often face more than just immediate physical harm. The impact of an accident can last long beyond the day it happens. Here are a few key ways it may affect your life:
If you were injured in a crash, it's important to speak with a car accident attorney right away. A lawyer can explain your rights, help build your case, and negotiate with insurers so you’re not left covering expenses that should be someone else’s responsibility.
At Christopher Trainor & Associates, we know how overwhelming life becomes after a crash. That’s why we’ve devoted our firm to helping people through these moments. We’ve secured over $250 million in verdicts and settlements and take pride in giving every client the time, care, and strength they deserve. If you're looking for the best auto injury attorney, contact us at (248) 886-8650 for a free consultation. Let us help you focus on recovery while we handle the rest.
Note: Our firm utilized outside sources when creating this post. We have not independently verified the facts regarding this accident. If you find information that is incorrect, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates immediately so that we correct the post to reflect the most accurate information available about the accident. This post can be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. The photograph used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene. This post is not a solicitation for business.
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Longstanding Irish pub in Grand Rapids has license suspended
Ehren Wynderhttps://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2025/06/longstanding-irish-pub-in-grand-rapids-has-license-suspended.html
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — A popular St. Patrick’s Day hotspot has been shut down after being fined for numerous bounced payments.The Michigan Liquor Control Commission on Tuesday, June 10, suspended the license of Flanagan’s Irish Pub for 50 days for failure to pay fines of $1,000, according to a sign posted on the pub’s front window.Next to the notice is a broken window and another sign, presumably from the owners, which states, “Our pub is temporarily closed. Plans are to reopen and become Grand Rapids&...
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — A popular St. Patrick’s Day hotspot has been shut down after being fined for numerous bounced payments.
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission on Tuesday, June 10, suspended the license of Flanagan’s Irish Pub for 50 days for failure to pay fines of $1,000, according to a sign posted on the pub’s front window.
Next to the notice is a broken window and another sign, presumably from the owners, which states, “Our pub is temporarily closed. Plans are to reopen and become Grand Rapids’ favorite gathering place.”
Flanagan’s was forced to pay a $1,000 fine for two violations alleging dishonored payments to wholesalers for beer or wine purchases, David Marvin, director of the MLCC Executive Services Division, said.
The first violation states that between May and November 2024, Flanagan’s had racked up eight charges for making payments that bounced due to insufficient funds. A second violation cited two additional charges of bounced payments in January of this year.
Flanagan’s had until the end of May, or 45 days from when the order was issued, to pay the fine, Marvin said.
“It’s not a fun thing to spend money on, so people a lot of times will wait until the end and then mail it in, so we will give them a little extra time, but that was not forthcoming,” he said.
The MLCC contacted Flanagan’s again with the original order and invoice but still received no response, resulting in the 50-day suspension, Marvin said. The suspension could be lifted sooner if the business pays its fine within those 50 days.
Flanagan’s Irish Pub has been a fixture of downtown Grand Rapids since 1981. The establishment has featured an extensive cocktail menu and food items ranging from burgers to bangers and mash. It also has been a popular venue for live music.
Ownership of the pub changed in 2019. The establishment is currently owned by Ben and Martha Penrod, according to MLCC documents.
The owners did not immediately respond to questions from MLive/The Grand Rapids Press at the time of publication.
Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free “3@3 Grand Rapids” daily newsletter.
Grand Rapids church offers sanctuary to family of man reportedly held by ICE
John Agarhttps://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2025/06/grand-rapids-church-offers-sanctuary-to-family-of-man-reportedly-held-by-ice.html
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Fountain Street Church has offered sanctuary to the family of an El Salvador man who advocates say was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week.Organizations supporting Carlos Menjivar and his family said they had already secured plane tickets to voluntarily return to El Salvador when he was arrested last week at ICE’s Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) office in Grand Rapids.“When the members of our community are under attack and under threats our doors ar...
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Fountain Street Church has offered sanctuary to the family of an El Salvador man who advocates say was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week.
Organizations supporting Carlos Menjivar and his family said they had already secured plane tickets to voluntarily return to El Salvador when he was arrested last week at ICE’s Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) office in Grand Rapids.
“When the members of our community are under attack and under threats our doors are open to provide shelter and sanctuary,” The Rev. Nathan Dannison said at a press conference on Wednesday, June 11.
“Our beliefs here at Fountain Street compel us to act. We taken our beliefs very, very seriously as a community. So, when the powers … threaten our families in Grand Rapids, we believe we have a duty to act. We promise to support the work of justice that is ongoing.”
Read more: Calls grow to pause deportation of Michigan teen so he can finish high school
Menjivar’s wife and three small children have been offered sanctuary.
His family says he is held in Calhoun County Jail. He was arrested when he showed up for a check-in appointment despite a verbal agreement to voluntarily return to El Salvador, according to Movimiento Cosecha GR and GR Rapid Response to ICE.
Read more: In rural Michigan, a prison is reopening as biggest ICE detention hub in Midwest
They have called for Menjivar’s release before Saturday so he and his family can leave for El Salvador. They also want his passport returned and his status changed from deportation to voluntary departure since a charge of deportation would have lifelong consequences for him,” a statement said.
The groups called for residents to contact the ICE office in Detroit as well as elected officials.
Jeff Smith, a volunteer organizer with the GR Rapid Response to ICE group, said that his group has offered to accompany others who have appointments at the ISAP office on Michigan Street NE.
His group responded last week after Menjivar was detained. He said at the press conference no one else was detained after the group showed up.
“The wife of Carlos Menjivar wanted to go into sanctuary out of fear for her children, but also to publicly denounce how ICE deceived her husband who had already agreed to a voluntary departure,” he wrote Thursday, June 12, on Grand Rapids Institute for information Democracy.
An ICE spokesperson did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.
Banana Ball comes to Grand Rapids – Party Animals vs Firefighters: What you should know
Ehren Wynderhttps://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2025/06/banana-ball-comes-to-grand-rapids-party-animals-vs-firefighters-what-you-should-know.html
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Some 30,000 people are expected to pack the bleachers this weekend for three fun-packed days of Banana Ball.The Savannah Bananas’ Party Animals are scheduled to face off against Firefighters for three wild nights of Banana Ball on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, June 12-14, at LMCU Ballpark, the home of the West Michigan Whitecaps in Comstock Park, a Grand Rapids suburb.This weekend’s series is part of ...
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Some 30,000 people are expected to pack the bleachers this weekend for three fun-packed days of Banana Ball.
The Savannah Bananas’ Party Animals are scheduled to face off against Firefighters for three wild nights of Banana Ball on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, June 12-14, at LMCU Ballpark, the home of the West Michigan Whitecaps in Comstock Park, a Grand Rapids suburb.
This weekend’s series is part of the 2025 Banana Ball World Tour. Party Animals Head Coach Mike Vavasis, a former teacher and baseball coach, has been coaching the team since the world tour’s inception and is excited to bring Banana Ball directly to West Michigan fans for the first time.
RELATED: Savannah Bananas world tour coming to Grand Rapids
“I started in 2021 for two weekends, and they were the most fun weekends ever,” he said. “You’re playing in front of 4,000 people, but it felt like you were playing in front of a World Series crowd.”
Banana Ball is a fast-paced, hijinks-filled take on the classic game of baseball. There are 11 unique rules to the game designed to keep the audience on the edge of their seats, including the ball four sprint, where the hitter takes off after ball four, and every defensive player on the field must touch the ball before it becomes live.
The hitter, meanwhile, can advance to as many bases as they want before all players touch the ball.
Another popular rule is the fan catch out, where if a fan clean-catches a foul ball, it’s considered an automatic out.
“There are so many different rules that make it so intriguing to watch but also trying to keep the origin of baseball still inside it,” Vavasis said.
All of these rules are designed to keep the game within a two-hour time limit, no matter what inning players are in, but the Savannah Bananas actively recruits fast players to ensure games last for the full nine innings, Vavasis said.
He recalled only two games in the past five years that did not last for nine innings.
If the game ends in a tie, it goes into a three-round “showdown” inning, which starts with just a pitcher, fielder and catcher versus one hitter for the first round. The second round consists of just the pitcher and catcher versus the hitter. The third round culminates in the pitcher, catcher and one fielder versus one hitter with bases loaded.
“That’s very exciting for the fans as well,” Vavasis said.
The Savannah Bananas were established in 2016 as a collegiate summer baseball team in the Coastal Plain League playing out of Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga.
RELATED: Savannah Bananas world tour ticket lottery for Grand Rapids games breaks 80K
In 2018, the team created and started playing under the Banana Ball ruleset. The new game rapidly grew in popularity, leading up to the launch of the first Banana Ball World Tour in 2021.
During this time, the Party Animals were conceived as the rival team of the Savannah Bananas, similar to the relationship between the Harlem Globetrotters and the Washington Generals basketball team.
The franchise also has branched out to include the Firefighters and the Texas Tailgaters, each with their own unique uniforms and personalities.
Unlike the Globetrotters, however, the Banana Ball game itself is unscripted, infusing real, win-or-lose stakes with pre-rehearsed antics such as walk-up performances and TikTok-inspired dances.
“Those are things we rehearse very religiously,” Vavasis said. “We got to make sure it’s spot on, because you’re doing it in a two-hour time limit in front of, sometimes, 75,000 people, so a lot of meticulous work goes into those dances.”
The Banana Ball World Tour originally kept a series within two games, so the upcoming three-game weekend is going to be a hard grind, Vavasis said. In preparation, the teams plan to rehearse and practice at least a day in advance, as well as in-between games.
“It’s pretty crazy to see what these guys are pulling off for 14-15-hour days for three days straight,” Vavasis said. “You might be tired from all the travel, but once you see all the fans coming in and everybody’s smiling faces just to see you play this game, it’s kind of tough to be tired.”
The Bananas have gone all-in on the wacky brand, from affectionately calling Grayson Stadium “Bananaland” to serving their own specialty concessions, like Banana Split Cream Soda and Slippery Banana cocktails at home games. Founder and owner Jesse Cole also is never seen wearing anything other than his iconic yellow tuxedo and bowler hat.
“Fans first is our mission,” Vavasis said. “We want to do as much as possible to make that fan’s night the best night there is.”
The Savannah Bananas announced their first visit to West Michigan last October with the launch of the ticket lottery, giving entrants the random chance to purchase tickets for the 2025 World Tour.
Nearly 90,000 people entered the lottery hoping to secure tickets to this weekend’s games at LMCU Ballpark. Only about 30,000, however, were chosen, meaning the ballpark will be packed for all three nights.
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