The Kentwood Police Department is encouraging community members to take part in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24.
The department will host an event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. They will collect tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The event also will accept vaping devices and cartridges as long as lithium batteries are removed. Liquids, powders, syringes, sharps and illicit drugs will not be accepted.
The national observance is part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back initiative. It aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible way for community members to dispose of prescription drugs while also educating the public about the potential for abuse of medications.
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood)
“When community members properly dispose of medication, it helps prevent identity theft, accidental poisonings, drug addiction and overdose deaths, while keeping medication from polluting landfills and sewer systems,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “From saving a life to protecting the environment, participating in Drug Take Back Day is an impactful way residents can be part of our community effort.”
For individuals unable to attend the event, the Kentwood Police Department also has a year-round Drug Take Back Program. Community members can safely dispose of unused and/or expired prescription medications in the Kentwood Police Department’s lobby from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. To learn more about the program, visit kentwood.us/DrugTakeBack.
Law enforcement agencies across the nation partner with the DEA to host Drug Take Back Day events every October and April as part of ongoing efforts to combat prescription drug misuse and overdose deaths. The events provide timely opportunities for residents to safely and securely dispose of unneeded medications to help address this public safety and public health issue. Studies have shown most abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.
By Cris Greer Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Oct. 16.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
WKTV Game of the Week
Friday, Oct. 23: Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville
PLAYOFFS:
11-PLAYER TOURNAMENT Districts — Oct. 30-Nov. 7 Regionals — Nov. 13 and 14 Semifinals — Nov. 21 Finals — Nov. 27 and 28, Ford Field, Detroit
Start Garden’s open competition for business startups, The 100, will wrap up its eighth season at Demo Day on Thursday, Oct. 22, from 5 to 9 p.m. at its new downtown Grand Rapids headquarters (2 Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids).
At this event, Grand Rapids’ top 50 entrepreneurs take over the venue to showcase their businesses, demonstrate their latest products, and compete for up to half a million dollars in opportunities.
In June, Start Garden announced a major evolution of The 100, its nine-year-old annual entrepreneur competition that has connected more than 800 Michigan founders with funding and community resources. For the first time, the organization is bringing together multiple capital providers to fund different types of businesses at different stages, shifting from the event’s historical focus on new business ideas.
With the addition of external partners, The 100 will increase its funding opportunities to more than $500,000, introduce a “sprint” process, and expand the number of people giving money at the culminating event, Demo Day.
Joining Start Garden in the new iteration of The 100 is what the organization calls Capital Partners that will help support up to $500,000 in corporate contracts, loans, shared revenue agreements, venture capital, and, as before, small catalytic grants to entrepreneurs at every stage.
The 2026 Capital Partners include:
GROW (small business loans)
Opportunity Ventures (shared revenue agreements)
Union Heritage (venture capital)
Meijer (first-customer contracts for food and consumer product companies)
Start Garden (grants)
“Entrepreneurs were using the 100 to connect to capital, so we decided to bring as much capital from as many partners right into the beginning,” said Laurie Supinski, Co-Director, Start Garden. “Now the 100 is not just about winning a small cash award, but can be where you land your first major contract or investor.”
Also new for the 2026 competition, existing businesses are not just eligible—they’re central to the program’s vision. Partners offering loans, shared revenue agreements, and venture capital can work with businesses already generating revenue, not just idea-stage startups.
Since its inception, Start Garden has served thousands of entrepreneurs. The 100 has historically had strong participation from underrepresented communities, with 75% of participants identifying as women or minorities. Start Garden alumni have expanded products into Meijer and other major U.S. retail chains, grown small business ideas to more than $10 million in revenue, and built tech companies across Michigan and beyond that have grown or been acquired by other organizations.
EVENT OVERVIEW
Who: Start Garden and 50 finalists
What: Demo Day 2026
When: Thursday, Oct. 22, 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Start Garden, 2 Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Agenda: Public Expo from 5 to 7 p.m. on the 4th and 5th floors. Awards from 7- to 9 PM in the Theatre.
After three decades of dedicated service to the City of Kentwood, Commissioner Robert Coughlin has retired from his role as the City’s Ward 1 Commissioner effective Oct. 15, 2026.
Coughlin’s service to Kentwood spans 30 years and includes leadership and involvement across several City boards and committees. During his time with the City, he has served as a member of the Economic Development Corporation, the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Parks and Recreation Committee, the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and the City Commission representing Ward 1.
“Over the past 30 years, Bob has dedicated his life serving the people of Kentwood,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “His leadership and service on our boards, committees, and as 1st Ward Commissioner has made a meaningful difference in our community. We are forever grateful for the perspective, dedication, and commitment he has brought to the table wherever he served. I want to thank Bob for his many hours of meetings, constituent phone calls, site visits, fundraisers, and 30 years of serving at community events. He has led Kentwood by example and I am eternally grateful. I wish him and his family all the best in this next chapter.”
Throughout his years of service, Coughlin has contributed to decisions affecting Kentwood’s growth, development, neighborhoods, parks and recreation opportunities, and the day-to-day quality of life of residents. His vast involvement and service on various boards and City Commission reflects his longstanding commitment to the community.
Filling the Ward 1 Vacancy
Following Coughlin’s retirement, the City Commission will begin the process of filling the Ward 1 vacancy in accordance with the City Charter and applicable state law.
The Application Process
Applications must be filled out and submitted by Oct. 27, 2026, by noon. The first round of interviews will begin Oct. 29, 2026.
Eligibility Requirements To be considered for the Ward 1 Commissioner position, applicants must:
Have lived in the City of Kentwood for at least one year.
If you have any questions, or would like to submit your application, you may do so by contacting Peter Vanderberg, Deputy City Administrator, at vanderbergp@kentwood.us, or (616) 554-0770.
The City of Kentwood thanks Commissioner Coughlin for his three decades of service and commitment to the community and wishes him well in his retirement.
The City of Wyoming has appointed Wyoming Police Captain Eric Wiler as its next Police Chief.
In this role, Wiler will lead a team of nearly 103 full-time sworn officers and 21 civilian personnel. Wiler assumes the position of Police Chief, effective Feb. 4, 2027, immediately following Chief Kip Snyder’s retirement in Feb. 2027.
Wiler brings 27 years of dedicated law enforcement experience with the Wyoming Police Department, working his way up the ranks and serving in a wide range of roles. He began his career in the Wyoming Police Department as a patrol officer, where he developed a strong foundation in community-focused policing. He later served as a detective, followed by patrol sergeant, training sergeant, and then administrative lieutenant. Wiler was later promoted to his current role as police services captain, where he oversees more than 60 personnel across the Patrol and Support Services Divisions.
“I am pleased to announce Captain Wiler as Wyoming’s next Police Chief,” said Wyoming City Manager John Shay. “This appointment reflects Captain Wiler’s long record of service, profound integrity, and his unwavering commitment to both the Wyoming community and our police department.
We look forward to seeing him lead our police department in its ongoing mission to protect and serve.”
Throughout his career, Wiler has led several impactful initiatives designed to strengthen operational effectiveness. These efforts include serving as the Axon project manager responsible for updating the department’s body-worn and in-car camera system to increase accountability and transparency. In addition, Wiler served as the department’s Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) Accreditation Manager, updated the department’s Internal Affairs processes to improve the integrity of investigations, and implemented process improvements to enhance efficiency and transparency in use-of-force reporting and analysis.
“Captain Wiler is a dedicated law enforcement professional with decades of experience with the Wyoming Police Department,” said Chief Kip Snyder. “Wiler understands this department from the ground up and has demonstrated leadership, dedication, and discipline throughout his time in our department. I’m excited to see him as Chief as we move into this next chapter.”
Wiler’s service and dedication have been recognized through multiple honors, including the Chief’s Award of Excellence and two Citations of Valor. Wiler has completed extensive executive-level training, including the FBI National Academy #284 and Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police – Police Executives’ and New Chiefs’ School.
“It is an honor to accept the position of Police Chief for the City of Wyoming,” said Captain Eric Wiler. “I am committed to continuing our mission of honor, courage, duty, and trust.”
Wiler holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University and a master’s degree in public safety from the University of Virginia. He additionally attended Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command and the Grand Rapids Leadership Institute.
Wiler currently lives in Hudsonville with his wife and their four children.
One person was transported to a local hospital for evaluation after an ammonia leak at Country Fresh in Wyoming, according to the Wyoming Fire Department, who was called to the site on Oct. 14 at 8:30 p.m for this leak.
The situation was assessed and determined to be a small leak due to a pressure relief valve activating. Out of an abundance of caution, the building was evacuated for safety. One individual was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
The Wyoming Fire Department was assisted by the Grand Rapids Fire Department HAZMAT team, Kent County Emergency Management, and EGLE.
All Fire Department units recently cleared the scene and there is no indication of a hazard to the community.
The United States Air Force Band’s jazz ensemble, “The Airmen of Note,” is on a community relations tour this November in West Michigan.
The Airmen of Note is one of the six performing ensembles within the United States Air Force Band, a premier musical organization of the U.S. Air Force. Stationed at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., The United States Air Force Band honors those who have served, inspires American citizens to heightened patriotism and service, and connects with the global community on behalf of the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America.
Godwin Heights wide receiver Isziah Walker led the team with five catches for 76 yards and a touchdown, and also had four tackles and an interception. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
With the playoffs a little over two weeks away, the Godwin Heights football team continues to build momentum.
The Wolverines increased that momentum in a big way last Friday when they snapped a four-year winless streak against conference rival Belding and posted a 20-13 win. That win not only gave Godwin Heights its fifth for the year, but kept the Wolverines in second place in the OK Silver with just one league game remaining.
The game against Belding was a huge one for Godwin for a number of reasons. Not only was it homecoming and senior night, but the Black Knights of Belding came into the game averaging 38.7 points per contest on offense with a 5-1 record. Belding’s Wing-T offense has traditionally given the Wolverines problems as the Black Knights have averaged 46.4 points per game in the last five against Godwin.
Those numbers were of no consequence Friday night as the Wolverine defense held Belding to a season-low 13 points in a game that turned into a defensive struggle.
“I’m really proud of our team for preparing to play against a well-organized Wing-T team,” said Godwin Heights Coach Brandon Kimble. “It was homecoming and senior night, so there was a lot going on leading up to the game. Our boys didn’t let it distract them and were able to lock in and stay focused.”
The Wolverines also entered the game with a healthy squad after battling injuries early season. Despite those injuries, Godwin Heights won four of its first six games. Being at full strength against Belding, however, was a big plus.
“We have been dealing with injuries early in the season,” Kimble said, “so having everyone healthy played a big role. Our main focus was getting our offense rolling early and working to consistently score points. Our defense’s main goal was to limit the plays we know they traditionally run really well. Our defensive line and linebackers played amazing.”
That defensive front was led by the quartet of Josiah Cox- Guyton, Alijah Dickson, Ethan Spears and Jayden Ingram.
Another key for the Wolverines was their play in the second half. Over the past few seasons, Belding has pulled away in the second half, but that was not the case Friday.
“Defense played disciplined football”
“Each of the last few years our game has come down to the second half and they (Belding) have run away with the game each of the past few years,” Kimble said. “I told our defense that has to change and we do that by limiting them early. We worked extremely hard to get stronger in the weight room over the summer. Not just for this game, but the entire season. But you notice it the most when playing against run-heavy teams. Our defense played disciplined football, reading their keys on every play and then using our strength to control the line.”
Defensively, the Wolverines were paced by senior linebacker Hendry Arciniega, who totaled 11 tackles, one quarterback sack and a forced fumble, followed by Josiah Cox-Guyton, six tackles and a pair of tackles for loss; Isziah Walker, four tackles and an interception and Julius Hoskins, four tackles.
On the offensive side, quarterback Martellis Forest completed 9-of-12 passes for 158 yards and three touchdowns. Isziah Walker led the receiving corps with five catches for 76 yards and a touchdown, while Martise Raphael had two receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown and Aidan Jackson caught one pass for 23 yards and a score. Julius Hoskins rushed 15 times for 89 yards.
Playoff push
With a 5-2 overall record, the Wolverines are closing in on a playoff berth. Godwin can nail it down and improve its playoff position with wins in the final two regular-season games. The Wolverines travel to Newaygo Friday to face a 2-5 Lions squad and then close out the season in Week 9 heading down Division Ave. to face rival Kelloggsville.
One person was injured following a shooting in the 3700 block of South Division Avenue.
At approximately 1:05 a.m. on Oct. 11, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to a report of a shooting in the 3700 block of South Division Avenue. Upon arrival, officers located a 33-year-old Grand Rapids man who had been shot.
Officers immediately provided medical care until EMS personnel arrived. The victim was then transported to a local hospital for treatment, where he remains in stable condition.
No arrests have been made at this time. Detectives from the Wyoming Police Department, along with members of the Forensic Science Unit, are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Wyoming Police Department at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345, 1-866-774- 2345, or online at https://www.silentobserver.org.
By Cris Greer Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Oct. 9.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: Zeeland East vs. South Christian at East Kentwood, Friday, Oct. 16.
By Mike Moll Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
The East Kentwood Falcons brought their high-flying offense to Caledonia Friday night to meet the Fighting Scots in a battle for the OK Red. East Kentwood came in at 6-0 overall, while the Scots were 5-1, and both teams were atop the league standings at 4-0.
It was Homecoming for Caledonia, but when the lights were turned off at the end of the night, the Falcons were sitting alone in the lead after a hard-fought 49-27 victory. While the Falcon offense scored four touchdowns, it was the defense and special teams that made the difference. More to come, but specifically, it was Austin Nelson who made the difference.
Scots take 14-0 lead into the second quarter
Caledonia took the initial lead as Falcon quarterback Colin O’Connor was intercepted at the Scots 31 yard-line by Aaron Collins, who returned it 69 yards for the score. After stopping the Falcons next possession, the Scots went ahead 14-0 when Robert Restau took a screen pass from Bryce Backus for another 69-yard touchdown near the end of the first quarter.
The Falcons got on the board with just under nine minutes left in the half on a 1-yard run by Dallas Moody on a drive highlighted by a 36-yard completion from O’Connor to Stephan Jones and then Jayden Garcia kicked the extra point. The Falcon defense forced the Scots to punt after a quick three-and-out possession, getting the ball at their own 30. O’Connor found Jones again for a 41-yard gain and then connected with Ezekiel Ferrell for a 20-yard TD to tie the game up at 14 after the extra point.
Falcons grab first lead with around 5 minutes left in first half
Nelson then made his first statement of the night on the Scots initial play from scrimmage when he intercepted a Backus pass and ran it 40 yards for his own pick-6, giving the Falcons two touchdowns in the span of 13 seconds and their first lead with just over 5 minutes to go in the half.
The Scots were not done as they answered with a four-minute drive capped by a 32-yard touchdown from Backus to Lincoln Senti.
21-all heading into the locker room
Caledonia intercepted an O’Connor pass again with just over a minute and a half to go, but would fail to connect on a 32-yard field goal with five seconds left in the half, sending the teams to the locker rooms all tied at 21.
Falcons take lead for good at 28-21
The Falcons won the opening coin flip and deferred to get the ball to start the second half. After the Scots Landry Mueller kicked the ball out of bounds, Falcons Coach Tyrone Spencer chose to accept the penalty instead of getting the ball on his own 35. That set up Nelson for his next statement as he returned the kick 72 yards untouched into the end zone giving the Falcons a lead they would not relinquish, 28-21.
The Scots mounted a drive of 80 yards for a score of their own, highlighted by runs of 29 yards from Restau and a 26-yarder by Backus, capped off by a 2-yard TD by Conlan Schultz, but the extra point was missed by Mueller, leaving the score 28-27 EK with just under 8 minutes left in the third quarter.
On the ensuing kickoff, Nelson proved some good things do come in threes as he returned another kickoff for 87 yards and his third TD on the night, giving the Falcons a 35-27 lead.
After another 3-and-out for the Scots, East Kentwood used up over four minutes on the clock before a 1-yard touchdown by Jones to make it 42-27.
The Falcons then tacked on a final score with just under four minutes left in the game as O’Connor connected for a 7-yard TD pass to Moody. East Kentwood led 49-27 after the extra point.
O’Connor had over 220 yards with two touchdowns passing on the night with Jones being his favorite target at 115 yards. He had seven different receivers on the night. Ace Bryant led with 70 yards on the ground.
The Falcons are now 7-0 overall, 5-0 in the OK Red and head to West Ottawa Friday. The Panthers are 2-5 overall, 1-4 in the Red. To get at least a share of the Red Championship locked up Friday night while Caledonia fell to 5-2 overall, 4-1 in the Red and travels to Grand Haven to face the 4-3, 2-3 Buccaneers.
South Christian Football Coach Danny Brown talks to WKTV before the season. (WKTV/Sam Rangel)
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
Thanks to a total team effort, the South Christian football team defeated host Forest Hills Central 55-21 and moved one step closer to its first-ever league championship in the revamped OK Gold Conference.
The Sailors put up double digits in points in all four quarters of the game against Central as they improved their record to 4-0 in the conference, 6-1 overall. South Christian can clinch the outright league championship this Friday when it hosts Zeeland East.
“We are in our third year in the new version of the OK Gold and we have not won the conference yet,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown. “We set team goals at the beginning of the year. To get through fall camp, start the season 1-0 and from there to go 1-0 each week. We have bigger goals like winning a conference championship and getting into the post season.
“Friday night we are in position, if we win that game, to win our first conference championship in this version of the league and that’s exciting for the team and our fans. Anytime you can win some hardware it’s exciting.”
South Christian’s Austin Burgess. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
South Christian gave its fans plenty of excitement in the win against Forest Hills Central as it jumped out to a 21-0 lead in the opening quarter. Austin Burgess tallied the first points in the game scoring on a one-yard run. Burgess scored again four minutes later as he ran in from four-yards out with Hudson Kerstetter’s second extra point of the night putting the Sailors up 14-0.
The Sailors went airborne for their third score of the first quarter. That was when quarterback Houston Wildeboer connected with Brody Shilts on a 26-yard touchdown pass to up the margin to 21-0 after Kerstetter’s point after.
Sailors led 28-0 in the second quarter, until Rangers strike twice before halftime
South extended the lead to 28-0 midway through the second quarter when Wildeboer ran in for a touchdown from six-yards out.
Forest Hills Central, however, was not about to raise the white flag. The Rangers actually cut the Sailor lead in half with a pair of touchdowns in the final 1:02 of the half. Central scored at the 1:02 mark on a three-year scoring strike from Kellen Paul to Daevin Hopson. Then, with two seconds remaining in the first half, Paul fired a 21-yard touchdown pass to Miles Pell.
The Rangers seemed to have momentum heading into halftime at that point, but the South Christian special teams had other things in mind. On the ensuring kickoff and the final play of the first half, South Christian’s Easton Raak returned the kick 84 yards for a touchdown to jolt Central’s comeback hopes and send the Sailors into halftime up 35-14.
“We started really fast and that helped to set the tone for the game,” Brown said. “We went up 28-0 until they finally scored to make it 28-7. We then threw an interception which was only our second turnover of the year. They (Central) scored with two seconds left, but then we ran the kickoff back. In the second half we challenged our kids to get the first stop and then score and then stop them again and they did a real good job of answering that challenge.”
South Christian tacked on 10 points during the third period. Kyle Nakliski scored the touchdown in the third quarter on a 21-yard run. Kerstetter added the extra point and then later in the third quarter Kerstetter connected on a 42-yard field goal putting the Sailors up 45-14 heading into the final quarter.
The Sailors added 10 points in the final quarter to close out the game. Kerstetter added a 39-yard field goal, while Ky Hunderman reeled off a 48-yard touchdown run to close out the scoring.
“I thought we really played a complete game,” Brown said. “I thought our defense played really, really well. They (Central) have an ability to create explosive plays and I was proud of the way our defense executed. They held them (Central) to less points than they have been averaging.”
South Christian displayed plenty of balance on offense as it totaled 262 yards on the ground and 143 yards via air. Quarterback Houston Wildeboer completed four-of-four passes for 83 yards and a score, while Austin Burgess connected on four-of-seven passes for 60 yards.
South Christian wide receiver Charlie Vermaas. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
Charlie Vermaas led the receiving corps with four receptions for 65 yards while Brody Shilts caught a pair of passes for 30 yards and a score.
Brandon Lutke was South’s leading rusher, carrying the ball five times for 52 yards, followed by Hunderman, 48 yards and a touchdown, Kyle Nakliski, 39 yards and a score, Austin Burgess, 34 yards and two touchdowns and Jesse VanderGriend, 33 yards. Wildeboer rushed for 29 yards and a touchdown.
The corpse flower at Grand Valley State University is getting ready to bloom again and emit its rotting-flesh odor, continuing a blooming timetable that is significantly more prolific than expected.
The Amorphophallus titanum in the Barbara Kindschi Greenhouse last bloomed in 2024, when it was on loan at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park for visitors, as it was during a quiet time on campus when staffing was low. The plant first bloomed in 2022, when Grand Valley welcomed about 3,500 visitors to the greenhouse.
Starting Oct. 12, Grand Valley will welcome the public once again at the greenhouse on the Valley Campus in Allendale to view the rare tropical plant lovingly nicknamed “The Beast.” While it is not expected to be in peak bloom – and odor – until later in the week, when the peak appears imminent, visiting hours will expand.
Environmental and Sustainability Studies student, Izzy Cuncannan, waters plants including the corpse flower affectionally known as “The Beast” in the Barbara Kindschi Greenhouse Oct. 7. (Photo Courtesy: GVSU)
The plant, which is native to Sumatra, smells like rotting flesh to attract the flies that pollinate the plant. It is one of the largest plants in the world and the peak bloom is fleeting, usually lasting only 24-36 hours, said Christina Hipshier, greenhouse supervisor.
For a plant teeming with unique characteristics, the corpse flower at GVSU has added another one with its blooming schedule. After its initial bloom in 2022 – it was gifted to Grand Valley in 2015 by a former faculty member – it wasn’t expected to bloom for another seven to 10 years.
The 2024 bloom seemed a botanical aberration. With this newest expected bloom, Hipshier is “assuming now this is an established pattern.”
She said the plant grows in the greenhouse’s tropical room, with a general temperature of around 70 degrees and a humidity level of around 70 percent, with regular misting.
But for a plant so spectacular, it doesn’t need special attention, aside from ensuring it isn’t overwatered during its dormant period, Hipshier said. She also sets the plant in a woolen bag to better wick moisture.
How to see GVSU’s corpse flower on the Valley Campus in Allendale: *Starting Oct. 12, the Barbara Kindschi Greenhouse in the Kindschi Hall of Science will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for visitors. *When the bloom is imminent, the greenhouse will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. *For fastest updates on expanded hours for peak bloom, check HERE and HERE ON INSTAGRAM. *Visitors may obtain a free day parking permit at GVSU’s Parking Services office near the Lake Michigan Drive entrance. They can also utilize pay-to-park options.
Remember that self-care is anything that you do for YOURSELF. Self-care can be little (brushing your teeth) or big (getting a massage) as long as you take the time to do it for yourself.
Practice Mindfulness:
Mindfulness means being aware of the present. Be conscious of what you are doing; even narrate it in your head if it’s helpful. Whether you’re eating, going for a walk, or taking a big test, try to stay in the moment.
Exercise:
Going for walks outside, hitting the gym, or even doing a quick walk around the block releases endorphins which assist with mood stabilization and more positive feelings.
Get Enough Sleep:
Sleeping allows the mind to reset and process the day’s events. Seven or more hours of sleep a night is most beneficial for the mind and body to rest and recharge.
Laugh:
Laughter is the best medicine. Laughter aids in easing tension in the body which can last up to 45 minutes!
Positive Self Talk:
Our thoughts play a major impact in our moods and behaviors. Dr. Shalu Ramchandi from Harvard University suggests, “For every negative or stressful thought experienced, try to find three positive ones.”
Connect with Others:
Maintain meaningful relationships with others. Find a community that allows you to feel valued, cared for, and supported.
Practice Deep Breathing:
Taking deep breaths allows the brain to manage the stress response better. Try the 4-4-4 method of breathing to assist in regulation during times of high stress.
Seek Help:
Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if your stress is unmanageable. Wedgwood Christian Services’ Bouma Counseling Center has no waitlist and our team is ready to assist you – wherever life finds you. For further information, or to make an appointment, call our intake line at 616-942-7294.
The City of Kentwood’s annual free leaf and brush drop-off service to residents starts Saturday, Oct. 10, and runs through Nov. 25.
Residents may drop off loose leaves, brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs and grass clippings free of charge at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE. If leaves are brought to the site in bags, residents must dump them out in the leaf pile and dispose of the bags in the trash. Bags cannot be left in the leaf pile.
This service is available for Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required.
Drop-off Hours:
Monday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The drop-off site will be closed Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day.
Materials that cannot be accepted include trash, paper and plastic bags, dirt, concrete, asphalt, tires, rocks, construction materials, glass and metal.
The burning of leaves and brush as well as the accumulation of debris and leaves on a property or in the right-of-way are prohibited in the City of Kentwood. The drop-off service provides residents with a convenient way to keep their yards clear of leaves and debris during the fall.
“Fall is a beautiful time of year, but it also brings an abundance of leaves, sticks and other yard waste,” said Jim Wolford, Department of Public Works Deputy Director. “This free service gives residents an easy way to take care of that waste while also helping keep our streets and storm drains clear, reducing the risk of flooding and protecting the quality of our storm water.”
The leaf and brush drop-off site opens every fall and spring. Spring 2027 drop-off dates will be announced after the start of the new year.
More information about the City of Kentwood’s leaf and brush drop-off service is available at kentwood.us/BrushLeafDropOff.
By Cris Greer Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights football show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Oct. 2.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: NorthPointe Christian at Kelloggsville, Friday, Oct. 9.
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
The Rockford Rams have been a pain in the side for the East Kentwood football team for the past several years.
That pain was eradicated last Friday in a big way as the host Falcons dispatched the visiting Rams 31-10. The win improved East Kentwood’s record to 6-0 for the season and sets up a showdown for first place in the OK Red this Friday when the Falcons travel to Caledonia for a battle of unbeaten teams in conference play.
The win against Rockford was the first since the 2019 season when the Falcons defeated Rockford 38-12 in the first round of the playoffs after falling to them the previous week. Since then, the Rams have had East Kentwood’s number. That is until Friday when the Falcons combined a strong defensive effort with some timely offense to earn the win and break the skid against the Rams.
East Kentwood scored points in each quarter against the Rams while the Falcon defense allowed just a single touchdown in the second quarter and a field goal in the third.
“I think anytime you can get a win in the OK Red it is awesome,” said East Kentwood Coach Tyrone Spencer, “especially against Rockford. This was a great team win for our program and we will build off it as we continue to press toward our standard of excellence every day.”
East Kentwood helmet. (Photo Courtesy: Eli Reed)
Falcons strike first with big run
East Kentwood struck the first big blow of the game midway through the first quarter, when Falcon senior wide receiver Stephan Jones took a handoff on a jet sweep and broke free for a 72-yard touchdown run. Jayden Garcia tacked on the point after giving the Falcons an early 7-0 lead.
The two teams traded touchdowns in the second quarter with East Kentwood taking a 14-7 lead late in the first half.
Just before halftime the Falcon big-play offense struck again, with Jones providing the big play fireworks again. This time it was through the air as Falcon quarterback Colin O’Connor found an open Jones in the end zone for a 23-yard touchdown pass with nine seconds remaining in the first half. Garcia added the extra points giving the Falcons a 21-7 halftime lead.
Rockford cut the Kentwood lead to 21-10 early in the second half when they drove downfield and kicked a field goal.
East Kentwood matched that field goal when it went on a long drive at the end of the third quarter and paid it off with a 46-yard field goal from Garcia in the early moments of the fourth.
The Falcons closed out the scoring with a touchdown in the final minute of the game.
“I thought our defense played well and made key stops when they needed to,” Spencer said. “Offensively, we were able to make explosive plays and that was the difference in the game.”
O’Connor went 13-for-24 passing with 197 yards and one touchdown.
Jones was the main target in the passing game as he hauled in seven passes for 75 yards and a score. Austin Nelson caught one pass for 38 yards, while Donovan Rubens caught one for 38 and Dallas Moody, one for 21 yards.
O’Connor also led the Falcons in rushing with 78 yards on 16 carries, including one touchdown run. Jones finished with 87 yards on three carries with a score. Ace Bryant added 24 yards on eight carries, while Moody was eight for 17 yards and a touchdown.
Donavan Jones led with seven tackles, five assists and three tackles for loss
Donavan Jones led the falcons with seven tackles, five assists and three tackles for loss, followed by Alijah Bondon, three tackles, three assists, two sacks and two tackles for loss; Ja’Kari Lovelady, three tackles and two assists; Chris Thompson, three tackles, three assists, one sack and one tackle for loss; Austin Nelson, two tackles, an assist and interception and D’Mari Love-Simmons, two tackles, one assist, one sack and two tackles for loss.
East Kentwood puts its 6-0 record on the line Friday at Caledonia to face the Fighting Scots, who are 4-0 in conference play with a 5-1 overall record. The one loss, however, was applied to the Scots following their opening-night win against Portage Northern that they won 48-12 when it was determined that Caledonia had used an ineligible player and was given a forfeit loss.
By Lillian Reiner Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
After cutting the ribbon to signify the grand opening of the Kentwood Community Center, Mayor Stephen Kepley said the building is magnificent and beautiful, but what’s most important is the lives that will be changed in this facility.
What began as a suggestion from a survey asking Kentwood residents what they would like Kentwood to look like in the next 50 years has been realized in a $30-million facility designed with the entire community in mind.
“This space is a community resource, it’s for anyone and everyone,” said Spencer McKellar, Deputy Parks and Recreation Director, at the grand opening on Sept. 26 at the Kentwood Community Center, located at 4755 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood. “We gave opportunities for sports, arts, social gatherings, grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend or neighbor, but really it’s meant for people to come and have an indoor space year-round to build community and build relationships.”
Check out this photo gallery of the Kentwood Community Center
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
The new playground and outdoor space at the Kentwood Community Center. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
Residents had the opportunity to hear from the contractors and city employees that poured years of their time and energy into bringing this facility to life. The Community Center officially opens on Oct. 5.
“There’s really not words to describe my feeling,” Kepley said. This project has been in the back of Kepley’s mind for more than 20 years, although the city lacked the funds to bring it to fruition until 2017. “That feeling is not words, but it’s the faces, especially the next generation, that’s going to use this facility — they’re going to develop skills, learn more about themselves, and they’re going to gain confidence.”
The Center features three full-size basketball courts, which can be used for volleyball and pickleball as well, a fitness center with accessible equipment for all ages and abilities, an indoor track, a multi-sport simulator, a daycare center, a dance studio, bistro, and a flexible event venue called The Grove that can hold up to 175 guests for weddings or special celebrations. (See Full Chart Below)
“I think it’s nice that the community finally has a place where everybody can get together and enjoy sports and working out and things that keep everybody together,” said Kentwood resident Samir Mehmedovic, who’s especially excited to utilize the basketball courts.
Heavy planning and consideration
The intentionality behind each design feature is evident. Kepley and his team visited about 20 facilities nationwide during the planning phase, gathering ideas for what they did and didn’t want their own facility to look like. In each gym, he asked himself, “Would I want to play basketball in this gym?” This resulted in a space with abundant natural light and the same hardwood floors that are used in the NCAA Final Four, which was sourced from the Upper Peninsula.
Additionally, the building caters to the diversity and needs of the Kentwood community. All of the spaces, including the golf simulator, the fitness center, and The Grove are zero entry, and there is a free community pantry, stocked with food and toiletries for anyone to take, no questions asked.
The Grand Rapids Gold mascot, Buckets, plays basketball at the Community Center Grand Opening celebration. (Photo: WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
The Community Center opened just in time for residents to have a safe, warm place to gather this winter.
“When winter comes, it’ll be nice to do the walking track, to get some sunshine, and be able to walk and not worry about being out in the snow and slipping,” shared one Kentwood resident. “It’ll be better than just walking on my treadmill at home.”
Kentwood Community Center Fact Sheet
*67,500 Square Feet *$30 Million Price Tag *Offers Everything From fitness and sports to dining, events, enrichment and everyday opportunities to connect *3 Full Basketball Courts in the main gymnasium (20,828 square feet), 16 basketball hoops. *Gym Options: Can be configured with three volleyball courts or nine pickleball courts. *Maple Gym Floor: Uses the same flooring system used for the NCAA Final Four and was manufactured in the Upper Peninsula. *Elevated Indoor Walking Track: 8 laps = 1 mile *Fitness Center: (4,407 square feet) Features cardio, strength and conditioning, free weights and accessible equipment for a variety of ages, abilities and fitness levels. *Multi-Sport and Golf Simulator: Play virtual golf courses and a variety of interactive sports and games year-round. Reserve for an hourly fee. *The Bistro: Freshly prepared and grab-and-go food, smoothies, specialty coffee, snacks, beer, wine and more. Open to members and non-members. *Child Watch: A safe, welcoming space for children ages 3-10 while parents and guardians enjoy the Community Center. Available to members and day pass holders. $4 an hour per child, 10 hours for $30 *The Grove: A flexible 55X75 foot event venue for up to 175 guests for weddings, corporate events, birthdays and other celebrations.
Memberships are available to Kentwood residents and non-residents starting at $30 per month, however, day passes also are available. The Center, which officially opens on Monday, October 5, will be open from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
For more information, call 616-656-5279 or CLICK HERE
EDITOR’S NOTE: WKTV Community Media invited local candidates to create a video for the upcoming general election (Tuesday, Nov. 3) in the following races that affect Kentwood and Wyoming voters: United States House of Representatives (3rd District), State Representative (80th District), State Representative (83rd District), State Senator (29th District), Wyoming Council Member (at Large), Wyoming Council Member (1st Ward) and Wyoming Mayor.
All videos are 5-minutes or less, devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV. Profile descriptions are provided by the candidate. Candidate videos are presented alphabetically. WKTV went to great lengths to notify and invite candidates for We the People. Participating candidate videos and profiles can be seen below:
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, 3RD DISTRICT CANDIDATES
TERRI DEBOER – U.S. House of Representatives, 3rd District (R)
Reckless federal spending and runaway inflation have priced everyday families out of the American Dream. I will fight to:
Rein in Wasteful Spending & Lower Taxes: Cut bloated federal spending and lower taxes on middle-class families so you can keep more of your hard-earned money.
Drive Down Energy Costs: Unleash domestic energy production to lower fuel, heating, and electric bills across the board.
Make Housing Affordable: Cut back government red tape that inflates construction costs, making homeownership attainable again for Michigan families.
2. COMMON SENSE: HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION
Decisions about your family’s health and education belong in your hands—not with government bureaucrats or massive corporations. I will fight to:
Harness the Free Market in Healthcare: Stop the expansion of government control in medicine. I’ll push for free-market solutions, real competition, and deregulation—expanding patient choice, lowering costs, and keeping you in control of your medical decisions.
Empower Parents in Education: Put parents back in charge of their children’s education and ensure every child has access to a quality education, regardless of their zip code.
3. COMMON SENSE: SAFETY AND SECURITY
Keeping our communities and institutions safe comes first. I will fight to:
Secure Our Borders: Stop illegal immigration and repeal soft-on-crime policies so our laws protect law-abiding Michigan families—not criminals.
Protect Election Integrity: Restore trust in our democracy by securing our elections and requiring a valid photo ID to vote.
HILLARY SCHOLTEN – U.S. House of Representatives, 3rd District (D) Incumbent
Occupation: Representative of Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District
Why are you running for office?
I’m running because I believe Michigan deserves leadership that puts people first. Throughout my career–as a social worker, a Department of Justice attorney, and a member of Congress–I’ve worked to help people navigate systems that too often feel out of reach. I know families are worried about rising costs, trust in government is low, and too many people feel left behind. I’m running to change that by bringing people together, solving problems, and making sure every Michigander has the opportunity to succeed.
Two issues you are focused on:
Two issues I’m focused on are lowering costs and restoring trust in government. Too many Michigan families are working hard but still feeling squeezed by the cost of health care, housing, and everyday necessities. That’s why I’ve worked to lower prescription drug costs, expand affordable housing opportunities, and support good-paying jobs across our state.
I’m also focused on strengthening confidence in our public institutions. People deserve a government that is transparent, accountable, and delivers results. That means being a good steward of taxpayer dollars, improving how the government serves people, and ensuring that public service remains focused on the public interest.
STATE SENATOR, 29TH DISTRICT CANDIDATES
ABBIE GROFF-BLASZAK – State Senator, 29th District (D)
Occupation: Instructor, GRCC & City Commissioner, City of East Grand Rapids
Why are you running for office? I believe in better. I believe in better policy that creates better outcomes for people. I believe that better politics can weave the fabric of our community tighter rather than fraying our connection. I believe that we can build a Michigan that stands strong in protecting our people and our democracy while we nurture healthy and thriving communities; ensure an excellent public education for all children; supply adequate and affordable homes where folks want to live; and center the needs and rights of workers in our economy. We need leaders who reject dark money, corporate influence, and special-interests and center the needs and voices of their community. I’m running to represent the collective power and wisdom of this community and work tirelessly to deliver better outcomes through better politics.
Two issues you are focused on:
I am committed to building an economy centered on the needs of workers and families, not corporations and their shareholders. That means working to guarantee a thriving wage for all work that allows individuals and families to cover basic needs and build a fulfilling and meaningful life. It means protecting and expanding the right to organize across all sectors. It means supporting small businesses as they create opportunity across our community. It also means establishing paid family leave and universal childcare because no person should have to choose between caring for family and building a career.
I will continue my life’s work in ensuring excellent public schools for every child in every neighborhood. Strong public schools are the foundation of a strong democracy. As an educator, I know that our schools cannot thrive when educators are underpaid, support staff are stretched thin, and students are learning in overcrowded classrooms. We must – for the first time in history – properly fund public education. We must properly invest in teachers and paraprofessionals; provide the resources and support they need to serve all students; and ensure safe, supportive learning environments – including small class sizes – for every child.
BRADY MIDDLETON – State Senator, 29th District (R)
Occupation: Business owner, entrepreneur, former criminal justice reformer and inventor. I co-founded Metas LLC, an award-winning innovative company recognized as one of Michigan’s 50 Companies to Watch, named “World’s Greatest Label Company” by Bloomberg’s World’s Greatest, and recipient of multiple Best Labels in the US awards from USA Today. I help operate Middleton Printing, a business that’s been thriving in Wyoming for 70 years.
Why are you running for office? I am running for Michigan State Senate District 29 to restore Michigan’s economy and make life more affordable for families, redeem our justice system because true justice doesn’t just punish, it makes people whole, and reconcile our political divide to craft the best common-sense solutions that benefit all Michiganders. I want to ensure our communities are safe and healthy and that people have access to and expanding opportunities to build productive and successful lives.
As a survivor of violent crime, pistol-whipped, carjacked, and kidnapped at gunpoint just two weeks after high school graduation, I know the devastating impact when systems fail victims and communities. Through faith and years of personally mentoring one of my young attackers to graduate high school, I learned that real justice combines accountability with redemption and restitution for victims. My earlier work in criminal justice reform, where I helped expose significant fraud and waste in victim assistance programs, showed me how a lack of transparency allows special interests to block better outcomes.
As a business owner and innovator who has created jobs and efficiencies through technology, I’ve seen how government bloat, fraud, and regulatory barriers drive up costs for families and stifle opportunity. Transparency is key: Michiganders deserve to know exactly why the establishment has failed them and what interests are preventing the best solutions from benefiting everyone.
I’m running to bridge divides, cut waste and abuse, promote innovation and job growth, support restorative approaches that prioritize victim healing and public safety, and expand real pathways in education, workforce training, and reentry so every person, regardless of background, has the chance to build a successful life. Together we can deliver results-focused policies that restore Michigan’s promise for all families.
Two issues you are focused on:
1. Restoring Michigan’s Economy, Ending the Affordability Crisis and Providing Real Lasting Relief to Families
I will grow good-paying jobs in manufacturing, technology, skilled trades, and small business by cutting red tape, reducing energy and healthcare costs, and championing innovation. Eliminating Michigan’s income tax will deliver real lasting relief to families while making our state more competitive to attract growing businesses. By eliminating government waste, fraud, and special-interest spending, we can lower the tax and regulatory burdens that inflate housing, groceries, energy, healthcare, and everyday expenses. Expanding access to skilled trades training will help people secure incredibly well-paying careers while also reducing the cost of building, directly helping solve the housing crisis. Expanding workforce training and education aligned with actual careers will give more Michiganders the tools to achieve financial stability and build successful lives.
2. Redeeming Our Justice System to Create Safer, Healthier Communities and Expanding Opportunities
If our streets and neighborhoods are not safe enough for kids to play in them, then we have failed to deliver safe communities, and change is required. I will drive that change. True justice doesn’t just punish, it makes people whole by holding offenders accountable, delivering meaningful restitution to victims, and providing clear paths to redemption and productive citizenship that reduce recidivism and future crime. Families and taxpayers also deserve justice in education. Michigan ranks 44th in reading comprehension, and nearly 40% of our 4th graders are on a path toward prison or a lifetime of welfare under the current system. The people in Lansing who crafted the laws governing our education process have failed our kids and our communities. Accountability for that failure, and real solutions that fix it, is essential so every child has the opportunity to succeed and every taxpayer gets results for their investment. I will demand transparency in justice and victim programs (building on my experience exposing major fraud), invest in proven prevention and reentry support, and back community-based approaches that keep neighborhoods safe while giving people, including those who have made mistakes, the opportunity to contribute and succeed. By focusing on results over rhetoric and working across divides for common-sense reforms, we can build healthier, safer communities where everyone has a real chance to thrive.
WYOMING COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE CANDIDATES
ROB ARNOYS – Wyoming Council Member at Large (Incumbent)
Occupation: Banking Leadership: Senior Vice President Premier Services; Lake Michigan Credit Union
Why did I decide to run for the City Council seat?
As a lifelong resident of the City of Wyoming, I am passionate about the city and not only have knowledge of the history of Wyoming, but see the great potential it has to offer! Wyoming has a rich history of vision and progress and it is going through some exciting and significant transition.
I am running for re-election as a City Council Member At Large. Over the past four years, I have had the privilege to serve as your council member and we have made a lot of progress that I will be able to carry that momentum into a second term. We have enhanced our public safety team and department with greater coverage, systems and equipment that delivers faster response times to keep us protected. We have embarked on our plan to build a downtown presence, connect our trails, improve our roads, enhance our clean water plant, add a third transmission line for our water deliver, improved our IT infrastructure, hired our City Manager and Deputy City Manager and have activated the Site 36 property to now be a vibrant mix of business and community space. Above all of this, we have engaged in doing efficiency studies to ensure that we are operating in the most fiscally responsible manner.
As a Wyoming Planning Commissioner for almost 12 years, I was involved in the discussion and strategy for the City Master Plan. We have tremendous opportunity to develop and redevelop our key sectors of the city; develop a centralized downtown area, enhance 28th street, enhance Division, develop the remaining area in the panhandle, as well as many other areas.
In addition, we need to stay on target with the city finances. There is a need to explore ways to ensure financial sustainability for our operating budget, and in particular, public safety. As a life long banker who has been involved in strategically managing sizable budgets, I am committed to add insight and guidance to this process. I will operate with a mindset that we will run based on needs vs. wants to direct funding to those key services needed to run our City. We will be open and transparent and accountable.
Our City Council executive leadership team is going through change. Our Mayor is retiring. If re-elected, I will be able to sustain the momentum and leverage my experience & trust with the other council members, staff and my business experience to create positive action. I will be able to contribute and drive meaningful change without the long learning curve.
I will continue to engage with residents to listen to their inputs, ideas, concerns and thoughts. This will allow me to best serve based upon the needs of our residents. My goal is to help our City by working together with residents, City staff and council members. I have my ideas and inputs, but I will bring a collaborative approach to help guide us to the overall best solutions to create a long term, sustainable, vibrant city that we are all proud to live, work, play and shop.
I look forward to serving the City of Wyoming! If you would like to learn more about me and my background, you can visit www.electrobarnoys.com
What key issues would I focus on if elected:
If elected, the key priorities that I would want to focus on are:
Public safety – It is critical that we have a safe community. I will stand with our public safety officers in providing them the resources needed to keep our community safe.
Fiscal responsibility – I have extensive experience in budgets and finance and will add a new perspective and will treat our finances as I would my own. Your tax dollars will be treated with care and respect.
Planned development – Ensure we have a strong master plan that will put the right uses in the right areas, grow strong business and enhance quality of life.
Supporting an environment for small business to prosper
DR. RENEE HILL–Wyoming Council Member at Large (Incumbent)
Occupation: Doctor of Physical Therapy, (Wyoming Council Member at Large)
Why are you running for office? To preserve the Constitution of the United States of America as one nation under God.
Two issues you are focused on?
Appropriate use of the hard-working tax dollars our residents and businesses pay to the City.
How to engage more of the residents and businesses to be more involved with our City.
CASSIE KAWKA-VLAHOS –Wyoming Council Member at Large
Occupation: Insurance Compliance Specialist
Why are you running for office? I am running for Wyoming City Council At-Large because I believe local government functions best when residents feel informed, heard and connected to the decisions that impact their daily lives. My goal is to help our city government create that trust and connection. I believe residents deserve a representative who will reach out to them, listen, communicate openly and work collaboratively to resolve issues and improve our community.
Two issues you are focused on: Transparency and Communication
DANIEL RIVERA – Wyoming Council Member at Large
Occupation: Political Manager, States Project
Why are you running for office? I’m running for Wyoming City Council At-Large because I believe our city government should be efficient, accessible, and responsive to every resident. As someone born and raised in Wyoming, I want to give back to the community that invested in me and help build a stronger future for all families.
Two issues you are focused on:
Investing in strong neighborhoods through parks, local businesses, and community engagement.
Government efficiency and accountability.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 80TH DISTRICT CANDIDATES
LILY CHENG-SCHULTING – State Representative, 80th District (D)
Occupation: Disability Rights Advocate, Founder of the Disability A-TEAM of West Michigan, and Community Organizer
Why are you running for office?
After mobilizing a grassroots movement and achieving meaningful, systemic change for almost all of the special education schools in Kent County, I decided to run for legislative office to create many real solutions and positive change for all people.
Since my family and I have experienced prejudice through the years, I want to make sure that noone faces discrimination because of the color of their skin, their race, their background, who they love or worship, or for any reason.
Moreover, I am not just an immigrant and a woman of color, I am also a proven community organizer and human rights advocate for over a decade. This combination makes me the worst nightmare of Trump, the oligarchy, fascism, and any racist attacks in our communities.
In this race, I am also the authentic Progressive fighter for a multicultural, working class government. Of utmost importance in our Democracy is a government of, by, and of the people, including working families, diverse families, women, immigrants, and all who need a stronger voice amid our power structure. Moreover, I am the only candidate for State Representative who Bernie Sanders and Abdul El-Sayed have ever endorsed in West Michigan. Although other candidates coop the term Progressive, I am the only candidate in my race who the Progressive Caucus of the Michigan Democratic Party has endorsed.
Two issues you are focused on:
Two issues or bills, among many issues, which need help immediately and continuously, are bills for increasing the wages of direct care workers and increasing funding for public education and support services for students with disabilities and mental health challenges.
Additionaly, I will dedicate my skills as a proven coalition builder and community organizer to listen and create many real solutions, including but not limited to:
· And ensuring a higher quality of life and human dignity for everyone in HD80 and Michigan
· Affordable Housing options
· A living wage and higher wages
· Abolishing ICE
· DriveSafe Bills
· Universal Healthcare for All or Single Payer Healthcare
· Shutting Down Line 5
· Preventing and protecting the public from Data Centers
· Women’s Rights
· LGBTQ Rights
WYOMING COUNCIL MEMBER, 1ST WARD CANDIDATE
KYLE BRETHAUER – Wyoming Council Member, 1st Ward)
Occupation: IT Project Manager Why are you running for office? I am passionate about helping people Two issues you are focused on: Improving city services and managing city expenses.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 83RD DISTRICT CANDIDATE
CINDY RAMIREZ – State Representative, 83rd District (R)
Throughout the 2026 concert season, Acrisure Amphitheater has made a donation to be nice. in honor of each show that performs at the venue, supporting mental health awareness and education in West Michigan.
During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, be nice. is recognizing and thanking Acrisure Amphitheater for this meaningful support.
“Music has a unique ability to bring people together and create a sense of connection and community. We’re proud to support be nice. and its work to make mental health education accessible throughout West Michigan and beyond,” said Richard MacKeigan, Acrisure Amphitheater General Manager. “Recognizing each artist who performs at Acrisure Amphitheater with a gift to be nice. is one way we can extend the impact of those shared experiences beyond the venue and into the community.
“We are incredibly grateful to Acrisure Amphitheater for recognizing the importance of mental health and supporting our work,” said Christy Buck, president and founder of be nice. “Every artist who takes the stage brings people together, and we’re grateful that each performance is also helping strengthen mental health education in our community.”
The donations support be nice.’s work providing mental health and suicide prevention education in schools, workplaces and communities throughout West Michigan.
About the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan – be nice.
The Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan’s signature program, be nice. is an upstream mental health and suicide prevention program that equips individuals to gain knowledge and have confidence to take action. The four-step action plan—notice, invite, challenge, empower—fosters a culture of awareness and support in schools, workplaces, and communities, encouraging education, early intervention and connection to professional help when changes in mental health occur. Learn more at benice.org.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights football show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Sept. 25.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: Rockford at East Kentwood, Friday, Oct. 2.
Gavin Bouma led the Sailors with eight tackles. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
Last season, South Christian lost four games by a touchdown or less. This season, with many of those same players back, the Sailors are coming out on the other end of those close games.
Last Friday evening, South Christian won a second straight game by three points or less when it defeated Zeeland West 19-16. The Sailors won the game in dramatic fashion as Hudson Kerstetter kicked a 19-yard field goal with two seconds remaining on the clock. The win improved South Christian’s record to 4-1 for the season, while Zeeland West fell to 4-1.
“The biggest unknown coming into the season was that we lost four games by seven points or less last season,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown. “A lot of those guys are back from that team, but you can’t just assume that they learned from that experience and will win those games this year. Understanding it and doing it are two different things.”
South Christian played with the lead for most of the game as it took a 6-0 edge during the first quarter. Brody Shilts scored the first Sailor touchdown of the game when he ran in from two-yards out midway through the first quarter putting the Sailors up 6-0.
South Christian led 13-0 at halftime
The Sailors upped the lead to 13-0 late in the second quarter as Houston Wildeboer connected with Jesse VanderGriend on a 19-yard touchdown pass with 27 seconds remaining in the first half. Kerstetter added the extra point giving the Sailors a 13-0 margin heading into halftime.
South Christian increased its lead to 16-0 at the 8:24 mark of the third quarter when Kerstetter kicked a 25-yard field goal.
Zeeland, however, was not about to go down without a fight and the Dux got on the scoreboard late in the third. West quarterback Drew Albrecht ran in for a touchdown from four-yards out with 2:51 remaining in the third. Albrecht then hit Kenny Howe with a pass to add a two-point conversion that shaved the Sailor lead in half to 16-8.
West tied the game midway through the fourth quarter as Brandon Holman ran in from four-yards out for a touchdown with 6:43 remaining. The Dux added the two-point conversion to tie when Albrecht ran it in.
The game came down to the final drive which Kerstetter capped with the field goal with two seconds left.
“Our defense did a really good job,” Brown said. “They did not give up any big plays. Zeeland was getting a lot of three and four-yard gains and picking up first downs, but they didn’t break any big plays. That was a big thing for us, to focus on limiting the explosive plays. That’s how Zeeland hurts teams.”
Gavin Bouma led Sailors with eight tackles
The South Christian defense was led by Gavin Bouma who totaled eight tackles and Jack Weiss, seven. Jack Buist, Brody Shilts and Xander Burgess added six tackles apiece, while Nathan Potter totaled five. Joe Gritter, Daxton Blackport, Cameron In’tHout, Cody Jones and Jackson Ringnalda all added four tackles in a total team effort on defense.
Houston Wildeboer led South with 81 yards on 15 carries
On the offensive side of the ball, Houston Wildeboer led the Sailor ground game with 81 yards on 15 carries. Wildeboer also completed four of five passes for 27 yards. Austin Burgess also connected on seven of 10 passes for 63 yards. Jesse VanderGriend led South in receiving with four catches for 65 yards.
The win against Zeeland West comes after a big 34-33 comeback win against Unity Christian the week before. In that game the Sailors trailed 27-7 at halftime before rallying in the second half to win the game 34-33.
“I think the kids had to believe,” Brown said. “To say we got a shot and actually do it is another thing. I think we kick started that in the second half when we started it by running the kickoff back for a touchdown. After that our defense played lights out and we stopped them on back-to-back three and outs. Our offense also scored after both of those stops.”
With those wins, the Sailors improved to 4-1 at the midpoint of the season, while playing through the most demanding part of the schedule. South has wins against 4-1 Zeeland West, 3-2 Unity Christian and East Grand Rapids, with the lone loss against 4-1 West Catholic.
“If you told me we would be 4-1 after our first five games I would’ve been ecstatic,” Brown said. “The season is long, however, so we have to continue to get better. I’m definitely happy with how we’ve answered since the loss to West Catholic. We played Unity Christian which got to Ford Field last year and Zeeland West which made it two years ago. To get these two wins after that loss says a lot about the kids, their resiliency and ability to find a way to win.”
The main entrance to the new Kentwood Community Center. (Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
By Cris Greer Managing Editor Wyoming-Kentwood News Today greer@wktv.org
Way back in 2003 as a city engineer, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley was impressed with an architectural rendering that he found in a closet.
“This was the the first time I knew that the Kentwood Leadership wanted a space like this at this location,” said Kepley, in his fourth term. “I remember seeing this building on this site, and I knew, ‘Wow, they’re looking way into the future because they don’t even own the land to build this building.'”
Kepley addressed local media Friday morning during a sneak-peek tour of the new Kentwood Community Center (located at 4755 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood), which officially opens on Oct. 5, but will hold a Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“So, 23 years later, we’re here, we’re standing in this place that will encourage our residents to strengthen their body, learn new skills, survive the cold months, with lots of natural light and positive physical things to do while having fun with friends and meeting new ones.”
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley speaks during a Media Walkthrough of the new Kentwood Community Center. (Photo WKTV/Sam Rangel)
Kepley said the large-scale project officially began in 2017, when the City turned 50, after asking and listening to “all his bosses,” the Kentwood residents. He asked them what they wanted to see Kentwood look like in the next 50 years.
“We did a reach out with surveys and had gatherings of community involvement, and got a lot of feedback,” Kepley explained. “And what came was a list, which I affectionately call my honey-do list. The list contained items like the Farmer’s Market, an expanded trail system, improved parks, and most importantly, a centralized Community Center. Items like the Farmer’s Market, we were able to knock out pretty quick, but others like the Community Center, that had a rather large price tag, it’s gonna take some time to bring it to fruition.
“We hired a consultant, and they created a Master Plan for our Parks and Rec, and programs that would address most of the items on the honey-do list.”
At first, north of $50 million
At the time, Kepley said the cost of implementing the list was north of $50 million, but today, that number was really closer to $70 or 75 million.
“At the time, we did not have the $50 million to do this, but most importantly, we were not going to build a nice and shiny thing that we couldn’t maintain,” Kepley said. “I mean, how many times have you gone into the city or places where they have a bright, shiny thing, and all of a sudden, three years later, it is not good. Things are broken. They didn’t think about sustainability.
“It was about building quality, but operating at excellent levels, but most importantly, sustain the new and shiny infrastructure for generations to come. We did not have the resources to build and to sustain the desired new infrastructure that our residents wanted.”
Kepley said they took the Parks and Rec honey-do list before the voters and got it approved.
Ended up at $30 million
“To pay for the Community Center, which cost nearly $30 million, the City did use some of the millage dollars, general fund dollars, a lot of savings, and donations from the generous community, and $9 million, the proceeds from a new municipal bond,” Kepley said. “We wanted to make sure this building is affordable and attainable for as many people as possible. All this helps to ensure that Kentwood residents can experience this beautiful space today, and most importantly for generations to come.
“I’m extremely excited. I think we nailed it, and it shows, it shows the quality and the care.”
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
Kentwood Community Center Fact Sheet
*67,500 Square Feet *$30 Million Price Tag *Offers Everything From fitness and sports to dining, events, enrichment and everyday opportunities to connect *3 Full Basketball Courts in the main gymnasium (20,828 square feet), 16 basketball hoops. *Gym Options: Can be configured with three volleyball courts or nine pickleball courts. *Maple Gym Floor: Uses the same flooring system used for the NCAA Final Four and was manufactured in the Upper Peninsula. *Elevated Indoor Walking Track: 8 laps = 1 mile *Fitness Center: (4,407 square feet) Features cardio, strength and conditioning, free weights and accessible equipment for a variety of ages, abilities and fitness levels. *Multi-Sport and Golf Simulator: Play virtual golf courses and a variety of interactive sports and games year-round. Reserve for an hourly fee. *The Bistro: Freshly prepared and grab-and-go food, smoothies, specialty coffee, snacks, beer, wine and more. Open to members and non-members. *Child Watch: A safe, welcoming space for children ages 3-10 while parents and guardians enjoy the Community Center. Available to members and day pass holders. $4 an hour per child, 10 hours for $30 *The Grove: A flexible 55X75 foot event venue for up to 175 guests for weddings, corporate events, birthdays and other celebrations.
Membership INFO Memberships are available to Kentwood residents and non-residents, with discounted rate for residents and options for individuals, couples, seniors, households and teens. Resident memberships start at $30 per month. Day passes also are available for visitors who want to experience the facility without an ongoing membership.
Membership Includes: *Fitness Center *Walking Track *Drop-In Sports *Member Discounts
For more information, call 616-656-5279 or CLICK HERE
Be sure to check out SouthPrize 2026, a one-day art competition under the ArtPrize umbrella, celebrating local artists while encouraging residents and visitors to explore businesses throughout Southtown’s six business districts.
SouthPrize takes place from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, in the following Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority districts: Alger Heights, Boston Square, MLK & Eastern, Madison Square, Seymour Square and South Division.
A variety of activities will happen at Hub07, located at 1534 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, including an art expo, live screen printing, live performances, break dancing, and more.
Look for the SouthPrize sign in each district, then hop on a free trolley or bus to tour participating venues. Transportation will run approximately every 15 minutes. After viewing the artwork, guests can vote in person only at Hub07 for their favorite artist.
“Our goal is for everyone to experience the art, support local businesses, and enjoy a fun-filled day throughout the Southtown community,” said Nina Thompson, SouthPrize Team.
“The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority Board is committed to strengthening the Southtown district by reinvesting in its growth and development. Through Tax Increment Financing (TIF), we allocate resources to enhance infrastructure, support local businesses, and improve the overall experience for residents, visitors and stakeholders.”
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights football show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Sept. 18.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: Forest Hills Central at Wyoming: Friday, Sept 25
The City of Kentwood will celebrate the grand opening of the new Kentwood Community Center on Saturday, Sept. 26, inviting the community to explore the new facility, enjoy family-friendly activities, live music, food, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Following the grand opening celebration the facility will officially open to the public at 5:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5.
Grand Opening Celebration
The Grand Opening Celebration takes place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at the Kentwood Community Center, 4755 Walma Ave. SE.
Kentwood Community Center. (Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood)
The event will include:
Ribbon-cutting ceremony: 1 p.m. Remarks from the Mayor and more
Guided tours: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.
Family-friendly activities: 2 to 5 p.m. throughout the building
Giveaways for the first 500 attendees, while supplies last. Look out for Golden Tickets for 10-day passes.
Food:
Food trucks: Dune Buggy, Tarriko Taqueria, and Rub and Grub LLC
Desserts from The Bistro
Alcohol available for purchase from The Bistro and outside bars for adults 21 and older.
Live music: Signal Trip from 3 to 5 p.m. and Klay N’ The Mud from 6 to 8 p.m.
No registration is required to attend the Grand Opening Celebration. More information is available HERE.
General Public Opening: Monday, Oct. 5
The Community Center officially opens to the public at 5:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5.
The additional preparation time will allow the Community Center team to complete staff training and ensure employees are confident and ready to provide a quality customer experience from Day One.
“Our staff has worked incredibly hard to prepare the building, programs, and services for the community,” said Val Romeo, director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “We want every person who walks through our doors to feel welcomed and have a great experience, and this additional time will help us make sure we’re ready.”
Founding Member billing will begin Oct. 5, not Sept. 28. Founding Members will not be charged for their membership before the Community Center’s public opening.
The Kentwood Community Center offers a variety of spaces and amenities designed to serve residents and visitors of all ages, including an indoor walking track, fitness center, gymnasium, Bistro, event spaces, outdoor amenities, programs, and activities.
For more information about the Kentwood Community Center, membership options, programs, and the Grand Opening Celebration, visit Kentwood.us/CommunityCenter.
More than 1.5 million caps and other pieces of medical waste from University of Michigan Health-West hospital have been transformed into a colorful ArtPrize installation.
Casey “KC” Chubb, an anesthesia support technician at UM Health-West, spent more than two years collecting materials that otherwise would have been discarded and turned them into “Be Your Own CAPtain,” an underwater scene featuring CAPtain the octopus and Taneel the eel.
About 90% of the caps came from medication bottles used during surgery. Look closely and you’ll also find syringe caps, CO2 absorber tops, surgical timeout markers and other medical materials incorporated into the artwork … that would otherwise be dumped in a landfill.
The project became a hospital-wide effort as Chubb’s coworkers helped collect materials and encouraged her to enter ArtPrize.
ArtPrize contestant Casey “KC” Chubb, a UM-Health West anesthesia support technician, spent more than two years collecting materials that otherwise would have been discarded to create “Be Your Own CAPtain.” (Photo Courtesy: Casey Chubb)
Per her Artist Statement at ArtPrize, Chubb said, “Nearly every department within my employed hospital has saved and contributed to this bigger picture. As well as my community of family & friends from all over our glorious country. They, too, have all made a positive impact on this world by simply saving one CAP!
“Originally created, CAPtain the octopus & Taneel the eel, is my first attempt at recycled art. For something fun to enjoy around the family pool starting back in early 2024. Transformed into encouragement from the unity of people that help contributed, to share it with the world.
“Recycling not only keeps our incredible planet thriving, but it also unclutters your mind. So your eyes can see.”
ArtPrize, founded in 2009, runs from Sept. 18 through Oct. 3. Per its website, “ArtPrize is an international art competition and cultural festival held annually in Grand Rapids, Michigan – a celebration of ideas, conversation, experimentation, and inclusiveness. Each year, we welcome more than 900,000 visitors to experience the transformative power of art. Discover work by thousands of artists from around the world as our city transforms into a living canvas.”
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
Heading into the new season, the East Kentwood football team had some high expectations. So far, the Falcons are proving those expectations correct, as three games into the season the team has reeled off three consecutive double-digit wins.
After opening the season with a 55-0 win against Southfield A&T, Kentwood beat Byron Center 42-14 and Grandville 56-35 in the OK Red opener.
In the latest win against Grandville, the game was not as close as the final score indicated as the Falcons led 42-14 at halftime. Kentwood jumped out to a 21-7 lead at the end of the first quarter before doubling the score in the second quarter.
East Kentwood mixed its passing game and the run to gash the Grandville defense. The Falcons totaled 224 passing yards and added 241 yards rushing for a total of 465 yards.
Senior quarterback Colin O’Connor connected on 13-of-20 passes for 224 yards and tossed five touchdown passes to pace the attack while adding 30 yards rushing.
East Kentwood quarterback Colin O’Connor. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
Stephan Jones led the receiving corps with five catches for 97 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Ezekiel Ferrell caught three balls for 39 yards, while Austin Nelson caught one pass for 52 yards and a touchdown. Nelson also added a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
Stephan Jones. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
The ground game, which produced 241 yards rushing on 14 attempts (17.2 avg.), was paced by Dallas Moody, who carried the ball three times for 147 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
Chris Thompson led with 10 tackles
On the defensive side of the ball, Chris Thompson led the Falcons with 10 tackles, followed by Donavan Jones with seven; Alijah Bondon, four, including two quarterback sacks and a tackle for loss. Dmari Love-Simmons and Tyler Meeuwsen both added six tackles, including a tackle for loss, while Jeremiah Adams, Kenneth Harris and Jayden Stewart also had six apiece.
The Grandville win capped an opening third of the regular season that saw the Falcons hit on all cylinders in the three wins.
“We definitely feel good about every win we can get,” said East Kentwood Coach Tyrone Spencer. “We want to continue to build on that and get better each day in every way we can.”
One area the Falcons will work on is keeping the focus up the entire game.
“We were up 42-14 at the half against Grandville,” Spencer said, “but we were outscored 21-14 in the second half. We also had four penalties in the second quarter. We have to make sure we remain focused in the second half.”
The Falcons are averaging 51 points per game and capable of striking through the air or via the ground game.
Season Stats
O’Connor has completed 71% of his passes for 587 yards with nine touchdown passes against one interception. Stephan Jones leads the receivers with 15 catches for 276 yards (18.4 avg.) and five touchdowns. Nelson has caught two passes for 101 yards and a pair of scores.
Moody leads the running game with 334 yards rushing (15.9 avg.) and six touchdowns.
“Our guys are doing a great job on offense,” Spencer said. “They are executing the gameplan and staying on schedule. Our quarterback is also doing a great job of putting us in the best situations. The guys we are counting on are doing a really, really good job of coming through. Also, a shout out to the offensive staff. They are doing a phenomenal job working with our offense.”
On the defensive side of the ball, Thompson leads the defense with 25 tackles. Bondon is the top playmaker on defense with 4.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Love-Simmons has 16 tackles along with three tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks, while Donavan Jones and Major Barnes both have 17 tackles apiece.
East Kentwood looks for win No. 4 Friday when it goes on the road to face a Grand Haven with a 2-1 record.
“We have to focus on Grand Haven,” Spencer said. “It will be a challenge to win on the road against a really good Grand Haven team. Our guys will have to be focused and play a full four quarters. I tell our guys we have to get one percent better each day. Offense, defense and special teams, we have to continue to get better and work the kinks out.”
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights football show featuring Host Mike Moll.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: NorthPointe Christian at Godwin Heights: Friday, Sept 18
One person was injured following a shooting in the early morning hours Tuesday of the 700 block of Leisure Drive SW.
At approximately 2:05 a.m. on September 16, 2026, officers from the Wyoming Police Department responded to a report of a shooting in the 700 block of Leisure Drive SW. Upon arrival, officers located an adult female who had been shot. Officers immediately provided medical care until EMS personnel arrived. The victim was then transported to a local hospital for treatment, where she remains in stable condition.
No arrests have been made at this time. Detectives from the Wyoming Police Department, along with members of the Forensic Science Unit, are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org
After more than three decades of dedicated service to the Kentwood community, Fire Chief Brent Looman is retiring from the Kentwood Fire Department. Chief Looman’s final day is Jan. 8, 2027.
As the City celebrates Chief Looman’s distinguished career, the search begins for the next chief who will lead the department into the future, building upon the strong foundation already in place.
Looman began his career with the City of Kentwood in 1991 as a part-time firefighter. Over the next 35 years, he advanced through the department’s ranks, serving as fire inspector beginning in 1997, fire marshal beginning in 2000, deputy fire chief beginning in 2007, and fire chief since 2011.
“Chief Looman is a tremendous example of a true public servant whose character exemplifies a caring soul using his profession and dedication to serve his community especially when they need him most,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “For more than three decades, Brent has grown alongside the Kentwood Fire Department, taking on greater responsibility at every step and ultimately leading the department. We are grateful for his leadership, his commitment to our residents, and the countless ways he has served Kentwood. While we will certainly miss having him as our Fire Chief, we are so proud to celebrate everything he has accomplished and wish him all the best in his retirement.”
During Looman’s tenure as Fire Chief, the Kentwood Fire Department has continued to evolve to meet the needs of a growing community. One of the department’s newest investments is the Kentwood First Responder Training Facility, which provides dedicated space for firefighters and police officers to train together and prepare for the complex situations they may encounter in the field.
The department today serves the community from three staffed fire stations with approximately 55 employees and has built a reputation for professionalism, service and operational readiness. These investments, along with a strong culture of professional development, provide a solid foundation for the department’s next chapter.
As the City prepares for this leadership transition, Kentwood is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking fire service leader to serve as its next Fire Chief.
The next Fire Chief will lead a high-performing department while serving as a member of the City’s executive leadership team. The Chief will work closely with the Mayor, City Commission, department directors, employees, and regional partners to advance strategic priorities while ensuring exceptional public safety services for the community.
The ideal candidate will be an accomplished fire service leader who is comfortable leading during major incidents, developing future leaders, managing budgets, navigating labor relations, and representing the department throughout the community. Kentwood is seeking a visible, engaged, collaborative, and decisive leader who values competence, accountability, and strong relationships.
“This is an exciting opportunity for a fire professional to join an already successful organization and help define where the Kentwood Fire Department goes next,” Kepley said. “We are looking for a public servant who will lead the department in serving our community, strengthen the department’s culture, and continue building the strong relationships that are vital to provide excellent public safety services.”
The City will begin its first review of resumes on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. Candidates interested in learning more about the position and applying are encouraged to visit the recruitment page.
The City of Kentwood thanks Chief Looman for his 35 years of service and looks forward to welcoming the next leader of the Kentwood Fire Department.
Girls in Aviation Day. (Photo Courtesy: Women in Aviation International Great Lakes Chapter/Luke Koeman. Used with Permission)
By Cris Greer Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Managing Editor greer@wktv.org
At the young age of seven, Samantha Perry was a “lucky” traveler on a small private plane which made a lasting impression.
“My dad was working for a fastener company and a large automotive organization needed an emergency part that was causing a production outage, and his company rented a small private plane to fly him from Michigan to Chicago to get the required part,” said Perry, who is on GE Aerospace’s cybersecurity team and president of the Great Lakes Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI). “It was because I tagged along with him in that plane that I caught the ‘bug’ for aviation, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
“While open to all genders, our initiative is designed to expose school-aged females to the aviation industry and spark inspiration about the career opportunities available in aerospace.”
Since becoming president, Perry’s highlights have included bringing Girls in Aviation Day back to Grand Rapids, expanding the chapter board to increase collaboration, and creating strong partnerships with other midwest WAI chapters (and partner organizations) to expand the reach of their professional network.
Girls in Aviation Day. (Photo Courtesy: Women in Aviation International Great Lakes Chapter/Luke Koeman. Used with Permission)
“Many Women in Aviation International Chapters across the globe host a Girls in Aviation Day event,” Perry said. “The Great Lakes Chapter has held about seven events since inception. However, this is our second year hosting the event with capacity to facilitate larger-scale attendance.”
Girls in Aviation Day Details
Time/Date: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19 Location: AVFLIGHT, 4211 Cassard Ln., Grand Rapids Featuring: –Drone activities –Flight simulator –Static aircraft displays –Airfield/hangar/ARFF tours –Meet Rosie the Riveter and Jerry the Jet
Girls in Aviation Day. (Photo Courtesy: Women in Aviation International Great Lakes Chapter/Luke Koeman. Used with Permission)
The Mission
“Women in Aviation International is the largest nonprofit organization that envisions a world where the sky is open to all, and where aviation and aerospace dreams are possible without barriers,” said Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “The WAI Great Lakes Chapter is building an inclusive, diverse and global aviation and aerospace industry – starting here in the Great Lakes Region.”
Members vary in age and career stage, from high school senior to retirees.
“In our chapter, some members are corporate pilots (business jets), some are airline pilots, some are certified flight instructors,” explained Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “We have some non-flying occupations too, including, aircraft mechanics, airport operations officers, flight dispatch personnel, trip schedulers, line technicians, aircraft management staff, aviation authors, avionics manufacturers, aerospace engineers, FAA employees, and more.”
“Goal is to increase female representation”
“There is a significant gender gap in most aspects of aviation, and our goal is to increase the female representation in all aerospace occupations. While there are certain aspects of aviation that have larger female populations (flight attendants, for example), other occupations (engineering and maintenance, for example) could benefit from increased diversity.”
Seventy-five years! Whether you want to sing Happy Birthday or just wish them a wonderful anniversary celebration— know this:
“The Grand Rapids Chorus is one of the longest running female barbershop singing organizations in the world,” said Pattee Bender, Kentwood resident and longtime member of the group.
Barbershop is four-part harmony a cappella singing.
Of course, the milestone of being in existence for 75 years deserves notoriety and recognition. And, of course, a gala.
“We are so excited about our 75th Diamond Jubilee Gala,” said Colleen Pierson, a 10-year member.
The event takes place at 3 p.m. on September 19 at DeVos Center for Arts and Worship.
Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines celebrates 75th Anniversary. (Photo Courtesy: Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines)
Master Director Holli Houtz doesn’t want to give too much away on the content of the show, but she promises, “Lots of memorable moments throughout with former members and directors taking the stage, a new musical arrangement and memories of the 75 years. There also will be a very special quartet called Duly Noted that will travel to West Michigan to perform.”
Members from age 19 to 92
The Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines has performed all over the world with recent excursions to Ireland and Pearl Harbor. They currently have members from all across Michigan ranging in age from 19 to 92.
“We are always looking for new members,” Houtz explained. “You don’t have to be able to read music, just the ability to sing. Music, performing and singing come from the heart.”
For more information on joining The Grand Rapids Chorus please CLICK HERE.
Tickets for the 75th gala performance are available at the door or CLICK HERE.
Kent District Library holds 15th annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest, which drew over 1,000 entries last year. Michigan writers of all ages are invited to enter, with separate categories for youth, teens and adults.
Winning entries will be published and the top writers will receive cash prizes.
“With this being the 15th year for the contest, we’re excited to offer 15 cash prizes for the winners this year, more than any previous year of the contest,” says Josh Mosey, KDL’s digital marketing strategist and leader of the Write Michigan committee. “I personally know authors and publishing professionals whose careers have been launched by this contest. Even if someone doesn’t feel like a writer, I’d encourage them to give this contest a chance. After all, if you write, you are a writer.”
Stories can be submitted at writemichigan.org through Sunday, November 15. Details include a 3,000-word maximum length; $10 entry fee for ages 18 and above, free for 17 and under; current Michigan residents only; all entries must be submitted online.
There will be five cash prizes given in each of the age groups ― Judges’ Choice ($500), Readers’ Choice ($250) and three Judges’ Choice Finalists ($250 each). The top ten stories in each category will be reviewed by a panel of judges comprised of published authors, editors, professors and literary agents. A public vote will determine the winners of Readers’ Choice.
The 2027 Write Michigan awards ceremony will take place in March, when the anthology will be made publicly available thanks to Schuler Book and their Chapbook Press imprint.
Kent District Library is offering a programming series geared towards writers and aspiring writers, covering topics like telling your story, using AI to Improve your creative writing skills and getting your books into bookstores and libraries. For more details, including dates, times and locations, visit writemichigan.org/writers-conference.
Those interested in entering a story can join an online community of writers through Facebook (facebook.com/WriteMichigan) and Instagram (@write.michigan). Get encouragement, writing tips, challenges and more while you plot your award-winning short story.
For more information on Write Michigan, visit writemichigan.org.
