City of Kentwood voters supported local private attorney Amanda Sterkenburg’s bid to replace Judge William G. Kelly and hold the non-partisan 62 B District Court Judge position, defeating Kent County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Joe Jackson in the non-partisan election, 11,206 to 8,433, in unofficial (uncertified) results from Tuesday, Nov. 3.
The results represent 100 percent of the Kentwood precincts reporting with 27,281 total votes cast representing 68 percent of the registered voters.
Judge Kelly, after more than 40 years on the bench of Kentwood’s district court ,will be giving up his seat this year due to state law mandated age restrictions.
Sterkenburg is currently an attorney representing civil litigants and providing criminal defense. She is a Kentwood resident, a requirement for the position.
“As a long-time resident of Kentwood, I would like to thank the voters for their faith in my ability to preside over a court where fairness and equity are cornerstones,” Sterkenburg said to WKTV. “Our diverse community deserves a court free of bias, where the rights of all are protected. I am honored to serve as your next district court judge.”
Jackson, in an email responding to the results, said to WKTV: “Congratulations to Ms. Sterkenburg, and thank you to my family and all of my supporters. I look forward to continuing to serve our community in my current rolls.”
In pre-election information provided to WKTV, Sterkenburg said “From landlord tenant disputes to criminal misdemeanors, the matters that come before this Court effect the everyday lives of the people who live in Kentwood. The way these cases are handled will shape our community for years to come and I believe I’m uniquely positioned to create positive outcomes through fair and well-reasoned judgments.”
She also specified issues such as an eviction crisis looming due to the COVID-19 pandemic — and the need find a “fair line between landlords who rely on rental income and tenants who have fallen behind,” as well as being committed to “meaningful probation sentences.”
“When the circumstances of a criminal case show a link between substance abuse, lack of education, or mental illness and the conviction offense, we should explore programs that motivate behavioral change and address those factors. This front-end approach strengthens our community and should be made a focus in cases where increasing punitive consequences doesn’t necessarily serve the ends of justice.”
Kent District Library is working to make library patrons aware that an employee who works at the Wyoming and Kelloggsville branches has tested positive for COVID-19.
The person was working at the Wyoming KDL branch, located at 3350 Michael Ave. SW. Oct. 26 – 28 and the Kelloggsville branch, located in the Kelloggsville High School, 4787 S. Division Ave., Oct. 27.
Both of the locations are closed and will reopen Monday, Nov. 9. The KDL Wyoming branch lobby is open for today’s elections, according to officials from the City of Wyoming.
KDL Kelloggsville Branch is closed until Nov. 9. (WKTV)
Materials that are ready for pickup at either location will become available after reopening. Due dates and hold-pickup deadlines will be extended.
KDL officials stated in a release that due to the extensive health safety protocols put into place by the City of Wyoming, Kelloggsville School District and Kent District Library, the risk of patrons contracting the virus from the employee while at the location is assumed to be extremely low. At the same time, library officials wanted the public to be aware of the situation and to assure that safety of the public and staff is the highest priority.
For more information, call 616-784-2007, email ask@kdl.libranswers.com, or visit the KDL website, kdl.org. The remaining 17 KDL branches are opening including KDL Kentwood (Richard L. Root) branch, 4650 Breton Rd. SE; KDL Gaines, 421 68th St. SE; and KDL Grandville, 4055 Maple St. SW.
St. Cecilia Music Center’s scheduled virtual concert with Bob James will move from Nov. 4 to Dec. 17, according to an announcement from St. Cecilia. But the concert is now planned as a “holiday performance from his Traverse City home including surprise guests.”
St. Cecilia’s fall 2020 virtual concert series is free and available via the internet on a computer or smart television. For more information about the St. Cecilia virtual concerts see scmc-online.org/virtual/.
In addition to the rescheduled Bob James concert on Dec. 17, there will be a special concert by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center on Dec. 3 featuring Anne-Marie McDermott and other CMS artists.
Martha’s Vineyard concert packages will be available both concerts. The Martha’s Vineyard packages are a wine and cheese “goodie bag” package which can be purchased and supports St. Cecilia.
These special Martha’s Vineyard concert packages are available by pre-order and will be delivered on the concert date. All proceeds from these purchases benefit SCMC. Priced at $65, each package includes one bottle of wine — a red, white or bubbly — and a block of aged Gouda cheese, nuts, fig spread, crackers, veggie chips and gourmet chocolate. For more information visit here.
At first, the members of the South Christian varsity golf team were not sure if they would have a season. They did and this season has been one for the record books. The team has consistently placed first and second in competitions with a team currently ranked 7th in its class.
Top players have been junior Elle Bolkema and freshmen Ashley Thomasma.
“Both bring a competitive side,” coach Ben Cook said to WKTV. “They push each other and the entire team. They also play a lot of tournament golf in the summer which prepares them well for the season.”
Cook has been coaching golf at South Christian for six seasons. This year there have been many changes, mostly a result of COVID, which almost cancelled the season. Cook said through it all, he tried to keep things fun.
Recently the team placed first in regionals with 336 points and advanced to the State Championships. For the past six seasons they have made it to state and last year they placed 15th.
On Saturday, Oct. 17, the girls attended the Division 3 State Championships hosted at Michigan State University. The team placed third with 330 points and Thomasma was fourth overall on the leaderboard with 75 points.
“I’m very happy with how we played,” Cook said. “It’s our best team score ever.”
Cook noted the team’s goal was to place at least fifth at the championships and they are pleased with their outcome, with him adding “We had great timing and three kids had their personal best.”
Though the season is now over the team says they are not disappointed with their outcome. They look forward to 2021 season and hope to come back stronger than ever before.
The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) recently confirmed that 2020-21 winter sports will begin on time, including boys and girls basketball being able to start conditioning sessions the first week of November, practices shortly thereafter, and games as early as late in the month.
But they also set out a series of “guidelines” for winter sports that schools must follow, including possibly preventing any basketball scrimmages prior to full-game action.
“A number of precautions have been put in place addressing competition limits, numbers of spectators allowed and wearing of face coverings, among a variety of topics,” according to an Oct. 23 statement from the MHSAA. “As with fall sports, scrimmages will not be allowed for winter sports.”
While there may be something gained by not allowing scrimmages, Wyoming High School boys basketball coach Thom Vander Klay said there is something lost.
Wyoming High School basketball coach Thom Vander Klay, coaching during the 2016-17 season. (WKTV)
“We are disappointed in the no scrimmage rule particularly with the fact that we are inexperienced and didn’t get our summer schedule in,” Vander Klay said about the impact on his Wolves program. “We have a lot to figure out regarding cuts and then roles on the team. … A lot of question marks that we can often have answered after scrimmages, and summer and fall games.”
For the Wolves, after-school conditioning will begin Nov. 2, with full practices starting Nov. 16, and its game schedule currently set to start Dec. 8 with a home game against Grand Rapids South Christian.
MHSAA guidelines for all sports, and a cautionary tale
The Representative Council of the MHSAA, during an Oct. 22 meeting, voted to have 2020-21 winter sports begin on time but stressed as series of guidelines “that schools must follow as they continue to work toward limiting the spread of COVID-19 while still providing opportunities for athletes to compete.”
There are sport-specific guidelines (posted on the MHSAA Website at mhsaa.com/sports), and a number of precautions put in place “addressing competition limits, numbers of spectators allowed and wearing of face coverings, among a variety of topics. The guidance also specifically addresses equipment and facilities” for each sport.
In general, according the MHSAA statement, scrimmages will not be allowed for winter sports to “limit mixing of communities outside of official competitions.” And the number of teams at regular-season competitions also will be limited, with a maximum of four schools/teams allowed in competitive cheer, gymnastics, swimming & diving and wrestling. Bowling and skiing competitions will be restricted to a maximum of 72 competitors at one event.
There are no school/team limits for basketball and ice hockey, according to the statement, “as only two teams are able to play each other at one time and those sports may play only one game per day — with fans leaving after their game is complete.”
Host sites must enforce spectator capacity limits on a game-by-game basis, and currently MHSAA guidelines allow two spectators per participant at all contests to begin the regular season. The guideline “could be reconsidered by the Council later in the winter season,” with a possibility of allowing more spectators later while still staying within possible Emergency Orders from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
As per MDHHS requirements, face coverings must be worn by athletes practicing and competing in basketball, competitive cheer, ice hockey and wrestling. But masks are not required for athletes practicing and competing in bowling, gymnastics, skiing and swimming & diving, which all allow for appropriate social distancing, but face coverings are required for those athletes when not involved in active participation.
“The Council believes it is safer to begin Winter practices on time, and keep athletes in school programs where safety precautions are always in effect,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said in supplied material. “With the vastly different circumstances faced by schools in different regions all over the state, an on-time start still allows schools to decide when they feel most comfortable beginning activity — and allows all of them to slowly ramp up their frequency of activity and numbers of spectators attending competitions.
“But let’s be clear,” Uyl said. “Our statewide COVID-19 numbers have to get better. In order for our schools to continue playing sports this winter, and in order for fans to be there to cheer them on, we must continue working to slow down this virus.”
It’s that time of year again. The time when, for some of us, the thought of family get-togethers and holiday parties causes stress and anxiety well before the dates and times are confirmed.
Adding pressure to your busy schedule might be jet-lagged in-laws, moody teens or a coworker that rubs you the wrong way.
And, let’s face it, the country is divided. There’s anger, finger-pointing and blaming that can spill over into your relationships under normal circumstances, relegating November and December to a time of endurance rather than enjoyment.
How are you to cope with such a cocktail of human quirks amid the heightened tensions of holiday expectations? And, no, the answer is not more cocktails.
The following tips from Spectrum Health psychotherapist Anya Nyson, LMSW, won’t give you unique gift ideas or ways to carve out more time.
Instead, her list will make you more aware of yourself and others so you can see things from a different perspective.
“Practicing the following mental tools can help you more fully enjoy what you are wired for—connection and belonging,” she said.
1. Cultivate flexibility
You made elaborate New Year’s Eve plans and paid an inflated price to get into a well-advertised party.
You imagine for weeks how amazing the night is going to be. As the night comes to a close, you’re disappointed it didn’t live up to your expectations.
Conversely, remember that party you forgot about until the day of? You dreaded going and complained silently, but went anyway only to be pleasantly surprised by how nice it was.
“Think of expectations as disappointments waiting to happen,” Nyson said. “Rather than having expectations, cultivate flexibility instead.”
Work on catching yourself dreading a holiday dinner at your in-laws. Then, say to yourself, “I have no idea how this is going to go, but whatever happens, I’ll roll with it.”
2. Be realistic and kind to yourself
You don’t want to make pies from scratch, but you tell yourself you should. You want two helpings of mashed potatoes, but think you shouldn’t go for seconds.
“Your worth as a person is not contingent on your flaky homemade crust and fluffy whipped cream nor for only having one helping of potatoes,” Nyson said. “Try this trick the next time you say should or shouldn’t to yourself: Replace the word should with ‘don’t want to.’ Replace the word shouldn’t with ‘want to.’”
Example:
‘I should make pies from scratch’ becomes ‘I don’t want to make pies from scratch.’
‘I shouldn’t have seconds’ becomes ‘I want seconds.’
“The reworded statement is your truth,” she said. “When you don’t mind doing something, you don’t have to tell yourself you should do it, you just do it. Shoulding is an attempt to guilt yourself into doing or not doing what you think you should or should not do. By being honest with yourself, you’re eliminating the guilt. This truth allows you to choose to do something or not rather than pressuring or shaming yourself.”
Also, if there are any negative comments about your store-bought dessert, you can tell them they will find you being well-rested and in a good mood more palatable than your homemade pie.
3. Don’t poke the bear
You have an overt, or covert, rivalry with your sister-in-law, and you can’t wait to brag about the promotion you received or your children’s many accomplishments.
“When you want to humble-brag, inquire instead how they’ve been since you saw them last,” Nyson said.
Reciprocity is more likely to keep a conversation going and allow you to share. Sincere tellings of achievements are better received than trying to one-up others and help build the relationship rather than drive a wedge in it.
Or, perhaps you find teasing your goth nephew, with his stringy black bangs covering his face, a fun way to get the room laughing and to pass the time before dinner. Rather than belittling your nephew in front of everyone, ask him what his favorite video game is and keep the conversation going. Get to know him as a person rather than judging him.
4. Don’t take the bait
Does Grandpa George feel compelled to share his political views because it’s his house? And, how many times has he reminded everyone he worked hard and paid his taxes, not like those youngsters?
As much as you want to point out to Grandpa George how things have changed since his day, you won’t change his mind, so don’t even go there.
Instead, prepare pat responses ahead of time that you can use repeatedly. Use a sincere tone and say something like, “You are a good man, Grandpa,” or “We appreciate all you’ve done, Grandpa,” and move on. It helps to think of your responses ahead of time, so you have them at the ready.
“Bonus: This is a great parenting tool,” Nyson said. “Rather than arguing with my teens when they didn’t like a no response, I would say, ‘I love you too much to argue,’ in a loving voice, then say nothing else. They quickly learned that this meant I was not going to argue with them, thus eliminating badgering.”
5. Accept that others don’t have to share your values
Do you think Grandpa George should keep his opinions to himself? Do you think your family shouldn’t eat turkey because you’re a vegetarian?
‘Shoulding’ on others will only result in anger and frustration for you. You get angry at others when they don’t do what you think they should, or do what you think they shouldn’t.
Try this trick next time you catch yourself saying should or shouldn’t about someone: Replace the word should with ‘doesn’t have to.’ Replace the word shouldn’t with ‘can.’
Example:
“Grandpa George should keep his opinions to himself” becomes “Grandpa George doesn’t have to keep his opinions to himself.”
“My family shouldn’t eat turkey” becomes “My family can eat turkey.”
“Practicing this helps to remind you every person is unique, and they are not wrong or less than because they have different values from yours,” Nyson said.
6. Don’t personalize
Did your mother make a passive-aggressive remark about how she thinks
women with long grey hair look like witches? Do you think she said it
because you stopped coloring your hair six months ago?
Or, do you believe your father-in-law talks on and on about his financial portfolio, golf handicap, boat and vacation home as a way to make you feel inadequate?
“It is one of the most liberating things you can do for yourself once you no longer personalize what others say,” Nyson said. “What others say is 100% about them because it is based on their values and beliefs. Consider their history and perspective and how that plays into what they say.”
Think of your mother’s generation and what was considered attractive in her era. In her day, women with long, grey hair were grannies in muumuus with no bra. In her day, coloring your hair when it turned grey meant you wouldn’t be that kind of old lady. Things have changed for your generation, but she still has her long-set beliefs.
Maybe your father-in-law grew up believing a person’s value came from what they had, and he’s showing his value to you. Consider his generation and beliefs. They are not about you.
7. Instead of ‘I have to’—say ‘I get to’
A coworker asks you what your plans are for the holidays. You say, “Ugh. We’re exchanging gifts at my partner’s family’s house.”
“Negative thoughts create negative emotions,” Nyson said. “In this case, perhaps dread, annoyance or resentment. A quick reframe is to replace ‘have to’ with ‘get to.’”
“I have to go to my partner’s family’s house,” becomes “I get to go to my partner’s family’s house.” A positive thought will create positive emotions. Using this trick can reduce your level of negativity.
8. Practice self-care before, during and after
Slowing your breathing will slow down your heart rate, helping to reduce your anxiety. The go-to breathing technique Nyson teaches people for anxiety goes like this:
Inhale for a count of 4
Hold your breath for a count of 4
Exhale for a count of 6
Hold for a count of 4
Do several rounds, then return to your normal breathing.
Repeat as needed.
Practice mindfulness meditation.
“Your mind’s job is to think, so you’re not going to stop it from doing its job,” Nyson said. “The goal of mindfulness meditation is to keep your mind in the present moment, noticing your thoughts, emotions, body and external stimuli without judgment. You can significantly improve your mood and outlook on life by making this a consistent practice.”
Using mindfulness apps is a great tool to help. Nyson recommends the app Headspace as a great way to start and maintain the practice.
Maintain a gratitude list. “Identify three unique things you’re grateful for each day,” Nyson said. “I recommend keeping a running list in the notes on your phone or in a journal. By doing this, you can look back and reinforce all the reasons you have to be grateful.”
Don’t overindulge. Alcohol lowers your inhibitions, but it also increases impulsivity by slowing down the activity in the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for rational thought and decision-making.
You know you need sleep, and you know the reasons why. Value your needs over cultural expectations.
“You will feel better when you listen to the wisdom of your body,” Nyson said.
Use a mantra. Repeat a word or phrase to increase your input of positive thoughts. One method is to link it to your breath. Inhale what you want to take in and exhale what you want to send out. Here are a few examples:
Inhale: I am loved. Exhale: I express love.
Inhale: I can do this. Exhale: This, too, shall pass.
Inhale: Joy to me. Exhale: Joy to the world.
“‘Be the light. See the light’ is my mantra,” Nyson said. “Inhaling while thinking, ‘Be the light’ reminds us to be kind to others and to be a force for good in the world. Exhaling, ‘See the light’ prompts us to see what is right in others and the world.”
Choose to be the light at your holiday events. Choose to see the light in those to whom you connect.
“Imagine the holidays if we all worked on this,” she said.
If you are looking to strengthen your reading skills you now have more options at your fingertips with the Kent District Library’s addition of its new SPARKS Collection.
Now available at all 19 KDL branches, the SPARK collection contains books for adult beginning readers. SPARK is a collaboration between the KDL and the Literacy Center of West Michigan. This collection has been in the works since last winter and is now available to the public.
“Literacy is a foundation for a full adult life, providing not only a connection to the world around us but also the independence to make our own choices,” said Samantha Hodge, Collection Development Librarian at KDL. “With the SPARK collection, KDL will be a proud partner for adults working to improve their literacy skills and reach incredible goals.”
Hodge said she has always wanted to create a collection of books for beginning adult readers. In the past, the library had a small collection however it never received much attention. She came up with the idea for SPARK after discovering the High/Lo collection at other libraries across the nation. The High/Lo collection of books with a high-interest level and low vocabulary and readability levels. This way the materials do not intimidate new readers and provide them with interesting subjects.
The SPARKS Collection has a selection of adult beginner readers. (WKTV Journal/Anna Johns)
The Literacy Center of West Michigan guided Hodge in the process of picking books for the collection. This is not the Center’s first time working with the KDL, they have been working with them for the past four years.
The Literacy Center of West Michigan runs an adult tutoring program designed to help non-native speakers learn to speak English. It is the organization’s goal to make West Michigan the region with the highest literacy levels in the nation. Previously, learners would pick up books from the library at the Center but staff at the Center also wanted to have materials available for learners at the public libraries.
“The partnership between KDL and the Literacy Center is supporting adults and children in West Michigan,” said Community Literacy Initiative Director Mike Nassar, . This is a great step to help adult learners in the community.”
According to information provided by the Literacy Center of West Michigan, one in eight West Michigan adults struggle with low literacy. It is the organization’s goal to make West Michigan the region with the highest literacy levels in the nation. The Literacy Center offers one-on-one tutoring, work-related classes, and family literacy programming to students.
“The library wants to partner with you if you want to increase your learning skills or start from the beginning,” Hodge said. “We want to be your partner.”
The collection has had a slow take-off because of the COVID-19 pandemic but the KDL staff is working hard to make the public aware that it is available at all 19 KDL branches and the Bookmobile. For more information visit www.kdl.org
After more than three years of planning and community engagement, the City of Kentwood announced this week that it has adopted an updated Master Plan which will serve as the City’s long-range vision for growth, land use, development and open space conservation.
The Master Plan, according to the announcement, “features goals, policies and recommended actions to guide land-use decisions over the next 20 years. The forward-looking development plan considers the long-range goals and desires of residents and property owners as well as local, regional and market trends.”
The plan was adopted by the Planning Commission in September and then accepted by the City Commission on Oct. 20.
“The Master Plan update process is key to ensuring the detailed visionary planning for Kentwood’s future development in all sectors as our community grows,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “Many people have spent countless hours to ensure Kentwood’s Master Plan is a comprehensive guide for growth and conservation decisions while preserving and improving Kentwood’s excellent quality of life.”
The Master Plan is reviewed at least every five years, and can be modified after review by the Planning Commission. The City’s efforts for the latest Master Plan update began in October 2017. Prior to that, the last update was in 2012.
In general, the update’s goal was to “plan for new population growth and redevelopment while protecting key environmental features, creating sustainable economic opportunities and providing public services,” according to the city statement.
Among the major updates was the implementation of the Form-Based Code land development regulatory tool, specifically along Division Avenue and incorporation of the Silver Line bus rapid transit service along Division Avenue.
The current Master Plan update also focused on “changes related to a few areas that required particular attention,” including Section 13, 263 acres of open land between 28th and 36th streets, Patterson Avenue and East Paris Avenue; Section 34, a 480-acre area between 52nd and 60th streets, the Princeton Estates plat and Wing Avenue; the 28th and 29th Street commercial corridor; and the Division Avenue corridor.
The update process also included plans for the Eastern Avenue and 52nd Street, the city campus, and Kalamazoo Avenue corridor subareas.
“Significant time and valuable engagement with residents, businesses and property owners has led to this plan’s adoption,” Terry Schweitzer, Kentwood community development director, said in supplied material. “We are grateful to all those who shared input and contributed to this critical review process.”
The updated plan and its associated documents are available on the City’s website at kentwood.us/PlanKentwood.
If you have a non-election matter next week in the City of Wyoming, you might want to avoid the Wyoming City Hall on Tuesday.
City officials announced that the city offices would be closed to non-election related visitors on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3.
“This is the same process that we did for the May and the August elections,” said Amanda Moore, communications specialist for the city. “This is so we will be able to process new voters and get them set up to vote either here at city hall or at their precinct.”
The city hall’s parking lot will be set up in as drive-thru for those wishing to register as new voters and to cast their ballot. This is the same set up as what was offered during the primary in August.
The city’s dropbox is located behind city hall. (Supplied)
Voters with absentee ballots will be able to drop off their ballots. There will be some limited services available such as the treasurer’s drive up window will be open as well as the city’s payment/absentee drop-off box. Those with city business can contact the specific city office to make arrangements as well, Moore said.
Due to the capacity limits currently in place because of COVID-19, the city hall can only have 20 people in its lobby. For the past couple of weeks, this has resulted in lines to get into the building as the election draws near.
“I don’t have the exact numbers right now, but I can tell you that we have received more absentee ballots for this election than we have received in the past three presidential elections,” Moore said, adding that the facility has had about 1,500 visitors weekly when it normally averages about 350. “We are assuming this is related to the elections,” she said.
The last day a registered voter can request an absentee ballot is Monday, Nov. 2, at the city clerk’s office. On election day, registered voters must vote at their designated precinct, Moore said. Those with an absentee ballot have until 8 p.m. on election day to return the ballot to the clerk’s office.
Only those registering to vote on election day may request to vote absentee ballot or they can vote at his/her precinct. If a person chooses to vote at his/her precinct, he/she will be given a slip by the clerk’s office so they can vote, Moore said.
For more information about the voting process in the City of Wyoming, click here.
WKTV sports intern Luke Schrock has been following the South Christian High school boys soccer team as the Sailors have advanced this postseason. Prior to the Oct. 29 game against Dowagiac team, he visited the team’s practice and talked with its head coach and one of the Sailors’ senior leaders.
South Christian High School had no problem taking home a MHSAA soccer regional title Thursday, Oct. 29, after a 5-1 win over the Dowagiac Chieftains.
The tournament host Sailors got to a quick start with a goal from senior Cole Huttenga and an own-goal scored by Dowagiac to give South Christian a 2-0 lead before the 25th minute.
Huttenga would score three total goals in the game to compliment an unassisted goal from sophomore Sam Medendorp in the 77th minute. Huttenga, however, credited his success to his teammates.
“My teammates were giving me great balls,” Huttenga said to WKTV, “The corner kicks were great and Levi (DeRuiter), with the really long throw ins, it’s such a weapon and it equates to like fifteen corner kicks.”
Dowagiac’s lone goal came in the 58th minute by Isaac Saavedra on the second of five offensive possessions for the second half.
Sailor head coach Jason Boersma, after the game, said he was proud to be able to continue the tradition of tournament success that he picked up in 2010.
“I kinda got to pick up and continue what had already been started,” Boersma said, “We set it as a goal, and as a program we decided that we were going to be the team that every year would be expected to be there (the state tournament) and to do that is a ton of fun.”
South Christian will travel to Cedar Springs on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 6 p.m., to play the winner of Elk Rapids and Shelby, which is decided Saturday, Oct. 31.
The South Christian boy soccer team after its regional title game win. (Laura Knapp)
“It’s Halloween, everyone’s entitled to one good scare.”
– Brackett, Halloween (1978)
The night sky at about 8 p.m. Halloween with Jupiter and Saturn in the southern sky (right) and the Blue Moon and Mars in the eastern sky (left). (Supplied)
Look to the Skies
Halloween is going to be clear night, which means a good night to look at the stars. And befitting of an evening of strange and spooky things, there will be a lot going in the stars. First three is the Blue Moon, which is when there is a full moon twice in one month, a rare occurrence. But even rare is the Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, which will have the planets only a .1 degree away from each other. The last time that happened was Galileo’s time of about 1623. Talk about a treat!
The Eastern Kille cider kit. (Eastern Kille)
Celebrate Halloween in Beer City
Holidays are the perfect time to relax, sit back, and have a drink. Recently five Michigan breweries brought home a collective six medals from the Great American Beer Festival Competition honoring it’s title as “The Great Beer State.” Stay in and make yourself a drink or go out and support a local distillery in West Michigan-style. In other words, give your taste buds a real treat this Halloween.
Madea at Studio Park
Not a fan of scary movies? Studio Park is showing “Boo! A Madea Halloween” Saturday Oct 31 at 4 p.m. The 2016 film features director, writer, and star Tyler Perry in his classic role as Madea. Madea crashes a Halloween party that her great-niece lies about going to and finds herself in a hilarious attempt to save herself and her family from some spooky characters.
The famous story of Frankenstein came to writer Mary Shelley in a dream in 1817. Mary Shelley is also the youngest author to be on The Observers 100 Greatest Novels of All Time list. Who knew one great novel could just a dream away?
There are a lot of unusual aspects to Godwin Heights High School’s MHSAA football playoff opening game against Hamilton on Friday, not the least of which is that thanks to the luck of the draw the Wolverines will be hosting their first ever home playoff game.
But one thing which is no different from previous years is that Godwin and Hamilton will renew what Wolverine head coach Brandon Kimble says is not a “rivalry” game but certainly a tough game against a familiar foe.
“We are pretty familiar with Hamilton. We’ve been playing them the first game of the year for the last three years, this is our first year not playing them Week 1,” Kimble said to WKTV. “Very well coached program. Very tough. Kids come to play. We are excited. They are familiar with us, we are familiar with them. It is not a rivalry but it will be a good game.”
WKTV caught up with Coach Kimble, and senior defensive/offensive lineman Ru’Quan Buckley to talk about why the game is special to them and to their fans.
WKTV’s Featured Game crew will be at the 7 p.m. game and will rebroadcast the game later that night, and at other times, as well as making it available on-demand at WKTVlive.org.
Last week, Godwin Heights (2-4) at home defeated Comstock Park (1-5), 19-13, in 2 OT, on Oct. 23. Hamilton (also 2-4) lost Oct. 23 at home to Grand Rapids West Catholic, 35-7.
The Godwin vs. Hamilton game is a MHSAA Division 4, Region 14, District 27 matchup. According to the MHSAA, Godwin Heights won a host-field tie-breaker with Hamilton based on opponents’ winning percentage.
WKTV featured games will be on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.
WKTV intern Rachel Weber contributed to this story and video.
The above image shows where Jupiter and Saturn will be around 8 p.m. Halloween night in the southern sky (right side). In the eastern sky (left) is Mars and the Blue Moon. (Supplied)
While many people are discussing the Blue Moon happening this Halloween, there is even a rarer astronomical occurrence taking place right now: the great conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn.
“The last time that Jupiter and Saturn were this close was in 1623,” said Chaffee Planetarium Manager Jack Daleske. “That was when Galileo was alive and he was the first person every to point a telescope to the moon.”
According to earthsky.org, astronomers use “conjunction” to describe the meeting of planets and other objects in the sky. The term “great conjunction” is used to describe the meeting of Jupiter and Saturn, the two biggest worlds in our solar system.
Because Saturn and Jupiter are the slowest-moving visible planets in the solar system — it takes Saturn 29.5 years to move around the sun and Jupiter about 11.89 years —their conjunctions are the rarest. Jupiter and Saturn meet up on average about 19.6 years and the last time that happened was in 2000.
A closer look at Saturn and Jupiter on Halloween night. (Supplied)
However, what makes the 2020 meet up special is that the two planets will be about six minutes or .1 degrees apart. That distance is about a fifth of the diameter of a full moon.
“So if people look to the southern sky, just after the sun sets, they will see Saturn and Jupiter,” Daleske said. The two planets will continue to move closer and closer until Dec. 21. On that date, astronomers will be able to point a telescope at Jupiter and see Saturn behind it.
“Unfortunately for us, the planets will be right on the horizon in our area, so it will be difficult to see,” Daleske said. “This means we will have to relay on others who have a better view.”
This makes for a good reason for people to head out now to see the two big planets together.
“Even in the city with the light pollution making it difficult to see the stars, the planets are brighter and should be visible,” he said.
Also, local weather focusers and the National Weather Channel are showing Halloween to be a clear night, making it a great night —and also a COVID safe activity — to look at the stars.
Blue Moon and Red Mars
While outside, Daleske said people should be able to see that famous red planet, Mars, in the eastern sky.
And of course, there will be that Blue Moon.
“First, the moon won’t be blue,” Daleske said. “Because it is harvest season which means there is a lot of debris in the air which tints our atmosphere, the moon will be more orange.”
Mars and the blue moon will be visible in the eastern sky. (Supplied)
The cycle of the moon is how the current year-calendar was created with there being one full moon a month. A Blue Moon simply refers to two full moons in one month, which Daleske noted shows how the human calendar is not completely accurate (which is the reason some months have 30 days and others have 31 and one month can’t decide between 28 or 29 days). The Blue Moon, which has a host of names depending on when it appears, happens on average about 2.7 years.
What makes the October 2020 Blue Moon unique? Well, it happens on Halloween, the first time in about 76 years according to the Farmer’s Almanac.
“I’m sure it will make it more spooky this Halloween,” Daleske said with a laugh. The real truth? “To be honest, it is just chance. Pure chance,” he added.
Will there be trick-or-treating this Halloween? The answer is yes, although it may look a little different this year.
There has been no state or local mandates cancelling trick-or-treating, however the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has encouraged people to consider alternative Halloween options such as carving pumpkins and then walking around and viewing Halloween decorations or have a virtual costume contest. In fact, there is an entire website, Halloween2020.org, that provides information on risk factors throughout the entire country and recommended Halloween activities.
Traditionally, the Wyoming City Council has never weighted in on specifics for Halloween but instead has left the option up to neighborhoods and families to decide what works best for them. For 2020, the council has kept to that tradition, according to Amanda Moore, communications specialist for the City of Wyoming.
The City of Kentwood, which has its guidelines on its website, is encouraging trick-or-treating from 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. Kentwood also has a curfew ordinance. Unless accompanied by a parent or responsible adult over the age of 21, children who are under 12-years-old must be off the streets by 10 p.m., 13 to 16-years-old by 11 p.m., and 17 years-old by midnight.
Representatives from both cities said they are encouraging community members to practice social distancing, wear a mask when around others, and follow CDC guidelines. In fact, Kent County Health Department representatives said they also are directing residents to the CDC or to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for guidance on having a safe Halloween. Both have put out quite the list of safety practices, so here are the highlights:
Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters
Give out treats outdoors, if possible
Set up a station with individuals bagged treats for kids to take
Wash hands before handling treats
Use hand sanitizer of at least 60% alcohol
And when we say wear a mask, we are not talking about one that disguises but rather the face mask that covers both the mouth and nose. Health officials encourage participants to incorporate the face mask into their costume design.
Participants are being reminded to stay at least six feet apart and of course, if you are sick stay home and/or do not hand out candy.
The Usual Halloween Warnings
For every Halloween, the Kent County Sheriff’s Department and local law enforcement have put out reminders to drivers about large numbers of people out for Halloween and therefore motorists should drive slowly through neighborhoods and keep an eye out for children who might dart out into the street. While the number of trick-or-treaters could be less this year, motorists still should be alert when traveling.
Anyone wearing a costume should be visible after dark so reflective tape on the costume, glow sticks or flashlights are recommended.
Also have everyone wait until after trick-or-treating before digging into the treats so the candy can be inspected and anything suspicious is discarded.
Be respectful and do not visit house without porch or outdoor lights on. Also, if you see something that appears suspicious, report to your local law enforcement or call 911.
Downtown businesses and restaurants in St. Joseph will host Pumpkins on Parade, a pumpkin decorating contest, Oct. 23 through Nov. 1.
Visit participating locations and vote for your favorite pumpkin online! Voting will be available at stjoetoday.com/vote from 10:00am October 23 to 11:59pm November 1. The top three winners will be announced on Monday, November 2 on the St. Joseph Today Facebook page.
Stop by these participating locations to check out their pumpkin display: 221 Main, Baroda Founders, Bistro on the Boulevard, Chartreuse, City of St. Joseph Public Works Department (located at City Hall), Edgewater Bank, G&M Variety, Grins of St. Joseph, Krasl Art Center, Lazy Ballerina Winery, Perennial Accents, Plank’s Tavern on the Water, ReVive Spa, Schu’s Bar & Grill, Silver Beach Pizza, St. Joseph Today, Statements Style Lounge, Sturgis Bank & Trust Co., The Buck Burgers & Brew, The Toy Company, Third Coast Surf Shop, Tim’s Too, Waterfront Framing & Design, and White Pine Winery.
Special thanks to Silver Beach Pizza and Prillwitz Fruit Farms for the coordination and donation of pumpkins for this event.
Catch these upcoming fall and winter events:
Luminary: Friday, Nov. 20 (5:00pm-8:00pm)
Small Business Saturday: Saturday, Nov. 28 (all day)
Window Wonderland: Friday, Dec. 4 (7-8:30 pm)
Reindog Holiday Parade: Saturday, Dec. 5 (3 p.m.)
St. Joseph Today is a 501(c)(3) membership-based organization dedicated to developing and promoting events and businesses in St. Joseph, Mich. and its surrounding communities. For more information about upcoming fall and winter events and details call St. Joseph Today at (269) 985 1111 or visit stjoetoday.com.
Starting this week, the John Ball Zoo has added music to its IlluniZoo — A Glenlore Tale!, which runs through Nov. 15.
The illuminating journey is designed to tell the tale of the connection between wildlife and wild places. Discover vibrant lighted creatures that come alive at night to help tell the tale and experience a magical show of lights and sounds. IllumiZoo – a Glenlore Tale is a mile-long, outdoor nighttime journey through the upper and lower realms of John Ball Zoo. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to walk through.
All music nights are on Thursday and are from 9 p.m. to midnight. The schedule is:
Oct. 29: Electronic Dance Music Night
Nov. 5: Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon Music Night
Grand Rapids’ Eastern Kille Distillery has a little Halloween treat to share, of the adult beverage variety and in two styles: a little traditional and a little gross.
The distillery, located at 700 Ottawa Ave. NW, has two Halloween cocktail kits ready for mixing on that spooky night or any chilly fall evening: a Half Blood Prince kit — ready made for serving with creepy fake eyeballs (not supplied but shown) — and a Hot Rum Cider kit, for those less in the gross-out mood.
The Half Blood Prince cocktail kit can be ordered in the standard size (4 cocktails) or party size (12 cocktails). It features raspberry, pomegranate, blueberry, sage and maple flavorings along with Eastern Kille Aged Rum … to make “blood red cocktails to compliment your favorite scary movies,” we are told.
The Eastern Kille cider kit. (Eastern Kille)
The Hot Rum Cider cocktail kit is intended to be created in a large batch and serves 20 cocktails. Featuring fresh local cider, cinnamon, ginger Eastern Kille Aged Rum, and Appelflappen — a liquor that tastes like the also named Dutch pastry, we assume — this kit creates “a warm punch perfect to enjoy the cool holiday weekend with.”
You can order your Halloween cocktail kits online and pick up at the Eastern Kille Distillery Tasting Room beginning Thursday, Oct. 29. If you would prefer to remain in your vehicle, they are offering curbside delivery.
Eastern Kille Distillery can be reached at 616-893-3305 or by visiting easternkille.com.
Historic distiller Joseph Magnus joins Holland’s Coppercraft
A (really) old Magnus bottle, circa 1903. (Supplied)
It as announced recently that Joseph A. Magnus & Co., a premium brand of award-winning bourbons and dry gins, will relocate its operations from Washington, D.C., to Holland, Mich., later this month.
Joseph Magnus will “share both talent and production space” with Coppercraft Distillery, according to the announcement. “Coppercraft’s distilling team will work closely with Joseph Magnus master blender Nancy Fraley in a space reserved for Magnus’ triple cask blending and finishing process.”
Joseph Magnus master blender Nancy Fraley, doing her thing. (Supplied)
The return to Michigan is sort of a coming home for the brand, as the eponymous Joseph Magnus had a summer home in Oden, Michigan, in the early 1900s, where he was an active and philanthropic member of the community. In 1921, he purchased a tract of land on the shores of Little Traverse Bay and donated it to the City of Petoskey. (If you know the Traverse area you know Magnus State Park as well as other ties to the historic name and brand.)
The celebrated Magnus brand was originally founded in 1892 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and reestablished in 2015 in Washington, D.C.
“We’re excited to be bringing the Magnus brand home to Michigan to support the next phase of our growth,” Ali Anderson, general manager for Magnus, said in supplied material. “West Michigan is known for its storied history of quality craftsmanship and industry and we are proud to contribute to that legacy in our new location in Holland.”
Michigan Brewers Guild members bring home the bling
It was recently announced that five Michigan breweries brought home a collective six medals from this year’s the Great American Beer Festival Competition in Denver, Co., which is said to be the largest commercial beer competition in the world.
The winners included the big and small of Michigan brewers, from Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids to Silver Harbor Brewing Co. in St. Joseph and Stormcloud Brewing Co. in Frankfort. All are members of the Michigan Brewers Guild.
Just for the heck of it, three maybe interesting, maybe boring groups of facts:
Judges the competition evaluated 8,806 entries from 1,720 breweries from all 50 states, and the “socially distanced judging” took place in 35 sessions over 18 days, with strict safety measures in place.
The beer category with the highest number of entries? Juicy or hazy India Pale Ale, with 377.
And, according to the Michigan Brewers Guild, Michigan’s brewing industry contributes more than 21,000 full-time jobs and $872 million in labor income, with a total economic impact of over $2.5 billion. In terms of overall number of breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs, Michigan ranks 6th in the nation — supporting its title as “The Great Beer State.”
After facing two straight ranked opponents in the district tournament, the South Christian High School boys soccer team (16-0-1) jumped out to a 2-0 first-half lead and finished a 3-1 win over the Grand Rapids Catholic Central Cougars (8-4-2) in a regional semifinal at South Christian Tuesday, Oct. 27.
The first Sailor goal came from senior Boston Knapp in the 17th minute, from a long shot outside the box off of a loose ball. South Christian dominated the possession game putting almost constant pressure on the Cougars. Eventually, senior Thom DeVries crossed to sophomore Derek Miedema, who was initially blocked before scoring off the rebound.
Sailors head coach Jason Boersma, after the game, said enjoyed the performance of Knapp, his leading scorer this season, as well as the continued work of fellow seniors Jeff Herrema and Thom DeVries.
“Boston’s a workhorse, he always has been,” Boersma said to WKTV. “He is our lead scorer this year. He kind of goes unnoticed because of the big names of Thom DeVries and Jeff (Herrema), but between those three they have 40 goals and about 25 assists.”
Knapp attributes his success to his teammates.
“It’s not necessarily because I’m the best player it’s because I am surrounded by amazing players that can send great through balls to me,” he said. “Overall, the experience with the team that is going to state has been amazing.”
Catholic Central didn’t have an answer for the Sailors until sophomore team captain Alan Lemus-Rodas assisted senior Philippe Tamba to make the score 3-1 in the 58th minute.
Tamba threatened a few times throughout the match, with two missed shots in the first half, a blocked cross and a blocked free kick in the second half. Catholic Central also slowly gained more possession time as the second half progressed but was only able to finish once with the Tamba goal.
The regional final is set for Thursday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m. with Dowagiac traveling back to regional host South Christian.
Kentwood’s Broad Leaf Local Beer may have to change the way it uses outdoor space for customers as fall turns to winter, but the city is keeping some small business allowances in place to expedite such use. (WKTV)
The Kentwood City Commission has extended changes to local small business zoning requirements and procedures — including temporary use of outdoor space and the suspension of some sign restrictions — as part of the city’s continued efforts to support local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to a statement from the City of Kentwood, the City Commission approved a resolution that extends the changes through October 2021, as recommended by the Kentwood Economic Development Corporation. The changes were set to expire Nov. 1.
The resolution allows for an expedited site plan review process for temporary outdoor retail, food, beverage and personal service uses. The extension also means time limits on temporary sign display and certain business licensing fees remain suspended.
“The resolution we passed in June was intended to ease and expedite businesses’ abilities to serve customers in a manner that’s consistent with evolving public health recommendations,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “As COVID-19 continues to impact our community, the City remains committed to these measures to assist businesses still reeling from the effects of the pandemic.”
Retailers, restaurants and personal service businesses, such as athletic training facilities, wanting to add expanded outdoor spaces for customers may apply for such allowances through a streamlined administrative review process that was put into place earlier this summer to “jump-start the local economy,” according to the city’s statement.
The review and approval of site plans for general retail sales, food, beverage and personal service establishments in the city seeking to utilize outdoor areas, such as exterior building aprons or use of parking areas, are conducted through the Planning Department. (Interested businesses are asked to complete the online application at kentwood.us/businessrestart for consideration.)
Additionally, according to the city’s statement, under the temporary sign moratorium, one temporary sign of up to 32 square feet in area is allowed per business. Other restrictions in the zoning ordinance related to temporary signs, such as sign placement and similar matters, remain in effect.
Also announced was that for the fiscal licensing year 2020-21, City of Kentwood business license fees for all establishments located in Kentwood will be waived with the exception of hazardous material fees and fees for transient, waste hauler, door-to-door and snowplowing licenses.
Gun Lake Casino will host an outdoor family-friendly movie event that is designed to help collect toys for the annual Marine Corps Reserve’s holiday campaign, Toys for Tots.
“Gun Lake Casino has been an ongoing and loyal sponsor of Toys for Tots for many years,” said Jeff LaFrance, director of marketing for Gun Lake Casino. “In 2019, more than $35,000 in new toys were collected for children of Michigan at Gun Lake Casino.
“This year, the number of parents in need of support has grown tremendously. We are hopeful that through our ongoing efforts, Gun Lake Casino will be able to alleviate some of the stress local families feel this holiday season.”
To kick off the annual initiative, Gun Lake Casino will host “Wheels and Reels,” an outdoor fundraiser for all ages. From the comfort of their car, families may watch showings of holiday-themed movies, the first at 6 p.m. and the second at 9 p.m. The large, double-sided screen will be located at the west entrance of the casino where guests will be welcomed by the Marine Corps Reserve ready to collect new, unwrapped toy donations.
Starting this week, those wishing to support Toys for Tots may purchase tickets at gunlakecasino.com/toysfortots. Event tickets must be purchased online, prior to the start of the movie. For a minimum donation of $15 per vehicle, every ticket will include a package of concession-style snacks. All proceeds raised at the event will be used to purchase toys for this holiday season.
Following the family event, until the end of November, guests with new unwrapped gifts, accompanied by a receipt, may receive up to $50 in free slot play for their donation. Gun Lake Casino will participate in the collection of toys for local children until Dec.15. For more information, visit gunlakecasino.com/toysfortots.
Today, The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan State University, Rockford Construction, and the City of Grand Rapids, announced that global self-care provider, Perrigo Company PLC, will establish its new North American corporate headquarters in downtown Grand Rapids. In addition to a capital investment of $44.7 million over the 15-year period of the lease, the expansion will bring more than 170 new jobs to the area. The company opened its first manufacturing facility in 1921 in Allegan.
Founded in 1887 in Allegan, by Luther and Charles Perrigo who ran a general store and apple-drying business. Luther Perrigo had the idea to package and distribute patented medicines and household items for country stores. He launched the “private label” concept as a way to enhance customer loyalty. For no additional cost, Perrigo offered to imprint the store’s name on the labels of epsom salts, sweet oil, bay rum and dozens of other wet and dry goods stocked in general stores.
Over the years, the company grew and when over-the-country prescriptions were made available, it provided Perrigo with opportunities to launch new store brand versions of products such as Advil®, Tylenol®, Flonase®, Allegra®, Prilosec®, Nicorette® and many more. From 1997 to 2013, saw rapid expansion into the global market adding such products as infant formula and animal health.
Today, Perrigo is a leading global provider of quality, affordable self-care products. The company, which employs more than 4,000 people in West Michigan and 11,000 globally, has local operations in Grand Rapids, Holland and Allegan.
The new North American head quarters of Perrigo will be located in the MSU Grand Rapids Innovation Park. (Supplied)
“Michigan State University is excited that Perrigo will be a major tenant in the MSU Grand Rapids Innovation Park,” said Norman J. Beauchamp Jr., M.D., MHS, Michigan State University executive vice president for health sciences. “The focus of the innovation park is to bring industry together with academic research and clinical care along the Medical Mile in order to transform health care together. We are looking forward to significant opportunities to collaborate with Perrigo on efforts to improve access to and affordability of health care.”
The new office will be constructed within Michigan State University’s Grand Rapids Innovation Park being built by Rockford Construction at 430 Monroe Ave. NW, on what is known as the Medical Mile. The 63,550-square-foot office space will primarily house corporate and functional leadership and certain administrative roles, and will feature adaptable workspace to promote collaboration opportunities.
“Perrigo established its roots in West Michigan more than 130 years ago,” said Perrigo’s President and CEO Murray Kessler. “Since then, we’ve become an industry leader and created thousands of jobs in the region. We are excited to continue our growth surrounded by organizations that share our passion for self-care in the heart of a thriving city. We are thankful for all of those involved in making this project a reality, especially Governor Whitmer, The Right Place and their partners at the MEDC.”
The Right Place worked closely with Perrigo, MEDC, Michigan State University, and other community partners to ensure the company continued its growth in the region rather than out-of-state locations in Chicago and Florida. With the approval of a $2M Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant, the MEDC is supporting the expansion through the Michigan Strategic Fund.
Birgit Klohs, President and CEO of The Right Place
“Since 1996, Grand Rapids has been investing in its now world-renowned health industry cluster focused on improving the lives of consumers and patients,” said The Right Place, Inc. President and CEO Birgit Klohs. “The Medical Mile is a thriving hub for research and innovation and Perrigo’s decision to establish its North American Corporate Headquarters here further solidifies the Medical Mile and Downtown Grand Rapids as a destination for business success.”
West Michigan’s life science and medical device industries are growing at a considerable rate of 18.5 percent, outpacing the national average by more than double its growth rate of 9 percent.
The City of Grand Rapids is supportive of the expansion and will be considering a property tax abatement. “This headquarters announcement solidifies the competitive advantage Grand Rapids provides to global companies like Perrigo,” said Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. “We look forward to their investment and its impact in Grand Rapids and the West Michigan region.”
Godwin Heights goes for a two-point extra point conversion after junior quarterback Jeremiah Drake (1) punched in an early Wolverine touchdown in their Oct. 2 home game against Belding. (WKTV)
After a weekend announcement by the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), local Wyoming and Kentwood area teams know where they will be playing in this week’s opening round of an expanded and altered football playoff tournament.
East Kentwood, Wyoming high and Kelloggsville high schools will each be on the road late this week. But South Christian will host the Rockets at East Kentwood High School’s field and Godwin Heights will has also drawn a home game — which will be the WKTV Featured Game of the Week, with delayed broadcast of the game on our cable channels as well as later on-demand availability on WKTVlive.org.
Last week, Godwin Heights (2-4) at home defeated Comstock Park (1-5), 19-13, in 2 OT, on Oct. 23. The Wolverines will host Hamilton (2-4) Friday, Oct. 30, with a 7 p.m. kickoff. Hamilton (also 2-4) lost Oct. 23 at home to Grand Rapids West Catholic, 35-7.
The Godwin vs. Hamilton game was announced Oct. 24 as a MHSAA Division 4, Region 14, District 27 matchup. According to the MHSAA, Godwin Heights won a host-field tie-breaker with Hamilton based on opponents’ winning percentage.
Also in Division 4, Region 14, District 27 matchup, Wyoming Kelloggsville (1-5) will play at Grand Rapids South Christian (5-1). Kelloggsville was idle last week but gained a forfeit win against Hopkins. The Sailors lost their first game of the shortened season, a 28-27 overtime thriller Oct. 23 to visiting Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (The game was last week’s WKTV Featured Game of the Week and is available on-demand at WKTVlive.org.)
All MHSAA playoff tickets will be sold online only via GoFan at https://gofan.co/ to “provide for a cashless and contactless purchasing process that also allows for contact tracing,” according to the MHSAA. Tickets for single-session Pre-District, District and Regional games are $6. Single-session Semifinal tickets are $8. A per-ticket convenience fee will be applied.
Other local teams’ playoff matchups
In MHSAA 11-player pairings also announced this weekend, in a Division 1, Region 1, District 1 matchup, East Kentwood (2-3) will be close to home at Hudsonville (4-2) on Saturday, Oct. 31.
The Falcons finished their 5-game regular season Oct. 16 with a 24-7 home-field win over Muskegon Reeths-Puiffer (2-3). East Kentwood was originally scheduled to play at Caledonia (1-4) on Oct. 23. Hudsonville was actually 4-1 in games played, but had to forfeit their Oct. 23 home game against Jenison.
In a Division 2, Region 5, District 9 matchup, Wyoming high (1-3) will travel to Muskegon Mona Shores (6-0) on Friday, Oct. 30. Wyoming, after two weeks off due to COVID-19 safety protocols, returned to the field Oct. 23 with a 34-26 win at Holland (0-6). The Wolves match-up with Mona Shores is actually a game against a newly aligned OK Conference Green opponent which was not played this year due to the late start of the season.
In Division 8, Wyoming Lee opted out of the tournament. Wyoming Lee (1-5, including a forfeit win and a forfeit loss) lost 22-12 at Potterville (3-3) on Oct. 23 to end the Legends’ season.
In 8-player football pairings, in a Division 2, Region 4 game, Wyoming Tri-unity Christian (2-4) will be at Burr Oak (5-1) on Oct. 31. The Defenders finished their regular season with a 54-53 overtime loss at Bridgman (5-1).
Details of MHSAA playoff format
The MHSAA announced Oct. 24 that the 2020 MHSAA Football Playoffs would begin Oct. 29-31 with District First Round games in the 11-Player Playoffs and Regional First Round Games in the 8-Player Playoffs.
According to the MHSAA statement, all 11-player teams were divided into eight divisions before play began. Because of the shortened 2020 regular season due to COVID-19, all 11-player teams were then divided into Districts of up to eight teams each, then paired into four regions.
Pairings for the first four weeks of the tournament are based on regular-season playoff point averages, with the highest-ranked team hosting, regardless of the distance between the two schools. For District First Round and Regional First Round play, the top-seeded team in each bracket will host the eighth-seeded team, the second-seeded team will host the seventh-seeded team, and so on.
District Semifinals for 11-player teams will occur on the weekend of Nov. 6-7, with District Finals the weekend of Nov. 13-14. Both rounds will be played at the site of the highest-ranked team remaining.
Regional Finals in the 11-Player Playoffs will take place Nov. 20-21, at the site of the highest-ranked team. Semifinal games in the 11-Player Playoffs will take place Nov. 27-28, pairing the winners of Region 1 vs. Region 2 and the winners of Region 3 vs. Region 4. Highest-ranked teams will host unless participating teams are 200 or more miles apart; in those cases the MHSAA will assign the game to a prearranged site “if one can be secured in a reasonable location.”
The 11-Player Finals will be played Dec. 4-5 at sites to be determined, and additional spectator information will be determined later as well.
For the first time since the pandemic began in March, Tibbits will host an audience with MonsterFest, which takes to the big screen with “A Nightmare Before Christmas” and two Looney Tunes cartoons on Saturday, Oct. 31 at 7 p.m.
The feature of the night is the popular 1993 Halloween stop-motion animated film “A Nightmare Before Christmas,” which follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king. Skellington has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world.” When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life — he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. But Jack soon discovers that his attempts to bring Christmas to his home causes more trouble than he expected.
Prior to “A Nightmare Before Christmas,” Tibbits will screen two classic cartoon shorts. In 1956’s “Broom-Stick Bunny,” Witch Hazel’s claim to be the ugliest witch of all is threatened by a Halloween witch who turns out to be Bugs Bunny trick-or-treating. Next, 1948’s “Scaredy Cat” follows the adventure ofPorky and Sylvester, who spend the night in an old dark house where a cult of killer mice tries to eliminate them both. Sylvester tries to warn Porky, but he is convinced that Sylvester is a coward.
The event begins at 7 p.m. with theatre doors opening and seating beginning at 6:15 p.m. Presale tickets are $8 each; any remaining tickets will be sold at the door at $10 each. Tickets are all general admission. Seating will be limited and socially-distanced; some seats will be roped off and unavailable.
Come early and get a photo in front of the Monsterfest photo backdrop in the lobby or with Maleficent, who will add to the spooktacular atmosphere.
Concessions, including alcoholic beverages, will be available for purchase. No outside food or drink is allowed inside the theatre. COVID protocols will be followed, with masks required for entry. To order tickets, please visit Tibbits.org or call 517-278-6029.
Farmers Alley Theatre will feature the original one-woman show, The Conviction of Lady Lorraine, written and performed by Dwandra Nickole Lampkin. The play will be on the online streaming platform BROADWAY ON DEMAND, available thru Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire, and your PC beginning Oct. 29 and available for streaming thru Nov. 5.
Set in Memphis, TN near the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated—a writer has a brief but powerful encounter with a homeless woman, Lady Lorraine. She finds herself transformed by Lady Lorraine’s more than 20-year quest to right a social wrong. One year later, the writer returns to Memphis, hoping that Lady Lorraine will share her full story of conviction. But the writer quickly finds herself asking new questions about many things, and finding that Lady Lorraine is not the only one on a quest for recognition.
Dwandra Nickole Lampkin is as an associate professor of Theatre at Western Michigan University. Local audiences will remember her from the Farmers Alley stage in the productions of Doubt, a parable, The Christians, and Clybourne Park. Lampkin had previously performed Lady Lorraine, to a sold-out weekend of houses at Farmers Alley Theatre in January of 2018.
With winter temperatures returning to seasonal normals in Michigan and more people working from home due to the pandemic, residential energy use is expected to rise this heating season. This combination of cooler outdoor temperatures and higher energy use is expected to drive monthly energy bills higher than last year.
If Michigan experiences a typical winter, DTE Energy natural gas customers will spend, on average, $65 more over the six-month heating season compared to the same six-month period last year. This number could vary across the state in different temperate regions, but it comes at a time when many Michiganders are faced with job losses or income reduction due to the current economic crisis.
Assistance available
While DTE continuously works to keep energy affordable by passing its actual cost for natural gas on to customers with no mark-up, the company offers several payment assistance programs, including a Winter Protection Plan, Shutoff Protection Plan, and payment relief for those experiencing medical emergencies, for active military personnel, and for customers struggling during the pandemic.
The company offers tools and tips to help customers improve energy efficiency and cut heating costs while staying comfortable and safe this winter. Affordable tips such as sealing air leaks, using a programmable thermostat and replacing furnace filters when dirty, will improve energy efficiency. DTE recommends annual furnace tuneups and offers rebates for both the tune up and furnace replacement and can help customers find a skilled contractor to get the job done.
Make sure to check the thermostat to keep energy bills in check. (PxHere.com)
Consumers be aware
DTE will never call customers or come to their door asking to see their natural gas bill. Michigan residents and businesses have a choice in who provides their natural gas service and consumers may be approached by an alternative gas suppliers (AGS) to switch their gas provider. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) provides detailed information atCompare MI Gas to help make an educated decision. DTE offers lock-in protection to prevent an account from being switched without the customer’s permission. Call DTE at 800.477.4747 and ask to lock-in your gas supplier.
Safety is a Priority
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is called the silent killer because it’s colorless, odorless and tasteless. It can be fatal. If homeowners and businesses don’t already have a CO detector, they should get one. They should check the batteries in CO detectors regularly. Natural gas is safe and reliable, but like other fuels, it can produce carbon monoxide if it doesn’t burn completely. The only way to detect CO is with a carbon monoxide detector.
Keep natural gas meters clear of debris, snow and iceto ensure they function properly and protect your home or business from gas leaks and carbon monoxide buildup.
If you smell gas, leave the area immediately, call 911 and then call the DTE Gas Leak Hotline at 800-947-5000.
This week, School News Network provides a number of stories focused on the decisions to close a school to the creative lessons staff are doing to help students get through the COVID-19 criss. Here is just a sample of stories from the Kentwood/Wyoming area.
Superintendents from three West Michigan counties warn of rising infection rates (School News Network)
All Districts: Area Superintendents warn of need for vigilance in combating virus
Last week, 46 West Michigan superintendents –including the superintendents of Wyoming, Kentwood, Kelloggsville, Godwin Heights, and Godfrey-Lee — signed a letter urging residents to be more vigilant in combating COVID-19. As Kent County sees a surge in COVID-19 cases, and rising rates of positive tests, West Michigan school superintendents joined together to remind families of the importance of following safety protocols. For more, click here.
All Districts: Major factor in school closings: evidence of virus spread
For school officials, deciding when to close a school is not an easy decision to make. When there are positive cases in a school, the Kent County Health Department and superintendents review whether prevention measures are being enforced strongly enough, including social distancing, mask wearing, screening students so they don’t enter the building if they are COVID-19 positive, hand washing and sanitizing surfaces. To learn more about how a decision is made to close a school, click here.
Ninth-grader Ataiana Davis said through the project she discovered she likes the same video games as a friend of hers (School News Network)
Godwin Heights: Bringing individual value to shared space
Rainbows, blankets, and even a Rubik Cube become symbols to represent the homes of Godwin Height students. Based on the Heidelberg Project, named for a four-block street-turned neighborhood art project in Detroit where the mission is to include and embrace the strengths of those in the community, teacher Lindsay Miceli uses the Godwin Heights housing project as the class’s first assignment to help students hone writing and sensory language skills and get to know one another. To learn more, click here.
Junior Aliyah Taylor says her mosaic project helped her find peace in the midst of the pandemic (School News Network)
Kelloggsville: Students learn resilience by piecing together art
Kelloggsville students have fun breaking glass all in the name of creating art. The students are learning about mosaics and in the process discovering how something shatter can not only become something beautiful but a symbol of resilience. To learn more, click here.
East Kentwood junior Ethan Vandervoord holds a piece of 3D-printed PPE (School News Network)
Kentwood: Operation Face Shield: complete
When East Kentwood’s First Robotics team’s annual robotics competition at the high school got cancelled, one team member and his parents, advisors for the team, discovered a way to re-channel their disappointment by creating face shields. In nine weeks, the group made more than 10,000 pieces of personal protective equipment which was distributed to more than 100 area organizations. For more, click here.
For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
Visual artist George Segal was a sculptor, yes. But the current multi-medium exhibit at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, “George Segal: Body Language”, is clear evidence he was as interested in the human condition as he was in human representation.
The exhibit had a COVID-19 delayed opening this summer, and will continue on display at Meijer Gardens through January 2021.
After having lived with the exhibit for several months, WKTV caught up with Jochen Wierich, Meijer Gardens’ Curator of Sculpture & Sculpture Exhibitions, to talk about the reasons one visit with Segal’s works is probably not enough to understand and fully appreciate the artist and his art.
While Segal (1924-2000) was often, and in Wierich’s opinion unfittingly, lumped into the Pop Art era of the late 1950s and ‘60s — along with artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein — Segal was much more an observer of human nature, an explorer of human emotion.
That exploration of human nature and emotion is singularly clear in “Woman in Arm Chair”, already on permanent display at Meijer Gardens. But particularly telling to Wierich is “Street Crossing”, a 1992 work with several ambiguous figures moving through a fictional crossroads, seemingly blind to one another and to their surroundings, and on display as part of the current exhibition.
“Street Crossing is a very different piece because it shows Segal working with a large group of people, the scene he observed in New York, crossing the street and seeing people intersecting but not really interacting,” Wierich said. “It is a wonderful example of how he observed life, how he looked at people in everyday life.
“You might say, in today’s world of COVID-19, it already shows a bit of awareness of how people share space and how they navigate their physical distance. Or not.”
In WKTV’s video interview with Wierich, the art expert and educator also touched on how the current exhibit explores Segal’s works in many mediums, not just in sculpture, as well as why he did not always fit in neatly with his Pop Art peers.
“George Segal: Body Language” spans the career of Segal and focuses on his “creative vision in representing body language across a variety of materials,” as stated in supplied material. This is the first exhibition of Segal’s work at Meijer Gardens since 2004 and is the first time that a selection of the gift of 32 prints, one sculpture and three wall reliefs from the Segal Foundation and Rena Segal will be on display.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is located at 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids. For more information visit meijergardens.org.
WKTV college interns Rachel Weber and Matt Main contributed to this story.
Kent County Administrator/Controller Wayman P. Britt — who has held leadership roles in county administration for nearly two decades — will retire in 2021, (Supplied)
Following an announcement early this month from Kent County that current Administrator/Controller Wayman P. Britt — who has held leadership roles in county administration for nearly two decades — will retire in 2021, the county wasted no time in setting out plans for future leadership.
The county expected to extend Britt’s current contract, due to expire in January 2021, to July 2021. It has hired a new Deputy County Administrator who brings more than 15 years of local government leadership experience to Kent County. And it has formed a seven-person Administrator/Controller Search Committee comprised of county commissioners and community leaders to “coordinate a national search to identify a replacement for Britt” as top administrator.
“After 17 years serving Kent County, it will be hard to walk away from this job,” Britt said in his letter of resignation, according to supplied material. “But I remind myself that I’m not walking away from this tremendous community. So many people have made an indelible mark on me — from our County team to those leading and making a difference out in our community. I’ll carry that with me well beyond my tenure here.”
Britt joined the county as its assistant county administrator in March 2004. In July 2017, he assumed the interim county administrator/controller position and was hired to fill the position in January 2018.
At the time of his resignation, announced Oct. 8, county Board of Commissioners Chair Mandy Bolter confirmed that, “working under the authority granted to her by the board,” she and Britt negotiated the six-month extension to his current employment agreement. The Board voted on the extension Oct. 22 to push the contract expiration to July 24, 2021.
“On behalf of the entire Board of Commissioners, I want to thank Wayman for his commitment, dedication, leadership and true public service to the people of Kent County over the past 17 years,” Bolter said in supplied material. “I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to partner with him in service of our County and wish him the best on his well-deserved retirement.”
Under Britt’s leadership, according to supplied material, Kent County significantly modernized its IT infrastructure, worked with First Steps Kent to create a funding source for early childhood services, and helped launch the Kent County Population Consortium to address the need for a mental health crisis center in our community.
Also under his leadership, the county funded a new Kent County Parks Office, a northern county service hub and a new fleet service facility, as well as developed and launched a comprehensive strategic plan, and hosted the first-ever State of the County Address “as part of their commitment to heighten transparency through enhanced County communications programs.”
Most recently, of course, Britt has led the county’s ongoing public health and economic relief response to the COVID-19 crisis — including planning and distribution of more than a $100 million in federal CARES Act pandemic relief funding.
Administrator/controller search committee formed
The county announced on Oct. 12 that the board formed a committee to replace Britt, headed by Commission chair Bolter, as well as fellow commissioners Stan Stek and Carol Hennessy.
Also on the committee are Birgit Klohs, President & CEO of The Right Place, Inc.; Mike Verhulst, Vice President of Rockford Construction; Dante Villarreal, Vice President, Business & Talent Development, at the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce; and Sam Moore, executive director of the Kent County Parks Foundation.
“I am thankful to the community leaders who have agreed to serve on the search committee,” Bolter said in supplied material. “Together, I am confident we will find a highly qualified individual who is dedicated to maintaining not only what we have achieved, but who possesses the drive and ability to push us toward continued innovation and excellence in service to our community.”
Jennifer Kimball James named Deputy County Administrator
The county announced on Oct.15 that it had hired Jennifer Kimball James as deputy county administrator. She was expected to start the new position on Oct. 19.
Kent County deputy county administrator Jenny Kimball James. (Supplied)
“Jennifer’s passion for public service and more than two decades of experience in local government — including 16 years in leadership positions — are what set her apart from an excellent field of candidates,” Britt said in supplied material. “We are confident her background, skills and enthusiasm for serving her community will help us further the County’s mission and execute our strategic plan.”
Most recently, James was the deputy city manager for the City of Rockville, Maryland, and previously served as the assistant city manager. She worked for the City of Rockville since 2004. Prior to that, she held research and analyst positions with Montgomery County, Maryland‘s Office of Legislative Oversight.
“I am honored to have spent the past twenty-three years collaborating with elected officials, city and county leaders and employees, residents, businesses and other stakeholders to implement the vision of the community where I lived,” Kimball James said in supplied material. “I look forward to partnering with the people of Kent County in the same way as, together, we work to strengthen West Michigan.”
According to supplied material, James will “plan, direct, coordinate, and oversee operations activities of the County, ensuring development and implementation of efficient operations and cost-effective systems to meet current and future needs of the County all under the direction of the County Administrator.”
Kentwood Public Schools has joined several local public schools districts by closing school buildings and beginning temporary virtual education for all students after a series of positive COVID-19 test results.
In an Oct. 24 letter from district Superintendent Michael Zoerhoff to parent and students, and posted on the district website, the district explained its decision to cease in-person education at its East Kentwood Freshman Campus and the East Kentwood High School buildings from Saturday, Oct. 24 through Friday, Oct. 30.
“On Friday, October 23, 2020, we learned of another COVID-19 positive case at East Kentwood High School and/or the East Kentwood Freshman Campus,” the district letter stated. “In the past week on the East Kentwood Campuses, we have now had seven positive cases and currently have 123 individuals who are in quarantine. We worked late into the night Friday with the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) and they have made the recommendation that we close both the East Kentwood Freshman Campus and the East Kentwood 10-12 Building next week to allow for contact tracing and deep cleaning.”
Students will receive further detailed information from their teachers and principals regarding next week’s class schedule and how learning will continue, according to the letter.
“This decision is very difficult and not made without a great deal of discussion and advice from the Kent County Health Department,” according to the letter. “We apologize for the hardship this puts on our students, staff and families. The recommendation from the KCHD is intended to break and eliminate cycles of transmission and keep our EK Community safe. It is important that we all take the necessary steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 so we can stay safe and continue to offer in person school for our students, staff and families.”
The Kent County Health Department will conduct contact tracing and may contact members of the East Kentwood schools community for further follow up if it is determined that they were in “close contact” with an person who has tested positive.
“We are moving forward under the guidance of the Kent County Health Department and all measures have been taken to protect the wellbeing of our staff and students,” the letter states. And both buildings will be “thoroughly” cleaned and disinfected following district protocols.
If persons in the district community have any questions or concerns regarding COVID-19, the district recommends contacting the Executive Director of Human Resources, Jamie Gordon, in the KPS Administration Offices at 616-455-4400.
A foggy night housed a nail-biting district final between the South Christian Sailors and the Hudsonville Unity Christian Crusaders that ended in overtime, 3-2, on Oct. 22. Starting with the opening kickoff, both sides would go back and forth, with each recording the first goal about 10 minutes into the match.
South Christian head coach Jason Boersma praised senior Jeff Herrema for both goals in regulation, in the 10th and 73rd minutes, by causing fouls in the box leading to successful penalty kicks shot by fellow senior Thom DeVries.
“At the end of the day Jeff Herrema created both of those penalty kicks,” Boersma said to WKTV. “He was the one that got into the box and was making the moves to get into the goal. … Jeff is usually our penalty kicker.”
Herrema, however, suffered a shoulder injury after the second foul which lead to DeVries’ penalty kick.
Unity Christian didn’t go down quietly, however, first tying the score in the first half, 1-1, with a goal from junior Jaxson Krygsheld. Next, the Crusaders would strike again with a long shot by freshman Gavin Sage in the 74th minute to re-tie the match going into the final minutes — where a near miss would have given Unity Christian the district title.
In overtime, though, it was the sophomore Sam Medendorp who was the hero for the Sailors, as his goal was enough to the district title and send South Christian into a regional match-up with Grand Rapids Catholic Central.
“Winning is an expectation,” says Boersma on his South Christian team earning their seventh district championship.
But the Sailors coach had nothing but praise for Wyoming Lee and Unity Christian, two teams South Christian had to beat to move on to regionals.
“When you got a loaded district like we got this year, we got Wyoming Lee on one side who’s one of the top teams in the state, my heart hurts for them,” Boersma said. “They lost a game that I would call a district final.”
South Christian will take on Catholic Central on Tuesday, Oct. 27, at South Christian High School, with kick off at 7 p.m.
Note: For the Michigan Nov. 3 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here, For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less, and were not edited in any way by WKTV. For this race only, due to COVID-19 related circumstances, the videos were recorded via Zoom.
The 2nd Congressional District U.S. House of Representative seat covers Lake, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties in their entirety as well as portions of Allegan, Mason and Kent counties, including the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood. For a Michigan Congressional District map, click here.
The candidates are five-term incumbent Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga of Holland, Democratic candidate Rev. Bryan Berghoef of Holland, Libertarian candidate Max Riekse of Fruitport, US Taxpayers Party candidate Gerald T. Van Sickle of Wellston, and Green Party candidate Jean-Michel Creviere of Holland.
Bill Huizenga – Incumbent U.S. Representative, 2nd Congressional District
Occupation: Small business owner, Huizenga Gravel Co.
Why did you decide to run for this position?
As a husband, father, and third generation family small business owner, I understand what makes West Michigan such a special place. As a lifelong resident of West Michigan, I am committed to upholding the West Michigan values that we hold dear, creating new opportunities for hardworking families, and protecting our Great Lakes. As your representative, I have proven myself to be a leader in the effort to rein in Washington’s out of control spending, cut taxes for hard working middle class families, and level the playing field for Michigan farmers and growers.
However, the job is not done. We don’t need West Michigan to be more like Washington, we need Washington to be more like West Michigan and that is exactly what I will continue fighting for.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
As your Representative in Congress, my responsibility is to stand up and take action for West Michigan. During my time in office, I have led in uncertain times, worked to create an environment for new and better jobs, and stood up for West Michigan common sense.
When COVID-19 struck, I introduced legislation to help keep doctors and nurses at work, deliveries on the road, and food on the shelves at the local grocery stores. As a small business owner, I understand the challenges of today’s economy. I am working hard to ensure that everyone in West Michigan has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Foremost, I never forget that I represent the people of West Michigan, which is why I will continue fighting for quality education, affordable health-care, protection of the unborn, and the protection of the Great Lakes.
Rev. Bryan Berghoef — Candidate U.S. Representative, 2nd Congressional District
Occupation: Pastor
Why did you decide to run for this position?
As a pastor, my job is to listen to people. The job of a representative is also to listen, and too many folks don’t feel they are being listened to or that their voice is represented in Congress. I’d like to change that.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
COVID. People want a thorough, national response, and need COVID relief passed.
Healthcare. We need to make coverage more affordable, and protect coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Environment. We must protect the Great Lakes, address the threat of climate change, and move toward cleaner sources of energy.
Max Riekse — Candidate U.S. Representative, 2nd Congressional District
Gerald T. Van Sickle — Candidate U.S. Representative, 2nd Congressional District
Jean-Michel Creviere — Candidate U.S. Representative, 2nd Congressional District
Wyoming Junior High will reopen for in-person education on Oct. 26 after a short closure this week as part of a positive COVID-19 test protocol. (Wyoming Public Schools)
Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra announced Oct. 22 that, after students and staff at Wyoming Junior High moved to remote learning early this week due to a positive COVID-19 test result, the school would return to in-person education on Monday, Oct. 26.
On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the district was notified by the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) that an individual at the junior high had received a positive COVID-19 test result.
The move to remote learning began immediately, on Wednesday, Oct. 21, and ran through today, Friday, Oct. 23.
According to the Oct. 22 district statement: “Out of an abundance of caution and in collaboration with the Kent County Health Department, it was determined that closing the building would give the KCHD the necessary time to complete contract tracing and contact any staff and/or student(s) that may have come in contact with those who have tested positive. This also allowed us to slow any potential community spread as well as thoroughly clean and disinfect the building while staff and students were not present.”
Other WPS school buildings except Gladiola elementary — which is currently also in a remote-learning status due to positive COVID-19 testing — remain open for in-person learning.
The district statement also “urges all WPS staff and students who experience symptoms or who may have been exposed to COVID-19 to get tested and self-quarantine. Parents are encouraged to monitor their children for the onset of any symptoms related to COVID-19. If there is any change in your child’s health, please contact your medical provider.”
The KCHD offers free COVID-19 screenings at multiple sites via appointment or walk-in. More information on sites and appointments is available online here or by calling 616-632-7200.
More information on Wyoming Public Schools is available at wyominggps.org.
Kate Kocienski, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations for the Grand Rapids Public Museum (Supplied)
As the landscape of our country changes to becoming more diverse, our language — or specifically the way we describe communities — also must be reframed to celebrate diversity and encourage community growth.
This is the lesson that more than 60 Grand Rapids leaders learned through a virtual conference with Trabian Shorters, the CEO and Founder of BMe. BMe is the international leader in the concept of asset-framing, where a community is not defined by their challenges but rather by the goals they wish to achieve.
“So instead of saying a student or community is ‘at-risk,’ we instead say the student is ‘motivated to overcome challenges to achieve’,” said Grand Rapids Public Museum Vice President of Marketing/Public Relations Kate Kocienski.
It was through Grand Rapids Public Museum President and CEO Dale Robertson’s connection with the non-partisan, non-profit think tank Michigan Future, Inc., that led to the October workshop, Kocienski said. Shorters originally was scheduled to come to the east side of the state in the spring and through a partnership with Grand Valley State University, Michigan Future, Inc., and the Skillman Foundation, the Public Museum was able to plan for him to stop in West Michigan. COVID changed those plans to the program being rescheduled in October as a virtual workshop, Kocienski said.
Trabian Shorters
In his program, Shorters discussed the science behind negative cognitive thinking and how that impacts language. Learning about a community makes it less likely that a person will discuss that community in a negative aspect, according to previous recorded presentations by Shorters.
“The story you tell creates the life you live,” Shorters said during an Aspen Institute Talk in 2016. “The psychological research shows that people actually respond to preprogram scripts that are already running in their mind before it even happens.
“How you translate your missing purse into theft when there is no evidence in between that there was theft.”
The same could be said of a spider, Kocienski said.
“If you did your research and learned about what spiders do, you perhaps would become less afraid of them,” she said.
Or reframing how you see a museum as not only a place that hosts exhibits but also as a leader in engaging in community topics of diversity or equality.
“This fits our cultural programming and something that we feel is needed right now,” Kocienski said. “We felt that we needed to bring together the talent of West Michigan during a time when tensions are tense over race relations to talk about inclusion and equality in concrete ways.”
The ultimate goal, according to Kocienski, was to help start the conversation that goes beyond the traditional ideas of diversity and equity. For example, an organization that offers grants takes a look at the requirements of its grant process and the wording, she said, adding that instead of using “at-risk” using “motivated to succeed” or “help to overcome challenges.”
“Basically to remove the stigma and make it feel less negative,” she said.
Leaders from the area who attended the Oct. 8 event represented a variety of organizations including government, nonprofit, corporate and economic development entities.
I know for sure that what we dwell on is what we become.
Oprah Winfrey
Attend Woodland Mall’s Black-Owned Business Showcase
This weekend Woodland Mall will be hosting its first Black-Owned Business Showcase. At this event, shoppers will have the opportunity to visit booths run by local black-owned businesses. There will be more than forty vendors selling everything from cosmetics to home goods. The event will be held Friday, Oct. 23, and again on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The showcase will be held at Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE. For more information and a list of vendors, visit www.shopwoodlandmall.com/calendar.
Chaffee Planetarium (Supplied by Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Visit the Chaffee Planetarium
The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Chaffee Planetarium is now open. The planetarium is featuring a new show designed by a West Michigan native. Incoming! was made in partnership with NASA scientist Brent Bos, who is currently studying asteroids and grew up in West Michigan. The program focuses on asteroids, comets, and meteors. The planetarium also is showing One World, One Sky, which stars Elmo, Big Bird, and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu. Together the group learns about the moon, stars, sun, and the Big dipper. The planetarium has a limited capacity and it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets cost $2 for members and $4 for the general public and are available for purchase at grpm.org/planetarium.
Explore the Hackley House through a Flashlight Tour this fall season. (Supplied)
Explore Muskegon’s oldest buildings by flashlight
This weekend the Hackley & Hume Historic site at Musekgon’s Lakeshore Museum Center will host the daring and spooktacular Flashlight Tours. During the tours, guests will be guided through the Hackley House as they learn the spooky history and odd stories surrounding the home while using their flashlights to illuminate objects. The event will be held on Oct. 23 – 24 with two seasons 7 – 8 p.m. and 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. The Hackley & Hume Historic Site is located at 484 W Webster Ave, Muskegon. Tickets are selling quickly and it is recommended to reserve early. Tickets are $15 and guests can reserve a space by calling Assistant Program Manager Aaron Mace at 231-724-5534 or by emailing aaron@lakeshoremuseum.org.
Fun Fact: The creepy origin of jack-o’-lanterns
Have you ever wondered why it is a tradition to carve pumpkins for Halloween? The tradition started in Ireland during the 8th Century and was based off the myth of Stingy Jack. The story goes that Jack tricked the devil and when he died he wasn’t allowed into heaven or hell. He was forced to roam earth for eternity. The Irish would carve faces in turnips in hopes of warning off Jack’s evil spirit. When the Irish immigrated to America, they began to carve pumpkins instead.
Ben Robinson with his family started Robinson Popcorn in 2018. They sold t-shirts to help get the business started. With the money, Robinson renovated a space in Wyoming’s Rogers Plaza and also has a kiosk in Woodland Mall. (Supplied)
By Anna Johns WKTV Intern
As a Black business owner, Ben Robinson knows first-hand how challenging 2020 has been on local businesses.The pandemic, civil unrest, and the unstable economy have had huge effects on these small businesses and many are barely hanging on.
So when Woodland Mall officials asked how Robinson would like to celebrate the second anniversary of Robinson Popcorn, he suggested the mall host a Black-owned community showcase.
“This time is not about me, it’s about the whole Black community,” said Robinson “Our vision is to provide a venue where Black-owned businesses can come together under one roof to showcase who they are and what they offer to our entire community.”
This weekend, Woodland Mall will be hosting its first Black-Owned Business Showcase featuring forty regional businesses. Due to pre-show interested, the showcase was expanded to run 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, and Saturday, Oct. 24. At this event shoppers will have the opportunity to visit booths run by local Black-owned businesses. These booths offer everything from fashion to home goods to services.
“This is not a day just to celebrate us, but to celebrate all Black-owned businesses in our community,” Robinson said. “Many in our community came out to march and affirm Black Lives Matter. It’s also important to be there to rebuild, unify and achieve the vision of equality on Main Street as well as Wall Street.”
For Alisha State, owner of Bodacious Beauty, the Woodland Mall Black-Owned Business Showcase is her first such event. (Supplied)
For many of the vendors, such as Alisha Staten, CEO of Bodacious Beauty Cosmetics, this is their first showcase. Staten said she is very excited to be given this opportunity and hopes this will give her new business more exposure.
Staten launched her business in February selling beauty, cosmetics, and personal care items. When the lockdown hit she lost numerous networking opportunities and vending events.
“I haven’t let these hardships get in my way and have been continuing to build my business all while working a full time job during the pandemic,” Staton said, adding it is her passion for “others to live boldly, brilliantly, and beautifully.”
Love Hartfield, owner of Love Collections LLC, is excited to be able to show what her company has to offer in a safe environment. (Supplied)
This is also Love Collections LLC owner Love Hartfield’s first showcase as well. Hartfield actually took advantage of the March shut down and started her business by using the extra time to build her inventory, making necklaces, earrings, and coasters from resin. She promoted her products on social media and relied on online sales.
“I’m excited to participate in the Black-Owned Businesses Showcase because I get to show Grand Rapids what Love Connections LLC has to offer and sell them in a safe space with other black-owned businesses,” Hartfield said.
According to Hartfield, there is still a financial racial gap here in America. Supporting black-owned businesses will help shrink that gap and create opportunities for black communities. “Showing support to a black owned business elements the concerns of racial insensitivity that many other non-black owned businesses portray,” Hartfield said.
The showcase will be held at Woodland Mall located at 3195 28th St SE. For more information and a list of vendors, visit www.shopwoodlandmall.com/calendar.
