The Branch District Library is one of many sites on the Haunted History Trail of Michigan. Unusual activity has been reported by staff, including footsteps, unexplained sounds and other strange occurrences. (Photo Courtesy: Haunted History Trail of Michigan/Amity Photos)
Lillian Reiner
By Lillian Reiner Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
The Haunted History Trail of Michigan is calling all history buffs, self-proclaimed ghost hunters, and anyone interested in a paranormal sighting or two. With eight locations in three cities around Michigan, this experience is not limited to October – the sites are open year-round.
The Haunted History Trail started in New York State in 2013 when a rural tourism organization, working with marketing agency Travel Alliance Partnership, seized the opportunity to build a tourism experience around a local haunted attraction.
“That idea grew into a collaborative program connecting communities and their haunted histories statewide, with experiences ranging from dining and overnight stays to guided tours and paranormal investigations,” said Trail Manager Riley Kruer.
The Haunted History Trail of New York is the first statewide paranormal tourism program of its kind, and they’re looking to expand into other states. Michigan marks the first expansion of the trail outside of New York due to existing connections with local tourism organizations and its plethora of history and unexplainable occurrences as another Great Lakes State.
Eight sites in three cities
The Trail includes stops in or near Kalamazoo, Coldwater and the Keewanaw Peninsula. Keewanaw is home to the Calumet Theatre, Calumet Air Force Station, and the Beech House. Kalamazoo houses Stuart Manor and Bishop’s Bog in nearby Portage. The Branch District Library and Oak Grove Cemetery are found in Coldwater, and McCourtie Park is in nearby Cement City.
Calumet Air Force Station. (Photo Courtesy: Calumet Air Force Station)_
“Unexplainably vanished over Lake Superior”
Each stop offers a unique history and opportunities for exploration beyond the folklore and supernatural sightings surrounding them. At the Calumet Air Force Station, visitors can take a free tour of the base that housed more than 200 military personnel and their families during the Cold War, and learn more about the role it played in the Kinross Incident, when a fighter jet and an unidentified aircraft unexplainably vanished over Lake Superior.
Bishop’s Bog
Bishop’s Bog is a relic of the last Ice Age, and the largest remaining wetland of its kind in Southern Michigan. Guests may come to catch a glimpse of the flickering will-o’-the-wisp lights that are said to hover above the bog, leading some travelers home, and others to an unfortunate demise, and leave having witnessed a piece of history preserved for thousands of years.
Bishop’s Bog in Portage, Mich, is known for its strange lights hovering above the water. (Photo Courtesy: Haunted History Trail of Michigan/Amity Photos)
“We start with the place and its history, then share the local folklore and reported experiences associated with it,” Kruer shared. “The mystery might draw someone in, but we want them to leave knowing more about the people and events that shaped these communities.”
Each attraction operates under different hours, and some require reservations while others are open for self-guided tours, so it’s important to check the website for visiting information.
Just the beginning
Kruer emphasized that these eight locations are the starting collection, and the focus in 2027 will be on connecting with additional tourism partners to bring more communities and experiences into the trail.
The Beech House in Coldwater, Mich, has a long, storied past, including housing a funeral home business. (Photo Courtesy: Haunted History Trail of Michigan/Amity Photos)
The goal of the trail is to introduce visitors to communities they might not otherwise visit.
“Someone might come for a ghost story, and leave with a deeper appreciation for a historic building, a community, or a piece of Michigan’s past,” Kruer said. Additionally, having a stop on the trail generates business for local restaurants, shops, and hotels, as exploring a site becomes a reason to stay overnight, eat downtown, and explore other attractions nearby.
Kruer says to think of it like a wine trail – there’s no single route one must follow. Visitors can build their own trip, choosing stops based on their interests and comfort level.
“There’s room for believers and skeptics alike; you don’t have to reach the same conclusion about the paranormal to appreciate the history and enjoy the visit.”
Visit Explore – Haunted History Trail of Michigan to learn more about each location, experience ghostly events taking place around Michigan leading up to Halloween, and to plan your trip to experience the paranormal spectacles for yourself.
The Kentwood Police Department is encouraging community members to take part in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24.
The department will host an event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. They will collect tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The event also will accept vaping devices and cartridges as long as lithium batteries are removed. Liquids, powders, syringes, sharps and illicit drugs will not be accepted.
The national observance is part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back initiative. It aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible way for community members to dispose of prescription drugs while also educating the public about the potential for abuse of medications.
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood)
“When community members properly dispose of medication, it helps prevent identity theft, accidental poisonings, drug addiction and overdose deaths, while keeping medication from polluting landfills and sewer systems,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “From saving a life to protecting the environment, participating in Drug Take Back Day is an impactful way residents can be part of our community effort.”
For individuals unable to attend the event, the Kentwood Police Department also has a year-round Drug Take Back Program. Community members can safely dispose of unused and/or expired prescription medications in the Kentwood Police Department’s lobby from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. To learn more about the program, visit kentwood.us/DrugTakeBack.
Law enforcement agencies across the nation partner with the DEA to host Drug Take Back Day events every October and April as part of ongoing efforts to combat prescription drug misuse and overdose deaths. The events provide timely opportunities for residents to safely and securely dispose of unneeded medications to help address this public safety and public health issue. Studies have shown most abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.
By Cris Greer Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Oct. 16.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
WKTV Game of the Week
Friday, Oct. 23: Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville
PLAYOFFS:
11-PLAYER TOURNAMENT Districts — Oct. 30-Nov. 7 Regionals — Nov. 13 and 14 Semifinals — Nov. 21 Finals — Nov. 27 and 28, Ford Field, Detroit
Start Garden’s open competition for business startups, The 100, will wrap up its eighth season at Demo Day on Thursday, Oct. 22, from 5 to 9 p.m. at its new downtown Grand Rapids headquarters (2 Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids).
At this event, Grand Rapids’ top 50 entrepreneurs take over the venue to showcase their businesses, demonstrate their latest products, and compete for up to half a million dollars in opportunities.
In June, Start Garden announced a major evolution of The 100, its nine-year-old annual entrepreneur competition that has connected more than 800 Michigan founders with funding and community resources. For the first time, the organization is bringing together multiple capital providers to fund different types of businesses at different stages, shifting from the event’s historical focus on new business ideas.
With the addition of external partners, The 100 will increase its funding opportunities to more than $500,000, introduce a “sprint” process, and expand the number of people giving money at the culminating event, Demo Day.
Joining Start Garden in the new iteration of The 100 is what the organization calls Capital Partners that will help support up to $500,000 in corporate contracts, loans, shared revenue agreements, venture capital, and, as before, small catalytic grants to entrepreneurs at every stage.
The 2026 Capital Partners include:
GROW (small business loans)
Opportunity Ventures (shared revenue agreements)
Union Heritage (venture capital)
Meijer (first-customer contracts for food and consumer product companies)
Start Garden (grants)
“Entrepreneurs were using the 100 to connect to capital, so we decided to bring as much capital from as many partners right into the beginning,” said Laurie Supinski, Co-Director, Start Garden. “Now the 100 is not just about winning a small cash award, but can be where you land your first major contract or investor.”
Also new for the 2026 competition, existing businesses are not just eligible—they’re central to the program’s vision. Partners offering loans, shared revenue agreements, and venture capital can work with businesses already generating revenue, not just idea-stage startups.
Since its inception, Start Garden has served thousands of entrepreneurs. The 100 has historically had strong participation from underrepresented communities, with 75% of participants identifying as women or minorities. Start Garden alumni have expanded products into Meijer and other major U.S. retail chains, grown small business ideas to more than $10 million in revenue, and built tech companies across Michigan and beyond that have grown or been acquired by other organizations.
EVENT OVERVIEW
Who: Start Garden and 50 finalists
What: Demo Day 2026
When: Thursday, Oct. 22, 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Start Garden, 2 Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Agenda: Public Expo from 5 to 7 p.m. on the 4th and 5th floors. Awards from 7- to 9 PM in the Theatre.
After three decades of dedicated service to the City of Kentwood, Commissioner Robert Coughlin has retired from his role as the City’s Ward 1 Commissioner effective Oct. 15, 2026.
Coughlin’s service to Kentwood spans 30 years and includes leadership and involvement across several City boards and committees. During his time with the City, he has served as a member of the Economic Development Corporation, the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Parks and Recreation Committee, the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and the City Commission representing Ward 1.
“Over the past 30 years, Bob has dedicated his life serving the people of Kentwood,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “His leadership and service on our boards, committees, and as 1st Ward Commissioner has made a meaningful difference in our community. We are forever grateful for the perspective, dedication, and commitment he has brought to the table wherever he served. I want to thank Bob for his many hours of meetings, constituent phone calls, site visits, fundraisers, and 30 years of serving at community events. He has led Kentwood by example and I am eternally grateful. I wish him and his family all the best in this next chapter.”
Throughout his years of service, Coughlin has contributed to decisions affecting Kentwood’s growth, development, neighborhoods, parks and recreation opportunities, and the day-to-day quality of life of residents. His vast involvement and service on various boards and City Commission reflects his longstanding commitment to the community.
Filling the Ward 1 Vacancy
Following Coughlin’s retirement, the City Commission will begin the process of filling the Ward 1 vacancy in accordance with the City Charter and applicable state law.
The Application Process
Applications must be filled out and submitted by Oct. 27, 2026, by noon. The first round of interviews will begin Oct. 29, 2026.
Eligibility Requirements To be considered for the Ward 1 Commissioner position, applicants must:
Have lived in the City of Kentwood for at least one year.
If you have any questions, or would like to submit your application, you may do so by contacting Peter Vanderberg, Deputy City Administrator, at vanderbergp@kentwood.us, or (616) 554-0770.
The City of Kentwood thanks Commissioner Coughlin for his three decades of service and commitment to the community and wishes him well in his retirement.
By Mike Moll Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
The East Kentwood Falcons brought their high-flying offense to Caledonia Friday night to meet the Fighting Scots in a battle for the OK Red. East Kentwood came in at 6-0 overall, while the Scots were 5-1, and both teams were atop the league standings at 4-0.
It was Homecoming for Caledonia, but when the lights were turned off at the end of the night, the Falcons were sitting alone in the lead after a hard-fought 49-27 victory. While the Falcon offense scored four touchdowns, it was the defense and special teams that made the difference. More to come, but specifically, it was Austin Nelson who made the difference.
Scots take 14-0 lead into the second quarter
Caledonia took the initial lead as Falcon quarterback Colin O’Connor was intercepted at the Scots 31 yard-line by Aaron Collins, who returned it 69 yards for the score. After stopping the Falcons next possession, the Scots went ahead 14-0 when Robert Restau took a screen pass from Bryce Backus for another 69-yard touchdown near the end of the first quarter.
The Falcons got on the board with just under nine minutes left in the half on a 1-yard run by Dallas Moody on a drive highlighted by a 36-yard completion from O’Connor to Stephan Jones and then Jayden Garcia kicked the extra point. The Falcon defense forced the Scots to punt after a quick three-and-out possession, getting the ball at their own 30. O’Connor found Jones again for a 41-yard gain and then connected with Ezekiel Ferrell for a 20-yard TD to tie the game up at 14 after the extra point.
Falcons grab first lead with around 5 minutes left in first half
Nelson then made his first statement of the night on the Scots initial play from scrimmage when he intercepted a Backus pass and ran it 40 yards for his own pick-6, giving the Falcons two touchdowns in the span of 13 seconds and their first lead with just over 5 minutes to go in the half.
The Scots were not done as they answered with a four-minute drive capped by a 32-yard touchdown from Backus to Lincoln Senti.
21-all heading into the locker room
Caledonia intercepted an O’Connor pass again with just over a minute and a half to go, but would fail to connect on a 32-yard field goal with five seconds left in the half, sending the teams to the locker rooms all tied at 21.
Falcons take lead for good at 28-21
The Falcons won the opening coin flip and deferred to get the ball to start the second half. After the Scots Landry Mueller kicked the ball out of bounds, Falcons Coach Tyrone Spencer chose to accept the penalty instead of getting the ball on his own 35. That set up Nelson for his next statement as he returned the kick 72 yards untouched into the end zone giving the Falcons a lead they would not relinquish, 28-21.
The Scots mounted a drive of 80 yards for a score of their own, highlighted by runs of 29 yards from Restau and a 26-yarder by Backus, capped off by a 2-yard TD by Conlan Schultz, but the extra point was missed by Mueller, leaving the score 28-27 EK with just under 8 minutes left in the third quarter.
On the ensuing kickoff, Nelson proved some good things do come in threes as he returned another kickoff for 87 yards and his third TD on the night, giving the Falcons a 35-27 lead.
After another 3-and-out for the Scots, East Kentwood used up over four minutes on the clock before a 1-yard touchdown by Jones to make it 42-27.
The Falcons then tacked on a final score with just under four minutes left in the game as O’Connor connected for a 7-yard TD pass to Moody. East Kentwood led 49-27 after the extra point.
O’Connor had over 220 yards with two touchdowns passing on the night with Jones being his favorite target at 115 yards. He had seven different receivers on the night. Ace Bryant led with 70 yards on the ground.
The Falcons are now 7-0 overall, 5-0 in the OK Red and head to West Ottawa Friday. The Panthers are 2-5 overall, 1-4 in the Red. To get at least a share of the Red Championship locked up Friday night while Caledonia fell to 5-2 overall, 4-1 in the Red and travels to Grand Haven to face the 4-3, 2-3 Buccaneers.
Remember that self-care is anything that you do for YOURSELF. Self-care can be little (brushing your teeth) or big (getting a massage) as long as you take the time to do it for yourself.
Practice Mindfulness:
Mindfulness means being aware of the present. Be conscious of what you are doing; even narrate it in your head if it’s helpful. Whether you’re eating, going for a walk, or taking a big test, try to stay in the moment.
Exercise:
Going for walks outside, hitting the gym, or even doing a quick walk around the block releases endorphins which assist with mood stabilization and more positive feelings.
Get Enough Sleep:
Sleeping allows the mind to reset and process the day’s events. Seven or more hours of sleep a night is most beneficial for the mind and body to rest and recharge.
Laugh:
Laughter is the best medicine. Laughter aids in easing tension in the body which can last up to 45 minutes!
Positive Self Talk:
Our thoughts play a major impact in our moods and behaviors. Dr. Shalu Ramchandi from Harvard University suggests, “For every negative or stressful thought experienced, try to find three positive ones.”
Connect with Others:
Maintain meaningful relationships with others. Find a community that allows you to feel valued, cared for, and supported.
Practice Deep Breathing:
Taking deep breaths allows the brain to manage the stress response better. Try the 4-4-4 method of breathing to assist in regulation during times of high stress.
Seek Help:
Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if your stress is unmanageable. Wedgwood Christian Services’ Bouma Counseling Center has no waitlist and our team is ready to assist you – wherever life finds you. For further information, or to make an appointment, call our intake line at 616-942-7294.
The City of Kentwood’s annual free leaf and brush drop-off service to residents starts Saturday, Oct. 10, and runs through Nov. 25.
Residents may drop off loose leaves, brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs and grass clippings free of charge at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE. If leaves are brought to the site in bags, residents must dump them out in the leaf pile and dispose of the bags in the trash. Bags cannot be left in the leaf pile.
This service is available for Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required.
Drop-off Hours:
Monday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The drop-off site will be closed Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day.
Materials that cannot be accepted include trash, paper and plastic bags, dirt, concrete, asphalt, tires, rocks, construction materials, glass and metal.
The burning of leaves and brush as well as the accumulation of debris and leaves on a property or in the right-of-way are prohibited in the City of Kentwood. The drop-off service provides residents with a convenient way to keep their yards clear of leaves and debris during the fall.
“Fall is a beautiful time of year, but it also brings an abundance of leaves, sticks and other yard waste,” said Jim Wolford, Department of Public Works Deputy Director. “This free service gives residents an easy way to take care of that waste while also helping keep our streets and storm drains clear, reducing the risk of flooding and protecting the quality of our storm water.”
The leaf and brush drop-off site opens every fall and spring. Spring 2027 drop-off dates will be announced after the start of the new year.
More information about the City of Kentwood’s leaf and brush drop-off service is available at kentwood.us/BrushLeafDropOff.
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
The Rockford Rams have been a pain in the side for the East Kentwood football team for the past several years.
That pain was eradicated last Friday in a big way as the host Falcons dispatched the visiting Rams 31-10. The win improved East Kentwood’s record to 6-0 for the season and sets up a showdown for first place in the OK Red this Friday when the Falcons travel to Caledonia for a battle of unbeaten teams in conference play.
The win against Rockford was the first since the 2019 season when the Falcons defeated Rockford 38-12 in the first round of the playoffs after falling to them the previous week. Since then, the Rams have had East Kentwood’s number. That is until Friday when the Falcons combined a strong defensive effort with some timely offense to earn the win and break the skid against the Rams.
East Kentwood scored points in each quarter against the Rams while the Falcon defense allowed just a single touchdown in the second quarter and a field goal in the third.
“I think anytime you can get a win in the OK Red it is awesome,” said East Kentwood Coach Tyrone Spencer, “especially against Rockford. This was a great team win for our program and we will build off it as we continue to press toward our standard of excellence every day.”
East Kentwood helmet. (Photo Courtesy: Eli Reed)
Falcons strike first with big run
East Kentwood struck the first big blow of the game midway through the first quarter, when Falcon senior wide receiver Stephan Jones took a handoff on a jet sweep and broke free for a 72-yard touchdown run. Jayden Garcia tacked on the point after giving the Falcons an early 7-0 lead.
The two teams traded touchdowns in the second quarter with East Kentwood taking a 14-7 lead late in the first half.
Just before halftime the Falcon big-play offense struck again, with Jones providing the big play fireworks again. This time it was through the air as Falcon quarterback Colin O’Connor found an open Jones in the end zone for a 23-yard touchdown pass with nine seconds remaining in the first half. Garcia added the extra points giving the Falcons a 21-7 halftime lead.
Rockford cut the Kentwood lead to 21-10 early in the second half when they drove downfield and kicked a field goal.
East Kentwood matched that field goal when it went on a long drive at the end of the third quarter and paid it off with a 46-yard field goal from Garcia in the early moments of the fourth.
The Falcons closed out the scoring with a touchdown in the final minute of the game.
“I thought our defense played well and made key stops when they needed to,” Spencer said. “Offensively, we were able to make explosive plays and that was the difference in the game.”
O’Connor went 13-for-24 passing with 197 yards and one touchdown.
Jones was the main target in the passing game as he hauled in seven passes for 75 yards and a score. Austin Nelson caught one pass for 38 yards, while Donovan Rubens caught one for 38 and Dallas Moody, one for 21 yards.
O’Connor also led the Falcons in rushing with 78 yards on 16 carries, including one touchdown run. Jones finished with 87 yards on three carries with a score. Ace Bryant added 24 yards on eight carries, while Moody was eight for 17 yards and a touchdown.
Donavan Jones led with seven tackles, five assists and three tackles for loss
Donavan Jones led the falcons with seven tackles, five assists and three tackles for loss, followed by Alijah Bondon, three tackles, three assists, two sacks and two tackles for loss; Ja’Kari Lovelady, three tackles and two assists; Chris Thompson, three tackles, three assists, one sack and one tackle for loss; Austin Nelson, two tackles, an assist and interception and D’Mari Love-Simmons, two tackles, one assist, one sack and two tackles for loss.
East Kentwood puts its 6-0 record on the line Friday at Caledonia to face the Fighting Scots, who are 4-0 in conference play with a 5-1 overall record. The one loss, however, was applied to the Scots following their opening-night win against Portage Northern that they won 48-12 when it was determined that Caledonia had used an ineligible player and was given a forfeit loss.
By Lillian Reiner Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
After cutting the ribbon to signify the grand opening of the Kentwood Community Center, Mayor Stephen Kepley said the building is magnificent and beautiful, but what’s most important is the lives that will be changed in this facility.
What began as a suggestion from a survey asking Kentwood residents what they would like Kentwood to look like in the next 50 years has been realized in a $30-million facility designed with the entire community in mind.
“This space is a community resource, it’s for anyone and everyone,” said Spencer McKellar, Deputy Parks and Recreation Director, at the grand opening on Sept. 26 at the Kentwood Community Center, located at 4755 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood. “We gave opportunities for sports, arts, social gatherings, grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend or neighbor, but really it’s meant for people to come and have an indoor space year-round to build community and build relationships.”
Check out this photo gallery of the Kentwood Community Center
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood Community Center Grand Opening Celebration. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
The new playground and outdoor space at the Kentwood Community Center. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
Residents had the opportunity to hear from the contractors and city employees that poured years of their time and energy into bringing this facility to life. The Community Center officially opens on Oct. 5.
“There’s really not words to describe my feeling,” Kepley said. This project has been in the back of Kepley’s mind for more than 20 years, although the city lacked the funds to bring it to fruition until 2017. “That feeling is not words, but it’s the faces, especially the next generation, that’s going to use this facility — they’re going to develop skills, learn more about themselves, and they’re going to gain confidence.”
The Center features three full-size basketball courts, which can be used for volleyball and pickleball as well, a fitness center with accessible equipment for all ages and abilities, an indoor track, a multi-sport simulator, a daycare center, a dance studio, bistro, and a flexible event venue called The Grove that can hold up to 175 guests for weddings or special celebrations. (See Full Chart Below)
“I think it’s nice that the community finally has a place where everybody can get together and enjoy sports and working out and things that keep everybody together,” said Kentwood resident Samir Mehmedovic, who’s especially excited to utilize the basketball courts.
Heavy planning and consideration
The intentionality behind each design feature is evident. Kepley and his team visited about 20 facilities nationwide during the planning phase, gathering ideas for what they did and didn’t want their own facility to look like. In each gym, he asked himself, “Would I want to play basketball in this gym?” This resulted in a space with abundant natural light and the same hardwood floors that are used in the NCAA Final Four, which was sourced from the Upper Peninsula.
Additionally, the building caters to the diversity and needs of the Kentwood community. All of the spaces, including the golf simulator, the fitness center, and The Grove are zero entry, and there is a free community pantry, stocked with food and toiletries for anyone to take, no questions asked.
The Grand Rapids Gold mascot, Buckets, plays basketball at the Community Center Grand Opening celebration. (Photo: WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
The Community Center opened just in time for residents to have a safe, warm place to gather this winter.
“When winter comes, it’ll be nice to do the walking track, to get some sunshine, and be able to walk and not worry about being out in the snow and slipping,” shared one Kentwood resident. “It’ll be better than just walking on my treadmill at home.”
Kentwood Community Center Fact Sheet
*67,500 Square Feet *$30 Million Price Tag *Offers Everything From fitness and sports to dining, events, enrichment and everyday opportunities to connect *3 Full Basketball Courts in the main gymnasium (20,828 square feet), 16 basketball hoops. *Gym Options: Can be configured with three volleyball courts or nine pickleball courts. *Maple Gym Floor: Uses the same flooring system used for the NCAA Final Four and was manufactured in the Upper Peninsula. *Elevated Indoor Walking Track: 8 laps = 1 mile *Fitness Center: (4,407 square feet) Features cardio, strength and conditioning, free weights and accessible equipment for a variety of ages, abilities and fitness levels. *Multi-Sport and Golf Simulator: Play virtual golf courses and a variety of interactive sports and games year-round. Reserve for an hourly fee. *The Bistro: Freshly prepared and grab-and-go food, smoothies, specialty coffee, snacks, beer, wine and more. Open to members and non-members. *Child Watch: A safe, welcoming space for children ages 3-10 while parents and guardians enjoy the Community Center. Available to members and day pass holders. $4 an hour per child, 10 hours for $30 *The Grove: A flexible 55X75 foot event venue for up to 175 guests for weddings, corporate events, birthdays and other celebrations.
Memberships are available to Kentwood residents and non-residents starting at $30 per month, however, day passes also are available. The Center, which officially opens on Monday, October 5, will be open from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
For more information, call 616-656-5279 or CLICK HERE
EDITOR’S NOTE: WKTV Community Media invited local candidates to create a video for the upcoming general election (Tuesday, Nov. 3) in the following races that affect Kentwood and Wyoming voters: United States House of Representatives (3rd District), State Representative (80th District), State Representative (83rd District), State Senator (29th District), Wyoming Council Member (at Large), Wyoming Council Member (1st Ward) and Wyoming Mayor.
All videos are 5-minutes or less, devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV. Profile descriptions are provided by the candidate. Candidate videos are presented alphabetically. WKTV went to great lengths to notify and invite candidates for We the People. Participating candidate videos and profiles can be seen below:
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, 3RD DISTRICT CANDIDATES
TERRI DEBOER – U.S. House of Representatives, 3rd District (R)
Reckless federal spending and runaway inflation have priced everyday families out of the American Dream. I will fight to:
Rein in Wasteful Spending & Lower Taxes: Cut bloated federal spending and lower taxes on middle-class families so you can keep more of your hard-earned money.
Drive Down Energy Costs: Unleash domestic energy production to lower fuel, heating, and electric bills across the board.
Make Housing Affordable: Cut back government red tape that inflates construction costs, making homeownership attainable again for Michigan families.
2. COMMON SENSE: HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION
Decisions about your family’s health and education belong in your hands—not with government bureaucrats or massive corporations. I will fight to:
Harness the Free Market in Healthcare: Stop the expansion of government control in medicine. I’ll push for free-market solutions, real competition, and deregulation—expanding patient choice, lowering costs, and keeping you in control of your medical decisions.
Empower Parents in Education: Put parents back in charge of their children’s education and ensure every child has access to a quality education, regardless of their zip code.
3. COMMON SENSE: SAFETY AND SECURITY
Keeping our communities and institutions safe comes first. I will fight to:
Secure Our Borders: Stop illegal immigration and repeal soft-on-crime policies so our laws protect law-abiding Michigan families—not criminals.
Protect Election Integrity: Restore trust in our democracy by securing our elections and requiring a valid photo ID to vote.
HILLARY SCHOLTEN – U.S. House of Representatives, 3rd District (D) Incumbent
Occupation: Representative of Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District
Why are you running for office?
I’m running because I believe Michigan deserves leadership that puts people first. Throughout my career–as a social worker, a Department of Justice attorney, and a member of Congress–I’ve worked to help people navigate systems that too often feel out of reach. I know families are worried about rising costs, trust in government is low, and too many people feel left behind. I’m running to change that by bringing people together, solving problems, and making sure every Michigander has the opportunity to succeed.
Two issues you are focused on:
Two issues I’m focused on are lowering costs and restoring trust in government. Too many Michigan families are working hard but still feeling squeezed by the cost of health care, housing, and everyday necessities. That’s why I’ve worked to lower prescription drug costs, expand affordable housing opportunities, and support good-paying jobs across our state.
I’m also focused on strengthening confidence in our public institutions. People deserve a government that is transparent, accountable, and delivers results. That means being a good steward of taxpayer dollars, improving how the government serves people, and ensuring that public service remains focused on the public interest.
STATE SENATOR, 29TH DISTRICT CANDIDATES
ABBIE GROFF-BLASZAK – State Senator, 29th District (D)
Occupation: Instructor, GRCC & City Commissioner, City of East Grand Rapids
Why are you running for office? I believe in better. I believe in better policy that creates better outcomes for people. I believe that better politics can weave the fabric of our community tighter rather than fraying our connection. I believe that we can build a Michigan that stands strong in protecting our people and our democracy while we nurture healthy and thriving communities; ensure an excellent public education for all children; supply adequate and affordable homes where folks want to live; and center the needs and rights of workers in our economy. We need leaders who reject dark money, corporate influence, and special-interests and center the needs and voices of their community. I’m running to represent the collective power and wisdom of this community and work tirelessly to deliver better outcomes through better politics.
Two issues you are focused on:
I am committed to building an economy centered on the needs of workers and families, not corporations and their shareholders. That means working to guarantee a thriving wage for all work that allows individuals and families to cover basic needs and build a fulfilling and meaningful life. It means protecting and expanding the right to organize across all sectors. It means supporting small businesses as they create opportunity across our community. It also means establishing paid family leave and universal childcare because no person should have to choose between caring for family and building a career.
I will continue my life’s work in ensuring excellent public schools for every child in every neighborhood. Strong public schools are the foundation of a strong democracy. As an educator, I know that our schools cannot thrive when educators are underpaid, support staff are stretched thin, and students are learning in overcrowded classrooms. We must – for the first time in history – properly fund public education. We must properly invest in teachers and paraprofessionals; provide the resources and support they need to serve all students; and ensure safe, supportive learning environments – including small class sizes – for every child.
BRADY MIDDLETON – State Senator, 29th District (R)
Occupation: Business owner, entrepreneur, former criminal justice reformer and inventor. I co-founded Metas LLC, an award-winning innovative company recognized as one of Michigan’s 50 Companies to Watch, named “World’s Greatest Label Company” by Bloomberg’s World’s Greatest, and recipient of multiple Best Labels in the US awards from USA Today. I help operate Middleton Printing, a business that’s been thriving in Wyoming for 70 years.
Why are you running for office? I am running for Michigan State Senate District 29 to restore Michigan’s economy and make life more affordable for families, redeem our justice system because true justice doesn’t just punish, it makes people whole, and reconcile our political divide to craft the best common-sense solutions that benefit all Michiganders. I want to ensure our communities are safe and healthy and that people have access to and expanding opportunities to build productive and successful lives.
As a survivor of violent crime, pistol-whipped, carjacked, and kidnapped at gunpoint just two weeks after high school graduation, I know the devastating impact when systems fail victims and communities. Through faith and years of personally mentoring one of my young attackers to graduate high school, I learned that real justice combines accountability with redemption and restitution for victims. My earlier work in criminal justice reform, where I helped expose significant fraud and waste in victim assistance programs, showed me how a lack of transparency allows special interests to block better outcomes.
As a business owner and innovator who has created jobs and efficiencies through technology, I’ve seen how government bloat, fraud, and regulatory barriers drive up costs for families and stifle opportunity. Transparency is key: Michiganders deserve to know exactly why the establishment has failed them and what interests are preventing the best solutions from benefiting everyone.
I’m running to bridge divides, cut waste and abuse, promote innovation and job growth, support restorative approaches that prioritize victim healing and public safety, and expand real pathways in education, workforce training, and reentry so every person, regardless of background, has the chance to build a successful life. Together we can deliver results-focused policies that restore Michigan’s promise for all families.
Two issues you are focused on:
1. Restoring Michigan’s Economy, Ending the Affordability Crisis and Providing Real Lasting Relief to Families
I will grow good-paying jobs in manufacturing, technology, skilled trades, and small business by cutting red tape, reducing energy and healthcare costs, and championing innovation. Eliminating Michigan’s income tax will deliver real lasting relief to families while making our state more competitive to attract growing businesses. By eliminating government waste, fraud, and special-interest spending, we can lower the tax and regulatory burdens that inflate housing, groceries, energy, healthcare, and everyday expenses. Expanding access to skilled trades training will help people secure incredibly well-paying careers while also reducing the cost of building, directly helping solve the housing crisis. Expanding workforce training and education aligned with actual careers will give more Michiganders the tools to achieve financial stability and build successful lives.
2. Redeeming Our Justice System to Create Safer, Healthier Communities and Expanding Opportunities
If our streets and neighborhoods are not safe enough for kids to play in them, then we have failed to deliver safe communities, and change is required. I will drive that change. True justice doesn’t just punish, it makes people whole by holding offenders accountable, delivering meaningful restitution to victims, and providing clear paths to redemption and productive citizenship that reduce recidivism and future crime. Families and taxpayers also deserve justice in education. Michigan ranks 44th in reading comprehension, and nearly 40% of our 4th graders are on a path toward prison or a lifetime of welfare under the current system. The people in Lansing who crafted the laws governing our education process have failed our kids and our communities. Accountability for that failure, and real solutions that fix it, is essential so every child has the opportunity to succeed and every taxpayer gets results for their investment. I will demand transparency in justice and victim programs (building on my experience exposing major fraud), invest in proven prevention and reentry support, and back community-based approaches that keep neighborhoods safe while giving people, including those who have made mistakes, the opportunity to contribute and succeed. By focusing on results over rhetoric and working across divides for common-sense reforms, we can build healthier, safer communities where everyone has a real chance to thrive.
WYOMING COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE CANDIDATES
ROB ARNOYS – Wyoming Council Member at Large (Incumbent)
Occupation: Banking Leadership: Senior Vice President Premier Services; Lake Michigan Credit Union
Why did I decide to run for the City Council seat?
As a lifelong resident of the City of Wyoming, I am passionate about the city and not only have knowledge of the history of Wyoming, but see the great potential it has to offer! Wyoming has a rich history of vision and progress and it is going through some exciting and significant transition.
I am running for re-election as a City Council Member At Large. Over the past four years, I have had the privilege to serve as your council member and we have made a lot of progress that I will be able to carry that momentum into a second term. We have enhanced our public safety team and department with greater coverage, systems and equipment that delivers faster response times to keep us protected. We have embarked on our plan to build a downtown presence, connect our trails, improve our roads, enhance our clean water plant, add a third transmission line for our water deliver, improved our IT infrastructure, hired our City Manager and Deputy City Manager and have activated the Site 36 property to now be a vibrant mix of business and community space. Above all of this, we have engaged in doing efficiency studies to ensure that we are operating in the most fiscally responsible manner.
As a Wyoming Planning Commissioner for almost 12 years, I was involved in the discussion and strategy for the City Master Plan. We have tremendous opportunity to develop and redevelop our key sectors of the city; develop a centralized downtown area, enhance 28th street, enhance Division, develop the remaining area in the panhandle, as well as many other areas.
In addition, we need to stay on target with the city finances. There is a need to explore ways to ensure financial sustainability for our operating budget, and in particular, public safety. As a life long banker who has been involved in strategically managing sizable budgets, I am committed to add insight and guidance to this process. I will operate with a mindset that we will run based on needs vs. wants to direct funding to those key services needed to run our City. We will be open and transparent and accountable.
Our City Council executive leadership team is going through change. Our Mayor is retiring. If re-elected, I will be able to sustain the momentum and leverage my experience & trust with the other council members, staff and my business experience to create positive action. I will be able to contribute and drive meaningful change without the long learning curve.
I will continue to engage with residents to listen to their inputs, ideas, concerns and thoughts. This will allow me to best serve based upon the needs of our residents. My goal is to help our City by working together with residents, City staff and council members. I have my ideas and inputs, but I will bring a collaborative approach to help guide us to the overall best solutions to create a long term, sustainable, vibrant city that we are all proud to live, work, play and shop.
I look forward to serving the City of Wyoming! If you would like to learn more about me and my background, you can visit www.electrobarnoys.com
What key issues would I focus on if elected:
If elected, the key priorities that I would want to focus on are:
Public safety – It is critical that we have a safe community. I will stand with our public safety officers in providing them the resources needed to keep our community safe.
Fiscal responsibility – I have extensive experience in budgets and finance and will add a new perspective and will treat our finances as I would my own. Your tax dollars will be treated with care and respect.
Planned development – Ensure we have a strong master plan that will put the right uses in the right areas, grow strong business and enhance quality of life.
Supporting an environment for small business to prosper
DR. RENEE HILL–Wyoming Council Member at Large (Incumbent)
Occupation: Doctor of Physical Therapy, (Wyoming Council Member at Large)
Why are you running for office? To preserve the Constitution of the United States of America as one nation under God.
Two issues you are focused on?
Appropriate use of the hard-working tax dollars our residents and businesses pay to the City.
How to engage more of the residents and businesses to be more involved with our City.
CASSIE KAWKA-VLAHOS –Wyoming Council Member at Large
Occupation: Insurance Compliance Specialist
Why are you running for office? I am running for Wyoming City Council At-Large because I believe local government functions best when residents feel informed, heard and connected to the decisions that impact their daily lives. My goal is to help our city government create that trust and connection. I believe residents deserve a representative who will reach out to them, listen, communicate openly and work collaboratively to resolve issues and improve our community.
Two issues you are focused on: Transparency and Communication
DANIEL RIVERA – Wyoming Council Member at Large
Occupation: Political Manager, States Project
Why are you running for office? I’m running for Wyoming City Council At-Large because I believe our city government should be efficient, accessible, and responsive to every resident. As someone born and raised in Wyoming, I want to give back to the community that invested in me and help build a stronger future for all families.
Two issues you are focused on:
Investing in strong neighborhoods through parks, local businesses, and community engagement.
Government efficiency and accountability.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 80TH DISTRICT CANDIDATES
LILY CHENG-SCHULTING – State Representative, 80th District (D)
Occupation: Disability Rights Advocate, Founder of the Disability A-TEAM of West Michigan, and Community Organizer
Why are you running for office?
After mobilizing a grassroots movement and achieving meaningful, systemic change for almost all of the special education schools in Kent County, I decided to run for legislative office to create many real solutions and positive change for all people.
Since my family and I have experienced prejudice through the years, I want to make sure that noone faces discrimination because of the color of their skin, their race, their background, who they love or worship, or for any reason.
Moreover, I am not just an immigrant and a woman of color, I am also a proven community organizer and human rights advocate for over a decade. This combination makes me the worst nightmare of Trump, the oligarchy, fascism, and any racist attacks in our communities.
In this race, I am also the authentic Progressive fighter for a multicultural, working class government. Of utmost importance in our Democracy is a government of, by, and of the people, including working families, diverse families, women, immigrants, and all who need a stronger voice amid our power structure. Moreover, I am the only candidate for State Representative who Bernie Sanders and Abdul El-Sayed have ever endorsed in West Michigan. Although other candidates coop the term Progressive, I am the only candidate in my race who the Progressive Caucus of the Michigan Democratic Party has endorsed.
Two issues you are focused on:
Two issues or bills, among many issues, which need help immediately and continuously, are bills for increasing the wages of direct care workers and increasing funding for public education and support services for students with disabilities and mental health challenges.
Additionaly, I will dedicate my skills as a proven coalition builder and community organizer to listen and create many real solutions, including but not limited to:
· And ensuring a higher quality of life and human dignity for everyone in HD80 and Michigan
· Affordable Housing options
· A living wage and higher wages
· Abolishing ICE
· DriveSafe Bills
· Universal Healthcare for All or Single Payer Healthcare
· Shutting Down Line 5
· Preventing and protecting the public from Data Centers
· Women’s Rights
· LGBTQ Rights
WYOMING COUNCIL MEMBER, 1ST WARD CANDIDATE
KYLE BRETHAUER – Wyoming Council Member, 1st Ward)
Occupation: IT Project Manager Why are you running for office? I am passionate about helping people Two issues you are focused on: Improving city services and managing city expenses.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 83RD DISTRICT CANDIDATE
CINDY RAMIREZ – State Representative, 83rd District (R)
Throughout the 2026 concert season, Acrisure Amphitheater has made a donation to be nice. in honor of each show that performs at the venue, supporting mental health awareness and education in West Michigan.
During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, be nice. is recognizing and thanking Acrisure Amphitheater for this meaningful support.
“Music has a unique ability to bring people together and create a sense of connection and community. We’re proud to support be nice. and its work to make mental health education accessible throughout West Michigan and beyond,” said Richard MacKeigan, Acrisure Amphitheater General Manager. “Recognizing each artist who performs at Acrisure Amphitheater with a gift to be nice. is one way we can extend the impact of those shared experiences beyond the venue and into the community.
“We are incredibly grateful to Acrisure Amphitheater for recognizing the importance of mental health and supporting our work,” said Christy Buck, president and founder of be nice. “Every artist who takes the stage brings people together, and we’re grateful that each performance is also helping strengthen mental health education in our community.”
The donations support be nice.’s work providing mental health and suicide prevention education in schools, workplaces and communities throughout West Michigan.
About the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan – be nice.
The Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan’s signature program, be nice. is an upstream mental health and suicide prevention program that equips individuals to gain knowledge and have confidence to take action. The four-step action plan—notice, invite, challenge, empower—fosters a culture of awareness and support in schools, workplaces, and communities, encouraging education, early intervention and connection to professional help when changes in mental health occur. Learn more at benice.org.
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights football show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Sept. 25.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: Rockford at East Kentwood, Friday, Oct. 2.
The main entrance to the new Kentwood Community Center. (Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
By Cris Greer Managing Editor Wyoming-Kentwood News Today greer@wktv.org
Way back in 2003 as a city engineer, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley was impressed with an architectural rendering that he found in a closet.
“This was the the first time I knew that the Kentwood Leadership wanted a space like this at this location,” said Kepley, in his fourth term. “I remember seeing this building on this site, and I knew, ‘Wow, they’re looking way into the future because they don’t even own the land to build this building.'”
Kepley addressed local media Friday morning during a sneak-peek tour of the new Kentwood Community Center (located at 4755 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood), which officially opens on Oct. 5, but will hold a Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“So, 23 years later, we’re here, we’re standing in this place that will encourage our residents to strengthen their body, learn new skills, survive the cold months, with lots of natural light and positive physical things to do while having fun with friends and meeting new ones.”
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley speaks during a Media Walkthrough of the new Kentwood Community Center. (Photo WKTV/Sam Rangel)
Kepley said the large-scale project officially began in 2017, when the City turned 50, after asking and listening to “all his bosses,” the Kentwood residents. He asked them what they wanted to see Kentwood look like in the next 50 years.
“We did a reach out with surveys and had gatherings of community involvement, and got a lot of feedback,” Kepley explained. “And what came was a list, which I affectionately call my honey-do list. The list contained items like the Farmer’s Market, an expanded trail system, improved parks, and most importantly, a centralized Community Center. Items like the Farmer’s Market, we were able to knock out pretty quick, but others like the Community Center, that had a rather large price tag, it’s gonna take some time to bring it to fruition.
“We hired a consultant, and they created a Master Plan for our Parks and Rec, and programs that would address most of the items on the honey-do list.”
At first, north of $50 million
At the time, Kepley said the cost of implementing the list was north of $50 million, but today, that number was really closer to $70 or 75 million.
“At the time, we did not have the $50 million to do this, but most importantly, we were not going to build a nice and shiny thing that we couldn’t maintain,” Kepley said. “I mean, how many times have you gone into the city or places where they have a bright, shiny thing, and all of a sudden, three years later, it is not good. Things are broken. They didn’t think about sustainability.
“It was about building quality, but operating at excellent levels, but most importantly, sustain the new and shiny infrastructure for generations to come. We did not have the resources to build and to sustain the desired new infrastructure that our residents wanted.”
Kepley said they took the Parks and Rec honey-do list before the voters and got it approved.
Ended up at $30 million
“To pay for the Community Center, which cost nearly $30 million, the City did use some of the millage dollars, general fund dollars, a lot of savings, and donations from the generous community, and $9 million, the proceeds from a new municipal bond,” Kepley said. “We wanted to make sure this building is affordable and attainable for as many people as possible. All this helps to ensure that Kentwood residents can experience this beautiful space today, and most importantly for generations to come.
“I’m extremely excited. I think we nailed it, and it shows, it shows the quality and the care.”
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
(Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation)
Kentwood Community Center Fact Sheet
*67,500 Square Feet *$30 Million Price Tag *Offers Everything From fitness and sports to dining, events, enrichment and everyday opportunities to connect *3 Full Basketball Courts in the main gymnasium (20,828 square feet), 16 basketball hoops. *Gym Options: Can be configured with three volleyball courts or nine pickleball courts. *Maple Gym Floor: Uses the same flooring system used for the NCAA Final Four and was manufactured in the Upper Peninsula. *Elevated Indoor Walking Track: 8 laps = 1 mile *Fitness Center: (4,407 square feet) Features cardio, strength and conditioning, free weights and accessible equipment for a variety of ages, abilities and fitness levels. *Multi-Sport and Golf Simulator: Play virtual golf courses and a variety of interactive sports and games year-round. Reserve for an hourly fee. *The Bistro: Freshly prepared and grab-and-go food, smoothies, specialty coffee, snacks, beer, wine and more. Open to members and non-members. *Child Watch: A safe, welcoming space for children ages 3-10 while parents and guardians enjoy the Community Center. Available to members and day pass holders. $4 an hour per child, 10 hours for $30 *The Grove: A flexible 55X75 foot event venue for up to 175 guests for weddings, corporate events, birthdays and other celebrations.
Membership INFO Memberships are available to Kentwood residents and non-residents, with discounted rate for residents and options for individuals, couples, seniors, households and teens. Resident memberships start at $30 per month. Day passes also are available for visitors who want to experience the facility without an ongoing membership.
Membership Includes: *Fitness Center *Walking Track *Drop-In Sports *Member Discounts
For more information, call 616-656-5279 or CLICK HERE
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights football show featuring Host Mike Moll and several games from Friday, Sept. 18.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: Forest Hills Central at Wyoming: Friday, Sept 25
The City of Kentwood will celebrate the grand opening of the new Kentwood Community Center on Saturday, Sept. 26, inviting the community to explore the new facility, enjoy family-friendly activities, live music, food, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Following the grand opening celebration the facility will officially open to the public at 5:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5.
Grand Opening Celebration
The Grand Opening Celebration takes place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at the Kentwood Community Center, 4755 Walma Ave. SE.
Kentwood Community Center. (Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood)
The event will include:
Ribbon-cutting ceremony: 1 p.m. Remarks from the Mayor and more
Guided tours: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.
Family-friendly activities: 2 to 5 p.m. throughout the building
Giveaways for the first 500 attendees, while supplies last. Look out for Golden Tickets for 10-day passes.
Food:
Food trucks: Dune Buggy, Tarriko Taqueria, and Rub and Grub LLC
Desserts from The Bistro
Alcohol available for purchase from The Bistro and outside bars for adults 21 and older.
Live music: Signal Trip from 3 to 5 p.m. and Klay N’ The Mud from 6 to 8 p.m.
No registration is required to attend the Grand Opening Celebration. More information is available HERE.
General Public Opening: Monday, Oct. 5
The Community Center officially opens to the public at 5:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5.
The additional preparation time will allow the Community Center team to complete staff training and ensure employees are confident and ready to provide a quality customer experience from Day One.
“Our staff has worked incredibly hard to prepare the building, programs, and services for the community,” said Val Romeo, director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “We want every person who walks through our doors to feel welcomed and have a great experience, and this additional time will help us make sure we’re ready.”
Founding Member billing will begin Oct. 5, not Sept. 28. Founding Members will not be charged for their membership before the Community Center’s public opening.
The Kentwood Community Center offers a variety of spaces and amenities designed to serve residents and visitors of all ages, including an indoor walking track, fitness center, gymnasium, Bistro, event spaces, outdoor amenities, programs, and activities.
For more information about the Kentwood Community Center, membership options, programs, and the Grand Opening Celebration, visit Kentwood.us/CommunityCenter.
More than 1.5 million caps and other pieces of medical waste from University of Michigan Health-West hospital have been transformed into a colorful ArtPrize installation.
Casey “KC” Chubb, an anesthesia support technician at UM Health-West, spent more than two years collecting materials that otherwise would have been discarded and turned them into “Be Your Own CAPtain,” an underwater scene featuring CAPtain the octopus and Taneel the eel.
About 90% of the caps came from medication bottles used during surgery. Look closely and you’ll also find syringe caps, CO2 absorber tops, surgical timeout markers and other medical materials incorporated into the artwork … that would otherwise be dumped in a landfill.
The project became a hospital-wide effort as Chubb’s coworkers helped collect materials and encouraged her to enter ArtPrize.
ArtPrize contestant Casey “KC” Chubb, a UM-Health West anesthesia support technician, spent more than two years collecting materials that otherwise would have been discarded to create “Be Your Own CAPtain.” (Photo Courtesy: Casey Chubb)
Per her Artist Statement at ArtPrize, Chubb said, “Nearly every department within my employed hospital has saved and contributed to this bigger picture. As well as my community of family & friends from all over our glorious country. They, too, have all made a positive impact on this world by simply saving one CAP!
“Originally created, CAPtain the octopus & Taneel the eel, is my first attempt at recycled art. For something fun to enjoy around the family pool starting back in early 2024. Transformed into encouragement from the unity of people that help contributed, to share it with the world.
“Recycling not only keeps our incredible planet thriving, but it also unclutters your mind. So your eyes can see.”
ArtPrize, founded in 2009, runs from Sept. 18 through Oct. 3. Per its website, “ArtPrize is an international art competition and cultural festival held annually in Grand Rapids, Michigan – a celebration of ideas, conversation, experimentation, and inclusiveness. Each year, we welcome more than 900,000 visitors to experience the transformative power of art. Discover work by thousands of artists from around the world as our city transforms into a living canvas.”
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
Heading into the new season, the East Kentwood football team had some high expectations. So far, the Falcons are proving those expectations correct, as three games into the season the team has reeled off three consecutive double-digit wins.
After opening the season with a 55-0 win against Southfield A&T, Kentwood beat Byron Center 42-14 and Grandville 56-35 in the OK Red opener.
In the latest win against Grandville, the game was not as close as the final score indicated as the Falcons led 42-14 at halftime. Kentwood jumped out to a 21-7 lead at the end of the first quarter before doubling the score in the second quarter.
East Kentwood mixed its passing game and the run to gash the Grandville defense. The Falcons totaled 224 passing yards and added 241 yards rushing for a total of 465 yards.
Senior quarterback Colin O’Connor connected on 13-of-20 passes for 224 yards and tossed five touchdown passes to pace the attack while adding 30 yards rushing.
East Kentwood quarterback Colin O’Connor. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
Stephan Jones led the receiving corps with five catches for 97 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Ezekiel Ferrell caught three balls for 39 yards, while Austin Nelson caught one pass for 52 yards and a touchdown. Nelson also added a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
Stephan Jones. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
The ground game, which produced 241 yards rushing on 14 attempts (17.2 avg.), was paced by Dallas Moody, who carried the ball three times for 147 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
Chris Thompson led with 10 tackles
On the defensive side of the ball, Chris Thompson led the Falcons with 10 tackles, followed by Donavan Jones with seven; Alijah Bondon, four, including two quarterback sacks and a tackle for loss. Dmari Love-Simmons and Tyler Meeuwsen both added six tackles, including a tackle for loss, while Jeremiah Adams, Kenneth Harris and Jayden Stewart also had six apiece.
The Grandville win capped an opening third of the regular season that saw the Falcons hit on all cylinders in the three wins.
“We definitely feel good about every win we can get,” said East Kentwood Coach Tyrone Spencer. “We want to continue to build on that and get better each day in every way we can.”
One area the Falcons will work on is keeping the focus up the entire game.
“We were up 42-14 at the half against Grandville,” Spencer said, “but we were outscored 21-14 in the second half. We also had four penalties in the second quarter. We have to make sure we remain focused in the second half.”
The Falcons are averaging 51 points per game and capable of striking through the air or via the ground game.
Season Stats
O’Connor has completed 71% of his passes for 587 yards with nine touchdown passes against one interception. Stephan Jones leads the receivers with 15 catches for 276 yards (18.4 avg.) and five touchdowns. Nelson has caught two passes for 101 yards and a pair of scores.
Moody leads the running game with 334 yards rushing (15.9 avg.) and six touchdowns.
“Our guys are doing a great job on offense,” Spencer said. “They are executing the gameplan and staying on schedule. Our quarterback is also doing a great job of putting us in the best situations. The guys we are counting on are doing a really, really good job of coming through. Also, a shout out to the offensive staff. They are doing a phenomenal job working with our offense.”
On the defensive side of the ball, Thompson leads the defense with 25 tackles. Bondon is the top playmaker on defense with 4.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Love-Simmons has 16 tackles along with three tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks, while Donavan Jones and Major Barnes both have 17 tackles apiece.
East Kentwood looks for win No. 4 Friday when it goes on the road to face a Grand Haven with a 2-1 record.
“We have to focus on Grand Haven,” Spencer said. “It will be a challenge to win on the road against a really good Grand Haven team. Our guys will have to be focused and play a full four quarters. I tell our guys we have to get one percent better each day. Offense, defense and special teams, we have to continue to get better and work the kinks out.”
By Cris Greer WKTV Managing Editor/Sports Director greer@wktv.org
Check out the new and exciting football clips above from our latest Friday Night Highlights football show featuring Host Mike Moll.
Just like basketball season, every week we’ll bring you much of the local high school football home stadium action from the local varsity teams, highlight some top performers and their stats, give final scores, and show a snapshot of the latest conference standings in an exciting Friday Night Highlights show.
Look for our fast-paced local highlights show every Monday night! Thanks for tuning in.
WKTV Game of the Week
Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Truck Game of the Week includes two play-by-play announcers, an occasional field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.
You can count on our very experienced, exciting game announcers for both football and basketball (Ty Marzean, Michael Farage, Greg Chrapek, Mike Moll) to guide you through your local team’s games. If you are interested in volunteering at WKTV Sports for our Truck or Studio productions, please email me at greer@wktv.org
Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. You also can watch these games on our WKTV YouTube Channel.
Next WKTV Game of the Week: NorthPointe Christian at Godwin Heights: Friday, Sept 18
After more than three decades of dedicated service to the Kentwood community, Fire Chief Brent Looman is retiring from the Kentwood Fire Department. Chief Looman’s final day is Jan. 8, 2027.
As the City celebrates Chief Looman’s distinguished career, the search begins for the next chief who will lead the department into the future, building upon the strong foundation already in place.
Looman began his career with the City of Kentwood in 1991 as a part-time firefighter. Over the next 35 years, he advanced through the department’s ranks, serving as fire inspector beginning in 1997, fire marshal beginning in 2000, deputy fire chief beginning in 2007, and fire chief since 2011.
“Chief Looman is a tremendous example of a true public servant whose character exemplifies a caring soul using his profession and dedication to serve his community especially when they need him most,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “For more than three decades, Brent has grown alongside the Kentwood Fire Department, taking on greater responsibility at every step and ultimately leading the department. We are grateful for his leadership, his commitment to our residents, and the countless ways he has served Kentwood. While we will certainly miss having him as our Fire Chief, we are so proud to celebrate everything he has accomplished and wish him all the best in his retirement.”
During Looman’s tenure as Fire Chief, the Kentwood Fire Department has continued to evolve to meet the needs of a growing community. One of the department’s newest investments is the Kentwood First Responder Training Facility, which provides dedicated space for firefighters and police officers to train together and prepare for the complex situations they may encounter in the field.
The department today serves the community from three staffed fire stations with approximately 55 employees and has built a reputation for professionalism, service and operational readiness. These investments, along with a strong culture of professional development, provide a solid foundation for the department’s next chapter.
As the City prepares for this leadership transition, Kentwood is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking fire service leader to serve as its next Fire Chief.
The next Fire Chief will lead a high-performing department while serving as a member of the City’s executive leadership team. The Chief will work closely with the Mayor, City Commission, department directors, employees, and regional partners to advance strategic priorities while ensuring exceptional public safety services for the community.
The ideal candidate will be an accomplished fire service leader who is comfortable leading during major incidents, developing future leaders, managing budgets, navigating labor relations, and representing the department throughout the community. Kentwood is seeking a visible, engaged, collaborative, and decisive leader who values competence, accountability, and strong relationships.
“This is an exciting opportunity for a fire professional to join an already successful organization and help define where the Kentwood Fire Department goes next,” Kepley said. “We are looking for a public servant who will lead the department in serving our community, strengthen the department’s culture, and continue building the strong relationships that are vital to provide excellent public safety services.”
The City will begin its first review of resumes on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. Candidates interested in learning more about the position and applying are encouraged to visit the recruitment page.
The City of Kentwood thanks Chief Looman for his 35 years of service and looks forward to welcoming the next leader of the Kentwood Fire Department.
Girls in Aviation Day. (Photo Courtesy: Women in Aviation International Great Lakes Chapter/Luke Koeman. Used with Permission)
By Cris Greer Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Managing Editor greer@wktv.org
At the young age of seven, Samantha Perry was a “lucky” traveler on a small private plane which made a lasting impression.
“My dad was working for a fastener company and a large automotive organization needed an emergency part that was causing a production outage, and his company rented a small private plane to fly him from Michigan to Chicago to get the required part,” said Perry, who is on GE Aerospace’s cybersecurity team and president of the Great Lakes Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI). “It was because I tagged along with him in that plane that I caught the ‘bug’ for aviation, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
“While open to all genders, our initiative is designed to expose school-aged females to the aviation industry and spark inspiration about the career opportunities available in aerospace.”
Since becoming president, Perry’s highlights have included bringing Girls in Aviation Day back to Grand Rapids, expanding the chapter board to increase collaboration, and creating strong partnerships with other midwest WAI chapters (and partner organizations) to expand the reach of their professional network.
Girls in Aviation Day. (Photo Courtesy: Women in Aviation International Great Lakes Chapter/Luke Koeman. Used with Permission)
“Many Women in Aviation International Chapters across the globe host a Girls in Aviation Day event,” Perry said. “The Great Lakes Chapter has held about seven events since inception. However, this is our second year hosting the event with capacity to facilitate larger-scale attendance.”
Girls in Aviation Day Details
Time/Date: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19 Location: AVFLIGHT, 4211 Cassard Ln., Grand Rapids Featuring: –Drone activities –Flight simulator –Static aircraft displays –Airfield/hangar/ARFF tours –Meet Rosie the Riveter and Jerry the Jet
Girls in Aviation Day. (Photo Courtesy: Women in Aviation International Great Lakes Chapter/Luke Koeman. Used with Permission)
The Mission
“Women in Aviation International is the largest nonprofit organization that envisions a world where the sky is open to all, and where aviation and aerospace dreams are possible without barriers,” said Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “The WAI Great Lakes Chapter is building an inclusive, diverse and global aviation and aerospace industry – starting here in the Great Lakes Region.”
Members vary in age and career stage, from high school senior to retirees.
“In our chapter, some members are corporate pilots (business jets), some are airline pilots, some are certified flight instructors,” explained Perry, who has a private pilot’s license. “We have some non-flying occupations too, including, aircraft mechanics, airport operations officers, flight dispatch personnel, trip schedulers, line technicians, aircraft management staff, aviation authors, avionics manufacturers, aerospace engineers, FAA employees, and more.”
“Goal is to increase female representation”
“There is a significant gender gap in most aspects of aviation, and our goal is to increase the female representation in all aerospace occupations. While there are certain aspects of aviation that have larger female populations (flight attendants, for example), other occupations (engineering and maintenance, for example) could benefit from increased diversity.”
Seventy-five years! Whether you want to sing Happy Birthday or just wish them a wonderful anniversary celebration— know this:
“The Grand Rapids Chorus is one of the longest running female barbershop singing organizations in the world,” said Pattee Bender, Kentwood resident and longtime member of the group.
Barbershop is four-part harmony a cappella singing.
Of course, the milestone of being in existence for 75 years deserves notoriety and recognition. And, of course, a gala.
“We are so excited about our 75th Diamond Jubilee Gala,” said Colleen Pierson, a 10-year member.
The event takes place at 3 p.m. on September 19 at DeVos Center for Arts and Worship.
Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines celebrates 75th Anniversary. (Photo Courtesy: Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines)
Master Director Holli Houtz doesn’t want to give too much away on the content of the show, but she promises, “Lots of memorable moments throughout with former members and directors taking the stage, a new musical arrangement and memories of the 75 years. There also will be a very special quartet called Duly Noted that will travel to West Michigan to perform.”
Members from age 19 to 92
The Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines has performed all over the world with recent excursions to Ireland and Pearl Harbor. They currently have members from all across Michigan ranging in age from 19 to 92.
“We are always looking for new members,” Houtz explained. “You don’t have to be able to read music, just the ability to sing. Music, performing and singing come from the heart.”
For more information on joining The Grand Rapids Chorus please CLICK HERE.
Tickets for the 75th gala performance are available at the door or CLICK HERE.
Kent District Library holds 15th annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest, which drew over 1,000 entries last year. Michigan writers of all ages are invited to enter, with separate categories for youth, teens and adults.
Winning entries will be published and the top writers will receive cash prizes.
“With this being the 15th year for the contest, we’re excited to offer 15 cash prizes for the winners this year, more than any previous year of the contest,” says Josh Mosey, KDL’s digital marketing strategist and leader of the Write Michigan committee. “I personally know authors and publishing professionals whose careers have been launched by this contest. Even if someone doesn’t feel like a writer, I’d encourage them to give this contest a chance. After all, if you write, you are a writer.”
Stories can be submitted at writemichigan.org through Sunday, November 15. Details include a 3,000-word maximum length; $10 entry fee for ages 18 and above, free for 17 and under; current Michigan residents only; all entries must be submitted online.
There will be five cash prizes given in each of the age groups ― Judges’ Choice ($500), Readers’ Choice ($250) and three Judges’ Choice Finalists ($250 each). The top ten stories in each category will be reviewed by a panel of judges comprised of published authors, editors, professors and literary agents. A public vote will determine the winners of Readers’ Choice.
The 2027 Write Michigan awards ceremony will take place in March, when the anthology will be made publicly available thanks to Schuler Book and their Chapbook Press imprint.
Kent District Library is offering a programming series geared towards writers and aspiring writers, covering topics like telling your story, using AI to Improve your creative writing skills and getting your books into bookstores and libraries. For more details, including dates, times and locations, visit writemichigan.org/writers-conference.
Those interested in entering a story can join an online community of writers through Facebook (facebook.com/WriteMichigan) and Instagram (@write.michigan). Get encouragement, writing tips, challenges and more while you plot your award-winning short story.
For more information on Write Michigan, visit writemichigan.org.
The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to celebrate a decade of The Vibe, an annual celebration and fundraiser supporting Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation programs, on Thursday, Sept. 10.
The 10th annual event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the new Kentwood Community Center, 4755 Walma Ave. SE. Guests will enjoy an evening of cocktails, dinner, live music, a silent auction, and adaptive equipment displays while supporting recreation opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Casual attire is encouraged.
For a decade, The Vibe has helped raise funds to enhance Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation programs, which offer a wide variety of activities designed to meet the needs and interests of individuals of all abilities.
The Vibe fundraiser for Adaptive Recreation. (Photo Courtesy: City of Kentwood.)
This year’s featured speaker is Nicholas Deblecourt, who will share his story of resilience, adaptation and finding new ways to stay active following a life-changing accident.
After experiencing a seizure while driving, Nicholas survived a life-threatening crash that resulted in severe burn injuries and ultimately led to an amputation. He will share his journey of adjusting to life as an amputee and the important role adaptive recreation can play in helping people stay active, connected, and confident.
The Vibe holds a special connection for Nicholas, who previously interned with Kentwood Parks & Recreation. The City is honored to welcome him back to Kentwood to share his experience as the community celebrates 10 years of The Vibe and the impact of Adaptive Recreation programs.
“Adaptive recreation is about so much more than the activity itself,” said Tara Holliman, Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Coordinator. “It’s about creating opportunities for people to try something new, build confidence, make connections, and recognize what they can do. The support we receive through The Vibe helps us continue creating those opportunities for individuals and families throughout our community.”
The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming alongside several community partners. The program also is made possible thanks to the help of a strong volunteer network. Adaptive programing includes activities such as archery, bowling, cycling, kayaking, pickleball, rock climbing, skiing, water skiing, and social events. Programs are made possible through the support of the community, volunteers, and event sponsors.
“Reaching the 10th year of The Vibe is an incredible milestone, and it speaks to how much our community values creating opportunities for everyone to participate,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Director. “We are grateful to everyone who has supported this event over the years and helped us continue expanding the ways people of all abilities can connect, participate, and thrive.”
Event Details:
Location: Kentwood Community Center, 4755 Walma Ave. SE
Tickets: $45 per person and can be purchased online at kentwood.us/Vibe. Tickets also can be purchased through Kentwood Parks and Recreation.
Entertainment – Live music and additional activities throughout the evening
Money raised through The Vibe will support Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation programs and help provide equipment, activities and opportunities for individuals of all abilities.
Programs are open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond. To learn more about The Vibe and Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation programs, visit kentwood.us/Vibe or Kentwood Adaptive Recreation.
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
For a season opener, they don’t come much more impressive than East Kentwood’s 55-0 win against Southfield A&T to open the 2026 high school football season.
The home crowd at East Kentwood was treated to an explosive display of offense, some dominating defensive play and excellent special-team play as the Falcons dominated the visitors from the Detroit area right from the opening kickoff.
On offense, the Falcons amassed 344 total yards, a figure kept in check by the fact that the entire second half was played with a running clock limiting the Kentwood offense to the number of plays it could run. Of those 344 total yards, 252 came via the ground and 92 yards came through the air.
“Overall, I thought it was pretty good,” said East Kentwood Coach Tyrone Spencer. “You know, I wanted to see how smooth we can operate and be efficient and do some of those things. I thought, for the most part, we did a pretty good job of that.”
The Falcons wasted little time in taking control of the game as they scored on their first four possessions and were up 28-0 at the end of the first quarter.
On Kentwood’s second offensive play of the game, senior running back Dallas Moody exploded for a 63-yard touchdown run to start the avalanche of points.
On the second possession, senior quarterback Colin O’Connor connected with Stephan Jones on a 13-yard touchdown pass. O’Connor later added a three-yard touchdown run after the special teams blocked a punt deep in Southfield territory. The Falcons then closed out the scoring in the first quarter with a special teams touchdown when Stephan Jones returned a punt 51 yards. Junior placekicker Jayden Garcia kicked one of his seven extra points on the night to stake the Falcons to the 28-0 lead.
“I liked our ability to run the ball,” Spencer said. “We were able to run the ball and make some big plays when we needed to in the running game. I thought we protected and blocked well, so you know those are things that we want to continue to build, but that was really important, so I liked that and I like the defense didn’t let up as well.”
During the second quarter, the Falcons limited Southfield’s offense to three, three-and-outs. The Falcon offense, meanwhile, tacked on two more touchdowns to go up 42-0 at the half. Moody scored his second touchdown of the game on a five-yard run early in the second quarter and then senior running back Ace Bryant closed out the second-quarter scoring with a one-yard touchdown run.
Southfield A&T at East Kentwood, Aug. 27, 2026. (Photo: WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
East Kentwood was dialed in right from the opening snap. The Falcon front constantly pressured the Warriors while the Kentwood secondary blanketed Southfield receivers and the linebackers cleaned up the rest as the defense set the tone for the game right from the start.
“Defense sets the tone this year”
“That was the plan,” Spencer said. “We know what we have defensively with the guys that we have coming back and I told them, we (the defense) set the tone this year. You know, last year, Kayd Coffman and Ahman Edwards and the offense set the tone, but this year, defense, we set the tone this year.”
With the running clock in play during the second half, the Falcons still managed to put two more touchdowns on the board. Backup quarterback Tyran Harris scored one touchdown on a 30-yard run, while junior running back Ja’Kari Lovelady closed out the scoring with a four-yard touchdown run.
Kentwood’s depth and balance at running back showed through in the final stats as Moody led the way with five carries for 99 yards and two touchdowns. Harris had five carries for 69 yards and a score, Lovelady added four carries for 33 yards and a touchdown, sophomore Davione Harvey, four carries for 25 yards, and Bryant, four carries for 19 yards and a touchdown.
In the passing game, O’Connor connected on six-of-eight passes for 92 yards and a touchdown. Harris, who played receiver in the first half, caught two passes for 47 yards, while Stephan Jones caught a pair of passes for 29 yards and a score.
D’Mari Love-Simmons led with eight tackles
Senior defensive lineman D’Mari Love-Simmons led with eight tackles, three for loss and one quarterback sack, while senior linebacker Chris Thompson added seven. Senior defensive end Alijah Bondon had six tackles with two tackles for loss and one sack, while senior defensive lineman Zymeire Dannah added three tackles for loss. Junior defensive backs Austin Nelson and Ezekiel Ferrell both intercepted a pass.
With the opening win to their credit, the Falcons face a huge Week Two test this Thursday when they travel to 1-0 Byron Center on Thursday to face a Bulldog team that defeated Hudsonville 41-20.
“This win was a good confidence boost for us,” Spencer said. “We go to Byron Center and we’ll work our butts off to try to get a win over there. I think the key is going to be our ability to take their best shot, They (Byron Center) are a physical team and it’s going to be a physical football game. When they throw their best shot, we are going to have to be able to withstand it and be able to punch back.”
Kentwood Police detectives arrested two Grand Rapids men on Sept. 1 on charges relating to the shooting death of Juan Diego Cisneros. Isaiah Xavier Guerrero (22 years old) and Oscar Lagunes-Munoz (22 years old) were both lodged at the Kent County Correctional Facility and were arraigned by the 62-B District Court in Kentwood on September 3, 2026, on the following charges:
Isaiah Xavier Guerrero
Homicide – Open Murder
Weapons – Possession by a Prohibited Person
Felony Firearms
Oscar Lagunes-Munoz
Lying to a Peace Officer – Violent Crime Investigation
Members of the Kentwood Police Department continue to investigate this crime. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6600 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
UPDATE (SEPT. 1):
The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Juan Diego Cisneros.
The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6600 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
AUG. 31: One person is dead and another injured by gunshot during the early morning hours today, Aug. 31. At approximately 4:13 a.m., Kentwood Police responded to the 5700 block of Kalamazoo Ave. for a report of shots heard.
Prior to officers’ arrival, two people were transported by private vehicle to area hospitals, where one was pronounced dead. The second person sustained a gunshot wound and is being treated for injuries believed to be non-life threatening.
No one is in custody at this time. The incident appears to be isolated, and there is no known threat to the public. Kentwood Police remain on scene investigating the incident.
Kalamazoo Ave. is currently closed southbound between Gentian Drive and Christie Ave. Please avoid the area and seek an alternate route.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6600 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
Greg Chrapek — Retired sportswriter who began writing about West Michigan high school sports back in 1988. Retired from the Advance Newspapers/MLive in 2019. Also contributed to various publications during his career including The Hoop Scoop, Spartanmagazine.com and High School Sports Scene Magazine. A former high school official who worked youth, junior high and high school football, basketball and girls lacrosse games until health issues sent him to the sideline.
Last fall, year two of the Tyrone Spencer era at East Kentwood proved to be a big success. This year, with a large group of talented veterans back to lead the way, the Falcons are setting their sights on continuing that success and possibly taking things even further.
Last season was a memorable one for the Falcons. After turning in a 7-2 record during the regular season, the Falcons went on a thrilling playoff run. Kentwood won three straight playoff games before falling to eventual Division 1 state champion Detroit Catholic Central in the state semifinals.
While some key players have graduated from last year’s team and have moved on to college football, the Falcons have a large group of players returning to continue the success they are experiencing under Spencer. In his first two years as Kentwood coach, Spencer has directed the team to a combined record of 15-8 and has led the Falcons to the playoffs in both years.
“I think for us, it’s just all about being the best we can be,” said Spencer, when asked about the success of the program in his first two seasons at the helm. “That’s really what we focus on. So, we haven’t been focusing on, like, really trying to win a championship, but it’s just, ‘Hey, how good can we be individually so we can grow as a group?’ So that’s been our main goal and the results have shown.”
With plenty of veterans returning, the Falcons have a huge upside for how strong they can grow this year.
“We’ve got a lot of guys that played last year,” Spencer said. “Even on the offense, where we have like three, four starters back, we have a lot of guys who have played, and same thing on defense. I’m just excited about this season. We were one game away last year and, you know, we keep working and staying healthy, you don’t know what can happen.”
East Kentwood Football Coach Tyrone Spencer talks to WKTV during practice last week. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
On the offensive side of the ball, the Falcons have four starters returning.
One position that will have a new starter is at quarterback, where Kayd Coffman, the starter the past two seasons, is now off to Michigan State. Looking to step in at quarterback is senior Colin O’Connor (6-1, 185). A transfer student and newcomer to the Falcon program, O’Connor is no stranger to big-time high school football playing at Servite High School in Anaheim, Calif., the past two seasons. Also in the mix at quarterback is junior Tyran Harris (6-1, 190).
East Kentwood quarterback Colin O’Connor played for Servite High School in Anaheim, Calif., for two years before transferring. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
“Both have been really good,” Spencer said. “Both are different, and unique in their own way, but they bring something to this team and we’re excited about it. I think right now Colin kind of has the upper hand and Tyran plays quarterback and receiver.”
At running back, the Falcons have a number of ball carriers that are ready to make an impact.
Senior Dallas Moody (6-1, 210), who started at corner last year, is moving to running back where he has the coaches excited. Junior Ja’Kari Lovelady (5-8, 160) is another talented running back in the mix along with senior Ace Bryant (5-7, 160).
“We’re excited about those guys,” Spencer said. “Donovan Jones could play running back for us, so we have a plethora of guys that I think can help us. Dallas is a playmaker, and we’re looking for big things from him.”
At receiver, the Falcons welcome back Stephan Jones, who committed to Grand Valley State. Jones is a returning all-conference player and one of the top players in West Michigan.
Lining up at the opposite receiver spot is senior Bryce Barnes (6-2, 200), who gives the Falcons another game-breaking wideout.
A newcomer at receiver to keep an eye on is junior Donovan Rubens (5-11, 180). A standout on the track team, Rubens was on the junior-varsity squad last season.
When Kentwood uses an H-back, look for junior Lance Wiegand (6-0, 205) and Christopher Warren (5-10, 205) to handle those duties.
Up front, the Falcon offensive line returns Chris Lovelady (6-1, 275) and Leland Croskey (5-10, 280). Senior Kenyatta Williams (6-3, 295) also saw playing time on varsity last year. Moving in at tackle is junior Jalon Johnson (6-4, 255) with senior Hector Zuniga (6-2, 335) stepping in at center.
East Kentwood offensive lineman Chris Lovelady. (Photo: WKTV/Sam Rangel)
East Kentwood also has another key offensive performer returning in junior place kicker Jayden Garcia. A game-changer on kickoffs as well, Garcia is being recruited by several colleges, including Eastern Michigan University. Garcia also is adding punting to his workload this season.
Even more veteran talent returns to the defense with seven starters back.
The Falcon defensive line returns the bulk of its contributors from last year.
“Our defensive line is where we got most of our starters returning,” Spencer. We are only missing one guy, James Johnson who went to Ferris (State), so we have three starters coming back”
Among the veterans to look for up front are seniors Alijah Bondon (6-2, 230), Jaden Beard (5-11, 200), D’Mari Love-Simmons (6-5, 250) and junior Daivon Price (5-9, 230).
At linebacker, the Falcons are led by senior Chris Thompson (6-0, 225), who’s a dynamic defender. Also stepping in at the linebacker positions are juniors Habamungu Olinabanji (5-10, 210) and Jeremiah Adams (5-11, 180).
Defensive back also is a strong point for the Falcons.
(Image Courtesy: East Kentwood High School)
“Our entire defensive backfield returns,” Spencer explained. “Ken Harris is a power-four offer kid, Austin Nelson a power four, and then Major Barnes has committed to Brown University and Donovan Jones who’s going to Grand Valley, so we feel real good about the secondary. Those guys have been playing with us since they were sophomores.”
All this adds up to a Falcons team that will challenge defending conference champion Hudsonville, along with contenders like Rockford, Grandville, Grand Haven, West Ottawa and Caledonia for the OK Red Conference crown.
East Kentwood opens the season at home against Southfield A&T on Aug. 27, our WKTV Game of the Week, and then travels to Byron Center on Sept. 3. The Falcons open conference play at home on September 11 against Grandville.
The Hunt Michigan Collaborative is inviting new and experienced conservation-minded hunters seeking land access, looking to make a difference to participate in organized hunting opportunities this fall across Michigan. Through innovative partnerships with farmers, conservation organizations, landowners, and hunting programs, HMC is helping connect people to hunting while addressing some of Michigan’s most pressing deer management challenges.
The Hunt Michigan Collaborative was created in response to challenges identified through Michigan’s Deer Management Initiative, including limited private land access, declining hunter participation, high deer densities, wildlife disease concerns, and the need for improved deer management solutions. The collaborative works to address these issues by connecting hunters with opportunities while helping landowners and farmers manage deer populations responsibly.
“Our mission is simple: connect people, organizations, and opportunities to grow hunting in Michigan while delivering meaningful wildlife management benefits,” said Frank Pizzo, Hunt Michigan Collaborative Board Member. “Whether someone is hunting for the first time, searching for a place to hunt, or wants to help reduce crop damage and support healthy deer populations, there is a place for them within the Hunt Michigan Collaborative.”
A place for new hunters For individuals interested in learning how to hunt, HMC serves as a statewide clearinghouse for hunting programs, events, and opportunities. The collaborative works with organizations focused on recruiting, retaining, and reactivating hunters, making it easier for newcomers to find educational programs, mentors, and hunting experiences. By bringing multiple organizations together under one umbrella, HMC helps simplify the process of getting started in hunting.
Opportunities for hunters seeking land access Access to private land remains one of the biggest barriers facing Michigan hunters. Through the Hunt Michigan Collaborative / National Deer Association Farm Tour program, hunters gain access to organized hunts on private farmland experiencing high deer densities and crop damage. The program provides opportunities for both new and seasoned hunters to hunt properties that would otherwise be inaccessible.
HMC coordinates with participating farmers and works alongside the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to secure Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) permits, allowing hunters to assist with antlerless deer management in targeted areas. Organized hunts include support from Hunt Leaders who assist with logistics, safety, deer tracking, retrieval, and field dressing.
Helping farmers and communities Michigan farmers experience significant crop damage from excessive deer populations each year. The HMC Farm Tour was developed to provide a practical solution by connecting responsible hunters with farms that need deer management assistance. Farmers benefit from reduced deer impacts while hunters gain valuable access opportunities.
The program also supports local communities through venison donation opportunities. Hunters who participate may keep their harvested venison or choose to donate it through programs such as Hunters Feeding Michigan, helping provide nutritious protein to individuals and families in need.
Hunters Feeding Michigan. (Photo Courtesy, Hunt Michigan Collaborative/Bryan Farmer. Used with Permission)
A collaborative vision for Michigan’s future The Hunt Michigan Collaborative believes that hunting can be a powerful tool for conservation, community engagement, and wildlife management. Its vision is centered on building partnerships that increase hunter participation, improve access to hunting opportunities, support farmers and landowners, promote ethical deer management, and strengthen Michigan’s outdoor heritage.
The collaborative has received support from numerous conservation organizations and businesses, including the National Deer Association, the National Wild Turkey Federation, Women of the Wild, Jay’s Sporting Goods and others who share a commitment to growing hunting participation and responsible wildlife stewardship.
(Photo Courtesy, Women of the Wild/Felicia Engelman)
Get involved this fall Hunters interested in participating in organized hunts, individuals exploring hunting for the first time, landowners seeking deer management assistance, and organizations interested in partnering with the collaborative are encouraged to learn more at: Hunt Michigan Collaborative
About Hunt Michigan Collaborative The Hunt Michigan Collaborative is a partnership of organizations dedicated to recruiting, retaining, and reactivating hunters while helping farmers, landowners, and communities address wildlife management needs. By connecting people with hunting opportunities and supporting organized deer management efforts, HMC works to grow hunting participation and promote healthy, balanced deer populations throughout Michigan.
Check out this Interview/Preview for Fiddle Faddle Fortune.
By WKTV Staff
Directed by Robert Michael, Fiddle Faddle Fortune was produced by 8EIGHTY8 Pictures and O’Riley Media Group.
“In the aftermath of cursing someone to murder her husband, a local fortune teller Evangeline (played by Jasmine Haver, along with her witchy sidekick Loretta, Roz Stanley) summons a comical spirit to haunt a couple working throughmarital problems to teach them a lesson in working together.”
WKTV Channel 25 Air Dates: Aug. 17 at 11 p.m. Aug. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 21 at 12 a.m. Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.
Directed by Robert Michael, Fiddle Faddle Fortune was produced by 8EIGHTY8 Pictures and O’Riley Media Group. (Image Courtesy, 8EIGHTY8 Pictures and O’Riley Media Group.)
The City of Kentwood is pleased to welcome Peter Vanderberg as its new Deputy City Administrator.
Vanderberg joins the City from the Village of Spring Lake, where he served for the past three years, most recently as Assistant Village Manager. In that role, he helped lead a major park redevelopment project and supported a variety of community development initiatives.
Prior to his career in local government, Vanderberg served six years in the U.S. Army. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Grand Valley State University.
“Peter’s experience leading people and projects with his commitment to public service will assist our leadership team to convey vision and completion to the goals of our community,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “We are excited to welcome him to the Kentwood team and look forward to the expertise and perspective he will bring as we continue serving our community.”
As Deputy City Administrator, Vanderberg will support the City’s daily operations, strategic initiatives and organizational priorities while working alongside City leadership, staff and community partners to advance projects and services that benefit residents.
“It is an honor to join the City of Kentwood and contribute to the important work already underway across the community,” Vanderberg said. “The new Community Center and the City’s continued investment in parks and infrastructure make this a meaningful time to come aboard. I look forward to working with City leaders, staff and community partners to support these efforts and help Kentwood continue to thrive.”
Vanderberg officially began serving as Kentwood’s Deputy City Administrator on Aug. 3.
(Photo: Courtesy pxhere.com: Free for personal and commercial use)
Bill Rohn, Friday Night Highlights Host. Edited his high school and college newspapers before serving as a trial lawyer for 40 years at Varnum Law in Grand Rapids. He calls himself a “newspaper junkie.” Sometimes serious, sometimes not. Bill has covered sports for The Grand Rapids Press, South Bend Tribune, and The Niles Daily Star. He holds a political science degree from GVSU and law degree from the University of Notre Dame.
By Bill Rohn Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor Friday Night Highlights Co-Host greer@wktv.org
Doggoned if we haven’t reached the second half of summer. The days are getting shorter, and school buses will soon be back on the roads.
Which got me to thinking about what would make the season special.
What Wyoming and Kentwood really need before Labor Day is a good old-fashioned hot dog eating contest.
You know…like they have every Fourth of July in New York City.
After all, what’s New York City got that we ain’t got here in the WKTV viewing area?
Sure, they’ve got Broadway, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty.
But we’ve got Lamar Park, Kentwood’s City Center complex, and plenty of folks who’ve never met a hot dog they didn’t like.
Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest
Earlier this summer, ESPN televised the annual Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, where thousands gathered in the Big Apple to watch contestants chase prize money and a chance to wear the champion’s coveted “Mustard Belt.”
Forget the Detroit Tigers. The World Cup is yesterday’s news. For 10 glorious minutes, nothing mattered except how many hot dogs the competitors could make disappear.
The women competed first and winner Miki Sudo consumed an astonishing 38.5 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes — nearly four per minute — before a screaming crowd.
Contestants were allowed to dip their buns in water, but only for five seconds. Apparently there are standards.
Sudo’s victory was no huge surprise. According to ESPN, she once ate 8½ pounds of kimchi — whatever THAT is — in six minutes.
Next came the men, led by 17-time champion Joey Chestnut, the “Mozart of the mandible.” Joey often jumped up and down while chewing, adding rhythm and speed to his digestion. And Chestnut was no choker, skillfully keeping a “wall of meat“ in his stomach, thus dodging disqualification for what officials politely call a “reversal of fortune” — which is a much gentler description of refunding one’s lunch than anything I can think of. Chestnut avoided that unpleasantness while inhaling 66 hot dogs in 10 minutes to claim yet another Mustard Belt.
So, acid reflux and concerns over gastroparesis aside, why couldn’t we stage our own championship here in West Michigan?
Imagine the civic pride. Consider the bragging rights as a traveling Mustard Belt makes its way between Wyoming and Kentwood every summer. Perhaps any money that would be raised could go to a local charity. Or maybe to me.
We already have food truck rallies, concerts, and community festivals. Why not celebrate one of America’s great culinary creations right here in West Michigan?
South Christian vs. East Kentwood at the table?
As to competitors, how about local high school football teams? After all, aren’t hot dogs the most popular food at a football game? We could have East Kentwood vs. South Christian on the field, and then immediately after a battle at the table underneath the bright lights. Or how about Godwin Heights vs. Kelloggsville?
Or political candidates looking for a boost in the polls as fall elections approach?
Talk about the dog days of summer…, and I know a local TV station that could broadcast the proceedings.
Just don’t ask me to compete. I’d still be wolfing weenie No. 2 while the winner was giving a victory interview.
On second thought, maybe I could still win.
I’d simply wait patiently for everyone else to experience a “reversal of fortune.”
By Lillian Reiner Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
“When early Americans couldn’t afford wedding rings, they used to make them out of spoons and give them to their partners,” said Sean Artinyan, owner of Artinyan Artworks, one of the many vendors at the Kentwood Farmers Market last Monday.
“I think it speaks to what a lot of Americans are going through now, a lot of us are struggling, and I think it’s a good time to bring upcycling back,” Artinyan continued.
All the way from Howard City, Michigan, this was Artinyan’s first time at the Kentwood Farmers Market. Artinyan makes one-of-a-kind jewelry out of antique silverware, coins and Michigan rocks.
The market takes place every Monday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the Kentwood City Hall lawn, located at 4900 Breton Road SE. Each week has a different theme, with this one being Get Your Grill On & Ice Cream Day, in honor of National Ice Cream Day on July 19.
From the display table of Artinyan Artworks, owned by Sean Artinyan, at the Kentwood Farmers Market on July 20, 2026. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
“We try to give new businesses the opportunity to come whether they fit the theme or not,” said Market Manager Sherry Barnum. “We like to highlight local businesses, a lot of our vendors are Kentwood residents, and we try to highlight Kentwood businesses specifically.”
Keeping with the theme, the market featured Smoke’n Butt’s BBQ, a barbeque sauce and seasoning business, and Cone Addicts, which sells flavored waffle cones.
Tressa Liba, owner of Smoke’n Butt’s BBQ at the Kentwood Farmers Market on July 20, 2026. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Tressa Liba, owner of Smoke’n Butt’s BBQ, went to school for journalism at Wayne State before deciding to pursue her dream of owning a small business. When Liba married her husband six years ago, they combined his passion for Kansas-City barbeque and her knowledge of running a business to create Smoke’n Butts Barbeque.
They sell unique flavors that can’t be found anywhere else, with their most popular sauces being Big-Bad Wolf and Suey-Berry, which is made from local Michigan blueberries.
Liba emphasized the importance of local markets in gaining exposure and growing small businesses.
“We believe in the power of small business,” Liba said. “You start with your idea, you get it to the local community, and if they like it, you can scale it up and grow it.”
Currently, a majority of their business comes from the four local markets they sell at weekly.
“Backbone of our economy”
“Local businesses, especially local small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and when people come to the market and support the dollars here, every research study you look at is gonna show that those dollars stay in the economy,” said Kris Ridings, owner of Cone Addicts, as well as Crumb Collective, a bakery on Alpine Avenue.
Kris Ridings, owner of Cone Addicts, at the Kentwood Farmers Market on July 20, 2026. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Cone Addicts is a flavored waffle cone and waffle cone chip company that sells 10 flavors of waffle cones, including banana, chocolate, salted caramel, and their seasonal speciality, blueberry.
Cone Addicts began in 2024 selling only to other ice cream shops, before deciding to change their marketing approach and start selling at markets and retail stores.
Next summer at the new Kentwood Community Center
The Kentwood Farmers Market is in its 12th year of operation, according to Barnum, and has moved from the parking lot of city hall to the larger grassy area next to it. The market is planning another move next summer to the parking lot of the newly built Kentwood Community Center, with the hopes of drawing even more traffic.
Currently, the market sees around 100-200 customers each week.
“Hopefully, we’ll catch our patrons coming in and out from their workouts, grabbing some local produce, or just visiting with our local vendors,” Barnum said.
Customers ordering from Mari’s Lemonade Stand at the Kentwood Farmers Market on July 20, 2026. (WKTV/Lillian Reiner)
Kentwood resident Andrew Heiserman has visited the Market every week since he and his wife moved here from the Chicago suburbs two years ago.
He said the Market was one of the first things they noticed, and the healthy, quality items kept them coming back.
“I like supporting all the local people putting their hard work and time into the products versus a grocery store chain,” Heiserman said.
Kody Swanson is second in points in the Race for the Million. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
Greg Chrapek — Began writing about West Michigan high school sports back in 1988 and retired from the Advance Newspapers/MLive in 2019. He also contributed to various publications during his career including The Hoop Scoop, Spartanmagazine.com and High School Sports Scene Magazine.
By Greg Chrapek Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
The third leg of the 2026 Race for the Million is the highlight of the racing schedule at Berlin Raceway this Saturday night.
A four-race series that delivers plenty of winged sprint car action, Berlin Raceway is hosting what promises to be an action-packed race.
The current standing for the 2026 Race for the Million has Aaron Willison of Langley, British Columbia in first place with 43 points. Kody Swanson of Kingsburg, California is second with 35 points, followed by Bobby Santos III of Franklin, Massachusetts, with 30 points; Jeff Montgomery of Langford, British Columbia; Jimm McCune of Toledo, Ohio, in fifth. Rounding out the top 10 are Davey Hamilton Jr. of Tampa, Florida; Chase Cabre; Cornelius, North Carolina; Bryan Gossel, Windsor, Colorado; Colton Bettis of Lutz, Florida and Jake Trainor, Medway, Massachusetts.
Willison won the season opener at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida, in April, while Swanson won the second round that took place at Owosso Speedway in June.
Santos is back in the state of Michigan after turning in a pair of impressive performances back in early June. On June 6 Santos won the Must See Racing Sprint Series feature by 1.122 seconds over Swanson. Less than a week later Santos placed second in the Must See Racing feature event at Owosso Speedway.
“It’s been an ok season so far,” Santos said. “It’s not been our best year, but it’s not been our worst season either. We do have one win here which is awesome which I feel brings us a little momentum into this weekend.”
$25,000 payday for each event
Saturday’s racing will be a double feature program with the largest payout for a winged sprint car race on pavement and the highest in the state of Michigan. The twin feature program will pay $25,000 to win each main event.
The Race for the Million is a truly national/international racing event. Through the first two races a total of 49 different drivers have competed. Those drivers represent 17 states and two Canadian provinces.
Willison, Swanson and Santos are the big three to watch for in Saturday’s action. The trio has finished in the top five in both of the previous two races.
Jason Blonde of Litchfield has won 10 winged sprint car features during his career at Berlin Raceway. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
Litchfield’s Jason Blonde lone Michigan driver
The lone Michigan driver in the field is Jason Blonde of Litchfield, who’s making his second start in the series. Blonde enters the event as the all-time winged sprint car feature winner at Berlin Raceway with 10 victories dating back to 2004. Ryan Litt of London, Ontario, who is also racing Saturday, has seven winged-sprint car feature wins at Berlin, while Bobby Santos III has six.
“I’ve ran winged cars here and non-winged cars here,” Santos said. “I enjoy coming here. It’s just a racy joint. I feel like you can move around and go where the guy in front of you isn’t. I just enjoy racing here.”
Santos expects plenty of outstanding racing come Saturday night.
“I’m excited about tomorrow’s race,” Santos continued. “I think it’s going to be a good show. Hopefully a good, competitive race across the board.”
Bobby Santos III is looking to make a move up the standings in the Race for the Million series. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
Gates open on Saturday at 3 p.m. with racing scheduled to start at 6:30.
Christmas in July
In addition to racing, this Saturday is the Christmas in July celebration at Berlin Raceway. Race fans who donate a new/unopened toy receive a ticket to racing on August, 8. The Last Lap after party is presented by Honor Credit Union and Sushi Roll will be the live band performing on the Electrical Innovations Stage following the racing action.
On the Lash. (Photo Courtesy On the Lash: Used with Permission)
By Lillian Reiner Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor greer@wktv.org
Prepare to be transported to the rolling hills and green fields of Ireland when On The Lash takes the stage at Lamar Park on Tuesday, July 28 at 6 p.m. This performance will round out Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park series.
This group of friends met over 10 years ago as students at Western Michigan University, and have since traveled the country sharing their take on Irish traditional music with modern influences.
“Our favorite part of performing often isn’t ‘performing’ itself, but rather that we get to share with an audience a little snippet of the joy we have in travelling with our best friends doing what we love,” said band manager John Robey.
Exploring the Genre
The band learned about Irish music from member Joel Tyrone Myers, and has taken its time learning how to not only play it effectively, but listen to and appreciate it.
On The Lash formed in 2022, and began touring around the United States performing at major Irish and Celtic festivals soon after.
“It’s been almost surreal to play at festivals like the KVMR Celtic Fest in Grass Valley, Calif., or the Yachats Celtic Fest in Yachats, OR, or even close to home at the Michigan Irish Music Festival,” Robey shared.
On the Lash. (Photo Courtesy On the Lash: Used with Permission)
They’ve had the opportunity to play alongside their musical inspirations, including Alasdair Fraser, Solas, and Kila, as well as open for Altan within their first year of performing.
“We don’t consider ourselves true ‘trad’ (traditional) players, and we tend to feel most comfortable performing on stage as opposed to in a session,” Robey explained. However, the trad session scene has shaped the way they approach their own music.
“Those shows where the audience is so engaged that the line begins to blur between ‘observer’ and ‘participant’ are where we feel we’ve captured a real piece of that Irish music heritage,” Robey said.
Sessions refer to informal gatherings where musicians meet to play traditional tunes.
The band also holds educational workshops to share their knowledge and experience with those unfamiliar with the genre.
Unique backgrounds, United passion
Each member of On The Lash has a unique musical background and introduction into Irish folk music. Flute and vocalist Elizabeth June grew up performing with her family’s bluegrass band, which included her parents and 10 siblings. She holds a masters degree in flute performance from the University of Michigan.
Joel Tyrone Myers started playing the fiddle with the Chelsea House Orchestra as a young boy, igniting his love for Irish music at a young age. In addition to playing the mandolin, Myers writes and arranges a majority of the music for On The Lash.
Fiddlist and band manager John Robey began learning classical violin at seven years old, however, it wasn’t until age 14 that he began exploring nontraditional genres, such as Celtic music.
Patrick Hartson plays guitar for the band, but he began his musical career playing cello in a fiddle club, where he first learned various styles of Irish dance tunes. He earned multiple advanced degrees in cello performance, and picked up guitar along the way, allowing him to play in bands of many genres.
While each member has branched out to play different types of music, they all found their way back to their roots in Celtic and folk music.
On the Lash. (Photo Courtesy On the Lash: Used with Permission)
Fireside
On The Lash released their debut EP, Fireside, last year, featuring four adaptations and one original song, Dog in the Distance.
The band plans on recording and releasing an all-original album within the next year, and has aspirations to expand their touring overseas.
On The Lash will be on tour in Michigan, Illinois, the East Coast and Canada through November.
