Category Archives: City of Kentwood

Ford Airport selects mural artists for newly expanded Concourse A

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel, West Michigan,
“Twilight on the Rapids” by Devin Dumond. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority has selected West Michigan-based artists AK Bueno, Maddison Chaffer, Jimmy Cobb, Devin Dumond and Jill Eggers to paint murals in the newly expanded Concourse A.

Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport Authority continues its commitment to showcasing local artists through its public art program. The Concourse A extension, part of a $110 million project to accommodate passenger growth, will feature three art media, including custom terrazzo flooring, an aerial art installation and murals.

“We are thrilled to continue investing in the local art community through our public art program,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “The selected mural artists will create pieces that illustrate the landscape of West Michigan, from the lakeshore to the urban core, showcasing the natural beauty of our region and inspiring travelers from around the world.”


AK Bueno. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




AK Bueno, a visual artist and educator, focuses on creating abstracted architectural spaces and deconstructed landscapes in her pieces. Bueno received her bachelor’s degree in illustration from Grand Valley State University and her master’s degree in teaching from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. 


“Welcome to West Michigan” by AK Bueno. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Her mural, “Welcome to West Michigan,” focuses on abstractedly depicting key architectural elements from the region.

“It is such a privilege to share my work with those traveling through Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” Bueno said. “It is my hope the imagery in my mural invites travelers to experience calm, joy, excitement, curiosity, familiarity and a true sense of hospitality as they go forth.”



Maddison Chaffer. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)”(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Maddison Chaffer, a public artist and conservationist, apprenticed for two years under national and international muralists. Chaffer now installs murals professionally for public art festivals, small businesses, corporations and local governments.


“Manitou Passage” by Maddison Chaffer. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


The mural, “Manitou Passage,” is intended to share in the appreciation for the landscape’s history and inspire travelers to help preserve Michigan’s native ecosystems.

“I often refer to Michigan as the jewel of the Midwest,” Chaffer said. “This mural’s context within the Ford International Airport grants me the joy and privilege of sharing this adoration with not only Michiganders, but with travelers from around the world.”




Jimmy Cobb. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



“Hauling in the Sail” by Jimmy Cobb. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Jimmy Cobb is a Great Lakes artist whose work can be found along the shores of Lake Michigan, such as Muskegon, Grand Rapids, Norton Shores and Milwaukee. His piece, “Hauling in the Sail,” was inspired by Zoltan Sepeshy, a Hungarian painter who resided and taught in Michigan, and is intended to bring the vision and energy of the great coastlines to life.




Devin Dumond is a multi-disciplinary artist and entrepreneur who specializes in branding for small businesses and illustrations. Dumond teaches graphic design and illustration at Kendall College of Art and Design.



Devin Dumond. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


The mural, “Twilight on the Rapids,” is inspired by their hometown of Grand Rapids and the variety of architecture found within the city. The piece features the structure of the city juxtaposed by the organic shapes of the Grand River and lush green landscape.


“Twilight on the Rapids” by Devin Dumond. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)






Jill Eggers. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Jill Eggers is an associate professor at Grand Valley State University, where she has led the painting program since 2000. She has a bachelor’s degree in painting and art education from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in painting and printmaking from Yale University. Eggers also studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.



“Returning to Earth” by Jill Eggers. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




Eggers’ mural, “Returning to Earth,” is based on the dense and lyrical woods of Michigan and focuses on connecting travelers to the beauty and peace of the forest.

“I was thrilled to be selected to be a part of the group of artists creating a really welcoming and beautiful space, reflective of the beauty of West Michigan,” Eggers said. “Whenever I am in an airport, I consider the possibilities for creating a calmer and more grounded atmosphere – as airports can be very distracting, stressful places. It’s rewarding to create something that may give viewers some pleasure while they travel.”

The Ford International Airport’s Concourse A expansion transforms the travel experience for passengers, featuring modern amenities, eight new gates, additional concession and retail concepts, sustainable design elements and more. With the diversity of commissioned art pieces, the airport can further enhance the guest experience, creating a memorable journey for all travelers passing through the space.

To learn more about the artists selected for the Concourse A project, visit flyford.org/elevate/community.


BEGINS NOV. 13: Operation Christmas Child shows love to millions of children by collecting shoebox gifts

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Holidays, How-To's, Kent County, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , ,
In Gabon, like many places around the world, sometimes the personal note inside the shoebox gift is the most appreciated (Courtesy, OCC)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

More than 4,500 locations will open to collect Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts during National Collection Week, Nov. 13­–20.

A Samaritan’s Purse project, Operation Christmas Child (OCC) has been collecting and delivering shoebox gifts—filled with school supplies, personal care items and fun toys—to children worldwide since 1993. In 2023, OCC hopes to collect enough shoeboxes to reach another 11 million children.

Kristeana Veenstra, OCC Area Coordinator for the West Central Michigan Team, and her husband Tracey have been packing shoeboxes for the past 15 years.

A life-changing impact

Tracey (left) and Kristeana Veenstra have packed shoeboxes for children for 15 years (Courtesy, Veenstra)

After hearing an announcement at church, Veenstra packed three shoeboxes that first year in 2008.

“It was a lot of fun,” said Veenstra. “We don’t have kids, but we love kids, so it was fun shopping, picking stuff out. Even if it’s practical, [I thought] how can I make the school supplies fun.”

In April 2009, Veenstra received a letter and picture from the mother of the little girl who received the very first shoebox Kristeana and Tracey packed.

“The mom was so thankful and appreciative that now her daughter has someone who cares about her in America,” said Veenstra. “[She] invited us to come visit in Burkina Faso (West Africa). It really made an impact.”

Such an impact that Veenstra started taking up more of a role alongside the OCC team leader at the time. Eventually, Veenstra found herself stepping into that leadership role.

Christmas…all year long

“Five years in, I found out there were year-round volunteers and I got super excited,” said Veenstra.

Sheer gratitude exudes from this boy’s face after receiving a shoebox gift in Antigua (Courtesy, OCC)

Part of the year-round team for the past 10 years, Veenstra has served as area coordinator for the last three years. With over 300 participating churches in West Michigan, that is no small feat.

“We help guide churches and businesses [through the process],” said Veenstra. “We love to come alongside the project leaders of those churches and make sure they feel supported and have all the resources they need.”

With 11 drop-off sites for shoeboxes in West Michigan, Veenstra strives to recruit even more sites.

“Sometimes we will discover a need in an area that doesn’t have one, so we will start looking for churches to see if we can recruit a new church that might be interested in being a drop-off,” said Veenstra.

Anyone can pack a shoebox!

Individuals, families, and groups still have time to transform empty shoeboxes into fun gifts. Find a step-by-step guide on the How to Pack a Shoebox webpage.

“Children around the world need to know that God loves them and there is hope,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. “A simple shoebox gift opens the door to share about the true hope that can only be found in Jesus Christ.”

Veenstra added, “There is a part that anybody can play. There are so many different things and ways you can be a part of this ministry, that anybody can be part of it.”

The passion behind the shoebox

Kristeana’s team consists of 19 additional team members.

“My team is amazing, they are rockstars,” said Veenstra. “It is a passion of theirs to see kids who have maybe never received a gift, receive a gift, and to spread the love and joy that comes with them. You can really see the passion in them for this ministry.”

Veenstra and her team with Bonny (center) who received a shoebox as a child (Courtesy, Veenstra)

Veenstra remembers a woman who called her local location on the last day of drop-off to see if they would be willing to stay open late so she could deliver her packed shoebox.

“She took way longer to get there than they had expected,” said Veenstra. “It turns out, she had walked seven miles to get this shoebox dropped off because it was that important to her.”

Another project leader continued to lead shoebox packing on her own during COVID. Even though her church had shut down, the leader managed to collect over 300 boxes.

A year-long volunteer and project leader organizes a packing party each year.

“People tell me that they [help] because she has found a way to give them a purpose,” said Veenstra. “It gave them a sense of purpose they didn’t know they had.”

Responses from around the world

While it is rare to get a written letter back from a shoebox recipient because of the high postal cost in some areas, Veenstra said one volunteer’s daughter has email pen pals from all over the world.

“She has grown up doing this with her mom, so she has friends all over the world that she has gotten to know because they have received a shoebox that she packed,” said Veenstra.

After meeting with shoebox recipients in person, Veenstra says, “If that opportunity ever arises, I would tell somebody to drop everything and do it, because it will change your perspective on not just packing shoeboxes, but in so many things.”

“Love” notes

Veenstra said that receiving a shoebox reminds the recipient of Jesus’ love, and shows the recipient that someone else in the world is caring and loving as well.

Desire (crouching, center) received a shoebox as a child (Courtesy, Veenstra)

One gentleman received a shoebox containing a note that said: “Jesus loves you, and so do I.”

As a refugee, that man grew up believing and feeling that everyone hated him.

“They had no home, and he grew up with a lot of hate in his heart,” said Veenstra. “He received this shoebox, and he questioned whether or not his hate was justified because clearly not all people were bad.

“Notes are so incredibly important in shoeboxes because it creates that extra impact and connection.”

Shoebox recipient stories can be found at OCC Testimonials.

Shoebox drop-off locations

Two local locations are Calvary Baptist Church (1200 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids) and High Pointe Community Church (2975 76th Street SW, Byron Center).

However, shoeboxes can be dropped off at any of the shoebox drop-off locations.

Participants can find the nearest drop-off location and hours of operation with the online lookup tool that is searchable by City or ZIP code. Signs at each location will identify the drop-off.

“I don’t think people really realize that such a small shoebox can make such a huge impact,” said Veenstra. “This is such an amazing ministry, and I love being part of it.”

Let’s crush that goal!

A trio of girls in Mongolia rejoices over their shoebox gifts (Courtesy, OCC)

Since 1993, OCC has collected and delivered more than 209 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.

West Michigan packed 33,346 shoeboxes in 2022. Veenstra and her team have a goal of collecting 35,500 shoeboxes for 2023.

“We would love to completely crush that goal,” said Veenstra. “There are millions more children to get shoeboxes to.”

Annual Fall Fling Tournament and Food Drive on Saturday, Nov. 11; hosted by Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Sports, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


The City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc are inviting disc golfers of all levels to the annual Fall Fling tournament and food drive Saturday, Nov. 11.

The best-shot doubles tournament begins with on-site registration at 9 a.m. at Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Drive SE. The cost is $25 per person or $50 per team, plus a canned food donation for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.

“The City of Kentwood is pleased to again offer local disc golfers an opportunity to have fun, show off their skills and support our community at the Fall Fling,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We appreciate our partnership with Great Lakes Disc in helping to bring this popular event to Kentwood each year and are grateful for the continued generosity of our local disc golf community.”


(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Pre-registration for the Fall Fling is encouraged online at kentwood.us/FallFlingDiscGolf. Players will meet at 9:45 a.m., and the first round of the tournament will begin at 10 a.m. Dune Buggy food truck will be on-site offering burgers, fries and beverages for sale.

“We really enjoy being a part of this tournament and spending a fall day with local disc golfers and other community members,” said Shea Abbgy, owner of Great Lakes Disc. “Our team is honored to join the City of Kentwood in co-hosting this event, which is a great example of our community’s active and giving spirit.”

Kentwood Little Free Pantry

The Kentwood Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a community service project in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. The pantry is open to all community members year-round and addresses an immediate and local need. It offers non-perishable food and personal care items. Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry, no applications required, and no questions are asked.


(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is in immediate need of donations, and the City is encouraging local businesses, organizations and community members to get involved. The pantry has locations at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE, along with several other donation bins located throughout the City of Kentwood campus.

More information about the pantry, including hours and a suggested list of donations, is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.


Happy Halloween! Have fun, be safe; read these important tips

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(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Cities of Kentwood and Wyoming hope this Halloween is a fun, safe experience for community members who plan to trick-or-treat or take part in other activities on Tuesday.


Kentwood Trick-or-Treating is recommended from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 31.

Wyoming has no designated time for Trick-or-Treating on Oct. 31 (check with your local neighborhood).



The Kentwood Police Department recommends that all children are accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating. 



“We ask that motorists keep an eye out for trick-or-treaters due to the large increase in pedestrians outside during this time,” added Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin. “We also recommend that an adult checks all of the candy before a child eats it.”


Here are some other safety tips to keep in mind:

  • If you hand out candy, turn on your porch light at 6 p.m. and off at 8 p.m.
  • Only visit homes that have their lights on.
  • Make sure trick-or-treaters wear a bright-colored costume, headlamp or reflective tape so they are visible to drivers and other trick-or-treaters. Consider bringing a flashlight.
  • Go from house to house on the same side of the street and then visit homes on the other side on your way back. This will reduce the need to cross the street.
  • Walk on sidewalks. If you must walk in the street, walk on the left side facing traffic.
  • Don’t go into any stranger’s home or car even if you are offered candy.
  • Keep in mind Kentwood’s curfew ordinance: Unless accompanied by a parent or responsible adult, children who are younger than 12 must not be in any public place after 10 p.m., younger than 16 after 11 p.m. and younger than 17 after midnight.

Please observe activity in your neighborhood. Report suspicious activity and crimes while they are happening by calling 911.

To report crimes after the fact, call the Kentwood Police Department’s non-emergency line at 616.698.6580 or file an online report. You can also submit an anonymous tip through Silent Observer at 616.774.2345 or SilentObserver.org.

Thank you for doing your part to ensure the entire community enjoys a safe and fun Halloween.

Woodland Mall to host Job Fair on Friday, Nov. 3

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan, Woodland Mall



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Woodland Mall will host a job fair on Friday, Nov. 3 featuring more than 25 organizations seeking to fill dozens of positions.

Job seekers will have the opportunity to learn about full-time, part-time and seasonal positions from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Organizations will be set up at hiring tables located throughout the mall.

A variety of retailers, restaurants and other organizations will participate in the event with opportunities for a wide range of roles, from seasonal sales associates to managerial positions.

“We’re delighted to host a hiring event to help our retailers find high-quality candidates to join their teams,” said Kennedy Vancalbergh, Woodland Mall marketing manager. “Here at Woodland Mall, we have a wide variety of careers available for anyone who is interested in retail or may be looking to earn some extra cash around the holidays.”

The current list of participating organizations includes:

  • Aéropostale
  • Auntie Anne’s
  • Bath & Body Works
  • Carter’s
  • Chico’s
  • Claire’s
  • Dry Goods
  • Footlocker
  • Francesca’s
  • GNC
  • Hollister Co.
  • Hot Topic
  • Icing
  • Journeys
  • Journeys Kidz
  • Kay Jewelers
  • Kids Footlocker
  • My Cellphone Repairs
  • Pacsun
  • Sephora
  • Soma
  • The Children’s Place
  • Tradehome Shoes
  • Vera Bradley
  • Von Maur
  • White House Black Market

Job seekers who are unable to attend the event are encouraged to explore the list of Woodland Mall openings and apply at ShopwoodlandMall.com/jobs.

Nearly 15,000 visitors are expected to pass through Woodland Mall on the day of the job fair. Booths are still available for additional employers to participate. Registration includes a table, chairs, wi-fi and parking. Businesses who are interested in participating can register using an online form.  

 More information about Woodland Mall is available at ShopWoodlandMall.com.



South Christian Sailors tame Wildcats’ offense in opening round Friday

City of Kentwood, Sports, West Michigan, ,
(Jake Westbrook/WKTV)




By Ty Marzean

WKTV Contributor


The Division 4 playoffs began where the regular season left off: South Christian vs. Wayland at East Kentwood’s Falcon Stadium.

The rematch of the regular season finale, which saw both teams combine for nearly 1,000 yards and 89 total points, looked a lot different Friday night as South Christian controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball to cruise to a 34-7 playoff victory. 

South Christian struggled out of the gate

The Sailors elected to receive the opening kickoff and proceeded on a 15-play drive that saw junior quarterback Carson Vis struggle to pass the ball. Vis went 1-4 and took a sack before turning the ball over on downs.

Wayland started its first drive at the 25-yard line. On the second play, Wildcat running back Cameron Bogart burst out of the backfield and streaked down the sideline for a 74-yard touchdown run. 

South Christian Coach Danny Brown had flashbacks of the week prior.

“That was not how we anticipated it starting,” said Brown, whose team improved to 7-3.”We envisioned coming out getting a defensive stop and scoring.

“We knew that if we could all come together and trust each other and do what we’re supposed to do, we would have a chance.”

Sailors grind it out on offense

Vis finished off a 14-play, 70-yard drive that took over seven minutes off the game clock with a 4-yard dart to Jake Vermaas that tied the game at 7. 

Vis threw an interception to Wayland’s Kaharrie Pureifoy on the next drive. 

South Christian grabs lead for good

The final drive of the first half was capped off by an 8-yard touchdown run by Vis to give South Christian a 14-7 lead at the half.

“All year, we have been scoring in a hurry; this game, we had to grind it out,” Brown explained.

A week after giving up 453 yards, South Christian stood stout and gave up the lone touchdown on the opening drive. 


South Christian’s Cam VanSolkema. (WKTV/Ty Marzean)



“We took it personal”

Senior defensive lineman Cam VanSolkema has been an anchor on the Sailor defensive front since he’s been a freshman. 

“I think the energy at practice changed the whole game,” VanSolkema said. “We all trust each other and love each other, and that was the topic we worked on during practice this week.

“We took it personal and we got it done on defense.”

South Christian controlled the second half as Vis went a perfect 6-for-6 with another touchdown pass to Vermaas while adding a second running score.

“He was a little off schedule to start the game,” Brown said. I don’t know if he was just excited. We went up to him and said settle down and get back to basics.”
 

Vis completed 11-of-16 passes for 188 yards and two scores, including an interception. He also ran for 96 yards and two touchdowns.



South Christian receiver Jake Vermaas earlier this year. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)



His favorite target, Vermaas, had six catches for 129 yards and two touchdowns. 

South Christian advanced to the district finals against Forest Hills Eastern next Friday. 

Last meeting, the Sailors beat Forest Hills Eastern 32-29 in Week 4. 

“They’re a good team up front they’ve got some really good linemen, and their backs run hard, so we’re going to have a challenge,” Brown explained. “We’re going to need another great week of practice like we had this week.”

The winner of that matchup faces the winner of Whitehall vs. Big Rapids on November 10 in the regional finals. 

The Sailors hope to continue their winning playoff ways from last year, where they finished a perfect 14-0 season with a D-4 state title with a 28-0 win over Goodrich. It was South Christian’s fourth state championship in football.


Woodland Mall welcomes Abercrombie & Fitch 

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan
(Courtesy, Woodland Mall)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Abercrombie & Fitch, a leading global specialty retailer of apparel, accessories and fragrance, opened at Woodland Mall Friday, Oct. 27.

Shoppers can peruse a wide range of clothing at the retailer, which is located in the JCPenney wing near center court.

The new store will feature aspects of the getaway-themed store concept Abercrombie & Fitch unveiled last year that will make for a light and bright space evoking a chic hotel lobby with omnichannel shopping capabilities.

With a focus on casual wear, Abercrombie & Fitch aims to “make every day feel as exceptional as the start of a long weekend,” with items designed to inspire global customers to feel confident and comfortable. 

“We are looking forward to welcoming Abercrombie & Fitch to Woodland Mall just in time for the holiday season,” said Kennedy Vancalbergh, Woodland Mall marketing manager. “This is sure to be a key destination for shoppers looking for that effortless style. The store will offer everything from elevated basics and trendy activewear to semi-formal attire for special occasions.”

Abercrombie & Fitch is the namesake brand of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF) and is sold through more than 200 stores worldwide and abercrombie.com globally.

At Woodland Mall, Abercrombie & Fitch joins an exclusive lineup of destination retailers, including Apple, Dry Goods, The North Face, Pottery Barn, Sephora, Williams-Sonoma, Von Maur and many others, along with dining establishments such as The Cheesecake Factory and Black Rock Bar & Grill.

The mall also is home to Phoenix Theatres, which features heated reclining seating, 4K digital projection with Dolby Atmos, first-run movies and family-friendly pricing.

More information about Woodland Mall is available at ShopWoodlandMall.com.

Ford International Airport welcomes new Southwest Airlines service to Nashville

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


Starting June 2024, Gerald R. Ford International Airport will increase its connectivity to the Southeast with additional service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) on Southwest Airlines.

“We are delighted to have Southwest Airlines expand their network with the addition of a seventh destination,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “This service will further connect our business and leisure passengers to a major destination. We are grateful to our partners at Southwest for helping deliver convenient and exceptional travel experiences to our community.”

This new seasonal service – which is currently served by one other carrier at Ford International Airport – is scheduled to operate on the carrier’s 143-seat Boeing 737-700, offering nonstop flights on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are now on sale at Southwest.com.

“We continue to optimize our schedule and respond to changing travel trends,” said Brook Sorem, vice president network planning at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to providing this service between two strong leisure markets.”

Southwest is the United States’ largest domestic airline and is preparing to open its Nashville flight crew base in 2024, creating the 12th crew base in the Southwest system.

Southwest has served the Ford International Airport since 2013. View its current nonstop destinations and more at FlyFord.org.

Find Halloween looks you’ll continue wearing after the holiday at Woodland Mall

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, West Michigan, Woodland Mall, ,
Woodland Mall Barbie inspired ensemble. (Courtesy, Woodland Mall)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Spooky season is officially upon us. While seasonal pop-up shops or big-brand party stores may seem like the obvious choice for finding the perfect costume, Woodland Mall has options for Halloween looks that feature pieces you’ll wear again and again. Some ideas include:

Barbie and Ken: The blockbuster film held many iconic looks, from all-pink ensembles to cowboy-inspired looks. You can find a full pink outfit featuring quality dresses, jumpsuits, tops and more at many stores throughout Woodland Mall, including Dry Goods and Versona. Altar’d State and Windsor also have glitzy cowboy accessories to help you look the part – and Aldo’s Barbie collection provides the perfect footwear to tie it all together.

To rock the “Kenough” look, check out the many styles at Forever 21 Men, from all-denim gear to a western-inspired getup. 



(Courtesy, Woodland Mall)


Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift: We’re in our Tayvis era. If you and your partner are looking for a fun and simple couples costume, this star-studded pairing may be the answer. Swing by Lids or Locker Room by Lids to grab some Kansas City Chiefs apparel for him and recreate Taylor’s gameday look with a simple white tee and red hoodie from Macy’s or Von Maur.


Swing by Lids or Locker Room by Lids to grab some Kansas City Chiefs apparel. (Courtesy, Woodland Mall)



Wednesday Addams. (Courtesy, Woodland Mall)

Wednesday Addams: The perfect little black dress can be found in many stores throughout the mall, from Forever 21 to Francesca’s. Find one you love and pair it with some spooky accessories from Claire’s, Hot Topic or Icing for the perfect Addams Family look. As a bonus, stop by Sephora for some Wednesday-inspired makeup.

Ted Lasso: You can easily recreate the look of the popular TV character with a simple navy sweater and some slacks from J.Crew or a track set from JCPenney. All you need is a mustache and you’ll be ready to hit the field.

Justin and Hailey Bieber: Turn the recent memes of Justin and Hailey’s mismatched event attire into a comical couple’s costume. You can swing by H&M to find a head-turning red dress and a cozy pair of sweats.




Plus many more outfits and accessories for the perfect spooky, super or supernatural ensemble.



Celebrate Veterans Day at the 5th Annual Michigan Women Veterans Empowerment Family and Friends Conference Saturday, Nov. 11

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Veterans, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



by WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The public is invited to celebrate Veterans Day at the 5th Annual Michigan Women Veterans Empowerment Family & Friends Conference on Saturday, Nov. 11.



The conference takes place from noon to 4 p.m. at Hero’s Corner, 4809 Eastern Ave S.E. Kentwood.



The admission free event features everything from food, vendors, a 50/50 raffle, public officials, community leaders, music and veterans gifts.


(Courtesy, MIWVEC Veterans Conference)




The host of this event is Sgt. Stephanie Shannon, a 2023 MLive Women Who Shape the State Awardee, and the founder/CEO of MIWVE.


Shannon has designed this strategic, transformational, enrichment conference to bring the community in West Michigan together to build a vibrant and diverse community where veterans, family and friends focus on healing, uniting and supporting our nation’s heroes.



For more information, contact Sgt. Shannon at 810-373-5744, MIWVEC@yahoo.com and epowermiwomenvets.com


Vietnam veteran Mike Bacon talks about his experience as U.S. Army Signal Corps Officer

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Veterans, , , ,
Mike Bacon sits with James Smither in the WKTV studio as he talks about his time as a Signal Corps Officer in the Army (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Veteran Mike Bacon recently stepped into the recording studio with James Smither, Director of the GVSU Veterans History Project, to talk about his experience in the Vietnam war.

After receiving a notice from the draft board that he would soon be drafted into the war, Bacon chose to enlist in the United States Army so he could participate in Officer Candidate School (OCS).

Bacon began basic training in spring of 1966 at Fort Dix in New Jersey, then moving into Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort McClellan in Alabama before being assigned to Mannheim, Germany as a Signal Corps Officer with the 97th Signal Battalion of the 7th Army.

Founded by Major Albert J. Myer in 1860, the U.S. Signal Corps was a small organization with members scattered among the Army’s various posts. With the rise of telecommunications, signaling duties became increasingly complex and integral to military operations.

Today, the Signal Corps consists of approximately 68,000 men and women.

Assigned as a platoon leader of the 97th Signal Battalion, Bacon eventually became Headquarters Company Commander. After two years stationed in Germany, he was discharged at Fort Dix in 1969.

Life as a civilian consisted of various jobs that allowed the military veteran to travel throughout the U.S. Bacon’s travels eventually led him to Michigan where he served at East Kentwood High School as an English teacher until his retirement.

For Bacon, however, retirement does not require sitting still.

Owner of Loon Tracks since 1985, Bacon is still heavily involved in photography, videography, and writing.

In conjunction with WKTV Community Media, Bacon produces “Whittlin’ Time,” a show based around wood carving and related skills. He has also volunteered on countless WKTV productions as camera operator, audio technician, graphics engineer, technical director, director, and helped maintain computers and software in the editing bays.

Bacon said his time in the Signal Corps gave him confidence in himself and his abilities.

South Christian expects tough rematch with Wayland in D-4 playoff opener Friday at East Kentwood; hoping second time’s the charm

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, ,
South Christian prepares to take the field. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org



In their regular season, high-scoring finale, South Christian fell to Wayland 49-40 in a game where the teams combined for nearly 1,000 yards of total offense. The Sailors had 532 yards, while Wayland posted 453.

One week later, the teams will have to square off again, this time with everything on the line. The Sailors and Wildcats meet in the Division 4 playoff opener at 7 p.m. Friday at East Kentwood’s stadium.

“I would expect them to show up similar to last week,” South Christian Coach Danny Brown said. “It is win or go home time so we expect to get everyone’s best game.”

“We need to clean up some things and get our defensive unit to play 11 strong. We show moments of it, but we haven’t been consistent enough. We seem to lose trust in each other so that is the biggest thing to clean up. Once we lose trust big plays have happened against us.”

Last week against Wayland, South Christian relied on the passing arm of Carson Vis. The junior standout connected on 24-of-44 passes for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Vis also provided a running threat with 117 yards and a pair of scores on eight carries.

“He is a great athlete and has really settled in at playing QB,” said Brown, whose team is 6-3 overall heading into the playoffs. “He has a great understanding of what we are tying to do and has done a great job of executing as the play develops. He can hurt teams with his legs and his arm which makes it tough for teams to game plan for.”


South Christian hopes to lean on quarterback Carson Vis. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)



While South was passing the ball last week, Wayland countered with an effective running game that gobbled up huge chunks of yardage. Bryce Calkins led the ground game for Wayland with 121 yards on 21 carries and a pair of touchdowns. Wayland quarterback Brady Cassini also was effective running the ball as he rushed for 94 yards on 16 carries. And Kaharrie Pureifoy gave Wayland a three-pronged running attack with 70 yards on seven carries and a touchdown.

Jake Vermaas “best wide receiver in the state,” Brown says

Another big weapon for the Sailors is receiver Jake Vermaas, who had 16 catches for nearly 300 yards and three touchdowns against Wayland.

“Jake is a great athlete and an even better competitor,” Brown said. “He has been the leader of this team and we seem to go as he goes. His game last week was a school record in catches and yards. He is one of the best wide receivers in the state in my opinion.”


South Christian receiver Jake Vermaas is the “leader of the team.” (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)



The Sailors hope to continue their winning playoff ways from last year, where they finished a perfect 14-0 season with a D-4 state title 28-0 win over Goodrich. It was South Christian’s fourth state championship in football.

South Kent Community Expo features 50-plus local organizations on Tuesday; all-ages event includes business expo, health screenings, prizes and more

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Community members of all ages are invited to the City of Kentwood’s seventh annual South Kent Community Expo on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

The free event will take place from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. More than 50 local businesses will be on site with a variety of products and services for community members to explore. Pre-registration is not required for community members to attend.

The football-themed event also will feature door prizes, refreshments and free health screenings for blood pressure, spine alignment and more.

“This event is a great way for us to gather the community and local organizations together to build connections and let people know about local resources and services,” Recreation Program Coordinator Shelby Henshaw said. “We have a terrific lineup of vendors this year and are sure to have something for everyone.”



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



The touchdown sponsors for this year’s expo are Estate Planning Legal Sources, Humana and Tim Hortons. Field goal sponsors are Cornerstone Caregiving, Health Alliance Plan of Michigan, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services and Stroo Family Funeral Home.

Vendor space at the expo is available. Interested vendors are encouraged to complete an online vendor registration form. Pre-registration is required for businesses looking to attend. 


For more information about the event, visit  kentwood.us/SouthKentCommunityExpo.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)

South Christian comes up short against Wayland in regular-season finale; prepares for playoffs

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , ,
(Image Courtesy of South Christian)




By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor



South Christian opened the season playing in a high-scoring dual with Grand Rapids Christian, and Friday the Sailors ended the regular season in another barn-burner against Wayland. South, however, came up on the short end of the latest points bonanza as Wayland held off the Sailors 49-40.

The Sailors and Wayland combined for 89 points, a little less than South Christian and Grand Rapids Christian combined for in the regular-season opener when the two teams combined for 108 total points.

“It was a back-and-forth game the whole way,” said South Christian coach Danny Brown. “Credit Wayland, they were playing for their playoff lives. They gave us everything they had. They made the plays at the end that made the difference.”

Carson Vis led via air and ground

The two teams combined for nearly 1,000 yards of total offense as the Sailor offense totaled 532 yards and Wayland posted 453. Each squad reached those lofty numbers in different ways. South Christian relied on the passing arm of Carson Vis. The junior standout connected on 24-of-44 passes for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Vis also provided a running threat with 117 yards and a pair of scores on eight carries.

Jake Vermaas had 16 catches for nearly 300 yards

South Christian wide receiver Jake Vermaas was the main target of Vis in the passing game as he put up some video-game type receiving numbers. Vermaas hauled in 16 passes for the game for 298 yards and three touchdowns.

“Offensively, on paper we did really good,” Brown said. “We did have some mistakes that hurt us. We had a couple of turnovers and a couple of other things did not work out so well.”

While South was moving the ball with the passing game, Wayland countered with an effective running game that gobbled up huge plots of yardage. Bryce Calkins led the ground game for Wayland, carrying the rock 21 times for 121 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Wayland quarterback Brady Cassini also was effective running the ball as he rushed for 94 yards on 16 carries. Kaharrie Pureifoy gave Wayland a three-pronged running attack as he carried the ball seven times for 70 yards and a touchdown.

“They (Wayland) know who they are,” Brown said. “They have an identity. They have physical, hard-nosed kids. We tried some things to stop their inside ground game but they adjusted and went outside and hurt us. Their coaches did a great job adjusting and their kids do a great job of executing.”

The Bulk of the points came during the second and fourth quarters. Wayland was up 7-6 at the end of the first quarter thanks to a 21-yard run by Pureifoy, while South answered that score with an eight-yard scoring pass from Vis to Vermaas.

Both teams turned up the rpms on offense during the second quarter as they each reached the end zone twice. Wayland upped its lead to 14-6 on a six-yard touchdown run by Calkins. South answered with a 46-yard passing play from Vis to Vermaas that cut the lead to 14-12 when the Sailors missed the two-point conversion.

Sailors take first lead at 18-14

The Sailors then took their first lead of the game when Vis scored on a 67-yard touchdown run. The Sailors missed the two-point try leaving their lead at 18-14.

Wayland up 21-18 at halftime

Wayland then regained the lead before halftime when Hudson Biondo scored on a four-yard touchdown run giving Wayland a 21-18 advantage.

The two teams traded touchdowns during the third quarter. Wayland went up 28-18 as Cassini hit Calkins with a 19-yard touchdown pass. South then answered when Jackson Haik broke free on a 40-yard touchdown run that cut the deficit to 28-25 after the extra point by Drew Bruinsma.

Five TDs scored in the final quarter

The offensive fireworks picked up in the final quarter as the two teams combined for five more touchdowns. Wayland took control of the game with back-to-back touchdowns early in the final quarter to go up 42-25.

South cut the margin to 10 points when Vis connected with Vermaas on a 68-yard scoring strike with Bruinsma tacking on the extra point.

Wayland then upped the lead to 49-32 when Calkins ran in for a touchdown from four yards out.

South Christian closed out the scoring when Vis ran for a touchdown from 16-yards out. The Sailors then added a two-point conversion making the final margin 49-40.   

With the win, Wayland improved to 6-3 for the season and nailed down a spot in the upcoming state playoffs.

South Christian fell to 6-3 win the win as it prepares for the state playoffs coming off a pair of losses.

“It’s a unique situation coming into the playoffs off a loss,” Brown said. “You can look at it one of two ways. It can motivate you or it can bring you down. I feel we are good enough to compete with anyone. It’s up to us and what team shows up. The beauty of the playoffs it that everyone starts 0-0. Coming into the playoffs with that mindset could make a difference as we will be playing for our lives.”     



Check out our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights from Oct. 20! Don’t miss these local high school football clips

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, ,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Check out our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights above, for clips of many of the local high school football teams in Kentwood and Wyoming.

Kentwood Police Department to host National Drug Take Back Day event Oct. 28

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Kentwood Police Department is encouraging community members to take part in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 28.

The department will host an event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. The department will collect tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in its original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage. The event also will accept vaping devices and cartridges as long as lithium batteries are removed. 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.


(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 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.

Ford Airport voted the best small airport in the country by USA TODAY

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport earned the top spot in the USA TODAY Reader’s Choice Awards for best small airport.

The 20 finalists for the category were selected by a panel of experts and then voted on by the public. The panel consisted of editors from USA TODAY and 10Best.com, expert contributors and industry sources. The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards series highlight top-notch attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations.

“We already knew our guests are the best in the country so it’s a real honor to know the feeling is mutual,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President & CEO Tory Richardson said. “One of the unique characteristics of our airport is the incredible support we receive from our community, which we don’t take for granted. This award underscores how important our commitment to the guest experience is.”

The top ten winners in the best small airport category were:

  1. Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)
  2. Huntsville International Airport (HSV)
  3. Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)
  4. Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
  5. Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)
  6. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
  7. Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
  8. Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (BTV)
  9. Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
  10. Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC)

Voting was open from Sept. 4 until Oct. 2 with the public being invited to cast one vote per person, per day. USA TODAY noted while the finalists serve smaller numbers of passengers each year than large hub airports, they excel with commercial flight offerings, easy access and amenities.

In 2022, 3.4-plus million guests chose the Ford International Airport for their travel needs, higher than the small airport industry average of 992,000. The Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, which has more than 100 team members who are responsible for the infrastructure and maintenance of airport facilities. Additionally, more than 1,300 team members from six airlines, food and beverage providers, maintenance facilities and several other partners come together to offer air service and amenities to guests. 

“We thank everyone who took the time to share their vote for the Ford International Airport,” Richardson continued. “We also thank our entire team and partners who are critical in creating an engaging and comfortable guest experience.

“As we celebrate six decades of serving the West Michigan community, we look forward to continuing to provide world class travel in an accessible and convenient way for another 60 years – and beyond.” 



Sun Country Airlines to begin service in Summer 2024 at the Ford International Airport

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport announced Sun Country Airlines will begin service in June 2024.

Sun Country Airlines is a low-cost air carrier focused on serving leisure passengers. Based in Minnesota, the airline offers flights to destinations in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. With this new service announcement, seven airlines will now serve the Ford International Airport.

“We’re excited to bring even more options to our guests by welcoming Sun Country to West Michigan,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson said. “Sun Country is well poised to serve our leisure passengers with access to the airline’s network of destinations.

“We look forward to our new partnership with the airline as we continue to grow and diversify options for our guests.” 

The details came in Sun Country’s summer service announcement today. The airline will initially focus on its route from Grand Rapids to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, which will run June 13 through Sept. 1, 2024. Flights will be offered biweekly on Sunday and Thursday in the afternoons and evenings. From Minneapolis, guests will be able to connect to 98 destinations.

Sun Country has previously chartered several aircraft through the Ford International Airport, but this is its first scheduled route.

“Minnesotans have a close connection to Michigan,” said Grant Whitney, senior vice president and chief revenue officer of Sun Country Airlines. “We are excited to expand our service in the state with seasonal service to Grand Rapids, and to bring additional opportunities to your residents to fly Sun Country.”

Booking will be available spring 2024 at Sun Country’s website: https://www.suncountry.com/.

Join Kentwood’s community effort to restock the Little Free Pantry

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Non-Profits, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The City of Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is in immediate need of donations, and the City is encouraging local businesses, organizations and community members to get involved.

The Little Free Pantry is a free resource that provides food and personal care items to community members who are under-resourced. Anyone can give to or take from the pantry, with no questions asked and no application needed.

The pantry operates year-round and has locations at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.

The pantry is typically stocked through donations and food drives from the community. Use of the Little Free Pantry has seen a steady increase over the past few years, and immediate assistance is needed. Preferred donations include canned and nonperishable food items and personal care items. A list of suggestions and a link to make financial contributions can be found at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.

“We typically see most of our donations come through during the holiday season, but there is need all year,” said Val Romeo, director of parks and recreation. “We’re urging community members to consider donating to this valuable resource. Any donation directly helps someone in our community, whether it’s a single item or an entire grocery cart.”  

There are several pantry donation drop-off locations throughout Kentwood. Collection hours and locations are as follows:

  • Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE: Donations may be dropped off 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.
  • Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE: Donations may be placed inside the collection bin 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and 7:30 a.m. to noon Friday.
  • Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE: Donations may be placed inside the collection bin located in the lobby 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
  • Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE: Donations may be placed inside the collection bin 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  • Kentwood Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE: Donations may be placed inside the collection bin 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  • Kentwood Fall Leaf and Brush Drop-off, 5068 Breton Ave. SE: Donations may be placed in the bin while the site is operating noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Please note: The leaf and brush drop-off service is only available to Kentwood residents.

Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry was established in 2017 as a Martin Luther King Jr. Day community service project to fill an immediate and local need. A second location was added in 2021.

To make a financial donation and find more information about Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, visit kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.

Kentwood Police arrest juvenile for the  shooting death of a 17-year-old at the Delta Hotel on Oct. 13

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Update 10/16/23 – Kentwood Police detectives have arrested a juvenile for the shooting death of a 17-year-old at the Delta Hotel, 3333 28th Street SE, on October 13, 2023. The juvenile is currently being held at the Kent County Juvenile Detention Center. The juvenile’s name and other information are not being released.

Detectives will meet with the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office, which will determine specific charges to be filed.  

At approximately 10:15 p.m. on October 13, officers from the Kentwood Police Department responded to the Delta Hotel on the report of a shooting that occurred inside the hotel. Responding officers located a 17-year-old male inside a hotel room with an apparent gunshot wound. Life-saving measures were performed by the officers and other first responders, but the subject was eventually pronounced dead at the scene. No other persons are known to be injured as a result of this incident. The name of deceased is not being released. 

Tri-unity edges host Calvin Christian 8-0 Friday

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, , ,


By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Check out our WKTV highlights from the Defenders 8-0 win over Grandville Calvin Christian. Tri-unity is tied atop the the Southwest Michigan 8-Man Football League – Blue with New Buffalo at 3-1, 5-3 overall.

WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Game of the Week truck films one game each week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, a field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.


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. To watch the WKTV Game of the Week online, visit WKTVVideos on Youtube.



Kellen Russell-Dixon runs for 330 yards, Catholic Central clinches share of OK Gold

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, , , , ,
GR Catholic Central clinched a share of the OK Gold with their win over South Christian. (WKTV/Jake Westbrook)



By Zach Fanko

WKTV Contributor

Host of Friday Night Highlights



On a rainy, windy night, OK Gold rivals Grand Rapids Catholic Central and South Christian collided with at least a share of the conference title on the line. The Cougars avenged last season’s 36-34 loss with a 21-12 victory over the Sailors Friday.



Catholic Central went ahead early on a Kellen Russell-Dixon 2-yard TD run with 8:17 left in the first quarter.



The Sailors returned the favor, as junior QB Carson Vis used his legs on a 34-yard TD scamper. The extra point was blocked as the Cougars clung to a 7-6 lead with 4:57 left in the 1st.



With weather playing a factor, both defenses dug in and held the offenses in check for the remainder of the half.



Russell-Dixon found paydirt once again, this time on a 59-yard run to increase Catholic Central’s lead to 14-6 at the 7:38 mark in the third quarter.



South Christian got back within two points as Vis found the end zone on the ground from a yard out. The ensuing two-point conversion attempt was stopped as the Sailors trailed 14-12 with 1:16 left in the third.



The Cougars all but iced the game on Russell-Dixon’s third TD run of the game with less than 8 minutes remaining to make it a two-possession game. The senior halfback had himself a night totaling 330 rushing yards on 32 carries and 3 TDs.



With the win, Catholic Central (7-1, 6-0 OK Gold) stays unbeaten in the conference and can clinch the outright conference title next week in their season finale at Ottawa Hills.



South Christian (6-2, 5-1 OK Gold) visits Wayland to close its regular season next Friday.

Caledonia defeated East Kentwood 21-0 Friday; Check out our WKTV game highlights inside

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, , ,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Check out our WKTV highlights from Caledonia’s 21-0 win over East Kentwood Friday.


WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Game of the Week truck films one game each week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, a field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.

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. To watch the WKTV Game of the Week online, visit WKTVVideos on Youtube.

Local Teen CHARGE program holds writing competition, promotes drug-free living

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Education, Kent County, Kids Activities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , ,
“The Best Me Is Drug Free” writing contest is open to all West Michigan 7th-12th grade students (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Submissions for the writing contest will be accepted until Oct. 23 (Courtesy: pxhere.com)

“The Best Me Is Drug Free” is the theme for the student-led Teen CHARGE program’s writing contest currently underway – and that is still accepting submissions.

Wedgwood Christian Services’ Teen CHARGE program is celebrating Red Ribbon Week (RRW) with a writing contest that focuses on drug abuse awareness and living drug-free lives.

All 7th-12th grade West Michigan students are invited to submit an original written work to the contest. Submissions can be in the form of a poem, story, song, rap, essay or personal narrative that relates to the theme “The Best Me Is Drug Free.”

Submissions can be emailed to teencharge@wedgwood.org, and will be accepted until Oct. 23. Winners will win gift cards and will have the chance to have their piece published on the Teen CHARGE website if they so choose.

“Every year we try to do things to recognize Red Ribbon Week,” said Gina Boscarino, Wedgwood Christian Services Group Specialist. “I wanted to do something they would be excited about, and I have a lot of students who enjoy writing, specifically creative writing.”

Raising awareness, making a difference

Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program (Courtesy: h9images, Freepik.com)

RRW is an annual, nationwide drug abuse awareness campaign that takes place during the last week of October. The campaign began after the death of Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was brutally murdered in 1985 by a Mexican drug cartel.

Camarena was known to say, “I’m only one person but I want to make a difference.”

The RRW celebration was created in 1988 by the National Family Partnership (NFP) to honor and acknowledge Camarena’s sacrifice by recognizing the harmful effects of drugs on our communities and making commitments to live a drug-free lifestyle.

Authentic and true

Boscarino says many of the written RRW submissions received to date have been “very powerful.”

Many students pledge to live drug-free lives during Red Ribbon Week (Courtesy: storyset, Freepik.com)

“Some of them are talking about why they are not going to do [drugs], or why they don’t feel the need to do drugs or alcohol,” said Boscarino. “And the other half is looking at it from the other perspective, showing the dangers of it [and] how a person loses themselves once they become addicted to something.”

“We are looking for [pieces] that are authentic and true,” Boscarino explained, adding that students do not have to have a personal experience with drugs in order to create a powerful and authentic written work.

Though this is the first year having a writing contest for RRW, Boscarino says they will definitely be doing it again.

“I think one of the great things about writing is that it is a confidence builder for a lot of people,” said Boscarino.

Blog submissions always welcome

Teen CHARGE promotes creativity and accepts blog submissions regularly (Courtesy: pxhere.com)

In fact, students interested in writing are encouraged to submit to the Teen CHARGE blog at any time.

“If kids are interested in writing, we are always taking submissions for the blog even if they’re not a specific Teen CHARGE brand representative,” said Boscarino. “We just really want to promote creativity and making healthy decisions.”

To find out more about Wedgwood Christian Services, visit wedgwood.org. To learn more about Teen CHARGE, visit teencharge.org.

Grief counseling for hospice patients and their loved ones

City of Kentwood, Non-Profits
Providing comfort and care at the end of life extends to loved ones and caregivers with emotional support to help cope with stages of grief. (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)



By Emmanuel Hospice


Marcy Kiger is only one of many at Emmanuel Hospice who can attest to the importance of caring not only for patients receiving hospice care, but friends and loved ones on the journey with them.

“Right from the start, we like to emphasize that we’re here to care for anyone else who needs the support, because grief is not an isolated experience,” she says. “It grows roots and spreads, and everybody deals with it differently. By opening the door, folks are able to take that first step.”

As a social worker with Emmanuel, Kiger has noticed that especially in the Midwest, people can be more stoic than elsewhere, and that grief and loss aren’t easy topics to broach and discuss.

“So, we tell folks they’re the drivers of the bus, and we are the wheels,” Kiger says. “We’ll go as fast as they want.”

How are you doing?

Kiger shares that friends and family of people in hospice care are sometimes surprised to hear a clinician or therapist turn to them and ask, “What about you? How are you doing?”

In asking just that, a pause often surfaces during which they can “recalibrate their brain and allow them to be OK with dwelling on whether they’re struggling with the journey.

“It’s real important for us to check in on them to make sure they’re having those moments,” she says, “and even if they’re brief, it’s important to know where they are and how they’re doing.”

Some tips for loved ones

Some tips for loved ones dealing with an impending loss? First, be brave enough to admit you’re having a tough time, because acknowledging it is a big first step.

Second, if you need to talk, seek out a good listener. Emmanuel’s staff is trained to meet you where you are, and help you cope with virtually anything. The nonprofit offers bereavement counseling for up to 13 months after a patient passes.

“That one-year anniversary can bring up a lot of feelings,” Kiger says.

At Emmanuel, caring for people surrounding the patient begins almost immediately.

“We assess the bereavement needs of family members,” Kiger says, “and then we might suggest it would be beneficial to talk with someone on our team if they’d like to do that.”

Kiger and her colleagues pay attention to a lot of factors and also look for clues that will help them counsel friends and family.

“We consider how close they are to the patient, if they have kids, if they are working full time and whether there have been any other deaths or traumatic events in the family lately. All of that might figure into their stress level.”

Dealing with feelings can be tougher on some than others, but Kiger says being open and honest about what you’re experiencing can help you move forward.

“Sometimes, we’re dealing with years and years of learning what is right and what is wrong to express,” she says. “To help them with their struggle, at least we can point out those different doors to consider.”

Emmanuel Hospice’s grief support services are open to anyone in the community on a grief journey regardless of whether they have a prior connection with the nonprofit organization or hospice care. More information is available at EmmanuelHospice.org/grief-support.


Kent County Department of Public Works launches fall recycling guide with tips and tricks

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Recycling, West Michigan, ,




By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has launched its fall recycling guide to help residents ensure recyclable and hard to dispose of materials don’t end up in a landfill this fall.

The 2023 Fall Recycling Guide is part of the DPW’s efforts to familiarize Kent County residents with items that can be placed in their recycling bins to move toward the goal of reducing landfill waste by 90 percent by 2030. The guide also includes tips for properly recycling or disposing of material that can’t go in a recycling bin, but can still be kept out of a landfill like leaves, pool chemicals and clothing.

“The fall season and fall holidays can bring about a lot of waste, from food containers to costumes to decorations, so it’s important Kent County residents are knowledgeable about what can be recycled and put to better use than sitting in a landfill,” said Micah Herrboldt, waste reduction educator at the DPW. “We’re proud of our community’s commitment to recycling and reducing waste all year-round.”

In the fall, the DPW tends to see items like cider jugs, paper cups and cartons, certain plastics and cardboard boxes end up in the trash when they could be placed in curbside recycling bins and eventually repurposed. Items like soup and broth cartons, rigid plastics and metal cans and tins for pie filling, also can be recycled.

If an item can’t be recycled, there are other options for residents to avoid contributing to the landfill. The DPW offers tips for what to do with Halloween costumes and wigs, sweaters and coats, as well as clothing that’s been outgrown by children.

If a garage clean-out is on your fall to do list, household hazardous waste can be brought to any of the DPW’s SafeChem locations throughout the county for free responsible disposal. Organic waste like branches, leaves and garden plants can be provided through a local waste hauler.

The Kent County Department of Public Works provides municipal solid waste disposal services to ensure the effective removal, storage and disposal of residential and commercial solid waste through various facilities and programs, including Waste-to-Energy, the Recycling and Education Center, North Kent Transfer Station and South Kent Landfill.

Be honest and be careful to avoid errors with medications

City of Kentwood, Health, West Michigan,
Pharmacist Aaron Hoholik showing participant Carol a pill organizer for her medication. (Courtesy, Care Resources)



By Care Resources

greer@wktv.org



Everyone makes mistakes.

But when it comes to errors regarding the medications you take, the consequences can be serious or even deadly.

The good news is this: With attention to detail and being honest about how you use meds, it’s possible to safeguard yourself against blunders that can affect your health.

“Any kind of error can result in adverse effects,” says Aaron Hoholik, a clinical pharmacist with Care Resources in Grand Rapids. “That goes not only for prescription drugs, but over-the-counter products as well.

“In the pharmaceutical world, medication errors come in a wide variety – wrong medication, wrong dose, drugs with similar names, a drug not monitored correctly and even wrong patients receiving the drug.”

Be aware of drug interactions

He points out that mistakes also occur when patients aren’t aware of the risks associated with how a drug might interact with another they’re already taking, and that includes products labeled as “natural,” “herbal” or “supplemental.”

“One of my pharmacy school professors used to say that even arsenic is a natural product,” Hoholik notes.

When someone joins Care Resources, a community-based program for people 55 years or older,  it’s crucial for them to share an accurate list of meds they’re taking, how often they’re taking them and where they’re getting them from.

“That’s a great way to start,” says Hoholik, emphasizing that such information can help medical providers like himself best serve patients going forward.

But it’s also vital that patients be honest in reporting how often they’re actually taking a medicine, since some people will intentionally or accidentally not take them as prescribed – anything from pain meds to insulin to what’s in their inhaler.

Taking a dose more or less often than a person is supposed to can result in adverse effects like low or high blood pressure, dangerous blood-sugar levels and more.

“We need to know exactly what they’re taking and how they’re taking it,” says Hoholik, “so they don’t experience any problems that are going to have them end up in emergency health care.”

Organize your medications

Of equal importance is organizing your meds, and there are a variety of ways to do so. While some people dispense meds from individual containers, many are resorting to “adherence packaging,” which relies on accurately marked pouches or blister packs to bundle meds so that patients get the right dose at the right time, every time.

“It’s becoming a common way to package meds for our patients,” he says of participants he’s been serving on behalf of Care Resources since 2009.

Additional tips on how to avoid errors include:

  • Never dump your old pill bottles into your new ones, even if the medication name and dose are the same.
  • Set alarms on your phone, an alarm clock or a smart device to help you remember to take your medications.
  • Call for a refill when you have about one week of medications left to avoid gaps in taking your medications.
  • Ask your pharmacist about getting all your medications lined up to fill on the same day each month.
  • Ask your pharmacist and primary care provider if there are ways to take your same medications, but with fewer daily doses (by combining medications, changing to extended-release formulas or other adjustments).
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you notice you’re missing doses.

“Organizing your meds and taking them as directed is always a process,” Hoholik says. “Being honest and accurate is key. And it can make all the difference when it comes to being and staying healthy.”



Bissell Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” event reduces adoption fees through Oct. 15

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Pets/Animals, West Michigan, , , ,
Peanut the cat needs a home. (Courtesy, Janet Vormittag)



By Janet Vormittag

WKTV Contributor



Are you considering adding a furry friend to your family? If so, you’re in luck. The BISSELL Pet Foundation is hosting its Fall National “Empty the Shelters” event in 43 Michigan shelters.



Several local shelters are participating including the Humane Society of West Michigan and the Kent County Animal Shelter.

Our nation’s animal shelters are in crisis due to increased owner surrenders and stray intakes, spiking post-pandemic euthanasia rates across the country.


Eli the rabbit is available. (Courtesy, Janet Vormittag)



“Our nation’s animal shelters are facing an overcrowding crisis unlike anything we have experienced in more than a decade. The devastating increase in owner surrenders and stray intakes has left tens of thousands of socialized, house-trained, and leash-trained pets desperate to find a home,” said Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation.

 From Oct. 1-15, BISSELL Pet Foundation will sponsor reduced adoption fees at more than 345 shelters in 42 states. Adopters can save a life and bring home a spayed/neutered, vaccinated pet available for adoption for $50 or less.  


Alize the dog is hoping for a new home. (Courtesy, Humane Society)



Tania Jaczkowski, executive director of the Humane Society of West Michigan, said the humane society is only doing a one day event on Saturday, Oct. 14, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Close to 50 dogs, 100 cats and a few rabbits will be available and adoption fees will be waived. 

Anyone interested in adopting is encouraged to fill out an application online at www.hswestmi.org Adopters can also be pre-approved which will save time on the day of the event.

Alize, a 74-pound hound mix, is hoping to find a new family. Alize loves toys and playing fetch. She also loves affection. She’s only a year and a half old and is a long-termer at the humane society having been there longer than three weeks.

Peanut, a 13-year-old gray cat, is hoping to find a family with a couch where he can spend his golden years. Peanut is sweet, independent and playful. He needs a home without young children. Peanut has an over active thyroid which is controlled by daily medication.

A rabbit who needs a home is 10-year-old Ike. He currently lives in Jaczkowski’s office where he takes up close to half of her floor space. Ike is friendly and will take treats out of your hand.

Jaczkowski said they have participated in more than 20 Empty the Shelter events and have always seen increased adoptions. She added that Bissell has been very supportive of the humane society. “They’re fantastic.” When the humane society needed more space for their cats, the Bissell Pet Foundation paid for a cattery expansion which included several rooms for free-roaming cats.

Jaczkowski said the humane society, like other shelters and rescues, is feeling the crisis of too many pets being surrendered and adoptions being down. Plus, since the Covid pandemic there are more animals with behavioral issues. She feels the reason for the crisis is the economy. “People can’t afford another mouth to feed.”

The humane society also is feeling the pinch of inflation. “We’re purchasing less, but it’s costing us more.”

Jaczkowski hopes the Empty the Shelters event will result in some of the animals at the humane society finding new homes. 

“It’s a lot of work, but the exposure it brings to the animals is worth it.”

Visit www.BISSELLPetFoundation.org/Empty-The-Shelters for more information.

Kentwood’s annual Trunk or Treat features candy, costumes and fun on Oct. 21

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to enjoy some spooky, seasonal fun at its annual Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 21.

The free event takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE. Kids can collect candy and explore more than 25 City and community vehicles.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



These vehicles will feature seasonally decorated trunks for community members to view and enjoy. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk during and after the event using the online form that will be available at kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat.

Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and bring their own bag for collecting candy.

“Our Trunk or Treat event gives community members, City personnel and local organizations an opportunity to connect and celebrate the season, while providing a more controlled trick-or-treating environment,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We’re excited to welcome our city’s best ghosts and ghouls for this spooky celebration.”



Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley passing out candy at a previous Trunk or Treat event. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Local businesses and community groups wishing to participate in Trunk or Treat can register for free online until 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. Pre-registration is not required for community members to attend the event.

For more information and to sign up to volunteer, visit kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)

South Christian holds off upset-minded Middleville 29-20 in WKTV Game of the Week

City of Kentwood, Local Sports, Sports, , ,
(Image Courtesy of South Christian)



By Greg Chrapek

WKTV Contributor

On a wet, windy and chilly night, the South Christian football team kept its hopes for a conference championship by playing some old-fashioned football. Relying more on the ground game and playing some strong defense late in the game, the Sailors rallied to defeat Middleville Thornapple Kellogg 29-20 in the WKTV Game of the Week.

With the win, the Sailors remained undefeated in conference play and set up a showdown with Grand Rapids Catholic Central next Friday with the OK Gold Conference championship on the line.

Keeping their conference record clean was anything but easy for the Sailors as Middleville came in with a strong game plan and pushed South to the limit. Relying on their strong running game, the Trojans played to their strengths and gave South everything it could handle.

“We talked about it all week that they are better than their record,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown. “They are a physical team and they run their schemes well. Their fullback (Drake Snyder) is a heck of a player. It probably helped a little bit when he went out of the game, just for us to kind of dictate the line of scrimmage a little more.”

Middleville showed just how strong it is running the football when it mounted an 11-play, 73-yard scoring drive on the first possession of the game. Quarterback Grant Middleton capped the drive when he ran in for a touchdown from two-yards out halfway through the opening quarter.

South Christian tied the game late in the first quarter. With Middleville bottled up deep in its own territory, Jake Vermaas intercepted a Trojan pass giving South good field position inside the Middleville 20-yard line. A few plays later Drew Bruinsma took a pitch from South quarterback Carson Vis and rambled into the end zone from 14-yards out

Trojans up 14-7 at the half

Middleville regained the lead late in the first half. Again, the Trojans mounted a long drive. Covering 73 yards, the Trojans capped the scoring drive by going to the air as Middleton hooked up with Snyder for a seven-yard touchdown pass. Hayden Chatman added the point after giving Middleville a 14-7 halftime lead.

South responded to the score on the opening drive of the second half. Relying on their own ground game, the Sailors drove the ball down to the Middleville 7-yard line where Vis connected with Austin Tiesma for a touchdown pass cutting the margin to 14-13. South, however, missed the point after.

Trojans up 20-13 in the third

Middleville answered the South score with a scoring drive of its own on the next possession. Starting out at its own 45-yard line, the Trojans moved the ball 55 yards on nine plays. Brody Wiersma capped the scoring drive by running in from 24-yards out. Middleville, however, missed the extra point leaving the Trojans with a 20-13 lead.

South Christian goes ahead 21-20 in the fourth

Facing a touchdown deficit late in the third quarter, the South Christian offense again stepped up. Starting out on their own 35-yard line, the Sailors mounted an 11-play scoring drive that went into the fourth quarter. Mixing the pass and run, the Sailors drove down to the Middleville 4-yard line. At third down at the 4, Vis scrambled in the face of a Middleville pass rush and found Vermaas for a touchdown pass. Down by one point, the Sailors elected to go for the two-point conversion. South pulled a trick out of its bag on the play as Vermaas took the ball on a double reverse and completed a pass to Tyler Brinks in the corner of the end zone giving South a 21-20 lead.

With the lead, the Sailors put the game in the hands of its defense. Making adjustments throughout the game, the Sailor defenders slowed down the Middleville ground game. They forced the Trojans into a three-and-out and then turned Middleville over on downs late in the fourth quarter.

Sailors get insurance score late in the game

South added some insurance points late in the game. With 2:14 remaining, Vis ran in for a touchdown from eight-yards out. The Sailors then added another two-point conversion when Vis connected with James VanderArk on a pass play.

“This was a great team win,” Brown said. “I challenged the guys at halftime. I told them we have to make some positive plays. We had to make them (Middleville) doubt themselves and what they had going on. Our kids just stepped up in the second half.


“The kids got the stops we needed and the two-point conversion was a big play.”

With the win against Middleville keeping their record clean, the Sailors face Catholic Central in the showdown for the league title.

“We’re excited about the game,” Brown said. “It will be fun. We are both undefeated and they are obviously a very good program. It is one of those special games that the kids will remember 20 years from now.”    



WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Game of the Week truck films one game each week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, a field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.

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. To watch the WKTV Game of the Week online, visit WKTVVideos on Youtube.

Check out our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights from Oct. 6! Don’t miss these local high school football clips

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Sports, Sports, West Michigan, , , , ,




By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Check out our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights above, for clips of many of the local high school football teams in Kentwood and Wyoming.


WKTV Game of the Week

Year after year, our high-tech WKTV Game of the Week truck films one game each week, which includes two play-by-play announcers, a field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for your viewing pleasure.

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. To watch the WKTV Game of the Week online, visit WKTVVideos on Youtube.

WKTV Game of the Week Remaining Schedule

  • Friday, Oct. 13 (7 p.m.) Holland at Wyoming
  • Friday, Oct. 20 (7 p.m.) West Ottawa at East Kentwood

The Arm of St. Jude the apostle coming to Sacred Heart Oct. 9

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Religion, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, Treasures of the Church)



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



In a rare, one-of-a kind event, the arm of St. Jude the apostle is coming to the Diocese of Grand Rapids on Monday, Oct. 9, specifically, Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Parish.

“I feel very excited about this particular relic coming,” said Michael Tober, director of Religious Education for Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Parish, and a parishioner since 2003. “If my feeling of excitement were a number between 1 to 10 with 10 being the strongest, my feeling would be a 10. This excitement would be similar to what it would feel like just before meeting a family member again after being separated from them for a long time.”


Veneration of the relic begins at 1 p.m. with a mass in honor of St. Jude at 7 p.m, and the visit ends at 10 p.m. The relic will be in the main sanctuary of Sacred Heart, 151 Garfield Ave. SW, Grand Rapids. Parking is limited, so it’s expected that people will park on side streets around the Church.

Sacred Heart is the only Grand Rapids stop

From September 2023 to May 2024, the arm of Saint Jude Thaddeus will be on pilgrimage in the United States, making stops in 100 cities. Sacred Heart is the only Grand Rapids stop. (Source: The Apostle of the Impossible website)

First time leaving Italy

Sponsored by the Tour of the Relics of St. Jude the Apostle, this is the first time the arm has left Italy.


Michael Tober, director of Religious Education at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish. (Courtesy, Michael Tober)

“The Vatican does release certain relics from time to time so Christians around the world may venerate them,” Tober said. “However, these are always special occasions and not the norm. This relic has never left Rome, so in that sense given how long it has been there it is rare.”


Tober said the arm also will stop in the Lansing Diocese and in several Detroit locations. Click here for more information about St. Jude and for the U.S. tour schedule.


Known as the Apostle of the Impossible, St. Jude is revered for his unwavering dedication and steadfast faith. Millions have experienced his intercession in times of adversity and need.


How many people is Sacred Heart anticipating?

“Our expectation is somewhere around 5,000 visitors between 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.,” said Tober, who holds a degree in theology from Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio, as well as a Master Certification in Catechetics in the Diocese of Grand Rapids.

Relics on display at Sacred Heart

Tober said other relics are on display at Sacred Heart throughout the year.

“Sacred Heart has relics of St. John the Apostle, St. Theresa of Avila, St. Therese of Lisieux, St. Thomas Aquinas, to name a few,” Tober explained. “They are located in a reliquary in our baptistry. First class relics comprise of either bone, hair, skin or blood of a saint.”  

WKTV We the People: Get to know the Kentwood City Commission candidates before the Nov. 7 general election

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Politics, We The People, West Michigan,



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



For the Michigan Nov. 7 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited all Kentwood City Commission candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.

Kentwood City Commission is made up of seven officials, including the Mayor, elected by the residents. It is the City Commission’s responsibility to set policy and provide financial oversight for the City. All Kentwood elected officials serve a term of four years. The City Commission generally meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall unless otherwise posted.


View the City of Kentwood Ward and Precinct Map.


Kentwood City Commission At-Large Seat

The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, one of two seats, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. The non-partisan candidates listed in the Nov. 7 general election are incumbent Commissioner Maurice H. Groce and candidate Lily Cheng-Schulting. Betsy Artz is in the middle of her term.




Maurice H. Groce —  Incumbent Candidate,
Kentwood Commissioner At-Large

Why are you running for office?:

I am running for re-election to retain my seat as Commissioner At-Large. I have been involved with the City of Kentwood since 2007 serving on the Local Officer Compensation Committee, Housing Commission, Planning Commissioner, and three times as a City Commissioner.

My drive and commitment to serving the City of Kentwood are centered around championing public safety, safeguarding the city budget, promoting better communication, and planning for the future generations of our city.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is paramount. I am dedicated to working closely with our department leaders to implement effective strategies to prevent crime and enhance public safety. Responsible fiscal management is crucial for the prosperity of our city. I will work to safeguard taxpayer dollars by diligently examining the city budget, identifying areas of potential savings, and prioritizing essential services and infrastructure development. By promoting better communication channels, we can forge stronger partnerships, address community needs, and work collaboratively to make our city an even better place to live. I will work to plan for the long-term future, ensuring a balanced and inclusive growth that preserves our city’s unique identity and legacy.

I am devoted to upholding these values as your City Commissioner. I humbly ask for your support and trust on August 8 as we work together to build a safer, prosperous and united City for ourselves and for the generations to come.

Two issues you are focused on:

Championing Public Safety

·Prioritizing funding for police and fire services to meet the needs of the community.

·Advocating for safe and healthy neighborhoods by supporting community policing efforts and building positive relationships between law enforcement and residents.

·Supporting initiatives such as crime prevention programs and neighborhood watch initiatives.

Safeguarding the City Budget

·Continue to be a driving force to keep Kentwood a city with a continually balanced and fiscally responsible budget.

·Committed to ensuring the city budget is allocated and spent efficiently without wasteful expenditures.

·Forecast budgeting assessments for future projects, challenges and liabilities to ensure the city’s financial stability.




Lily Cheng-Schulting — Candidate,
Kentwood Commissioner At-Large

Why are you running for office?:

I am running to represent all Kentwood residents as your servant leader. I will always remember that I work for you, regardless of your status, income, gender, age, race, skin color, cultural background, educational background, or abilities. 

As your Kentwood City Commissioner, I will listen to your concerns, advocate fiercely for you, and work together with you for positive changes and real solutions. 

If you have any local concerns, please call me. I will be your fiercest advocate, since I have been a successful, proven advocate for almost a decade. Many people already know about my leadership and advocacy in benefitting many thousands of students with disabilities, teachers, and staff at the KISD center-based (special education) schools, through systemic change, which led to better funding, resources, and accountability.  

Therefore, my mission is to dedicate my skills, experience, and energy to improve the quality of life for all Kentwood residents and to ensure a better, more accountable, inclusive, and responsive Kentwood City government.

Two issues you are focused on:

Many residents have expressed to me their strong concerns, if not disappointment, that they were not actively informed nor did they have a strong voice regarding recent major proposed changes and projects. You deserve better. I will, therefore, increase community engagement and uplift your voice, including by creating town halls and monthly office hours. 

I will champion public safety for all residents, including for people with disabilities and mental health challenges. I will listen to your concerns and work with you and your neighborhood associations to create real solutions, including ensuring the resources for effective public safety and exploring options, such as neighborhood watch and joint programs with social workers. 
 

I will also strengthen the economic development and resources for small businesses and start-ups. Small businesses and minority-owned businesses have been an integral part of the growth of Kentwood. I will aid and explore options with small business owners, including minority-owned small business owners, to ensure their success and that they have a strong voice.  

Most importantly, as a proven leader, I will listen to all concerns and advocate fiercely for all Kentwood residents. I love and respect each and every resident in Kentwood. I will work for all Kentwood residents, and I will be an active servant leader for you. 

For more information:  

Please visit my website at Lily4Kentwood.com or email me at lilyformichigan@gmail.com.  



Kentwood City Commission Ward 1

The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9 and 17, roughly the southwest areas of the city. Incumbent 1st Ward Commissioner Robert Coughlin is running unopposed in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, and Clarkston Morgan is in the middle of his term.

Kentwood City Commission Ward 2

The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-16 and 18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. David Moore II will run against incumbent candidate Ron Draayer in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, while Jessica Ann Tyson is in the middle of her term.




Ron Draayer — Incumbent Candidate
Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2

Occupation: Kentwood City Commissioner (since 2019); Computer Science and Cyber-Security Professor — Davenport University (Emeritus)

Why are you running for office?:

I am running for office to ensure that our residents continue to receive top-quality service from our City workers and that our tax dollars are safe and well-utilized.

Two issues you are focused on: 

My top priority will continue to be the safety of our residents with strong support for our police officers, fire fighters and first responders.

Another priority will be to continue Kentwood’s strong financial position so that we can support and maintain our wonderful parks and trails along with city streets and other city facilities.




David Moore II — Candidate
Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2

Occupation: Self-employed Writer

Why are you running for office?:

Kentwood needs commissioners who will listen to its residents and invest in making their city feel like home.

Two issues you are focused on:

1. Overseeing that the voter-approved Parks and Recreation millage is spent as was promised.

2. Working closely with Mayor Stephen Kepley and other Kentwood commissioners to ensure Kentwood empowers and rewards its residents with clean and safe streets and responsible spending of city revenue and tax dollars.





Learn more about a career with the Kentwood Police Department Oct. 11

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, West Michigan, ,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Community members are invited to learn more about a career with the Kentwood Police Department at a recruitment event Wednesday, Oct. 11.

The event will take place at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE, from 6 to 8 p.m. Individuals who attend will learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current team members, tour the department and more.

The event will include two one-hour informational sessions held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. that will provide an overview about working for the department. Attendees only need to attend one of the sessions, which will cover the same information. Tours, networking and opportunities to learn more about specialized units at KPD will follow. Refreshments will be provided.


(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



“We’re fortunate to have a department filled with passionate individuals who are committed to serving the Kentwood community,” Police Chief Litwin said. “We’re looking for more community members who have that heart for service and are looking to join a supportive, dynamic police department.”

The event will provide information about a variety of opportunities with KPD, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Through this unique position, KPD will provide selected applicants a full scholarship to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in spring 2024. No prior law enforcement experience is required to apply for this position.

Competitive pay, comprehensive health insurance, and more

Sponsored recruits receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 12% employer contribution to retirement, continuing education and training in addition to the academy sponsorship. Individuals who successfully complete the academy and other required certifications and training will be sworn in as patrol officers with the Kentwood Police Department.

No prior law enforcement experience required

No registration is required for the event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



Individuals who are interested in working for KPD, but cannot attend the event should contact Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us.

For more information about the event, visit kentwood.us/KPD2023 or check out the Kentwood Police Department’s  Facebook page. To explore current job openings and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.

East Kentwood marching band sparks love of music in students, creates lasting relationships

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Kentwood Public Schools, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
Drum major Sofia Daniel directs the band during a school day rehearsal (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

East Kentwood High School (EKHS) band directors Mike Gozzard and Sho Dembinski strive to make music a memorable and welcoming experience for each of their 200 students.

“Even if kids don’t continue in music after high school, we’re just trying to make their experience as good as possible while they’re here, making sure they know they are welcome and that they have fun,” said Dembinski.

A love of music instilled in the next generation

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is IMG_7910-scaled-e1696341806203-1024x903.jpg
Students practice their show outside each day (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The last two years have brought heartache and necessary adjustments to the EKHS band family.

In May 2022, Kentwood Bands lost their beloved director, Marshall Werling, to cancer. Through his time at EKHS, Werling passed on a lasting love of music to the students.

“Music has always been a very big part of my family, but also the teachers who have led me here,” said Sofia Daniel, drum major and junior at EKHS. “Especially Mr. Werling. He and Ms. [Natalie] Sears were a very big part of why I love music.”

Daniel went on to say that she has always had a positive experience with the EK band program, whether that experience came from new friends or a connection with a teacher.

Bringing a community together

Directors Gozzard and Dembinski continue to bring students of all backgrounds and activities together through the band program.

“The thing I like the most is that [the program] is diverse in the typical meaning of diverse, but also in other meanings,” said Dembinski. “For example, we have kids that do cheer, football, and do other clubs and robotics and things like that. It’s cool to see them come together and do one thing.”

Jennifer Pham enjoys all genres of music (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Daniel agrees, saying she enjoys being in a class where everyone likes music. “It’s a kind of family of people doing what you love as well,” said Daniel.

EKHS junior and flute/piccolo player Jennifer Pham says sharing her love of music is important to her.

“Music has always been a big part of my life,” said Pham. “I love listening to it in my free time, so the chance to be able to play something and share my love of music is something that I like.”

Pham participates in marching band, concert band, jazz band, and combo groups. Though flute is her main instrument, Pham recently learned bass for jazz band.

“I like that there are so many opportunities we are given,” said Pham. “Although you have to pick an instrument, just because you pick something now doesn’t mean that you can’t learn another one later.”

Pham says she will keep music in her life even if she does not choose it as a career path.

Finding the right niche

Raul Aquino-Gonzalez, trumpet player and EKHS senior, joined band because his brothers had also been in the program. But Aquino-Gonzalez didn’t feel a connection to music right away despite saying the atmosphere was inviting.

Aquino-Gonzalez plans to study jazz in college (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Last year is when I really began to get into it, and I really started trying to get better,” said Aquino-Gonzalez. “I just loved it from then on.”

The catalyst for that change of heart?

“I joined jazz band, and I think that was the spark,” Aquino-Gonzalez said. “That’s when I would spend hours every day playing and trying to get better.”

Aquino-Gonzales recently formed a jazz group outside of school that performs for different events, including the school’s fall play.

A legacy of lasting relationships

While Dembinski and Gozzard work to ensure a certain level of proficiency in all students – and they see improvement in musicianship each year – Dembinski said the first week of band camp is his favorite part of every year.

A family atmosphere forms strong ties between students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“My favorite time of year is the first week of band camp when all the freshmen come here for the first time,” said Dembinski. “We work a lot with the section leaders and the leadership, trying to make everyone feel welcome. We do a bunch of games during camp to make sure all sections of the band are one big family.”

Dembinski said that he sees close ties form between students, and knows many of them will last.

“There are a lot of lasting relationships,” Dembinski said. “I see it all the time. Most of my closest friends are friends from high school band or college band.”

A show all ages can enjoy

That sense of relationship is demonstrated in the Home title and theme of the EKHS 2023 marching band show.

There is still time to see the 2023 marching band performance (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Featuring artists from Michigan, the show incudes “Lose Yourself” and “Not Afraid” by Eminem, “Juice” by Lizzo, “Bring It On Home To Me” arranged by Roy Hargrove, and “I Wish” and “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder.

Dembinski said some college marching band shows have also recently featured a home theme.

“We liked the idea, we just wanted to put our own spin on it with the music we picked,” said Dembinski.

Picking music everyone enjoys, however, is not easy.

“If you pick new music, students like it but parents don’t,” said Dembinski. “If you pick ‘old music’ from the 70s and 80s, parents like that but students don’t. This show has a bit of both.

“I’ve heard band parents say they really like the Eminem section, and every time I leave class, students are playing Stevie Wonder,” Dembinski continued. “It surprised me a bit. But I think this show has something that everyone can jam out to.”

Experience the magic of music

The EKHS marching band show can be seen at the Hastings Invitational Oct. 7, the EKHS home football game Oct. 13, and the East Kentwood Invitational Oct. 21.

Dembinski encourages the community to attend the invitational and experience performances from schools all across Michigan.

“You get to see our band, but also a bunch of other sweet bands too,” said Dembinski. “It’s nice to see a bunch of different sized schools, different demographics and different show ideas.”

To learn more about Kentwood Bands, visit www.kentwoodbands.org.