The wins keep coming and the pressure keeps mounting for the South Christian football team, which knocked off Kenowa Hills 37-7 Friday to stay undefeated at 8-0.
The Sailors have a chance to go undefeated in the regular season for the first time since 2004 with a win at Forest Hills Eastern next Friday, and hope to stand alone atop the OK Gold for the first time since 2014.
They are currently 6-0 in the conference, one win ahead of Grand Rapids Catholic Central with a 36-34 win over them earlier this year.
“An undefeated regular season would be really cool,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown, whose team reached a Division 4 regional final last year. “We’re playing a really good Forest Hills Eastern (4-2, 6-2 overall) team that is well coached with good players next Friday.
“We want to roll into the playoffs on a good note.”
Jake DeHaan stands tall again
Once again, quarterback Jake DeHaan led the way for the Sailors, completing 15 of 23 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown throw to Carson Vis. DeHaan added 51 yards on the ground with two more TDs.
“He threw the ball really well,” Brown said. “He was taking what the defense was giving him. We ran a lot of swing passes to our running backs, and our receivers did an awesome job of blocking downfield this week.”
(Image Courtesy of South Christian)
Cayden Dykema led the Sailors with 6 tackles, while Sawyer TenHaaf added 5.
“We played really good on defense tonight,” Brown said. “We were flying around everywhere and good at the point of attack. We did a good job of putting pressure on the quarterback and made it tough on them.
“The kids seem to answer the bell every week.”
Nate Brinks “all over the place”
Brown said Nate Brinks had a great game as well, rushing 10 times for 50 yards and a TD and five receptions for 72 yards, plus handling all the kicking duties.
“He kicked a field goal and nearly puts every kickoff into the end zone,” Brown said. “He had a lot of touches today; was all over the place.”
Seth Ritsema had four catches for 99 yards.
Kenowa Hills Coach Rory Zegunis said the Sailors are very impressive.
“They are as advertised, that’s for sure,” said Zegunis, whose team fell to 1-7 overall. “I was super impressed with their defense. They are big, strong and fast. It’s hard to find a place to attack them.
“And offensively, the quarterback is so dynamic. He can throw, he can run, he’s just a smart kid back there and is dangerous.
“With a team like that, I was overall happy with how our defense played. We just couldn’t do anything on offense.”
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Wyoming’s Demon Robotics and East Kentwood’s Storm Red battle during the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition on Oct. 8. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
By Jodi Miesen WKTV Contributor
It was an intense battle for bragging rights for two local all-girls high school robotics teams that took part in a competition that focused on their abilities in a very male-dominated field.
The 2022 Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition was held at Wyoming High School over the weekend. Most high school robotics teams are co-ed but for this unique annual STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) event, only the girls were allowed to compete. GRGRC event coordinator Mallorie Edwards said the event was founded in 2016, by Wyoming High School teacher Richard Budden. Budden taught STEM and noticed female students were not as interested in it.
Edwards, who has been with the organization since 2017, said she’s passionate about the organization’s mission and was excited GRGRC could bring the competition back this year. This is the first time they’ve been able to hold the all-day event since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Turnout was lower this year than in the past with only 14 teams. The event is capped at 24 teams.
“I am hoping to grow the numbers that participate in the competition next year,” Edwards said. “A challenge I heard from many coaches that I reached out to was that they didn’t have enough girls on the team to compete. That is the exact reason why we are doing this event. To show girls that they can do these roles, be successful, and have fun.”
The key to success: the willingness to learn
The event drew robotics teams from high schools all over the state with two local teams, Red Storm (Team 3875) from East Kentwood High School and Demon Robotics (Team 858) from Wyoming High School.
Team Captain Abby Strait from Wyoming High School’s The Demons, stands next to the team’s robot. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
Through out the competition, teams form alliances with other teams to battled in complex two-minute games against other alliances. This all done with robots that the students have built and program. Wyoming’s The Demons and East Kentwood’s Red Storm ended up being on the same alliance and were fierce competitors, losing by just two points.
“You can do it! You don’t have to be super smart to be in robotics, you just have to be willing to learn,” said Abby Strait, a Wyoming High School senior and team captain. “Your team will teach you all that you need to know.”
Strait, who has been on robotics teams since 8th grade, was excited that her school was hosting an event that promotes girls to pursue science and math fields. She said she felt that far too often girls shy away from robotics thinking it will be too hard, but she hopes events like this will draw more female interest.
“I’m hoping to go to college for some sort of engineering, something really hands on, as opposed to just math behind the desk,” Strait said as she reflected on what career she might want to pursue in the future. “But this has definitely made me more interested in the STEM career field.”
Taking STEM by storm
Red Storm team captain Sarah Shapin, a senior at East Kentwood High School, is in her seventh year participating in the robotics program. Shapin said she started in middle school and plans to continue her interest in the STEM field in the future.
Team Captain Sarah Chapin from East Kentwood’s Red Storm stands by her team’s robot and displays the logo she designed for this year’s event. Casa Calvo Marketing designed the t-shirt. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
Shapin she too believes that women are under-represented in this area but said events like this can help bridge that gap.
“A lot of times women are on it,” Shapin said as she relayed an analogy told to her by her mentor. “And then a guy kind of takes a screwdriver out of her hands and doesn’t give it back. So, it’s not necessarily that women are blocked from it. However, it’s very male-dominated and so therefore, giving this opportunity like this competition allows for women to really get in there, get involved and push through.”
Shapin said she hopes to attend Michigan State University, double majoring in computer science and music. Her goal is to be a software engineer and continue playing the clarinet.
Breaking the stereotypes
According to Edwards, all that hard work pays off on competition day after seeing the students’ reactions and from the correspondence she receives after the event is over.
“The Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition is important to me, because of the letters I receive after the competition; expressing how happy they were to be able to participate in a role that usually a male teammate would be in,“ Edwards said. “And also, during the competition, I get to see the excitement exude from these kids. They love what they’re doing! They love STEM!”
The competition also featured a panel of guest speakers, “Ladies in Tech,” made up of women successful in the STEM fields.
Wyoming Team Captain Abby Strait gets help moving the Demons’ robot off the field. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)The alliance of the Wyoming, East Kentwood, and Marysville teams gathers before the final competition. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
At age 9, East Kentwood golf standout Elise Fennell figured out she was talented.
“I was playing Jr. PGA with boys four years older than me and beating them,” said Fennell, a junior at EK and All-State golfer two years straight.
As a freshman, Fennell finished tied for fourth place at the Division 1 state finals with a score of 74, followed by a seventh-place finish last year with a two-round score of 148 (74-74).
Her determination shined through early on as well.
“My first few words as a baby were ‘no help,’ when I was around 6 months old,” said Fennell, whose favorite food is chicken quesadillas. “I also would always play different sports with my neighbors and would always try my absolute best to beat them.”
Watching golf with dad as a youngster
Fennell said her interest grew while watching golf on TV with her dad, Josh.
“I wanted to try it, so my dad bought me a three-club set,” explained Fennell, whose favorite movie is Shrek. “I was 6 when he bought the set and I got hooked a few months after that. I would hit, and if I didn’t pass my dad’s shot I would pick up and go to his ball.
“I learned how to swing the club just by watching on TV for the most part. I watched and learned from Tiger (Woods) the most.”
Her best golf accomplishment?
Winning the GAM (Golf Association of Michigan) 15 and Under Stroke Play in 2019.
EK golf standout Elise Fennell. (Courtesy, Josh Fennell)
“It was my first GAM win and my first big tournament win.”
EK Coach Mike Ketelaar said though her demeanor is “extremely calm, relaxed and sort of laissez-faire, Elise is the fiercest and most prepared competitor I have ever coached.
“She is truly a complete player,” continued Ketelaar, who’s coached the EK boys and girls golf teams for five years. “This season, she shot 69 twice and 70 twice, and in my opinion, she did not play her “A-game” on those occasions. I am excited to watch her continue striving towards her full potential.”
Her state finals expectations?
“To put up two very solid rounds at the state finals,” Fennell said. “Ideally, I would like to shoot somewhere around 69 or 70 for both rounds and see what happens.
East Kentwood golfer Elise Fennell was OK Red All Conference for a third-straight year. (Courtesy, Mike Ketelaar)
“I think I am very capable of winning this year, but I know there are some amazing players that’ll be there as well.”
Ketelaar said she is no different from most elite players.
“She wants to compete at the highest level, perform her best, and win the state finals as an individual.”
This year’s MHSAA State Finals are Friday and Saturday, Oct. 14 and 15 at the Bedford Valley Golf Course in Battle Creek.
Fennell, who has a GPA of 3.99, would like to play college golf and major in engineering, but is undecided where.
Fennell was OK Red All Conference for a third-straight year, and teammate Camryn Kolzow was honorable mention.
“Elise is undoubtedly the leader of EK’s team,” Ketelaar said. “Elise would probably not refer to herself as a leader, nor desire the role, as most elite high school athletes typically do. Elise leads by her example.
“Players on the team are very aware Elise is one of the best players in Michigan, and they pay attention to Elise and her game.”
The City of Kentwood is encouraging local businesses, organizations and community members to gather donations to help replenish the shelves at the Little Free Pantry.
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is a free resource that provides food to community members in need. Anyone can give to and take from the pantry, with no questions asked and no application needed.
The pantry operates year-round and has two locations: the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
Donations needed
The Little Free Pantry has seen an increase in use over the past few years and is in immediate need of donations. Preferred donation items include canned and nonperishable food items and personal care items. A list of suggestions can be found at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
“In the past, the Little Free Pantry has stayed stocked thanks to food drives and donations from our generous community,” said Val Romeo, director of parks and recreation. “We typically see a lot of donations around the holiday season, but there is need all year.
“We’re urging community members to donate a little earlier than normal this year. Whether it’s a handful of canned goods donated by an individual, an entire food drive put on by a local business or a financial contribution, any donation helps families in our community.”
The pantry has several donation drop-off locations throughout Kentwood. Collection hours and locations are as follows:
Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE: Drop off donations 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: Place donations 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: Place donations inside the collection bin located in the lobby from 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: Place donations inside the collection bin 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Kentwood Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE: Place donations inside the collection bin 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry initiative began 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 or find more information about Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, visit kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
The loading dock at one of Lacks Enterprises manufacturing facilities. (WKTV)
Lacks Enterprises Inc. is hosting a Career Fair where the automotive supplier and one of West Michigan’s largest family-owned employers plans to interview candidates to fill a variety of open positions.
Lacks’ Career Fair is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 18, and from 2 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 19, at the Lacks Enterprises Employment Center, 4949 Broadmoor Ave. SE in Kentwood.
Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Lacks Enterprises provides interior and exterior plastic trim components and innovative wheel trim systems to the top global automotive manufacturers.
At its Career Fair, Lacks will conduct on-site interviews to fill a variety of general manufacturing, shipping and receiving, and skilled trades positions in its Grand Rapids and Kentwood facilities.
Attendees are encouraged to bring documentation to complete an I-9 form should they be offered a position. I-9 Forms provide documentation to the employer to confirm their identity and authorization to work. The list of documents can be found at https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents.
Employment is subject to the successful completion of Lacks Enterprises’ pre-screening activities, which includes drug testing, a background check and a physical. Lacks Enterprises will coordinate the physical.
For more information, contact the Lacks Enterprises Employment Center at (616) 554-7812 or visit Workatlacks.com.
Lacks Enterprises is the fourth largest privately held employer in West Michigan and has more than 2,500 people at facilities in Kentwood and Novi, as well as Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan and South Korea. Lacks business units—Lacks Trim Systems, Lacks Wheel Trim Systems and Plastic Plate, LLC—specialize in applying Lacks’ innovative décor finishes, production experience and testing capacity to the unique needs of its customers.
The residents of the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood will be helping to select three candidates for the state House of Representatives.
There are two house seats covering the City of Wyoming, 82nd and 83rd districts, and one house seat, 80th district, in the City of Kentwood.
Note: All candidates who are running in the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood were invited to participate in the We the People videos, where candidates may talk about why they decided to run and the issues they want to address.
80th District State House of Representatives Seat
The City of Kentwood is now under the 80th District State House or Representatives along with the City of East Grand Rapids, Cascade Township, and a portion of Grand Rapids Township. To view the map, click here.
The candidates running for the seat are Phil Skaggs (D) and Jeffrey Johnson (R).
Phil Skaggs (D)
Occupation: Skaggs is currently the Kent County Commissioner for District 19, which covers southeastern Grand Rapids and the City of East Grand Rapids. Before that, Skaggs served as a East Grand Rapids City Commissioner for five years.
Issues: Skaggs will defend women’s reproductive freedoms, including the right to choose. He will support children and schools by making sure they have the quality teachers they need. He supports small businesses, livable-wage jobs with good benefits, collective bargaining rights, and well-built infrastructure along with getting the cost-of-living under control so families can afford what they need. He also will support families by working for universal access to affordable healthcare, paid sick and parental leave, and access to affordable childcare and housing.
Occupation: Johnson has spent more than 30 years in hi-tech field managing teams of innovators and working with inventors to develop new products. Johnson also spent significant time serving non-profits involved in helping families and children and crime victims.
What are a couple of issues you would want to address if elected? First is inflation. I am committed to encouraging production of energy and small business growth to provide relief to families. And until we get this sorted out, we need a gas tax holiday to provide consumers relief. Next is public safety. We need to provide law enforcement the resources and tools they need to get well-trained officers on the street who are familiar with their communities and have their respect. And we need to get violent offenders off the streets, and keep weapons out of the hands of children.
An eastern portion of the City of Wyoming, which is in the Godwin Heights Public School District, is now part of the 82nd District State House of Representatives. To view the map, click here.
Kristian Grant (D) and Ryan Malinoski (R) as the candidates running for the seat.
Kristian Grant
Occupation: Grant is in real estate development. She is currently a board member-at-large on the Grand Rapids School’s Board of Education and has worked on the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority.
Issues: Per her website, she is for funding public education, women’s reproductive rights, and safe, attainable and affordable housing, gun safety reform, police reform, and economic development that supports small businesses.
Occupation: An events service manager at Aramark, a food service, facilities, and uniform services provider.
Issues: According to his website, Malinoswki will focus on economic development, government transparency and accountability, fiscal responsibility, pro-life, supporting public safety, affording housing, and supports schools of choice.
The 83rd District House of Representatives covers all of Wyoming along with a small portion of Byron Township. (Note, there is a small portion of Wyoming in the east that is part of the 80th District. Please see above.) To view the map, click here.
Running for this district is Lisa DeKryger (R) and John Fitzgerald (D).
Lisa DeKryger
Occupation: DeKyrger is part-owner with her husband Sheldon of Sheldon DeKryger Building, Inc. She also has worked for UPS.
Issues: Protecting parents’ rights and working on the education system, keeping citizens safe by supporting police and fire departments, helping to get trades back into the high schools to build the workforce and inflation.
Occupation: Fitzgerald currently is a Wyoming City Council member. He is a commercial insurance broker and has served on several community boards such as Ele’s Place West Michigan and The Clark Foundation Board.
Issues: Creating and attracting better jobs to the community, strengthening the public education system, job training, expanding healthcare services, supporting a women’s right to choose, and creating safe communities.
The cities of Wyoming and Kentwood will join the cities of Grandville, East Grand Rapids, and the southern portion of the City of Grand Rapids in selecting the next 29th District State Senator.
Running for the seat is incumbent Winnie Brinks (D) and current State Rep. Tommy Brann (R).
Note: All candidates who are running in the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood were invited to participate in the We the People videos, where candidates may talk about why they decided to run and the issues they want to address.
Tommy Brann (R)
Occupation: The current 77th State Representative, Brann has been a restaurant owner, Brann’s Steakhouse, for more than 50 years.
Why did you decide to run for this seat?
I decided to run because as an owner of a blue collar restaurant, I see and feel the struggles of my employees, customers, and neighbors. I want to address those struggles as your next state senator. I am good at this job. As a small business owner and a legislator, I know how to bring people together to solve the big problems we are facing. I know our district, I’ve lived and worked here my entire life. I know our values and I want to preserve and protect our way of life here in West Michigan.
What are a couple of issues you would want to address if elected?
I would like to address inflation, public safety, and the state budget. I know what it takes to manage a budget having done so for 51 years at my restaurant. As a state legislator for six years, I’ve managed that state budget being responsible with YOUR tax dollars. The state budget has a $5 billion surplus, the government is living too well. With rising costs, people need relief. I support measures to lower the income tax, increase the Earned Income Tax Credit, and suspend the gas tax. I also support fully funding the men and women of law enforcement. The nation is experiencing a crime wave. We need to defend our police and equip them with the training and resources needed to keep our communities safe.
Brinks has served in the state senate since 2018. Before that she, she served in the state House of Representatives for six years. She is graduate of Calvin College (now Calvin University), where she earned a bachelor’s in Spanish with a concentration in sociology. Before joining the state house, she was a caseworker for The Source, a non-profit employee support organization based in the City of Wyoming.
East Kentwood players receive instruction from their coach during a previous game this season. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
Points were at a premium in this match-up, as East Kentwood kept its playoff hopes alive with a 14-6 victory over West Ottawa.
Following a scoreless first quarter, the Falcons found the scoreboard as quarterback Casey Joppie connected with Nate Cobbs on a 14-yard scoring strike. East Kentwood clung to a slim 7-6 lead at the half.
With 3:53 left in the third quarter, running back Ben Cash punched it in from 2 yards out for a 14-6 advantage. The Falcons defense, led by linebacker Stellan Bowman with 15 tackles, held on to the lead with a scoreless final quarter.
Bowman also forced two fumbles, added a sack, as well as 78 rushing yards. East Kentwood Coach Tony Kimbrough had high praise for his star linebacker.
“He’s the best linebacker in the state,” Kimbrough said. “Show me another guy that plays with the passion he has for the game.
“Nobody loves the game more than he does and it’s infectious. Makes everyone around him better football players.”
The biggest takeaway for the Panthers tonight was the missed opportunities offensively, according to Coach Pat Collins.
“Had some short fields, but just couldn’t convert on those opportunities,” Collins said. “Got to examine what went wrong for us tonight.
“A lot of losing moments. A lot of winning moments, too. We will look at those and improve.”
Despite an inconsistent performance from the offense, Kimbrough was pleased to get back into the winning column.
“You take the wins any way you can get them in this league,” Kimbrough said. “A lot of talent in this league and the coaching is outstanding.”
With this crucial win, East Kentwood (4-3, 3-2 OK Red) turns its attention to a home date with Hudsonville (2-5, 2-3 OK Red) next Friday.
West Ottawa (3-4, 1-4 OK Red) travels to Caledonia for next Friday’s game.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
With Wayland more than doubling the offensive minutes of South Christian, Sailors’ coach Danny Brown was happy to get the win and fight through some adversity in a 21-14 home victory and stay undefeated.
“Wins are hard to come by, and sometimes you don’t win the way you want to,” said Brown, whose team improved to 7-0 overall, 5-0 in the conference. “It was nice to be able to handle that adversity tonight and come out and find a way to win when things aren’t going your way.
“For us, it’s a learning moment to understand that when you get a big win like last week, the target gets bigger on your back.”
Last week, South Christian ended Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s 42-game winning streak with a 36-34 roller-coaster victory.
(Image Courtesy of South Christian)
This time, they edged Wayland, which definitely controlled the clock with 34 minutes on offense, compared to 14 for the Sailors.
“They ate up a ton of the clock,” Brown said. “They were physical, and their running back ran really well. A ton of credit to Wayland. They were really tough.
“Their main offensive scheme tonight was a little bit different than what we were used to. Once we kind of settled in then we made it a little bit tougher on them, and thankfully our kids found a way to pull it out.”
Wayland tied the game at 7-all right before halftime on a Maverick Daley TD run, and then went ahead 14-7 on a run by Dustin Loomans after an 8-minute drive in the third quarter.
South Christian scored about 1-1/2 minutes later to knot the game up at 14 on a Jake DeHaan 13-yard run, and then sealed the game at 21-14 on another DeHaan run, this time from 43 yards out.
DeHaan completed 9 of 16 passes for 102 yards and one touchdown. He also had 14 carries for 135 yards on the ground and two touchdowns.
South Christian stopped a Wayland drive with an interception in the fourth quarter, and held off the Wildcats the rest of the way.
“The fourth quarter wasn’t perfect, but we got them to turn the ball over,” Brown said.
Cam Post led South Christian with 9.5 tackles, while Cayden Dykema had 8.5.
Big game for Maverick Daley
Wayland’s Maverick Daley had 29 carries for 141 yards and one touchdown.
“He is kind of the glue behind our offense,” said Wayland Coach Tim Gibson, whose team fell to 4-3 overall, 2-3 in the OK Gold. “He gets better the more carries he gets. He had a great game.”
Wayland’s Elijah Dollarhide and Hudson Biondo had four tackles apiece.
Gibson said if his team could play sound defense against the Sailors, then they would hang in there, and they did just that.
“I’m proud of the way our kids played; I like our team quite a bit,” Gibson continued. “They played hard tonight and did a lot of great things on the football field. We just didn’t do quite enough.
“In the end, they just made a couple more plays than we did. They’re a very good football team.”
Last Friday, South Christian beat Catholic Central 36-34. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Community members are invited to enjoy some spooky Halloween fun at the City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 22.
The free event takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE, where more than 25 City and community vehicles will be stationed with decorated trunks filled with treats.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
In addition to collecting candy, participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk. Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and bring their own bag for collecting candy.
“Trunk or Treat provides a more controlled trick-or-treating environment while also giving local organizations and leaders a chance to connect with residents,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We’re looking forward to enjoying some family fun and seeing many community members in costumes and creative trunk designs at this year’s event.”
Local businesses and community groups wishing to participate in Trunk or Treat can register for free online until 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14. More information and volunteer sign-up can be found at kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat
Viewpond Banquet Hall celebrated a delayed grand opening ceremony on Wednesday in Kentwood. From left, Kentwood City Commissioner Bob Coughlin, Viewpond Banquet Hall Co-Owners Amit Verma and Ajay Chhabra, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley, Kentwood City Commissioner Clarkston Morgan. (WKTV)
At a ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday delayed by the pandemic, Viewpond Banquet Hall disclosed donating a portion of its profits to two popular charities.
Viewpond Manager Elisa Rodriguez said the company would donate to Make-A-Wish Foundation and Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry at the event sponsored by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
“They are in need and we’re all about community so that’s who we chose to help and support,” said Rodriguez, who’s company is located at 1665 Viewpond Dr. SE, Kentwood.
Kentwood Little Free Pantry
Kentwood City Commissioner Clarkston Morgan said the Little Free Pantry is a passion of his.
“We have a lot of transitional families that rely upon that pantry for food, and there’s no questions asked,” Morgan said. “They can come in and get what they need and go home and feed their families right away.
“Viewpond cared about being able to help families. I’m tying in opportunities for local businesses to be able to join our city and support our efforts to feed our families.”
The Little Free Pantry began as a community service project for MLK Day in 2017. Located inside the Kentwood Activities Center at 355 48th St. SE, it helps a number of Kentwood families in need.
Donations can be dropped off at the Kentwood Activities Center during normal business hours and also are accepted at collection bins located at:
Viewpond Banquet Hall Manager Elisa Rodriguez (center) cuts the ribbon at a delayed grand opening ceremony Wednesday in Kentwood, sponsored by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. (WKTV)
Soft opening during pandemic
Viewpond co-owner Amit Verma said his company had a soft opening about 11 months ago.
“Last year, we missed the grand opening because of the pandemic,” said Verma, who’s partner is Ajay Chhabra. “It’s been a year, and we are doing good, so we decided to do it now.”
Viewpond handles everything from corporate meetings and seminars to weddings.
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley was at the ribbon cutting as well, and talked about the business environment coming out of the pandemic.
Mayor Kepley said he thinks business is getting more back to normal after the pandemic, specifically this type of business.
“The owners of venues are telling me that they’re really doing well now, and are booked through 2022 and also getting booked through 2023,” Kepley said. “People are now getting back to getting married with large crowds of 200, 300 people and trying to get back to what it used to be. That’s good to see.”
The Kentwood Public Schools recently received two awards recognizing its commitment to its community.
Heart of West Michigan United Way 2021-2022 Top Campaign trophy. (Courtesy, Kentwood Public Schools)
In September, the district was presented with the Heart of West Michigan United Way 2021-2022 Top Campaign trophy. According to Superintendent Kevin Polston, the impact the staff has made in the community this past year through the district’s campaign was significant.
“You (KPS) have gone the extra mile to advocate for our mission and for those struggling in our community,” according to The United Way. “On behalf of the United Way team, we are incredibly grateful for all support and efforts to create a thriving community for all.
“Thank you for being someone our community can count on!”
Challenger Elementary was the recipient of the MI Heart Safe School award. Challenger was recognized for its efforts to help prevent sudden cardiac death by creating a safer learning environment for students and staff.
Polston noted that with help from its partnerships with Spectrum Health, the students and staff demonstrated knowledge of our cardiac emergency response plan, ability to identify symptoms of cardiac arrest, CPR, and the use of defibrillators.
The award is given on behalf of the Michigan Department too Health and Human Services, Michigan Department of Education, American Heart Association, Michigan High School Athletic Association, and Michigan Alliance for Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death of the Young.
Meijer is joining with The Rapid for a job fair on Wednesday. (Supplied)
This “Roll With Us” fair will run from 4 – 8 p.m. Wednesday Oct. 5 on The Rapids’ Central Station and will help job seekers explore working for The Rapid and job opportunities at partner locations along bus routes. The fair will include West Michigan’s two largest employers, Spectrum Health and Meijer, as well as opportunities with Mary Free Bed, Kellogg’s, Gerald R. Ford Job Corps, and Hope Network.
“We are so excited to partner for this job fair,” said Micalah Webster, talent selection manager with Spectrum Health. “It’s a great opportunity to connect with the community, share information with job seekers, and highlight many of the positions we have available, from patient-facing roles delivering care to roles behind the scenes that help keep our business running. Many of the positions we are hiring for are in locations served by The Rapid.”
Hosting the fair at Rapid Central Station makes attendance more accessible to people without personal vehicles. Attendees can take Routes 1 through 15 and the Silverline directly to the job fair. For job seekers traveling by car, free parking will be available in the lot in front of Rapid Central Station at 250 Cesar E. Chavez with the entrance on Williams Street.
The Rapid will be offering on-site interviews and making offers for bus operators and vehicle technicians at the “Roll With Us” job fair. The transit agency offers paid training, great benefits, and the opportunity to work with a group of people who take pleasure and pride in making an important difference in the lives of others.
Spectrum Health also has many opportunities available for job seekers. “We offer a wide variety of opportunities, including entry-level positions with on-the-job training,” Webster said. These positions offer a great way to get started in healthcare, even if an applicant does not have experience, and can lead to long-term careers.”
The job fair will feature Mexcellente, a local food truck, to give participants a chance to purchase food while exploring career options.
The Rapid is hosting a job fair at its Central Station on Wednesday. (Supplied)
Although The Rapid has hosted job fairs in the past, this is its first venture inviting partners to participate. Employers choose to invest in this community because it provides transportation options for its employees. Public transit serves as an economic engine and partnerships are fundamental to the success of transit and growing a more sustainable community.
“The Rapid provides more than just transportation – we create opportunities and connections within our community,” The Rapid CEO Deb Prato said. “We’re excited to welcome our partners to the Roll With Us job fair to connect transit riders with transit-friendly employers. I’m also excited to meet the people who choose to join our team as operators and technicians. The people in these roles are the backbone of our organization and community.”
On Oct. 4, at approximately 8:10 a.m., the Kentwood Police Department was dispatched to a stolen vehicle with a 2-year-old child inside. The vehicle was stolen from the area of 48th Street and Marlette Avenue in Kentwood.
A few minutes later, the police department received another phone call that the 2-year-old child was left on the side of the road a short distance away. The child was returned to its parents, unharmed.
The stolen vehicle was found in the City of Grand Rapids shortly after it was stolen. A search for the suspect was not successful. Multiple agencies assisted Kentwood including the Kent County Sheriff’s Department, Wyoming Department of Public Safety, and the Grand Rapids Police Department.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
South Christian ended Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s 42-game winning streak with a 36-34 roller-coaster victory on its home turf at East Kentwood’s Falcon Stadium.
If you’re a high school football fan, this game had everything you want.
It was a battle of two No.-1 ranked teams in the state; South Christian sits atop the state in Division 4, while Grand Rapids Catholic Central is on top in Division 5.
Both teams were unbeaten at 5-0 entering the contest, and Catholic Central had a 42-game winning streak on the line, all the way back to the 2019 season. To top it off, the Cougars have won five state titles in the last six years.
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan led his team by scoring four different ways: rushing, passing, receiving and a Pick 6.
“He was Superman for us tonight; he was unbelievable,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown, whose Sailors improved to 6-0 overall. “We’re glad he’s on our side. You count on your great players to step up in big moments and he did.
“He said, ‘Coach, put the ball in my hands, I want to win it for us tonight. What a heck of a performance.”
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan helped the Sailors beat Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (WKTV)
DeHaan completed 19 of 28 passes for 168 yards and one TD and had 19 carries for 181 yards and another TD.
Catholic Central quarterback Connor Wolf completed 26 of 42 passes for 335 yards and three TDs and had 17 carries for 105 yards and two TDs.
South Christian led 7-6 at the half and the game was knotted at 14 to end the third quarter, and then the real roller coaster ride began in the fourth in a back and forth battle.
After trading touchdowns to reach 21-all, South Christian’s Jackson Haik returned a kickoff 93 yards to give the Sailors a 28-21 lead with 4:59 remaining.
The Cougars punched another score in on the ground from nine yards out with 1:52 left in the game. After a blocked kick, South Christian led 28-27.
The fans enjoyed the game between two top-ranked unbeaten teams in South Christian and Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
DeHaan scored on an 83-yard run with 1:30 remaining to give the Sailors a 36-27 lead, but Catholic Central had one more drive in them as Wolf threw a 27-yard TD pass to J. Williams to end the scoring.
“I feel exhausted, but I have a little energy because we won,” Brown said. “It was a fun game to be a part of.
“We still have three more games and want to win our conference; you have to keep your focus. It was a great program win against an unbelievable football team, but it can’t just be about beating Catholic Central. We have other things we have to chase.”
Seth Ritsema led South Christian with seven tackles and had a 32-yard TD catch as well.
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan lines up behind his team in the third quarter. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
East Kentwood falls to 3-3 on the season following tonight’s 29-0 loss to Caledonia. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After falling to No.-4 ranked Rockford a week ago, East Kentwood received another stiff test with a visit to No. 2 Caledonia as the Fighting Scots remained undefeated with a 29-0 shutout.
Playing in front of a full house of standing-room-only fans, many of whom were in town for Calapalooza as well as the homecoming game, Caledonia coach Derek Pennington said his team felt the support from the community.
“It really was electric tonight,” Pennington said. “Standing room only and I’m just really proud of the way this community comes together to support our team.”
The Falcons fought hard defensively and contained a Caledonia offensive attack that had averaged 48.2 points per game in their five previous games. The physicality of East Kentwood’s defense stood out to Pennington.
“That defense was the best we have seen all season,” Pennington said. “Just a very physical defense and we hurt ourselves by not finishing a couple drives.”
Division 1 offers for Townsend
The Scots leaned on running back Brock Townsend, who accounted for over 200 yards on the ground. The junior halfback has Division 1 offers from Central Michigan, Toledo and Western Michigan.
For East Kentwood, it was a game of missed opportunities, according to Coach Tony Kimbrough.
“We moved the ball, but couldn’t sustain or finish our drives tonight,” Kimbrough said. “Had some key drops as well as some penalties stall some drives.”
With the loss tonight the Falcons drop to 3-3 (2-2 OK Red) as they look to regroup and make a push for the playoffs. Next up for the Falcons is West Ottawa.
“We probably just played the two toughest teams on our schedule,” Kimbrough said. “But in this conference you can’t overlook anyone and it doesn’t get any easier.”
Unbeaten Caledonia (6-0, 4-0 OK Red) travels to Grand Haven for next week’s game.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Local law enforcement and the Better Business Bureau share tips on how to recognize credit card scams and how consumers can protect themselves. (Image Courtesy, pxhere.com)
By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer
Since the inception of credit and debit cards, fraud has become more and more widespread.
And with the current culture of communicating and ordering online, scammers are getting creative — and consumers are scrambling to sort fact from fiction in an effort to keep their finances and identities safe.
“Be an informed consumer, that’s the best advice I can give you,” said Troy Baker, education foundation director of the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
As of June 30, 2022, the Federal Trade Commission received nearly 1.1 million consumer reports about fraud nationwide. Of this total number, 214,446 reported using some type of payment method, with 42,545 consumers reporting paying with a credit card for a total loss of $110.4 million. This puts the average consumer loss at $2,595.
Subscription scams
According to Baker, the BBB classifies credit card cons into four categories. The most common are subscription scams cloaked in offers of free trials. Hidden in the fine print of that free trial is the agreement to sign up for a subscription.
Year to date, the Federal Trade Commission reports credit card loss at $110.4 million. (Image Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Baker said consumers think they have been victims of fraud or that their card has been stolen, “but really, you had given them permission by doing this free trial. They hide the agreement in the fine print a couple pages deep on the website, and usually you have a very short window to cancel before that subscription kicks in and you get billed the next month.”
In other words, consumers have approved the use of their credit card without knowing it.
Phishing emails and text messages
Phishing emails and text messages also are popular among scammers, stating a credit card has been opened in the consumer’s name and to click on a link if they did not, in fact, open that card.
“We also see scams where someone is told they have some form of debt outstanding or have a warrant out for them and the caller will demand payment in the form of gift cards,” said Lieutenant Rory Allen, Wyoming Department of Public Safety.
This con plays on the fears of the consumer.
“The consumer thinks maybe I should click on this link to make sure they don’t bill me for something,” Baker explained. “That’s what the scammers want. They want you to feel that confusion and click on the link thinking your taking action to protect yourself when, in reality, the action you are taking is going to harm you.”
Computer repair scams
Both Allen and Baker have seen computer service cons where scammers tell consumers there is something wrong with their computer but the scammer can fix it for them. Once they have the consumer’s credit card number, they disappear.
Fraud reports by payment method, 2022 YTD. (Courtesy, Federal Trade Commission 2022)
Online holiday shopping scams
Baker said another issue is consumers buying items on websites they are not familiar with.
“We especially see this closer to Christmas,” Baker said. “Scrolling through social media, you see the things that really catch your eye and seem like a great deal. So you click buy and put your credit card in, thinking that you’re going to get this great deal, when it turns out the company isn’t real or doesn’t have the track record that you think it does, and they don’t deliver what they promised. But they’ll charge your credit card for it.”
Banks and credit unions have put security measures in place to protect consumers, but scammers still manage to get through.
A local consumer’s personal story
Kelly* (name changed at the source’s request), a Rockford resident, told WKTV that her husband’s card was used to make charges in Louisiana and Arkansas at gas stations and Walmart stores, with the charges anywhere from $40 to $300.
Adding to their confusion was the fact that the charges were happening in different places at the same time.
Kelly happened to see the charges on the credit card statement and called the bank to report them as fraud. The bank shut down the card and refunded their money, but the mental and emotional damage has remained.
“I’m paranoid now and check our bank account and credit card account every day — still all these years later,” Kelly said.
Kelly and her husband still don’t know how the scammers obtained their card number.
Corrections time-consuming
Allen said frustration and anger in the victim is normal.
“It can be a lot of work to correct the issue if a credit/debit card is used in a fraud,” Allen explained. “In addition to the financial burden, it costs victims wasted time correcting the issue, filing reports, etc.”
Another local resident’s account
Stacy* (name changed at the source’s request), a West Michigan resident, said her husband’s credit card was used for seven fraudulent charges totaling approximately $1,200 on Walmart.com back in December 2021 — and the issue wasn’t fully resolved until April 2022.
Stacy and her husband reported the charges as fraud to their bank, who said they would close down the account.
“Then we get a letter in the mail saying that unfortunately the merchant has provided us with proof that you have received said items,” Stacy said.
Stacy asked to see their proof and was provided with FedEx tracking numbers that stated the items ordered had been delivered to her address. The order contained Stacy’s address, her husband’s name, and phone number, but an unknown email for confirmation and delivery status. The email IP address was based in Holland.
“It’s still a mystery,” Stacy continued. “I don’t know the scam; I’d love to know the scam. It made me so mad that someone could do this and stick me with the charges.”
It was April 2022 before the bank finally took the charges off their credit card statements for good.
Allen said fraud can cost citizens thousands of dollars each and cause long-lasting effects on finances and credit scores.
The FTC received 10,926 identity theft reports from Michigan consumers, 2022 YTD. Of this total number, 3,853 reported credit card fraud. (Courtesy, Federal Trade Commission 2022)
How can consumers protect themselves?
“We advise anyone who believes they are a victim of fraud to contact the police as soon as possible to file a report,” Allen said.
“If you believe a credit/debit card is being used by someone else, then contact your bank or credit company as soon as possible to turn the card off to avoid further charges.”
Is it really free?
Baker advises being wary of anything offered for free where the consumer only has to pay shipping and handling.
“There will be a catch,” Baker said. “Usually, it’s a (hidden) subscription.”
Slow down and research
Baker also advises taking your time.
“Before you put your credit card in, before you buy something, make sure you’ve done your research on the company you’re buying from. Take your time before you make that purchase decision. That time is really going to protect you from a lot of these scammers.”
And — even with the amount of credit card fraud out there — Baker said consumers should still use their credit cards and that they are still the safest route for a consumer to go when making purchases.
“While there is certainly a lot of credit card fraud, our advice is to use your credit card when you make these kinds of purchases,” Baker explained. “At least with a credit card, there are some protections for you. You can dispute the charges, you can work with your bank if there is fraud. And in many cases, there is a mechanism to get some or all of your money back.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE. (Courtesy, City of Kenwood)
By WKTV Staff
The Kentwood Police Department is inviting individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to attend its recruitment event on Thursday, Oct. 13.
The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. and include two one-hour sessions at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current officers, tour the department and more.
Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The informational sessions will be held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., beginning with 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 also will be provided.
“As a midsized police department, we provide both a family-like atmosphere and ample opportunities for growth,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “We’re seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our team. We look forward to connecting with potential recruits at this event and showcasing the great culture we have at Kentwood.”
The event will feature information about all department employment opportunities, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Selected police recruit applicants will receive a full scholarship from KPD to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in spring 2023.
In addition to the police academy sponsorship, recruits also receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 9 percent employer retirement plan contribution and continuing education and training. 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 is necessary to apply for this position.
“Our recruit position provides a path for individuals to become full-time Kentwood police officers with a full sponsorship to a local police academy,” Litwin explained. “This position has been an important part of our efforts to recruit both traditional and non-traditional students and to hire individuals who are representative of Kentwood’s diverse community.”
No pre-registration is required for KPD’s recruitment event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend. Attendees should plan to bring something to take notes with.
Individuals who are interested in working for KPD but cannot attend the event can receive more information by contacting Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us. More information about the event can be found at kentwood.us/KPD2022. To find current job openings at the Kentwood Police Department and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.
Be sure to check out Kentwood’s Glow in the Park event held on Oct. 15. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
By WKTV Staff
Community members are invited to brighten the night with the City of Kentwood’s Glow in the Park event from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15.
Kentwood’s Glow in the Park 2021. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Taking place at Pinewood Park, 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE, the event features a variety of glow-themed activities, including light-up playground games, a dance party, costume contest, fun run/walk, food, and more.
Participants and supporters are encouraged to wear brightly colored and glow-in-the-dark clothes and accessories.
“We’re excited to get the community together and get our glow on at this special fall event,” said Shelby Henshaw, recreation program coordinator. “With an abundance of glow-in-the-dark materials and activities, it’s sure to be a fun night for everyone.”
Kentwood’s Glow in the Park 2021. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Glow in the Park kicks off with check-in at 7 p.m. The lighthearted race will start at 7:30 p.m. Participants can choose either a 0.3- or 1-mile run/walk along a park path that will be lit with glow sticks and other colorful lights. There also will be a costume contest at 8:30 p.m.
Light-up playground games and crafts, music and snacks will be available throughout the event. The fun run will be followed by an after party with dancing. The evening will conclude at 9 p.m.
Two levels of registration are available online at kentwood.us/GlowInThePark. For entry to the event and glow supplies, registration costs $5. For individuals who also want an event T-shirt, registration costs $20 and includes a goody bag with glow materials. Participants selecting the $20 option should register by Sept. 30 to guarantee an event T-shirt.
September 18-24 was Falls Prevention Week, a nationwide effort to raise awareness that falls are preventable. As we get older the chance of our suffering a fall increases, in fact according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA) 1 in 4 Americans aged 65+ falls each year.
To help with walking, find a good balance and exercise program. (pxhere.com)
Relying on your body to catch you and keep you steady, and then losing this ability, can be a serious downfall to your mobility and morale. Sometimes the fear of falling can be such an all-consuming worry that you may start retreating from doing the things you used to love. However, just because you are noticing a drop in your confidence, movement levels, and strength, does not mean that you can’t improve upon these things and live a fulfilling life. The key to fall prevention is that because we know which factors contribute to falls we can work to prevent them. The National Council on Aging recommends a number of steps you can take to prevent a fall and build your confidence along the way!
Exercise is the key
The first is to find a good balance and exercise program. This is vital because building up your body’s flexibility, strength, and balance enables you to avoid falling in the first place, and if you do happen to fall, you’ll have the ability to get up safely. The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) offers a variety of evidence-based falls prevention classes through its Healthy Aging partner programs such as A Matter of Balance and EnhanceFitness. There are a number of evidenced-based programs available throughout West Michigan, and you can learn more by calling AAAWM at 616-456-5664 or visiting www.aaawm.org. YouTube can also be a great online resource for finding free at-home exercise classes at a level that is best for you.
Advice from the expert
Talking to your health care provider is the second step to fall prevention. It is helpful to go over your medical history and if you’ve experienced falls in the past. Your provider also has the ability to assess your risk level for a fall and what can be addressed to lower this risk. The third measure you can take to prevent a fall can also be done with your doctor, and this is to regularly review your medications. Some medication’s side effects can increase your risk of falling, and of course, you should take medications only as they are prescribed by your doctor. Step four of fall prevention is to get your vision and hearing checked annually. Proper sight can help you avoid trip hazards and obstacles, and abnormalities in your inner ear can also negatively impact your balance. Treat your health as a top priority to fall prevention and check in with your doctor on these three steps to ensure your well-being.
It all starts at home
The fifth step that NCOA recommends to avoid a fall is to keep your home safe by removing hazards that are commonly overlooked, but easy to fix. A few things to look for: Do you have a clear pathway through your rooms? Look for rugs, cords and wires, and bulky furniture that may be in your way. Assess your stairs; if steps are uneven or broken this can cause you to fall, and make sure that your stairway is well-lit and has a handrail.
In the kitchen, it is best if items are not on kept high shelves, and that your step stool is sturdy if you must use it. In your bedroom, you should have a light close to the bed within easy reach, as well as a well-lit path to the bathroom. Lastly, your bathroom should have some sort of support for you to rely on when using the toilet and bathtub, and if you have a slippery shower floor, add a non-slip rubber mat.
Systems and programs that can help
Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) can also bring peace of mind to individuals and can be a vital line of support. A PERS program often provides a cellular in-home unit in the form of either a necklace or wristband that can call dispatch at the press of a button. Users have the freedom to set who they would like to receive the emergency notification from dispatch to send help, whether family, friend, neighbor, or ambulance. Currently PERS are available in the region, you can call AAAWM at 616-456-5664 to learn more. All are helpful things to keep your home safe.
A little help from your friends
The last step in fall prevention is to enlist the help of your family and friends. Let them know that you are worried about falling and would appreciate their help in making your home a safe space. They can provide an extra set of eyes and hands to rid your house of obstacles. They are also likely to help you navigate talking to your doctor, checking your vision and hearing, and reviewing your medications. Having their help will make the process less overwhelming for you. Often those around you are eager and willing to help, you just need to ask.
These six steps come together to help you avoid falls, so you can continue to do the things that you love. Getting older doesn’t mean a loss of independence; it simply means adapting your environment to best fit your needs so that you can flourish. Be sure to use the resources around you; from your doctor to a family member or friend, to help you take these preventative measures.
With its game last week against Grand Haven forfeited, Rockford made use of extra time in preparation for East Kentwood in a 41-20 victory over the Falcons.
The Rams clung to a 7-0 lead after one quarter and were still ahead 14-7 when disaster struck East Kentwood before halftime in the form of a special teams mistake. The Falcons lined up for a punt late in the first half, but instead were unable to get the punt off and failed to convert on fourth down.
“You can’t give up short field and especially to one of the best teams in the state,” East Kentwood coach Tony Kimbrough said. “You do that and they will make you pay for it.”
The Falcons did indeed pay for their mistake as Rockford converted the short field into a touchdown and a 20-7 lead at the break.
East Kentwood players receive instruction from their coach during Friday night’s game against Rockford. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Using a combination of exotic blitzes and different fronts, the Rams defense was able to shut down East Kentwood’s offense in the second half and build a decisive lead.
“Defensively we were solid all night long,” Rockford coach Brent Cummings said. “Pretty proud of our defensive line and linebackers. We wanted to attack their size with our team speed.”
It is often said that football is a “game of inches” and for East Kentwood it was the “little things” that prevented them from winning tonight, according to Kimbrough.
“We were battling early on and it was very close,” Kimbrough said. “You make a little mistake here and there and it can really make the difference. We have to be more technically sound.”
Ben Cash led the Falcons offensively with 74 rushing yards and a touchdown, as well as Elisee Kanda with 54 rushing yards and two scores. Stellan Bowman had 12 tackles and two sacks on defense.
East Kentwood (3-2, 2-1 OK Red) faces another stiff test as it travels to unbeaten Caledonia (5-0, 3-0 OK Red) next Friday. Meanwhile, Rockford (5-0, 3-0) clashes with Grandville (4-1, 2-1 OK Red).
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Quarterback Jake DeHaan threw three touchdown passes and ran one in for the Sailors. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
South Christian continued rolling this season, this time with a 43-2 victory over host Thornapple Kellogg on Friday.
The Sailors scored 23 points in the second quarter to grab a commanding 30-0 halftime lead.
“We scored a lot of points in a hurry in the second quarter to grab that lead,” said South Christian coach Danny Brown, whose Sailors improved to 5-0 overall.
Senior quarterback Jake DeHaan passed for three touchdowns and rushed for one in the win.
“He was just throwing the ball right on the money tonight,” Brown said. “He was reading the mismatches we had and just putting the ball where it needed to be.
“You could see it this week in practice; he was throwing the ball great all week. Jake has been very efficient this year.”
DeHaan completed 12 of 15 passes for 174 yards. Carson Vis had nine receptions for 117 yards and three touchdowns. Both Nate Brinks and Sam Baar had one TD apiece.
“We’re really good up front and have some strong kids and controlled the line of scrimmage,” Brown said. “Our defense set us up to have a lot of short fields and we just executed in those situations.”
Strong “D”
The Sailors held TK to 33 yards passing and 107 rushing.
“Our defense was really good,” Brown added.
Cam Post led South Christian with seven tackles, followed by Cayden Dykema, six and Sawyer TenHaaf, four.
Cam Post led South Christian with seven tackles, while Cayden Dykema chipped in six. (WKTV)
TK Coach Jeff Dock said he was expecting a tough game from the Sailors.
“They were undefeated coming in so we knew they were going be a great opponent,” said Dock, whose team fell to 2-3 overall. “Coach Brown does a great job with his team.
“They’re really big upfront and their skill kids are big and they’re super athletic. And their quarterback is very quick and accurate.”
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Thursday afternoon, Mobile Defenders and eduPARTS held a ribbon cutting to celebrate their new building near Kentwood. (Courtesy, Mobile Defenders)
Thursday afternoon, Mobile Defenders and eduPARTS held a ribbon cutting to celebrate their new building near Kentwood. Mobile Defenders, which provides wholesale cell phone replacement parts around the world, and eduPARTS, which offers Chromebook and iPad parts for school districts, students and businesses, moved into the location this summer to handle growing demand and growing staffs.
The 89,430-square-foot structure was built by Veneklasen Construction and is located at 6155 East Paris Ave. SE, near M-6 and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Mobile Defenders and eduPARTS share ownership and employ more than 50 people total. Those employees were joined by leadership from both companies, Veneklasen Construction and representatives of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce at the ribbon cutting. Company ownership says the new space is perfect to allow them to serve their customers quickly and successfully.
“Having this new home allows our teams to efficiently and effectively work together to quickly meet our customers’ needs,” said Erich Baum, vice president of Mobile Defenders. “In our industry, speed is everything and our new location close to the airport allows us to have a workspace that people enjoy and get products out the door quickly.”
The building includes both office and warehouse space. The office space is setup to facilitate teamwork while having easy access to leadership. The workspace includes sound-masking artwork that hangs from the ceiling. There is also a modern, spacious break room and electric car chargers in the parking lot for employees and customers to use.
The new 89-430-square-foot building includes office space and a warehouse (pictured above.) )Courtesy, Mobile Defenders)
“It’s been exciting to work with Mobile Defenders on a building that gives them exactly what they need both now and in the future,” said Julie Byrne, president of Veneklasen Construction. “Our team was able to remain flexible during the construction timeline which allowed us to complete the work in a timely manner of a building we’re very proud of.”
“Serving schools and businesses locally and nationwide is our core focus at eduPARTS. This new facility has provided us with space to expand our warehouse to better provide them with the Chromebook and iPad repair parts they need. Since moving, I’ve seen an improvement in efficiency, enthusiasm, and teamwork, ” said Cole Manning, managing director of eduPARTS.
Construction on the $7.5 million project began in summer 2021. Mobile Defenders and eduPARTS currently occupy more than half of the space, with other tenants scheduled to move in later this year.
Some Michigan communities are trying to accommodate aging residents – and it’s not just the gray-haired population that benefits, advocates say.
Age-friendly communities allow seniors to be independent and continue to do things they love such as shopping. (pxhere.com)
More than 18% of the state’s population is 65 or older, according to the U.S. Census. It ranks 14th among the states for the largest population of people over 65.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in June approved a plan to make the state age-friendly.
It focuses on communication and information, respect and social inclusion, health services and community support, social participation and transportation.
That comes after announcing an initiative in 2019 with the AARP and the World Health Organization to make Michigan an age-friendly state.
Building an age-friendly community
An age-friendly community is a place where people of all ages can live comfortably, according to AARP, a nonprofit organization that advocates for Americans who are 50 or older.
Since then, nine cities have come up with an age-friendly community plan.
Auburn Hills was the first in Michigan to join a national network of such communities in 2013. It was followed by Highland Park and Lansing in 2015; East Lansing and Southfield in 2017; Grand Rapids in 2018 and Royal Oak and Jackson in 2019. Oak Park joined just this year.
Age-friendly communities allow seniors to be independent and continue to do things that they love, like going to the grocery store and visiting their grandchildren within their community, said Paula Cunningham, the state director for AARP Michigan.
They offer benefits to others, too, Cunningham said. For instance, longer crosswalk times help seniors with walkers, but also help those using wheelchairs and parents pushing strollers, she said.
Grand Rapids focuses on making information available
The City of Grand Rapids started working on its age-friendly community plan in 2016, according to Jay Steffen, assistant planning director for the City of Grand Rapids. After meeting with more than 500 area seniors, hosting several meetings, and talking to leaders in the community, the city’s efforts culminated into The Grand Rapids Age-Friendly Action Plan that is focused on four areas: communications, housing, outdoor spaces, and transportation.
The accessible walking trails is one the amenities that makes the City of Grand Rapids’ Mackay-Jayvee Park an age-friendly park. (Courtesy, City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation)
Through the communication program, the city established a webpage designed to provide information on the four main topics along with connecting residents to services such as United Way’s 211, Network 180, and Senior Neighbors.
“It has been an interesting and challenging process because of the pandemic,” Steffen noted. “We do feel that the more readership we have along with working with the many other agencies that we are doing a fairly good job at getting the word out.”
The city’s parks and recreation department has contributed to the site by providing a list of 28 parks that are the most age-friendly based on a number of amenities such as restrooms, drinking fountains, parking, accessibility to walking paths, and seating.
Steffen said the city also has reached out to Senior Perspectives magazine, which focuses on providing information for seniors, to have the publication available in Grand Rapids.
City of Wyoming discusses age-friendly in master plan
While the City of Wyoming has not formally adopted an age-friendly community plan, its new [re]imagine master plan, does recognize that the city has experienced a “significant increase in the proportion of older adults aged 65 years and up…”
Under the Traditional Residential section of the plan’s Land Use recommendations, the master plan encourages expanding housing options for older adults seeking to age-in-place.
By providing such options, it makes it easier for a family to provide daily care to aging members as the family can moved closer to that member or have the member move closer to the family, said Nicole Hofert, the city’s director of planning and economic development.
What they are doing on the other side of the state
East Lansing community leaders strive to make the city accessible to young and old, said Thomas Fehrenbach, the director of planning, building and development for the city.
“Throughout the plan, we are very intentional on addressing not just seniors but people of all ages and all abilities,” said Fehrenbach, a member of East Lansing’s Age-friendly Community Committee.
The city’s plan focuses on housing, transportation, communications/information, social participation, respect and social inclusion, community support and health services, outdoor spaces and buildings, civic participation and employment. It was approved by the AARP in 2020.
The community plan for Southfield is similar.
The city has already achieved many goals, like placing more benches at bus stops and across the city, said Kendall Murphy, the immediate past chair of Southfield’s Commission on Senior Adults.
“With the rapid aging of baby boomers, we needed to make sure that we were prepared for that population to start being retired,” Murphy said. “We wanted to make sure that people were supported as they are aging. ”
Michigan was the first state in the Midwest and fifth in the country to join the network of age-friendly communities.
Janelle James is a sophomore at Michigan State University. She is pursing a double major in journalism and political science. James aspires to one day secure a position as an investigative journalist, white house correspondent, or politician. She is the state government reporter at The State News and has an internship with HOMTV, the government access channel for meridian Township. At HOMTV, James anchors live new shows, conducts interviews and covers local government.
Leaf and brush drop-off services will again be available to Kentwood residents this fall. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood will again offer leaf and brush drop-off services to residents this fall.
Beginning on Saturday, Oct. 15, residents may drop off loose leaves, brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs and grass clippings at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
Drop-off will be available from noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday through Dec. 3. The sites will be closed Friday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day, as well as Thursday, Nov. 24 and Friday, Nov. 25 for Thanksgiving.
The services are available to Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required, via a a driver’s license, tax bill or water bill.
The following materials won’t be accepted
trash
paper and plastic bags
dirt
concrete
asphalt
tires
rocks
stones
construction materials
glass
metal
The drop-off services provide residents with a convenient way to keep their yards clear of leaves and debris as leaves begin to fall. The accumulation of leaves and debris on a property or in the right-of-way is prohibited in the City of Kentwood, as well as burning leaves and brush.
“Fall is a busy season for yard cleanup,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director. “We’re glad to offer these services to help residents keep their yards free of debris.
“It also helps us keep roadways and storm drains clear, which contributes to making the City of Kentwood a beautiful place to live, work and play.”
After closing for winter in December, both drop-off sites will reopen in the spring.
As Michigan enters peak color season, local officials across the state have nominated the best roads for motorists to enjoy the changing foliage.
Peak Michigan colors were predicted to start last weekend in the Upper Peninsula and end at the state’s southern border Oct. 29. The County Road Association of Michigan compiled the statewide list of “don’t miss” local roads.
For a complete list of the fall color list, click here.
The more than 120 roads span the state.
The County Road Association named more than 120 routes as best for fall color, including the Fallasburg covered bridge in Kent County. (Courtesy, Kent County Road Commission)
There are plenty to choose from.
Michigan has the nation’s fourth-largest local road system. County roads account for 90,000 miles of roads and 5,700 bridges. Although the road association puts the list together, it relies on county officials for scenic road nominations.
All county road commissions were asked what county roads they would recommend to people who are interested in breathtaking fall views, said Dustin Earley, the manager of communications and engagement with the County Road Association of Michigan.
The association asks local commissioners to say, “Look, here’s my favorite road in my backyard,” Earley said.
Fallasburg a favorite in Kent County
“I just think as Michiganders we are really lucky because I’m not sure there is another state that is more beautiful in the fall,” said Maura Lamoreaux, the communications director for the Kent County Road Commission. “You can travel and just enjoy the colors of the season.”
Kent County has seven roads on the “don’t miss” list. Fallasburg Park Drive in Vergennes Township, 15 miles east of Grand Rapids, is one that stands out, Lamoreaux said.
“Fallasburg Park is not only a gorgeous ride, but it is also a beautiful park to take in the fall colors,” she said.
The Fallasburg covered bridge in Kent County sits on a route that made the list of best fall color roads in Michigan. (Courtesy, Kent County Road Commission)
The park’s covered bridge is a registered historical site that celebrated its 150th anniversary last year.
“You kind of feel like you are traveling back in time a little bit,” Lamoreaux said. “There is a sign that says ‘You will be charged $5 for speeding,’ which is a replica of the original sign that was posted on the bridge.”
Kent County promotes a local route with fall scenic views that is hundreds of miles long, Lamoreaux said. The county picks a few stretches of road to add to the statewide list.
Other roads in Kent County
Honey Creek Avenue from Pettis Avenue to Cannonsburg Road
Bailey Drive from Vergennes Street to Lincoln Lake Avenue
5 Mile Road from Lincoln Lake Avenue to Gavin Lake Avenue
Gavin Lake Road from 5-mile road to Belding Road
Wabasis Avenue from Belding Road to 12 Mile Road
Ramsdell Drive from 5 Mile Road to 11 Mile Road
Roads in Ottawa County
Lakeshore Drive from Grand Haven city limits to Ottawa Beach Road/Holland State Park
Hayes Street from M-11 intersection to Berlin Fair Drive/the Berlin Fairgrounds in Marne
Leonard Street from intersection on Leonard Street/S. Lake Avenue in Village of Spring Lake to Lamont
Mercury Drive/Green Street/N. Cedar Drive from Grand Haven to Riverside County Park
Chippewa County in the northeast part of the Upper Peninsula has four roads on the list.
The all-star route is Lakeshore Drive that runs along Lake Superior through the Bay Mills reservation between M-123 and Brimley, said Stephanie Boileau, a road design engineer for the Chippewa County Road Commision. “It doesn’t matter what time of year, it’s gorgeous.”
The route features Lake Superior, a tree canopy, the Bay Mills reservation, the Point Iroquois Lighthouse and multiple access points to beaches.
“It’s fantastic,” said Boileau. “It’s a road that makes you think, ‘Yes, this is why people love the Upper Peninsula so much.’”
When suggesting roads for the “don’t miss” list, she thinks about people looking to do fall color tours, Boileau said.
“We are looking for those deciduous hardwood trees, the ones that do turn color,” she said. “I also look at what other scenic opportunities you have besides trees. Is there interesting topography? Are there places to pull off and access recreational areas like a beach or state park?”
She prefers more rural areas and avoids submitting commuter routes.
It’s all about getting the best views
“Peak color means that if you can make it to that area within that time frame, you are probably increasing your chances at getting the best views of that color,” Earley said. “Earlier, things are just coming on and near the end of that date the leaves are starting to turn brown and fall off the trees.”
The association lists the roads every year. It subtracts roads undergoing construction or if the county chooses to have it removed. But the list is growing, not shrinking, Earley said.
Tourists are not the only ones benefiting from scenic fall tours in Michigan.
“Most everyone benefits when we have a good fall color season,” said Tony Haller, the executive director of the Sault Area Chamber of Commerce. “Our restaurants benefit from it, our hotels benefit from it, all our convenience stores and gas stations get people filling up for gas while they make their tours.
“I couldn’t name a favorite, but that’s the beauty of this list. It’s really the experts of these areas that are helping us list these roads.”
Liam Jackson is a journalist from Trenton, Michigan. He enrolled at Michigan State in 2018. His journalistic interests include feature stories and sports journalism. In addition to writing for Spartan Newsroom, Liam has also served as the News Editor and Sports Editor at Impact 89FM.
East Kentwood High School art teacher Olivia Miller works with students in class. (Courtesy, Kentwood Public Schols)
East Kentwood High School art teacher, Olivia Miller, is a lifelong learner and self-described explorer. She has a passion to experience other parts of the world, other cultures, and that passion spills over into her classroom. It is also taking her places.
Recently, Miller was named a 2023 National Education Association (NEA) Global Learning Fellow. She is the only teacher in Michigan to receive this honor. According to the NEA Foundation, Miller will join colleagues from states across the country to immerse themselves in a year-long study that involves online coursework, webinars, readings, and reflections. Eventually, the group will travel to South Africa this summer as part of this experience.
The goal, Miller says, is to return to the classroom, enriched from the learning, to create a global learning experience for her students. This work, she feels, also helps her to connect with her students.
Recently, East Kentwood art teacher Olivia Miller was named a 2023 National Education Association Global Learning Fellow. (Courtesy, Kentwood Public Schools)
“For me, the biggest way that I can learn is experiential, through traveling,” Miller explained. “It’s so different walking into a school in a different country and seeing how things are done there….It’s a different level of experience that I can connect with and then maybe better understand my students who come from different countries.”
This is not the first time Miller has been part of this type of opportunity. Prior to the pandemic, she was accepted as part of the Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms Program. This enabled her to work with teachers from across the nation and to travel to Morocco as part of this learning experience.
Part of Miller’s motivation is rooted in her own heritage. Her mother’s family immigrated to the United States from Ukraine. Growing up in West Michigan, she says she did not see much of her own family’s history and culture represented in the school curriculum. This made her wonder about representation for the students she serves today.
This is Miller’s third year teaching in the Kentwood Public Schools and her tenth year of teaching overall. Kentwood is where she wants to be. “This has been my dream school to come to,” Miller says of East Kentwood High School. “There are so many layers and good things to our EK community and environment. This place is such a cultural hub that many people may not even know about. You can learn about so many different ways of life, different cultures, different people here in Kentwood.”
East Kentwood is definitely glad to have Miller on its team. “Ms. Miller is one of the most culturally sensitive and equity-minded teachers that I’ve had the pleasure to work with,” says EK Assistant Principal Lindsay Kimbrough. “She brings a perspective that goes much deeper than the beautiful art she elicits from her students. She promotes social emotional development, and through her whole-child approach, helps to mold true global citizens.”
East Kentwood art teacher Olivia Miller helps a student on an art project. (Courtesy, Kentwood Public Schools)
Kimbrough adds that the relationships Miller builds with her students are so important. “Her innate ability to build relationships with students is the bridge that leads students to taking academic and artistic risks, reaching heights they may have never dreamed of.”
The trip to South Africa this summer will be a rewarding culminating activity for Miller as part of her role as an NEA Global Fellow; however, there is work to be done between now and then. This work includes a trip next month to Washington, D.C. where she will collaborate with the other NEA Global Fellows from around the nation at a conference in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Education.
While Miller is focused on her current students and how the NEA Global Learning Fellowship will positively impact them, she is also looking ahead, and dreaming about possibilities to benefit KPS students and staff in the future.
“I want to someday have funding to take KPS teachers to the countries that our students are primarily from,” Miller explains, “to do a teacher tour. To go into the countries and learn.” She adds, “I think that would really make a big impact. It would close a gap in the relationships between teachers and students because students would be like, ‘Oh my gosh. You cared enough that you went and traveled to where I’m from.”
East Kentwood’s defense delivered another shutout, its second in as many games, as the Falcons halted Jenison’s offense in a 16-0 homecoming victory.
The Falcons clung to a 3-0 lead for most of the first half before Stellan Bowman broke through for a rushing score with just 54 seconds left in the half to put East Kentwood up 10-0 at the break.
Bowman had a stellar game on both sides of the ball with 96 total yards and a rushing score, as well as 15 tackles and a sack on defense.
Quarterback Casey Joppie connected with J’Kari Couch on a touchdown late in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach, finishing with 189 yards through the air on 13 of 28 passing.
Falcons coach Tony Kimbrough praised the defense after the game.
“Our defense won us that game tonight,” Kimbrough said. “We never got clicking on offense and give Jenison credit. Their game plan was to take away our run game and make our quarterback beat them.
“I thought our quarterback played well and we didn’t help him out, but our defense made plays when we needed it.”
East Kentwood players huddle around their coaches during a break in the action. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Other contributors on defense for East Kentwood included Braylon Cox with 10 tackles and a forced fumble, as well as Elisee Kanda with 6 tackles and 2 forced fumbles (1 fumble recovery). Jamari Ross and Mekhi Copes each had an interception.
Despite the inconsistencies on offense, the Falcons improved to 3-1 (2-0 OK Red) on the season with a matchup with undefeated Rockford (3-0, 1-0 OK Red) looming.
“Big one next week, we’re going to see what we’re made of,” Kimbrough said. “Any time East Kentwood and Rockford get together it’s going to be a battle.”
With a close loss to Muskegon (3-1, 2-0 OK Green) and a win over Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice (2-2) on their resume, East Kentwood is hoping those experiences will help them in this crucial stretch of games.
“We’re battle-tested and 2-7 (last year’s record) is our motivation,” Kimbrough said. “All offseason has been about improving on that record and through four games we have already surpassed that.”
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan completed 8 of 15 passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns and rushed three times for 78 yards. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
One minute into the game, senior quarterback Jake DeHaan threw a 76-yard touchdown pass to sophomore brother Charlie DeHaan to give South Christian the early lead in a 28-6 win over Cedar Springs Friday.
DeHaan completed 8 of 15 passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns and had three rushes for 78 yards.
It was his brother Charlie’s first TD as a wide receiver on varsity for the Sailors. DeHaan filled in for the injured Jake Vermaas.
Despite South Christian’s big play to start the game, coach Danny Brown said his team didn’t get the explosive plays it had in the first three weeks.
“It was kind of a grind-it-out game for us,” said Brown, whose Sailors improved to 4-0 overall. “We had to execute at a high level. I’m just really proud of the kids. It was a hard fought battle.”
“Senior Nate Brinks really carried us in the run game,” continued Brown, whose running back had 15 carries for 102 yards and two TDs. “Our offense was humming along in the first half. We were converting and making plays.”
The Sailors led 21-6 at halftime.
Brown had much to say about Cedar Springs performance.
“They are probably one of the best 0-4 teams in the state,” Brown said. “They’ve played a lot of really good teams. Hands down, they have a phenomenal football program and good coaches.
“We knew it was going to be a fight. We just made enough plays and played phenomenal defense.”
Senior Cayden Dykema led South Christian with 13 tackles, followed by junior Ben Mulder, 6.5, and senior Cam Post, 6.
“Cayden is unbelievable on defense,” Brown said. “He was all over the place.”
Senior Cayden Dykema led South Christian with 13 tackles in the victory. (WKTV)
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Stop by the Kentwood Farmers Market between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. tonight for Bike Night, located behind City Hall at 4900 Breton Rd SE.
Marketgoers will have the opportunity to test ride an e-bike, get a helmet fitting and learn how to fix a flat tire. There will be a group bike ride to Railtown Brewing Company at 6:30 p.m. and riders can get $1 off pours. If you’re interested in joining, plan to pedal on over to the market.
On Sept. 13, 2022, Kentwood police officers responded to the 4500 block of Bowen Boulevard in the City of Kentwood on the report of a subject shot.
Officers arrived and located a 17-year-old male white a gunshot wound to the lower chest/abdomen area. The victim received medical treatment on scene and was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Numerous shell casings were located on scene and several vehicles/buildings were struck during this incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detective Bureau at 616-656-6604. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
Left to right: AP Coordinator Yara Barbosa, Ebise Tarekegn, Kyle Sanders, Luisa Orozco, and Principal Omar Bakri. (Courtesy, Kentwood Public Schools)
Kentwood Public Schools recently announced that four of our East Kentwood High School students earned honors from College Board’s National Recognition Program, helping them stand out in college admissions. Congrats to the following students: Chisom Okogbue, Ebise Tarekegn, Kyle Sanders, and Luisa Orozco. The students were recognized as national awardees in two of the four recognition categories – the National African-American Recognition Program and National Hispanic Recognition Program.
The students earned this recognition by excelling on AP exams and in the classroom. Students who may be eligible: have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, have excelled on the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 or earned a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP Exams.
Annually the College Board announces recipients of its National Recognition Programs for achievements in school and on College Board assessments. Students are invited to apply during their sophomore or junior years, and are awarded at the beginning of the following school year.
The Wyoming Department of Public safety announced last week that suspect Yenly Garcia was found in Mexico and taken into custody.
Wyoming Police Detectives have been investigating the homicide of Mollie Schmidt since Aug. 30, 2022. The murder took place in the 1500 block of 44th Street SW inside an apartment belong to Garcia. On Sept. 2, 2022, the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office authorized an open murder warrant for Garcia associated with the incident.
Earlier this week, Garcia was taken into custody in central Mexico, north of Mexico City. He was arrested through cooperation between Wyoming Police, the United Marshals Service and Mexican authorities. Further details of his arrest are not available a this time. Extradition processes are being exorcized to return Garcia to Michigan to face his changes.
Anyone with further information on this incident is asked to contact the Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-866-774-2345 or to visit www.silentobserver.org
Kentwood investigates shooting
The Kentwood Police Department wants you to keep cool this summer, and one was is to avoid crime and confrontations.
On Sept. 9, 2022, officers of the Kentwood Police Department were dispatched to the area of Kelekent Avenue and 56th Street for a possible shooting that occurred. One subject showed up to a local hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound which is believed to be related to this incident. Three subjects were taken into custody during this investigation for charges related to this investigation and outstanding warrants.
Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department Detectives Bureau at 616-656-6604 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or 1-866-774-2345 or to visit www.silentobserver.org.
No charges in Burger King incident
Kent CountyProsecutor Chris Becker announced today that he would not be filing charges in the alleged Sept. 4, 2022 assault that occurred at the Wyoming Burger King located at 1313 28th St. SW.
According to a Sept. 4 report from Wyoming Department of Public Safety, a disorderly male customer who was unhappy with his service entered the store and climbed over the counter. He acted aggressively toward staff and assaulted two juvenile employees of the business during the incident before leaving.
Upon further investigation, Becker said that while he finds the suspect’s behavior “abhorrent,” the actions of the Burger King employees was “aggressive and that there is blame on both sides for the incident.
“By no means am I condoning (the person’s) behavior,” Becker said. “This could have been avoided if he would have simply just driven away after not getting the service that he wanted at this Burger King, but he didn’t do so and we have to deal with the facts as they are and there’s just not a basis to file charges for this incident.”
The suspect, who came through the drive thru, was unhappy about the soda coming down the side of his cup. Security footage, which was shown at press conference held last week, shows an employee wiping down a cup and returning it to the suspect who knocks it out of the employee’s hand. It then shows the suspect driving around and coming into the restaurant, jumping the counter, and grabbing a cup. He then went to the soda fountain pour a drink and poured soda on the floor. An employee then threw an ice-coffee at the suspect, who confronted the employee.
From there things escalated with Becker noting that as the suspect left the premises employees pursued him with one appearing to do a flying kick out the door.
Becker said because there was a fight with both sides being aggressive, there’s not enough evidence to charge the suspect with aggravated assault.
The Sailors beat Ottawa Hills 51-12 Friday at East Kentwood’s stadium. (WKTV/Ty Marzean)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
A solid ground game combined with sparkling special teams play kept South Christian undefeated with a 51-12 win over Ottawa Hills Friday at East Kentwood’s stadium.
“Special teams definitely played a big outcome in the game; that was what sparked our scoring,” said South Christian coach Danny Brown, whose team improved to 3-0 overall, 1-0 in the OK Gold. “The special teams made a difference.
“We started the game with a kickoff return by Charlie Schreur, so that was huge.”
A quick score
Schreur ran 70 yards to pay dirt to give the Sailors a 7-0 lead immediately. Schreur scored two TDs in the win.
Soon after, South Christian’s Cam VanSolkema blocked a punt that Ben Mulder recovered in the end zone for a TD.
(Image courtesy of South Christian)
The Sailors tallied 356 yards in total offense as senior Nate Brinks led with 62 yards rushing and two TDs.
Quarterback Jake DeHaan was 12 of 17 for 177 yards passing.
Brown was very happy with his team’s defensive performance.
“Our defense was great; flying to the ball,” he said. “They played well at the line of scrimmage, getting a lot of guys to the ball.”
Ottawa Hills coach Christian Verley said South Christian is solid and technically sound, but his special teams broke down.
“If we don’t give up 25 points on special teams it’s a different game; that is unacceptable,” said Verley, whose team fell to 0-3 overall. “If we can clean up those things it’s really a solid game.”
Ottawa Hills junior quarterback Tyreez Buchanan was 5 for 12 for 36 yards passing and one TD and rushed 12 times for 68 yards. Junior Willie Duke had 36 yards receiving.
Send us your live game photos
We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@wktv.org
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
Wide receiver Razah Townsend had 45 receiving yards and a touchdown in a 42-0 win over Grand Haven. (WKTV)
By: Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After losing a tight game with Muskegon in Week 1, East Kentwood bounced back with two consecutive wins after an impressive 42-0 victory over Grand Haven on Friday night.
Dominant defense puts clamps on Bucs offense
The Falcons put a stranglehold on Grand Haven’s offensive unit with just 55 total yards allowed. The Buccaneers had just two first downs. East Kentwood coach Tony Kimbrough explained the importance of preventing the big play opportunities.
“It starts with our defensive coordinator, coach [Houston] Glass does a great job of scheming teams,” Kimbrough said. “We watched the film and saw big play after big play. So we went into this game saying we need to eliminate some of those.”
“We were able to contain their quarterback who really is quick and electric, but you’re not going to outrun us side to side.
Bowman enjoying success at new position
Halfback Stellan Bowman saw plenty of green grass in front of him all night, running for 194 yards on just 9 carries and 4 touchdowns. Bowman, who also plays linebacker for the Falcons, made the switch to running back this off season after Kimbrough watched him play rugby last spring.
“I didn’t know he could run like that until I went to a rugby game,” Kimbrough said. “Nobody could tackle him and I went up to him after the game and said you’re playing running back next year.”
Other standouts for East Kentwood on offense included wide receiver Razah Townsend with 45 receiving yards and a touchdown, as well as quarterback Casey Joppie who had 133 yards and a touchdown on 9 of 17 passing.
Homecoming next week for East Kentwood
East Kentwood (2-1, 1-0 OK Red) welcomes Jenison (1-2, 0-1 OK Red) to Falcon Stadium for a homecoming game next Friday. Meanwhile Grand Haven (1-2, 0-1 OK Red) takes on undefeated Rockford (3-0).
Send us your live game photos
We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@admin
WKTV Game of the Week
Our 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. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
