Category Archives: City of Kentwood

Local boys basketball teams prepare for district tournaments

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, WKTV Featured sports
A previous game televised by WKTV at Wyoming High School. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Wyoming, South Christian and Tri-unity Christian high schools will each host boys basketball state playoff District opening-round tournaments, starting Monday for some, and each concluding with championship games on Friday, March 1.

South Christian (16-4, 10-2 in OK Gold) will enter district play as a conference champion. In the same district tournament will be Wyoming Godwin Heights (15-5, 12-0 in OK Silver), also a conference champion. They could meet in a district semifinal on Wednesday, Feb. 27, at South Christian.

So, WKTV’s featured high school sports coverage teams will be at South Christian starting Wednesday, Feb. 27, and will continue coverage of the tournament on Friday. Additionally, WKTV will file WKTV Journal online-print reports on the results of all the games involving local teams as the week goes on.

Wyoming Potter’s House (18-1, 8-0 in Alliance League) was also its conference champion, edging out Tri-unity Christian (17-3, 7-1 in Alliance League) by virtue of a 54-53 win on the road at Tri-unity in January.

Division 1 tournament at Wyoming

The Division 1 District 11 tournament at Wyoming will open with games Monday, Feb. 25, with Byron Center (5-15 record on the season) squaring off against East Kentwood (11-9) at 6 p.m. and Ottawa Hills (2-16, before a Feb. 22 game vs. Lowell) vs. Wyoming (8-11) following at 7:30 p.m.

The winners of the Monday games will play Wednesday, Feb. 27, with the winner of the Byron Center/East Kentwood game playing East Grand Rapids (7-13) at 6 p.m., and the Ottawa Hills/Wyoming winner playing Caledonia (4-15) at 7:30 p.m.

The winners of the Wednesday games will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m., and then move on to the Regional 3 at Holland West Ottawa.

Division 2 tournament at South Christian

In the Division 1 District 44 tournament, South Christian will play in the opening-round, Monday game, on their home floor, playing Wyoming Kelloggsville (4×16, 3-9 in OK Silver) at 7 p.m.

The tournament continues on Wednesday, Feb. 27, with Grand River Prep (10-4) playing West Michigan Aviation Academy (9-11, 5-4 in Alliance League) at 5:30 p.m., and the Kelloggsville/South Christian winner playing Godwin Heights at 7:30 p.m.

The winners of the Wednesday games will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m., and then move on to the Regional 11 at Fremont.

Division 4 tournament at Tri-unity Christian

In the Division 4 District 114 tournament, starting on Wednesday, Feb. 27, Zion Christian (6-13) will play host Tri-unity Christian (17-3, 7-1 in Alliance League) at 7 p.m. In the other game, Holland Calvary (11-6) will play Martin (13-3) at 5:30 p.m.

The winners of the Wednesday games will play for the district title March 1 at 6:30 p.m., and then move on to the Region 29 at Mendon.

Other local teams in District play

In the Division 2 District 43 tournament, this one at Ada Forest Hills Eastern, Wyoming Lee (2-17, 1-11 in OK Silver) will play the winner of a Monday game between Wellspring Prep (5-13) and Forest Hills Eastern (11-9), in a second round game Wednesday, Feb. 27, at 7:30 p.m. In the other Wednesday game in this tournament, Grand Rapids Catholic (17-2) against the winner of a Monday game between Grand Rapids West Catholic (10-8) and Grand Rapids Christian (14-5).

The winners of the Wednesday games at Forest Hills Eastern will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m., and then move on to the Regional 11 at Fremont.

Finally, in a Division 3 District 75 tournament at Grandville Calvin Christian, Wyoming Potter’s House will play the winner of a Monday contest between Covenant Christian (7-13) and Fennville (10-10), with the second round game on Wednesday, Feb. 27, at 5:30 p.m. In the other Wednesday game, Calvin Christian (8-10) will play the winner of a Monday game between Holland Black River (3-17) and Saugatuck (3-15).

The winners of the Wednesday games at Calvin Christian will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m. and then move on to the Regional 19 at NorthPointe Christian.

Other local sports schedule:

Monday, Feb. 25
Boys Basketball
East Kentwood vs Byron Center @ Wyoming – Division 1 MHSAA Districts
Kelloggsville @ South Christian – Division 2 MHSAA Districts

Tuesday, Feb. 26
Girls Basketball
East Kentwood @ Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights
Wyoming @ Union
West Michigan Lutheran @ Potter’s House
Grand River Prep @ Muskegon Catholic Central
FH Northern @ South Christian
Boys Hockey
@ East Kentwood – MHSAA Regionals
Boys Swimming
South Christian @ Holland

Wednesday, Feb. 27
Boys Swimming
@ East Kentwood – Second Shave Meet

Thursday, Feb. 28
Boys Swimming
@ East Kentwood – MHSAA Diving Regionals
Girls Basketball
Kelloggsville @ Tri-Unity Christian
Holton @ Wyoming Lee – Senior Night
Grand River Prep @ Zion Christian
Potter’s House @ Wellsprings Prep
South Christian @ Byron Center

Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.

 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.

Kentwood District Court announces warrant, traffic and parking tickets waiver program

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Hard News
The Kentwood Justice Center which houses the 62-B District Court (WKTV)

By Kent County

The 62-B District Court in Kentwood and the 63rd District Court announced today a waiver program for individuals to comply with court orders by settling their debts without further penalty or incarceration.

Specifically, the program addresses outstanding warrants for non-compliance with a court order of fines, fees, court costs and any outstanding traffic or parking tickets that have gone into default or suspension. The waiver program will be effective March 1-31.

“The waiver program gives people who have outstanding fines, fees, and court costs an opportunity to more reasonably resolve their business with the court,” said Chief Judge Sara J. Smolenski. “During the month of March, individuals have a great chance to meet their responsibilities and the program allows for payment plans to resolve their debts to the court without the worry of incarceration. This is a great program and people who qualify should jump at it.”

The 62-B and 63rd District Courts guarantee that those who pay in full will not be jailed because of the late payment. If the account is paid in full, the courts will waive all court-imposed late fees or warrant fees except for the $45 License Suspension Reinstatement Fees.

If an individual is unable to pay in full, but makes a significant payment, the courts will work with the individual to set-up a new payment plan regarding any outstanding balance and they will not be jailed. Any existing driver’s license suspension will not be lifted until the account is paid in full.

Payments can be made by, and for more information contact, calling 62-B at 616-698-9310 or 63rd District Court at 616-632-7770.

The Right Place assists global manufacturer with Kentwood expansion

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Local Business, ,
Andronaco Industries will be relocating its subsidiary Conley Composite to Kentwood. (Supplied)

By The Right Place

Today The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Kentwood, announced that global manufacturer, Andronaco Industries, will be relocating one of its subsidiaries, Conley Composite, and expanding to a fourth Kent County location at 4544 Broadmoor Ave. in Kentwood. This expansion will result in the creation of 64 jobs and a capital investment of $3.3 million.

Andronaco Inc., founded in 1994, is a world-leading manufacturer of high performance fluoropolymer and composite products and technologies. The company, which also has locations in Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and France, currently operates three subsidiary facilities in the City of Kentwood (dba PureFlex, Inc., PolyValve, LLC, Nil-Cor, LLC and Ethylene, LLC) that employ 195 people.

Conley Composites, LLC specializes in fiberglass pipe, fittings and valve manufacturing. (Supplied)

Conley Composites, LLC which specializes in fiberglass pipe, fittings and valve manufacturing, previously operated out of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Andronaco officials made the decision, with the assistance of The Right Place and the MEDC, to relocate this facility closer to its three existing Kentwood operations.

For the expansion, Andronaco plans to purchase and rehabilitate an existing, 30,000 square foot building. The new location on Broadmoor Avenue will be located within minutes of the other Andronaco manufacturing facilities and corporate headquarters. 

“The decision to relocate Conley Composites to the same area as our other manufacturing subsidiaries made logistical sense for our company,” said Ron Andronaco, president and CEO of Andronaco Industries, “We are thankful for the guidance and support of The Right Place and the MEDC as we worked through the details of this relocation and expansion process.”

The MEDC is supporting the expansion effort with the approval of a $320,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The City of Kentwood is also considering approval of a P.A. 198 tax abatement in support of the project.

“Andronaco’s decision to establish a fourth facility in West Michigan is a testament to the strong business environment our region has developed,” said Jen Wangler, Senior business development manager and project lead, “Companies have confidence in our talent and our continued economic growth.”

“The City of Kentwood is pleased to partner with Andronaco Industries and the State of Michigan to bring this project to fruition,” said Kentwood mayor Stephen Kepley. “We are proud to see a world-leading manufacturer like Andronaco Industries continue to thrive and bring new jobs to Kentwood.”

WKTV Journal previews annual Taste of Kentwood food fest

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Food, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Newscast, Upcoming Events

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

As part of the February WKTV Journal Newscast, we previewed the 18th annual Taste of Kentwood event on Thursday, March 14, coming to the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, with two sessions: one from 4:30 to 6 p.m., and another from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The event will also include live music from Just Cuz, an acoustic duo that performs an eclectic mix of cover tunes from a variety of genres.

Participating restaurants include: Boardwalk Subs, City Barbeque, PJ’s Pizza, Coffee & Ice Cream, Underground Cookie Club, The Candied Yam, Daddy Pete’s BBQ, Loco Taco Taqueria, Desi Spice, Peppino’s South Kentwood, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Thai Express, Jet’s Pizza, YoChef’s Catering Company and Le Kebob.

The event is open to everyone in the community. Tickets cost $6 and can be purchased online in advance, $8 on the day of event. Kids 5 and younger are free.

Featured WKTV high school sports coverage includes boys basketball, hockey

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)


Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director
sports@WKTV.org

Only one more week before the boys basketball playoffs start, but WKTV’s featured high school sports contests this week include a boys basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 19, with Belding at Wyoming Lee as well as a Friday, Feb. 22, boys hockey contest with Grand Rapids Christian at East Kentwood.

Later in the month and in early March, WKTV plans to send it coverage crew to boys basket district playoff sites for games that have our schools playing in.

Starting Monday, Feb. 25 and continuing Wednesday, Feb. 27, with finals on Friday, Feb. 27, local possibilities include the Division 1 district group at East Kentwood and/or the Division 2 district group at South Christian.

Starting Monday, March 4, and continuing Wednesday, March 6, with finals Friday, March 8, local teams will be playing in the Division 1 district group at East Grand Rapids and the Division 2 district group at Grand Rapids Christian.

In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person — including state-level completions in bowling, swimming and competitive cheer.

 
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.

 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.

 
Following is this week’s schedule:

Monday, Feb. 18
Boys Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Boys/Girls Bowling
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep

Tuesday, Feb. 19
Boys Basketball
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming – Senior Night
Belding @ Wyoming Lee – WKTV Featured Event
Fennville @ Tri-Unity Christian
Holland Black River @ Zion Christian
Holland Calvary @ West Michigan Aviation
WMAES @ West Michigan Lutheran
Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Grand River Prep
Wayland @ South Christian
Girls Basketball
East Kentwood @ Grandville
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Wyoming Lee @ West Michigan Aviation
Fennville @ Tri-Unity Christian
Holland Black River @ Zion Christian
Martin @ Potter’s House
WMAES @ West Michigan Lutheran
Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Grand River Prep
South Christian @ Wayland
Boys/Girls Bowling
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee

Wednesday, Feb. 20
Boys Hockey
East Kentwood @ FH Northern
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Benton Harbor
South Christian @ Hudsonville

Thursday, Feb. 21
Boys Swimming
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – Diving Prelims
Boys Basketball
Tri-Unity Christian @ West Michigan Aviation
West Michigan Lutheran @ Battle Creek Academy
Girls Basketball
Tri-Unity Christian @ West Michigan Aviation
Potter’s House @ NorthPointe Christian

Friday, Feb. 22
Boys/Girls Bowling
@ Jenison – Fairlanes Bowling Center – Division 1 MHSAA Team Regionals
@ Vicksburg – Continental Lanes – Division 2 MHSAA Team Regionals
@ Catholic Central – Park Center Lanes – Division 3 MHSAA Team Regionals
@ Lake Odessa Lakewood – M-66 Bowl – Division 3 MHSAA Team Regionals
@ Holton – Sherman Bowling Center – Division 4 MHSAA Team Regionals
Boys Swimming
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – Swimming Prelims
South Christian @ Hastings
Boys Basketball
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville @ Covenant Christian
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Muskegon Oakridge
Calhoun Christian @ Zion Christian
Potter’s House @ Lansing Christian
Sparta @ Grand River Prep
South Christian @ FH Eastern
Girls Basketball
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville @ Holland Black River
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Calhoun Christian @ Zion Christian
Potter’s House @ Lansing Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ West Michigan Lutheran
Grand River Prep @ Lakewood Lake Odessa
South Christian @ FH Eastern
Boys Hockey
Christian @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Event
Girls Gymnastics
Potter’s House @ Lowell

Saturday, Feb. 23
Boys/Girls Bowling
@ Jenison – Fairlanes Bowling Center – Division 1 MHSAA Individual Regionals
@ Vicksburg – Continental Lanes – Division 2 MHSAA Individual Regionals
@ Catholic Central – Park Center Lanes – Division 3 MHSAA Individual Regionals
@ Lake Odessa Lakewood – M-66 Bowl – Division 3 MHSAA Individual Regionals
@ Holton – Sherman Bowling Center – Division 4 MHSAA Individual Regionals
Boys Swimming
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
South Christian @ Hastings
Boys Hockey
East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids
Girls Cheer
@ Hartland – Division 1 MHSAA Regionals
@ Kenowa Hills – Division 2 MHSAA Regionals
@ Rockford – Division 3 MHSAA Regionals
@ Caledonia – Division 4 MHSAA Regionals
Boys Basketball
West Michigan Lutheran @ Battle Creek Academy
Girls Basketball
East Kentwood @ Union

Monday, Feb. 25
Boys Basketball
East Kentwood vs Byron Center @ Wyoming – Division 1 MHSAA Districts
Kelloggsville @ South Christian – Division 2 MHSAA Districts

Community invited to explore local cuisine at Taste of Kentwood

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Recreation, Upcoming Events
From a previous year, the Taste of Kentwood brings out the community and families for fun and food. (WKTV)

By City of Kentwood

 
The community is invited to explore a smorgasbord of local cuisine during the 18th annual Taste of Kentwood event on Thursday, March 14.

Held at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, a variety of local restaurants will offer food and desserts during two sessions: one from 4:30 to 6 p.m., and another from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The event will also include live music from Just Cuz, an acoustic duo that performs an eclectic mix of cover tunes from a variety of genres.

“Taste of Kentwood is a great opportunity to experience the diversity of Kentwood while supporting local businesses,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “Everyone is welcome to come connect with neighbors, enjoy live music, and discover what deliciousness awaits around the corner.”

Participating restaurants include: Boardwalk Subs, City Barbeque, PJ’s Pizza, Coffee & Ice Cream, Underground Cookie Club, The Candied Yam, Daddy Pete’s BBQ, Loco Taco Taqueria, Desi Spice, Peppino’s South Kentwood, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Thai Express, Jet’s Pizza, YoChef’s Catering Company and Le Kebob.

The event is open to everyone in the community. Tickets cost $6 and can be purchased online in advance, $8 on the day of event. Kids 5 and younger are free.

(Not so) new Kentwood commissioner, Metro Health doctor and leader on WKTV Journal In Focus

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Local Business, WKTV Journal In Focus

K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

The latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus offers a discussion with Kentwood City Commissioner Maurice Groce, who has a long history serving the city his family has called home for nearly three decades, and Metro Health — UM Health’s Dr. Peter Hahn, who is one of the few leaders of a healthcare system with hands-on experience with patients.

First up, In Focus is City of Kentwood Commissioner Maurice Groce, who was appointed late last year to fill the unexpired term of at-large commissioner Richard Clanton. Groce is a 29-year resident of Kentwood and previously served the City as 2nd Ward Commissioner for two years. But his service to the city runs much deeper that. WKTV talks about his past, present and future work with the city and the community.

Then In Focus is Metro Health — University of Michigan Health President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Peter Hahn, who was selected to lead the healthcare system late last year after serving as Metro Health’s Chief Medical Officer. As a doctor, he is one of the few healthcare provider leaders who has worked directly with patients as some of the national finest hospitals, but that does not mean his business credentials are not equally impressive.

For a link to Dr. Hahn’s interview video, click here .

WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times).

In Focus is also available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com. All individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know — weekend edition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist.

Indira Gandhi

Dawning of a new era

During a Presidents Day weekend closure, the Michigan Department of State will replace the outdated vehicle records system Secretary of State offices have used for decades with a modern computer system to better serve customers. More info here.

They who drink beer…

There will be no shortage of beer related activities starting Friday, Feb. 15, when Beer Month GR begins its annual month-long celebration of craft beer brewing and drinking all across the greater Grand Rapids area. More info here.

Get your groove on

KDL’s vinyl collection, KDL Grooves, launches on Record Store Day (Saturday, April 13, 2019), but you can get an early taste at the launch party on Feb. 16th. Here’s the scoop.

Fun fact:

Blame it on the cows

During Prohibition, moonshiners would wear “cow shoes.” The fancy footwear left hoofprints instead of footprints, helping distillers and smugglers evade police.


Doubtful this fashion statement would catch on in today’s world.


Or would it?


Where’s Alexander McQueen when you need him?

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Friendship … is born at the moment when one man says to another “What! You too? I thought that no one but myself . . .” 

~ C.S. Lewis, The Four Loves


The bet that really paid off

Grand Rapids Symphony

As children, neither musician was interested in studying stringed instruments, much less classical music. Baptiste, who wanted to study the saxophone, told NPR he ended up in the string section due to a bet between two teachers. The duo, who are Black Violin, are set to perform at the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Symphony with Soul Feb. 18 concert. Read more here.


Waiting by the window for the cats
and dogs to come raining down

Before Jimmy King was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome (a developmental disorder on the Autism spectrum), his parents knew only that he was different from other kids. Read King’s story here.


And all that jazz…

Xavier Davis

Pianist Xavier Davis will be the featured artist during a concert Sunday, Feb. 10, at 3 p.m., at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE. Tickets are $15 general admission and $5 for students with ID, on-line or at the door. More info here.


Fun fact:

No kneecaps = no jumping.

Elephants are the only land mammals that cannot jump. Unlike all other mammals on earth (well, except for maybe whales and dolphins), elephants do not have kneecaps. Therefore, they are unable to bend their legs and acquire the needed propulsion to leave the ground.

Kent County, seeking landfill waste reduction, expands its community outreach staff

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Hard News, Recycling
Kent County Department Of Public Works resource recovery specialist Lauren Westerman, in black, leads a tour of the county’s current waste recovery process. (Supplied/Kent County)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

A major component of the Kent County Department of Public Works’s plan to reduce county landfall waste by 20 percent by 2020 — and 90 percent by 2030 — is to gain community buy-in for the plan.

And a big part of that component is having Resource Recovery Specialists provide tours and presentations and “work collaboratively with community organizations to help them realize the impacts of waste on our community and how they can take action to help reduce our reliance on landfills,” according to supplied information.

As part of that effort, the county Department of Public Works (DPW) announced last week a major addition to department’s educational programs with the hire of Katelyn Nettler as a new resource recovery specialist.

In addition, the DWP announced that Lauren Westerman, also a resource recovery specialist, recently earned her environmental educator certification from the Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education.

“We are always looking for ways to enhance our educational programs, and our resource recovery specialists play a vital role in our commitment to community outreach and education,” said Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, said in supplied material. “Both Lauren and Katelyn bring fresh perspectives to our program and will help us develop new strategies for educating our community about the importance of protecting our environment through reducing, reusing, recycling and reimagining how we manage discards.”

Nettler comes to the DPW from the Blandford Nature Center where she was a volunteer and outreach manager. She will support Westerman with outreach and education through developing audio and visual content for the DPW’s website, social media and other platforms. Nettler’s role will focus on giving the community a look at the county’s trash and recycling process and teaching people how to safely dispose of chemicals and other hazardous materials.

“I am looking forward to working with community partners to ensure access and awareness of programs that help reduce waste designed for the landfill,” Nettler said. “There are many opportunities to reduce landfill waste in our community and I’m excited to hit the ground running in this new role.”

Westerman completed her environmental certification in November. The Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education offers an Environmental Educator Certification that is recognized by the North American Association for Environmental Education, a leading professional organization in environmental education.

According to MAEOE, environmental literacy can be defined as understanding how to make decisions that minimize environmental impact. Westerman will use her certification to grow Kent County DPW’s recycling and waste management education programs.

“I pursued this certification to expand my communication skills and gain experience as an environmental educator that I can apply to the Kent County DPW’s programs,” Westerman said. “This program challenged me to define objectives and goals for each program and to incorporate evaluation tools throughout the process. I am excited to continue using these new skills as I teach more recycling and waste programs in the coming years.”

Westerman has been with the Kent DPW for three years. In her role, she leads tours through the Recycling Center and Land ll, visits schools for various education programs, and interacts with the public throughout the year. She earned her Master of Environmental Science from Taylor University in Indiana.

For more information on Kent County’s 2020/2030 plans visit reimaginetrash.org .

Featured WKTV high school sports coverage returns to South Christian Friday

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports


WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director
sports@WKTV.org

With the playoffs looming, WKTV’s featured high school game this week will be a Friday, Feb. 15, boys and girls basketball games with Middleville Thronapple-Kellogg at South Christian.

The rest of the tentative monthly featured game coverage schedule is:

Tuesday, Feb. 19: Boys basketball, Belding at Wyoming Lee
Friday, Feb. 22: Boys Hockey, Grand Rapids Christian at East Kentwood
Week of February 25–29: Boys basketball, TBD

In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person.

 
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.

 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.

 
Following is this week’s schedule:

Monday, Feb. 11
Boys/Girls Bowling
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
Hopkins @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Girls Cheer
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Girls Basketball
Zion Christian @ Saugatuck
Girls Gymnastics
Potter’s House @ Rockford
Boys Basketball
Muskegon Catholic Central @ Grand River Prep

Tuesday, Feb. 12
Boys/Girls Bowling
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Crossroads Charter Academy @ Potter’s House
South Christian @ East Grand Rapids
Boys Basketball
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Christian @ Wyoming – Teacher Appreciation Night
Holland Black River @ Tri-Unity Christian
Western Michigan Christian @ Zion Christian
Kalamazoo Hackett @ Potter’s House
West Michigan Aviation @ Martin
West Michigan Lutheran @ Algoma Christian
South Christian @ Covenant Christian
Girls Basketball
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Hopkins @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ Christian
Holland Black River @ Tri-Unity Christian
Zion Christian @ Muskegon Catholic Central
West Michigan Aviation @ Martin
West Michigan Lutheran @ Algoma Christian
Covenant Christian @ South Christian
Boys Swimming
South Christian @ Ottawa Hills

Wednesday, Feb. 13
Boys Wrestling
Wyoming Lee @ MHSAA Team Regionals
Boys/Girls Bowling
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Girls Cheer
East Kentwood @ Comstock Park
Wyoming @ Comstock Park
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins

Thursday, Feb. 14
Boys/Girls Bowling
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
Tri-Unity Christian @ Potter’s House – Boys only
FH Eastern @ South Christian

Friday, Feb. 15
Boys Basketball
East Kentwood @ Rockford
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Belding @ Kelloggsville
Hudsonville @ Wyoming – Hall of Fame Night
Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
Zion Christian @ Calvary Christian
Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation
West Michigan Lutheran @ Barry County Christian
Grand River Prep @ Holland Calvary
Middleville T-K @ South Christian – WKTV Featured Event
Girls Basketball
East Kentwood @ Rockford
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Belding @ Kelloggsville
Hudsonville @ Wyoming – Hall of Fame Night
Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
Zion Christian @ Calvary Christian
Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation
West Michigan Lutheran @ Barry County Christian
Hopkins @ Grand River Prep
Middleville T-K @ South Christian – WKTV Featured Event
Boys Hockey
East Kentwood @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer
Girls Cheer
Wyoming @ Muskegon Mona Shores – Division 2 MHSAA Districts
Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park – MHSAA Districts
Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park – MHSAA Districts
Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park – MHSAA Districts
Girls Gymnastics
@ Potter’s House

Saturday, Feb. 16
Boys/Girls Bowling
East Kentwood @ Grandville
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Wyoming @ Christian
Boys Wrestling
@ Grand Haven – MHSAA Individual Regionals
Girls Dance
East Kentwood @ Davenport University Invite
Girls Cheer
East Kentwood @ Rockford – Division 1 MHSAA Districts
Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park – Division 3 MHSAA Districts
Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park – Division 3 MHSAA Districts
Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park – Division 3 MHSAA Districts
Boys Hockey
East Kentwood @ West Ottawa

Monday, Feb. 18
Boys Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Boys/Girls Bowling
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep

Kentwood’s brush drop-off site reopened to help with storm damage

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Recycling
Kentwood Public Works Department oversees the city’s brush and tree recycling. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)


By City of Kentwood

The City of Kentwood has reopened its brush drop-off site for residents to dispose of debris resulting from recent storms.


Residents may drop off brush, sticks, tree limbs and logs from storm damage at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, during daylight hours now through Sunday, Feb. 17. 


“Our crews are working hard to help clean up any storm damage,” said Jim Wolford, Department of Public Works supervisor. “We’ve reopened our brush drop-off site as residents have expressed a need for drop-off services as they address the trees, branches and brush that have fallen on their properties.”


The service is available to Kentwood residents only. Materials that cannot be accepted include: leaves, grass clippings, trash, dirt, concrete, asphalt, tires, rocks, stones, construction materials, glass or metal.

Woodland Mall’s near-complete redevelopment gives local retail shopping a boost

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Food, Local Business, Woodland Mall


An artist’s rendering Woodland Mall’s new Von Maur wing, expected to open later this year. (Supplied/Woodland Mall)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org
 

This year will be big year for Woodland Mall, with major retailers Von Maur and REI moving in, a unique restaurant opening its doors, and a general “new feel” for shoppers coming to the mall.

“As the Woodland Mall continues their redevelopment there are many new stores coming and renovation of some of the existing stores, which gives Woodland Mall a whole new feel,” Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, said to WKTV. “With Von Maur and other new stores coming in 2019, Woodland Mall is the place to shop in Kentwood.”

This week, Woodland Mall management gave an update as to the status of the redevelopment and there is good news all-round — including an on-schedule opening of Von Maur in an entirely new wing of the mall, an earlier-than-anticipated opening of West Michigan’s first REI recreation gear retailer, and several new stores already opened or renovated.

“We have been hard at work diversifying the retail mix at Woodland Mall and investing in ways to continue to create a premium shopping experience,” Cecily McCabe, Woodland Mall marketing director, said in supplied material. “We’ve had several new stores open since renovations began in the summer of 2017, and there are several more on the way, along with new programs and events throughout 2019.

“As our major redevelopment project continues through this fall, we are so excited to share our transformation with the community,” she said.

Retailer Von Maur, which will occupy 90,000 square feet in the former Sears space, is on schedule for an October 2019 opening. The location will be the high-end department store’s first in the region, as the Iowa-based store expands “its footprint across the U.S. with larger stores and new brands,” according to supplied information. “The strength of the Von Maur brand lies in its wide selection of brand-name merchandise, open and attractive store design, amenities that enhance the customer experience.” Von Maur’s customer experience includes free gift-wrapping year-round.
 

In 2019, shoppers can also anticipate the opening of REI, Urban Outfitters, A’Beautiful Soul, Bath & Body Works’ White Barn Shop, Black Rock Bar & Grill and more.

The opening of West Michigan’s first REI store is anticipated ahead of schedule this summer. Its 20,000 square-foot location will carry gear and clothing for activities including paddling, biking and running. Additionally, the recreation gear retailer will host workshops focused on outdoor recreation.

Also this summer, the mall plans a grand opening of Black Rock Bar & Grill in the expanded Von Maur wing. The first-to-market restaurant, according to supplied information, offers an experience in which guests sear their selection of meat or seafood on hot volcanic granite directly at their tables.

Woodland has scheduled numerous community events and programs planned all year long. Early in 2019, the mall will offer events such as a Mad Hatter tea party, photos with the Easter Bunny, employment expos, vehicle showcases and parties geared toward children, according to supplied material.
 

Later in the year, shoppers can look forward to family pet photos with Santa, Santa Fest, a Winter Princess Party and more. A new play area is also in the works.

Barrier-breaking Houston METRO Chief featured speaker at Legacy Luncheon

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood

Houston METRO Chief Vera Bumpers with the students from Grand Rapids Preparatory Academy who helped at the Legacy Luncheon.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

“Let me start with the story of a little girl from Alabama,” said Houston METRO Police Chief Vera Bumpers to more than 150 attendees at the 12th annual Grand Rapids Legacy Luncheon on Feb. 5 at New Hope Baptist Church.

“This little girl would travel in the car with her family and during those travels they would be stopped by police officers,” she said. “During those travels, they would be hungry or need to go to the bathroom and their father would stop and ask if they could use the bathroom, and the people would say ’no.’

“And one day, the little girl finally asked her father why he did not stand up against these people and the officers and he said ‘because I needed to protect my family.’”

Houston METRO Chief Vera Bumpers with JA PR Group’s Jessica Ann Tyson.

Looking back at this story – her story – Bumpers said she believes it was the reason why she chose the career path she did – law enforcement. She broke barriers becoming the first African-American female on the Houston METRO Transit Authority Police Department, the largest and oldest transit law enforcement agency in Texas. This paved the way to her becoming METRO’s first female to attain the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and Assistant Chief. Two weeks after being named Assistant Chief, Bumpers would break the brass ceiling, being named as Chief, the first African American female to serve in this role.

Her reason for following that career path is her belief that the interactions between law officials and the public were important. She created the cooperative urban policing which includes strategies on addressing innate bias, peer accountability and law enforcement responsibility. She has become a sought out speaker about the program.

“We all have the responsibility that there is equity in the treatment of everyone,” Bumpers said to the crowd. “We all owe that to the next generation.”

This belief is also the reason why she joined the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), which she was inducted as the organizations 42nd president this past August. Started in 1976, NOBLE was founding on the idea that black law enforcement executives could have a significantly more effective impact on the criminal justice system through a unified voice. Today, the organization serves as the conscience of the law enforcement by being committed to Justice by Action. NOBLE has nearly 60 chapters — including the West Michigan NOBLE Chapter — representing more than 3,000 members worldwide. Bumpers said membership is open to both law enforcement officials and civilians. For more on NOBLE, click here.

Bumpers served as the keynote speaker to the annual luncheon, hosted by Kentwood’s JA PR Group. The luncheon is a tribute to Black History Month. The annual event commemorates the scholarship recipients, recognize community leaders and celebrates the community. The Legacy Events has awarded more than $110,000 to students in scholarships across the State of Michigan.

This year, at the Legacy Luncheon, a check of $1,500 was presented to the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund of the Michigan Education Trust. According to Michigan Education Trust Executive Director Robin R. Lott, the Fostering Futures Scholarship assists former foster care students with college expenses. The fund recently was added to the list of charitable organizations that residents can donate their tax refunds to, Lott noted, adding that there is a fundraising luncheon for the fund set for June 26 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.


Serving as masters of ceremony were Jeremiah White Jr. and Lee Stephen of “The Afternoon Throw Down Show” on Magic 104.9. Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and Our Daily Bread Ministries Pastor and Manager of North American Outreach Clarkston Morgan offered the prayer and Kentwood’s The Candid Yam provided the lunch. 

Consumers Energy offers a few tips as it works to restore power

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming
More than 1,100 Consumer Energy employees and contractors are working to restore power to area residents.

By Roger Morgenstern
Consumers Energy

With a focus on safety, power restoration work is underway after an overnight ice storm cut power to approximately 50,000 West Michigan Consumers Energy customers – including residents in the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood – and created slick and hazardous conditions across the state.

Crews are assessing damage, securing downed wires to make them safe and beginning the power restoration process. The public is reminded to stay at least 25 feet away from downed wires and anything they are touching and to call 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.

“We appreciate our customers’ patience as we make situations safe and begin restoring power,” said Guy Packard, Consumers Energy vice president of electric operations. “Safety of the public and our crews is our utmost importance.”

As of 11 a.m., 52,500 Consumers Energy customers were without power. Since 1 a.m. Wednesday, approximately 63,000 customers have been affected. Some customers who lost power overnight may not have their service restored until late Thursday night. With additional winter weather expected over the next two days, additional outages are possible, Packard said.

From damage assessors to call center representatives and lineworkers, more than 1,100 Consumers Energy employees and contractors are engaged in the restoration efforts. Twenty mutual assistance crews are headed to Michigan from Kentucky and other Consumers Energy crews from around the state are being deployed to the hardest hit areas.

Consumers Energy urges the public to keep tips in mind:

  • Stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines and keep children and pets away. Call 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050 to report them.
  • Be alert to utility crews working along roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they safely can go past workers on roadsides.
  • Never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas. 
  • Call 2-1-1 if you are looking for help connecting to temporary shelter or other resources that offer assistance in your community. 2-1-1 is a free statewide service.

Customers can also report an outage, check the status of an outage and get useful tips what to do after a storm by visiting www.ConsumersEnergy.com/OutageCenter.

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you’ll want to know

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kids Activities

By WKTV Staff
Ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

"Take care of the minutes and the hours will take care of themselves.”
 
                                              ― Earl of Chesterfield
Some of the runners at a previous Kentwood Valentine’s Dash 5K. (WKTV)

Kentwood hosts Valentine’s Day run

The City of Kentwood is hosting its second annual Valentine’s Dash 5K at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 9, an event that will feature candy stations, awards and after-party including music, snacks, a photo booth, and the award ceremony. For the complete story, visit here.

A scene form a previous Wyoming Daddy-Daughter Dance. (WKTV)

Wyoming hosts daddy-daughter dance

The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation is currently taking registrations for its annual Daddy Daughter Dance, which will be Saturday, Feb. 9. The popular dance, which is for girls ages 3-15, will be at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW. Cost is $8 for residents and $12 for non-residents. (Fee is per person.) For the complete story, visit here.


WKTV’s coverage of girls high school basketball continues this month. (WKTV)

High school sports action abounds

February will bring some MHSAA State tournaments starting already as the high school winter seasons begin to wrap up, this includes girls cheer, boys wrestling, boys bowling, girls bowling and, starting the last week of the month, boys basketball will tip off “March Madness” in February with the girls version starting the following week. For the complete story, visit here.

Fun fact:

4,2076,800 minutes

Number of minutes in the lifetime of a person living to the age of 80.

Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce honors local businesses

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Business, WKTV Projects, ,
Local business and community leaders attended the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce annual awards event recently (WKACC)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org


A manufacturer of rubber products and more, a provider of water and water systems of all kinds, and an organization committed to the deaf and hard of hearing were among the honorees as The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses and persons at its 2018 Award event recently.


And WKTV was privileged to provide video stories for each of the business winners.


The 2018 Manufacturer of the Year was Grand Rapids Rubber Products. For a link to the video click here.


“We are so proud of Grand Rapids Rubber Products history,” Chamber President and CEO Bob O’Callaghan said. “They have been a family owned business operating in our area since 1943. They are your source for industrial supplies and custom fabrication in the Wyoming-Kentwood area.”


The 2018 Retail Business of the Year was Gordon Water Systems. For a link to the video click here.


“Gordon Water Systems was selected as our Retail Business of the Year because in their seven years as a Chamber Member, they have been very involved with our events and committees, as well as serving our community needs,” O’Callaghan said.


The 2018 Service Business of the Year was Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services. For a link to the video click here.


“The Service Business of the Year is the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services,” O’Callaghan said. “They were selected because they break down barriers for the deaf and blind in our area. They do not receive any government funding, but still make a difference for the people of Wyoming & Kentwood.”


Also honor at the event was Shane Myas of Axa Advisors, which was named the Dan Vandyke Outstanding Volunteer of the Year; Michelle Born of Fischer-Bratschie & Born P.C., who was given the Gerald E. Fessell Distinguished Service Award; and the Daniel T. McLaren Outstanding Committee of the Year was the Ambassador Committee.

Kentwood’s Freeze Fest disc golf tourney, food drive returns

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Recreation, Sports
Disc golf in the snow? Always possible at the Kentwood Freeze Fest. (Wikimedia Commons)


By City of Kentwood

The City of Kentwood has partnered with Great Lakes Disc to host its fourth Freeze Fest, a doubles disc golf tournament and food drive, on Saturday, Feb. 16.


Community disc golfers of all levels are invited to partake in the event at Jaycee Park (1088 Gentian Dr. SE). Funds raised will be used for Jaycee Park disc golf course improvements and food donations will help stock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.

On-site registration begins at 9 a.m. and the first round of the tournament starts at 10 a.m. The cost is $40, along with one canned food donation per team. Preregistration is available online at: www.kentwood.us/freezefest .

“This disc golf tournament is back by popular demand,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We had a great turnout for last year’s Freeze Fest with more than 120 participants and a successful food drive.”

In addition to restocking Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry with canned goods, last year’s event raised nearly $2,300 for the Youth Scholarship Fund, which allows recipients to receive up to 50 percent off of one program per season. It also raised an additional $235 for the pantry.

Located in the Kentwood Activities Center at 355 48th St. SE, Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is a year-round resource for area residents to take or donate food and personal care items. No applications necessary. No questions asked. More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry . 

District Courts of Kent County celebrate 50th anniversary of court system

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local History, ,


Many of the Kent County District Court Judges gathered for an 50th anniversary event for the courts. (Supplied/Kent County District Court)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Many of the judges of the District Courts of Kent County, as well as other county leaders, gathered Jan. 11 at the 63rd District Court on East Beltline NE to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Michigan’s district court system.

Established in 1968, when Michigan created district courts and abolished justices of the peace and circuit court commissioners, district courts are seen as “the public’s court” where matters such as small claims, land contact issues and misdemeanor criminal offenses are handed, and where many people attend without an attorney.

At the event, 63rd District Court Chief Judge Sara J. Smolenski spoke at the event about her family’s long involvement with the court system. Her father, J. Robert Smolenski, was a judge for 17 years, beginning in 1968; her brother, Michael R. Smolenski, spent 25 years as a judge; Sara was elected in 1990.

“My brother took over when my dad retired in 1984 … in 1990, I was elected here and my brother was elected to Circuit (Court),” Judge Smolenski said. “So the entire 50 years, there has been a Smolenski on this bench.”

Judge William G. Kelly, of Kentwood’s 62-B court, and a local historian of the court system, also spoke at the event.

“Before it was non-lawyers who handled many of these types of cases,” Judge Kelly said. “When they created this district court (system) 50 years ago, they really did not know what was going to happen. They had a good idea, a very good idea. And I think the creators would be very proud of what they established as the district courts now.”

The local 62-B court, which is celebrating its 40th years of service, opened its doors in January 1979 on 44th Street where a Fields Fabric Décor store now sits, before moving into the Kentwood City Center. In 2002, it moved to its current home in the Kentwood Justice Center.

For short video of the ceremony, follow this link.

The establishment of district courts was June 17, 1968, and most courts began operation on Jan. 1, 1969.

The courts have exclusive jurisdiction over all civil claims for damages up to $25,000, small claims (damages up to $6,000), landlord-tenant disputes, land contract disputes, and civil infractions. The court may also conduct marriages in a civil ceremony.

Additionally, it handles a wide range of criminal proceedings, including most misdemeanors, for which the maximum possible penalty does not exceed one year in jail. Typical misdemeanor offenses include driving under the influence of intoxicants or on a suspended license, simple assault, shoplifting, and possession of small amounts of marijuana.

Lastly, district courts also conduct preliminary examinations in felony cases, after which, if the prosecutor provides sufficient proofs, the felony case is transferred to the circuit court for arraignment and trial.

Further historical information is available on the Michigan District Judges Association 50th Anniversary page.

Rep. Huizenga in Wyoming to honor local World War II Civil Air Patrol pilots

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Faces, Politics, Veterans, ,


Wilmer and Orvid Lawson (seated left), Rep. Bill Huizenga and Col. Rajesh Kothari (standing right) and others at a ceremony at the Roger Chaffee American Legion in Wyoming. (Supplied/Rep. Bill Huizenga’s office)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, who represents both Wyoming and Kentwood, was at the Roger Chaffee American Legion in Wyoming on Saturday, Jan. 19, as part of a ceremony to present Congressional Gold Medals to father and son Irwin and Orvid Lawson for their service in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II.

Rep. Huizenga (R-2nd District) presented the award to 92-year-old Wyoming resident Orvid Lawson, while Col. Rajesh Kothari, Commander of the Michigan Wing of Civil Air Patrol (CAP), presented Wilmer Lawson, son of Irwin and brother of Orvid, with Irwin’s Congressional Gold Medal.

After Rep. Billl Huizenga presented the Congressional Gold Medal to Wilmer Lawson, Commander of the Michigan Wing of Civil Air Patrol, Col. Rajesh Kothari, congratulates him. (Civil Air Patrol photo by Maj. Bill Carson, CAP)

“I had the honor of presenting 92-year-old Orvid Lawson of Wyoming with a Congressional Gold Medal for his service in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II,” Rep. Huizenga said in material supplied to WKTV. “We also posthumously presented Irwin Lawson, Orvid’s father, with a Congressional Gold Medal for his service in the CAP. Irwin was one of 65 CAP volunteers who lost their lives during World War II.”

Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals “as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. Each medal honors a particular individual, institution, or event,” according to supplied material.

Father and son Irwin and Orvid Lawson served in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II. (Supplied office of Rep. Bill Huizenga)

Orvid served in the Sault Ste. Marie CAP Squadron until joining the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1945. His father, Irwin was one of 65 CAP members to lose their life while serving as a volunteer in the CAP. Irwin died August 10, 1945.

 
“Irwin was the head of the Civil Air Patrol in the Soo and Orvid was right by his side,” according to a statement from the congressman’s office. “In addition to some surveillance work, the Soo Civil Air Patrol was used for positioning barrage balloons and for identifying locations for anti-aircraft installations. The Soo was one of the most heavily defended inland sites in the United States during World War II because of the vital importance of the Locks. At its peak, approximately 12,000 troops were stationed there.

 
“During the early days of American involvement in World War II, the threats CAP faced were in the form of Nazi U-boats threatening U.S. shipping – especially oil tankers – off the Atlantic and Gulf coasts,” the statement continues. “CAP’s founders flew patrols that discouraged and eventually stopped the U-boat attacks saving hundreds of American lives. They also patrolled the country’s borders by air, towed targets for military trainees, spotted forest fires, conducted search and rescue missions, provided disaster relief and emergency transport of people and parts, and conducted orientation flights for future pilots.”

 
The ceremony at the Roger Chaffee American Legion included National Commander of the American Legion, Brett P. Reistad, as well as the Commander of the Roger Chaffee American Legion post, Bill Charon.

Kentwood Police Department visited by Detroit Tigers winter caravan

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Sports,
Members of the Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan paid a special visit to the City of Kentwood Police Department on Friday, Jan. 25. Supplied/City of Kentwood)

By City of Kentwood

The Detroit Tigers visited the Kentwood Police Department on Friday, Jan. 25 to celebrate the department’s 50th Anniversary.

Detroit Tigers Manager Ron Gardenhire and players presented a special jersey to Kentwood Police Chief Thomas Hillen. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

Tigers players and coaches presented Kentwood Police Chief Thomas Hillen with a framed jersey after joining police officers in training for a private lunch.

The visit was part of the Tigers Winter Caravan, where players and coaches make stops around the Detroit metro area and other parts of the state leading up to the annual TigerFest at Comerica Park. The tour allows fans unable to make it to TigerFest a chance to see some of their favorite players in person before the season.

Detroit Tigers Manager Ron Gardenhire with Kentwood Police Chief Thomas Hillen. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

“We were honored to be included in the Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan in recognition of our 50th anniversary,” Chief Hillen said. “The Kentwood Police Department has been dedicated to serving the residents of our community with excellence since 1968. We are always humbled by the incredible outpouring of support shown to our officers and staff.
“It is with great pride we continue our efforts to make Kentwood a great place to live and work for the next 50 years.”

Now in its 51st year, the Kentwood Police Department operates with 71 sworn officers who serve a growing population of approximately 51,000 residents through several innovative programs and community engagement efforts.

Of special note is the Department’s Data-Driven Approach to Crime and Traffic Safety, or DDACTS, program. DDACTS is an operational model that uses the integration of location-based crime and traffic data to establish effective and efficient methods for deploying law enforcement and other resources. The goal is to reduce the incidence of crime, crashes and traffic violations in the community.

DDACTS helps the Department further refine patrol efforts on specific areas based upon a temporal analysis of crime. This narrows down the days and times of crashes and criminal activity, allowing for a more effective presence and deployment of resources.

In 2016, the Department started a School Resource Officer Program as a collaborative effort between the community, schools and law enforcement to provide proactive law enforcement. Currently, the Department has two dedicated certified police officers assigned to specific school districts in the City. By working with educators, students and parents, officers work to reduce crime, increase security and promote a positive role model between youth and law enforcement.

Operation P.R.I.C.E., which stands for Preventing Retail Theft Through Initiative, Collaboration and Enforcement, has had a proven track record in helping local businesses decrease incidents of retail fraud since it was started by the Department in 2014.

As part of the program, Kentwood Police educate store employees on how they can discourage shoplifting and how to identify potential crime, as well as what to do when a shoplifter is caught. The partnership between police and store owners also provides increased police presence in stores and on the streets.

 
For many years, Kentwood Police has partnered with the Drug Enforcement Administration on its Drug Take Back program. Recognizing the need for community members to have a secure location to safely dispose of unused and/or unwanted prescription medications, the Department offers a free and anonymous drop-off location in the lobby, located at 4742 Walma Ave SE. Providing a secure location for proper medication disposal helps keep the community safe by helping to prevent potential accidental poisoning, misuse and overdose.

Beyond the Department’s programs, events such as National Night Out, Touch-A-Truck and Trunk-or-Treat are just a few of the activities that the Kentwood Police Department engages in to stay connected and build meaningful relationships within the community.

The Kentwood Police Department’s mission is to reduce serious crime, increase traffic safety, and serve our community with excellence.

More information about the Kentwood Police Department is available online at kentwood.us.

Ford Airport marks sixth straight year of record growth

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood,

By Alicia Roberts
Gerald R. Ford International Airport

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) set an all-time passenger record for 2018, marking the sixth straight year that the Airport has seen record-setting growth.

In 2018, 3,263,234 passengers flew in and out of GFIA, an increase of 16-percent from 2017. The record-setting year was capped in December with an increase of 17-percent year-over-year. With 273,673 total passengers, it marked the busiest December ever. This was the first time the Airport served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of December.

“We had originally projected to hit the three million mark in 2020. To have that much growth in 2018 was a tremendous accomplishment,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Wecouldn’t have done it without our outstanding staff, our loyal passengers, and all of our airlinepartners and airport tenants.”

Additionally, the Airport has processed over 2.5 billion pounds of cargo since 1967. Cargo totals for 2018 hit 91 million pounds – a 3-percent increase over 2017.


Helping spur the passenger growth, the Ford Airport added six new routes in 2018. Frontier Airlines began nonstop service to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Denver International Airport (DEN), Phoenix-Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), and Tampa International Airport (TPA). American Airlines began new nonstop service to Miami International Airport (MIA) and Phoenix-Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently beginning construction on Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project – a remodel of the ticketing and baggage claim hall. The Apron Reconstruction Project, a $30 million project that will repair the terminal apron – the area where aircraft are parked, unloaded or loaded, and refueled, will resume in the Spring.

Allegiant announced they were adding an aircraft base in Grand Rapids which is set to begin operation in June. They have also added three new nonstop destinations to begin in 2019. Service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) will begin in April. Service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) will begin in June.

“We continue to grow our air service and facilities. On average, airports our size have nonstop service to 17 cities. We are now serving 29,” said Picardat. “We are increasing our capacity andworking to accommodate more routes for our passengers.”

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: http://www.flyford.org/history.php.


On MLK Day and beyond, Kentwood seeks support for Little Food Pantry

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Food, Holidays


The City of Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

On the national holiday for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Monday. Jan. 21, the City of Kentwood stocked the shelves of its Little Free Pantry with a donation drive to collect food supplies for community members in need.

But the city is looking for support of its pantry all year long.

The city is seeking community partners willing to place a Kentwood Little Free Pantry collection bin for canned goods and other non-perishable items at their organization or business. Those interested in accepting a collection bin should contact the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department at 616-656-5270 or eRecreation@kentwood.us .

Located in the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, the Kentwood Little Free Pantry is similar in operation to a Little Free Library: take an item (or items) when needed and leave an item when you can. No applications are necessary. No questions are asked.

More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry .

Kentwood honors MLK, gathers food, cash to support Little Food Pantry

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Holidays
The community came out in support of the City of Kentwood’s collection of food stuffs for its Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)


By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on the national holiday in his honor, the City of Kentwood stocked the shelves of its Little Free Pantry on Monday, Jan. 21.

The city collected canned goods and other non-perishable items at three locations: the Family Fare on Kalamazoo Avenue, Celebration Cinema on 1506 Eastport Drive, and the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department — the food pantry is located at the department’s activities center.

At the end of the day, the Parks and Recreation Department’s Facebook page reported on the results: “Thank you to all who generously donated to the Little Free Pantry today! Our pantry is full again! We collected $68 and more items than could fit on the shelves. Your contributions will help a number of families in our area.”

Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley visited Founder and Senior Leader Kathy El-Ali and Outreach Director Max Johnson at The Well Church to collect an abundance of donations for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

Mayor Stephen Kepley also did a little collecting himself, as he visited The Well Church on Monday to collect donations for the pantry. The city’s Facebook page commented on the church’s effort: “We are so appreciative of your generosity. The support of community partners like you helps ensure those who need help can find it year-round.”

Mayor Kepley, in previously supplied material, commented on the community support the city receives for the pantry and other community needs.

“Kentwood is a compassionate community which supports practical acts of generosity by encouraging neighbors to help neighbors especially in times of need,” Mayor Kepley said. “Since 2017, Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry has assisted countless families to such an extent that the shelves become empty on a weekly basis.”

Located in the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, the Kentwood Little Free Pantry is similar in operation to a Little Free Library: take an item (or items) when needed and leave an item when you can. No applications necessary. No questions are asked.

More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry .

High school sports schedule includes WKTV coverage of Potter’s House, Wyoming

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, Upcoming Events


WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director
sports@wktv.org

WKTV Featured Game high school sport coverage this week will include two girls/boys basketball doubleheaders, with Potter’s House visiting Tri-unity Christian Tuesday, and Wyoming high hosting Middleville Thornapple-Kellogg on Friday.

Show the local schools your support by going in person, but then watch WKTV for the events that are showcased each week. Check out the broadcast schedule at wktvjournal.org for replay dates and times.

The final featured coverage on the current tentative January featured game schedule is Thursday, Jan. 31, with boys swimming/diving, as Rockford visits East Kentwood.

In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person.
 
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.

 
Following is this week’s schedule:

Monday, Jan. 21
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
South Christian @ Christian
Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Girls Gymnastics
Potter’s House @ Rockford

Tuesday, Jan. 22
Girls Basketball
Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights
Wayland @ South Christian
Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Potter’s House @ Tri-unity Christian – WKTV Featured Event
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Fruitport Calvary @ West Michigan Aviation
Zion Christian @ Algoma Christian
Boys Swimming
South Christian @ East Kentwood
Boys Basketball
South Christian @ Wayland
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming
Wyoming Lee @ Belding
Potter’s House @ Tri-unity Christian – WKTV Featured Event
East Kentwood @ Grandville
Fruitport Calvary @ West Michigan Aviation
Flat River @ West Michigan Lutheran
Zion Christian @ Ravenna
Boys/Girls Bowling
Northpointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Tri-unity Christian @ Wyoming Lee
NorthPointe Christian @ Potter’s House

Wednesday, Jan. 23
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
East Grand Rapids @ South Christian
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Christian @ Wyoming
East Kentwood @ Rockford
Boys Wrestling
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Cedar Springs @ East Kentwood
Girls Cheer
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Wyoming @ Byron Center
Girls Gymnastics
FH Central vs Potter’s House @ Kenowa Hills

Thursday, Jan. 24
Boys Swimming
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Boys/Girls Bowling
East Kentwood @ Wyoming Lee
Potter’s House @ Tri-unity Christian
Girls Basketball
Potter’s House @ Howardsville Christian
Boys Basketball
Potter’s House @ Howardsville Christian

Friday, Jan. 25
Boys Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
FH Eastern @ South Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Kelloggsville
Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Event
East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Barry County Christian @ Zion Christian
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
FH Eastern @ South Christian
Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Event
East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Potter’s House @ Kalamazoo Hackett
West Michigan Lutheran @ Zion Christian
Girls Cheer
Wyoming Lee @ Hamilton
Boys Hockey
Kenowa Hills @ East Kentwood

Saturday, Jan. 26
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Rockford
South Christian @ Rockford
Wyoming @ Rockford
Boys Wrestling
Godwin Heights @ Northview
Kelloggsville @ Northview
Wyoming @ Montague
Wyoming Lee @ Reed City
East Kentwood @ Lakewood
Girls Cheer
Kelloggsville @ Caledonia
Wyoming @ Caledonia
East Kentwood @ Caledonia
Boys/Girls Dance
Wyoming @ Jenison
Boys Hockey
East Kentwood @ Byron Center
Girls Gymnastics
Potter’s House @ Kenowa Hills

Monday, Jan. 28
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Potter’s House
South Christian @ Byron Center
Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Wyoming Lee @ Belding
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
Girls Gymnastics
Rockford vs Potter’s House @ Kenowa Hills
Girls Basketball
Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep

Tuesday, Jan. 29
Girls Basketball
Muskegon Heights @ Godwin Heights
South Christian @ Hudsonville
Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
FH Central @ East Kentwood
Potter’s House @ Grand River Prep
West Michigan Aviation @ Holland Black River
West Michigan Lutheran @ WMAES
Zion Christian @ Ravenna
Boys Basketball
Calvin Christian @ South Christian
FH Central @ Wyoming
NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
Potter’s House @ Grand River Prep
West Michigan Aviation @ Holland Black River
West Michigan Lutheran @ WMAES
Muskegon Catholic Central

Wednesday, Jan. 30
Boys/Girls Bowling
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
Wyoming @ South Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Boys Wrestling
Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Girls Cheer
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Girls Gymnastics
Potter’s House @ Rockford

Thursday, Jan. 31
Boys Swimming
South Christian @ West Catholic
Rockford @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Event

GR Symphony, GR Civic offering free tickets to furloughed government employees

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming
GRS Symphony Music Director Marcelo Lehninger (Supplied)

WKTV Staff

This week, both the Grand Rapids Symphony and the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre have announced free tickets to federal government employees who have been furloughed or are working without pay due to the government shutdown.

“The Grand Rapids Symphony is a community supported orchestra, and it’s our duty and privilege to support our community as well,” said Grand Rapids Symphony Vice President of Marketing and Communications Denise Lubey.

“Music not only is one of our greatest pleasures, it’s one of our greatest sources of comfort in trying times,” Lubey said.  “Music nourishes the soul and lifts the spirts. It sustains us when we’re sad and entertains us when we need to set aside the worries of the day.”

More than 22 percent of all federal employees in Michigan totaling about 5,700 workers currently are affected by the shutdown in the Great Lake State.

For the Grand Rapids Symphony, federal employees who are affected by the shutdown may receive up to two free tickets to any upcoming Symphony concert. The exception is “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” on Feb. 1-2, which is sold out. The Grand Rapids Symphony also is offering four free tickets for any of its upcoming Family series or Lollipop concerts to affected workers and their families. Federal employees will be asked to provide their job and office or agency for confirmation.

Call the Grand Rapids Symphony at (616) 454-9451 or go online to GRSymphony.org for more information and for details on all upcoming concerts in the 2018-19 season.

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” through Jan. 27. (Civic Theatre)

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre is offering two tickets to its current production “And Then There Were None,” which runs through Jan. 27. Federal employees must show their federal ID for the tickets.

Advance tickets are available at civic’s box office, which is located at 30 N. Division Ave., or the night of the performance. For more information, call 222-6650.

Kentwood invites community to honor MLK, support food pantry

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Going Local, Upcoming Events
The Little Food Pantry is located in the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE.

By City of Kentwood

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the City of Kentwood will hold a food drive to stock its Little Free Pantry on Jan. 21. The City will collect canned goods and other non-perishable items on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at three locations:
 

Family Fare, 6127 Kalamazoo Ave. SE – 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Celebration Cinema, 1506 Eastport Dr. SE – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department, 355 48th St. SE – 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The City is also seeking community partners willing to place a Kentwood Little Free Pantry collection bin for canned goods and other non-perishable items at their organization or business.

“Kentwood is a compassionate community which supports practical acts of generosity by encouraging neighbors to help neighbors especially in times of need,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “Since 2017, Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry has assisted countless families to such an extent that the shelves become empty on a weekly basis.”

“To ensure those who need help can find it year-round, please lend a hand by donating to the pantry and consider becoming a year-round partner. Added partners will provide a more sustainable food source for our community.”

Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry initiative began as an MLK Day community service project in 2017 to fill an immediate and local need throughout the year.

Located in the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, the premise of the Kentwood Little Free Pantry is similar to that of the Little Free Library movement: Take an item (or items) when needed and leave an item when you can. No applications necessary. No questions are asked.

Those interested in accepting a collection bin are encouraged to contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 616.656.5270 or eRecreation@kentwood.us.

More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry .

Federal government may be shutdown, but it’s business as usual at the Ford Airport

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been running at normal times but staff recommends that people get to the airport at least 90 to 120 minutes before their flight takes off. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

With reports of some TSA officers not coming in and potentially long wait times at local airports, area residents will be happy to know things are running smoothy at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

“The security wait times are running at normal times,” said Alicia Roberts, marketing coordinator for the Ford Airport. “We appreciate the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and CBP (U.S. Customers and Board Protection) staff continuing to work hard to keep things at the airport running smoothly.”

Roberts statement matches what the TSA website has stated. According to the site, TSA screened 1.89 million passengers on Jan. 14. The overall wait time for 99.1 percent of passengers was less than 30 minutes with 94.3 percent of the passengers waiting less than 15 minutes. For the TSA PreCheck lanes, the average wait was less than 10 minutes.

Wait times vary at each airpot. For example, Atlanta was reporting a max standard wait time of 88 minutes with a TSA PreCheck maximum wait time of 55 minutes. For Chicago’s O’Hare, the maximum waiting time was 16 minutes and the maximum wait time for TSA PreCheck was three minutes. At the Detroit airport, the maximum wait time was 19 minutes and the maximum wait time for the TSA PreCheck was four minutes.

Roberts said that it is always recommended that passengers come to the airport early to get checked in and through security. GFIA encourages passengers to arrive at least 90-120 minutes before their flight and check flight information at www.flyford.com.

To help with moving through security, passengers should utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one-quart zip-top bag. Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag.

Additional 3-1-1 Information:

  • Deodorant:Stick deodorant is not limited to 3.4 ounces or less, but gel or spray deodorant is.
  • Suntan & Sun Block Lotion:Lotions fall under the 3-1-1procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
  • Makeup:Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
  • Beverages:Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
  • Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.


Due to safety concerns, the FAA yesterday recalled thousands of furloughed inspectors and engineers back to work. It happened after unions representing aviation safety inspectors and air traffic controllers raised concerns that the shutdown was eroding the safety of the nation’s air travel.

All FFA TSA and CBP employees are working without pay during the government shutdown. 

CNN recently compiled a list of impacts from the government shutdown. Click here to read more.

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming

By WKTV Staff
Ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“No matter at all, I replied; for the point is not who said the words, but whether they are true or not.”
 
                         ― Plato, The Dialogues of Plato, Vol 1
The Lee High School’s current mascot is a caricature of Confederate soldier. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

To change or not to change the Rebel

When the Godfrey-Lee Board of Education announced it was going to host forums to discuss whether to change or keep its Rebel mascot, the goal, according to school officials, was to have an open and honest discussion among students, parents, staff and the community. For the complete story, visit here.

Young people can get too much screen time, no matter what they say. (Pexels)

Study finds kids at risk for myopia

Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is on the rise worldwide. And kids, who spend long hours playing on smartphones and tablets, might be at greater risk for vision problems, a new study suggests. For the complete story, visit here.

An Allegiant Airlines plane at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Supplied/Ford International Airport)

And the beat goes on at Ford airport

The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, announced that Allegiant Air, LLC will be opening a new base at GRR in Grand Rapids. This expansion will result in the creation of at least 66 new jobs and a capital investment of $42.8 million. For the complete story, visit here.



Fun fact:

2 hours, 19 minutes

Average screen time of an American child under 8 years old in 2017. (Source)

Local high school sports schedule includes WKTV featured girls basketball games

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director
sports@wktv.org

WKTV Featured Game high school sport coverage this week will include two girls basketball games, a solo game from Wyoming High Tuesday, and part of a boys-girls basketball doubleheader Friday from Godwin Heights.

The Jan. 15 game will feature Grand Rapids Christian at Wyoming. The Jan. 18 game will featured NorthPointe Christian at Godwin Heights.

Show the local schools your support by going in person, but then watch WKTV for the events that are showcased each week. Check out the broadcast schedule at wktvjournal.org for replay dates and times.

The rest of the current tentative January featured game schedule is:

Tuesday, Jan. 22 — Boys/Girls basketball: Potter’s House at Tri-Unity Christian
Friday, Jan. 25 — Boys/Girls basketball: Middleville T-K at Wyoming
Thursday, Jan. 31 — Boys swimming/diving: Rockford at East Kentwood

In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person.

 
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.

 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/ .

 
Following is this week’s schedule:

Monday, Jan. 14
Boys/Girls Bowling
South Christian @ Wayland
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Wyoming @ Byron Center
Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Girls Gymnastics
Potter’s House @ Lowell

Tuesday, Jan. 15
Boys Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
Hopkins @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ Christian
Wellsprings Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Holland Calvary @ Potter’s House
Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation
Creative Tech @ West Michigan Lutheran
Muskegon Catholic Central @ Grand River Prep
Girls Basketball
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Christian @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Event
Fruitport Calvary @ Tri-Unity Christian
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
Holland Calvary @ Potter’s House
Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation
Creative Tech @ West Michigan Lutheran
Holland Black River @ Grand River Prep
Boys/Girls Bowling
Wyoming @ Unity Christian
Calvin Christian @ Potter’s House

Wednesday, Jan. 16
Boys/Girls Bowling
Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights
Middleville T-K @ South Christian
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Wayland @ Wyoming
Caledonia @ East Kentwood
Boys Wrestling
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
Allendale @ Kelloggsville
Christian @ Wyoming
Caledonia @ East Kentwood
Girls Cheer
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Wyoming @ Zeeland East
East Kentwood @ West Ottawa

Thursday, Jan. 17
Boys Swimming
South Christian @ Muskegon Mona Shores
East Kentwood@ Grandville
Boys/Girls Bowling
Potter’s House @ Hopkins

Friday, Jan. 18
Boys/Girls Bowling
Ottawa Hills @ Godwin Heights
Girls Cheer
Godwin Heights @ West Catholic
Boys Basketball
NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights – WKTV Featured Event
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Wyoming @ Benton Harbor
Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
Tri-Unity Christian @ Zion Christian
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Holland Black River @ Potter’s House
West Michigan Lutheran @ Libertas Christian
Girls Basketball
NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights – WKTV Featured Event
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Benton Harbor @ Wyoming
Tri-Unity Christian @ Zion Christian
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Holland Black River @ Potter’s House
West Michigan Lutheran @ Libertas Christian
Boys Wrestling
Wyoming Lee @ Pinconning
Boys Hockey
East Grand Rapids @ East Kentwood

Saturday, Jan. 19
Boys Wrestling
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Kelloggsville @ Christian
Wyoming @ Jenison
East Kentwood @ Holt
Boys Basketball
Catholic Central @ South Christian
Girls Cheer
Kelloggsville @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer
East Kentwood @ Rochester
Girls Dance
East Kentwood @ Wayland
Boys Hockey
FH Central @ East Kentwood

Monday, Jan. 21
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
South Christian @ Christian
Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Girls Gymnastics
Potter’s House @ Rockford

City of Kentwood’s Daddy-Daughter Dance set for Saturday, Jan. 26

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Upcoming Events
From a previous year, the City of Kentwood Daddy-Daughter Dance includes fun had by all and memories made. (WKTV)

City of Kentwood


Fathers can dance the night away with their daughters at the City of Kentwood’s annual Daddy-Daughter Dance, which is set for Saturday, Jan. 26 at the Kent District Library — Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch.

With an “Under the Sea” theme, this year’s event will run from 6 to 8 p.m. The evening will include dinner, dessert, crafts, a photo area with props and, of course, dancing.

“We love offering this dance for Kentwood dads and daughters to have a special night out together,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Our Daddy-Daughter Dance sets the stage for a fun evening, making memories that will last a lifetime.”

Tickets cost $20 per pair, $5 per extra person. Pre-registration is required. Those interested in purchasing tickets can go online at kentwood.us/daddydaughter or call 616-656-5270.

The Right Place helps carrier with $42 million expansion at Ford Airport

3-bottom, City of Kentwood,
One of the Allegiant airbuses. The airlines plans to house two such planes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)

WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Today The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), announced that Allegiant Air, LLC will be opening a new base at GRR in Grand Rapids. This expansion will result in the creation of at least 66 new jobs and a capital investment of $42.8 million.

Founded in 1998, Allegiant is known as one of America’s premier, ultra-low-cost carriers. The airline offers nonstop service to more than 120 popular destinations across the United States, primarily from small and medium-sized communities. Allegiant currently flies to seven nonstop destinations from GRR, including five in Florida, one in Arizona and one in Nevada. However, with its new base in GRR, the airline will house two Airbus-series aircraft in the city, bringing the resources and flexibility to serve additional routes in the future.

An Allegiant Airbus (Supplied)

To support Allegiant’s two aircraft, the airline will establish a crew and maintenance base that will add at least 66 additional jobs to the airport with a majority of them coming from technical career fields to include pilots, flight attendants and aircraft maintenance personnel. A majority of the new positions are expected to pay more than double the Michigan average wage. These jobs – in addition to existing ground support team members – will continue to fuel the carrier’s already incredible growth at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

Also as part of today’s presentation, Allegiant announced it would service two new cities, Nashville, Tennessee and Savannah, Georgia. Plans to begin its base of operations at the Gerald R. Ford Airport start June 4.

“Grand Rapids has been a great city for Allegiant, with solid demand and steady growth over the years,” said Keith Hansen, vice president of government affairs, Allegiant. “It’s a perfect location for a permanent base, where having locally-based aircraft and crews will open a world of opportunity to expand options for both new service and operational hours. This will make travel even more convenient and affordable for both residents and visitors to the area, and further establish Allegiant as a hometown airline for Grand Rapids.”

“Today’s announcement would not have been possible without the support of key state and local agencies and partners,” said Hansen. “We’d like to thank both the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and The Right Place, as well as our long-term partners at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.”

The MEDC is supporting the expansion with the approval of a $200,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant.

Birgit Klos, president and CEO of The Right Place (Supplied)

“Allegiant’s decision to open a base at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is a big win for the region, and will have a ripple effect through our economy beyond the initial jobs and investment,” said Birgit Klohs, President and CEO, The Right Place, Inc. and Board Member of the GRR Airport Authority Board. “It speaks to the strength of our growing airport, which is critical for companies doing business in West Michigan and beyond.”

“Echoing our community partners, the team here at GRR is excited that Allegiant has made the decision to establish a base at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Brian Picardat, Interim President & CEO, Gerald R. Ford International Airport. “This will bring additional jobs to West Michigan and more travel options for passengers. Thank you to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and The Right Place for their assistance in bringing this base to Grand Rapids.”

Allegiant began operating at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in 2009 and with today’s announcement now offers nine non-stop routes – to Las Vegas; Phoenix/Mesa, Arizona; to five cities in Florida: Tampa/St. Pete, Punta Gorda/Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando/Sanford and Sarasota/Bradenton; and seasonal service to Nashville and Savannah beginning in June.  Allegiant currently carries more than 300,000 annual passengers through Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids will become the airline’s 16th aircraft base, which will allow Allegiant to expand its service to and from the city, offer more new non-stop routes in the future, and further connect Grand Rapids businesses, residents and visitors to destinations around the world.

Kentwood to host second annual Valentine’s Dash 5K on Feb. 9

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Sports
Some of the runners at a previous Kentwood Valentine’s Dash 5K. (WKTV)

By City of Kentwood

The City of Kentwood is hosting its second annual Valentine’s Dash 5K at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 9, an event that will feature candy stations, awards and after-party including music, snacks, a photo booth, and the award ceremony.

The 5K run/walk will start and end at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, located at 4950 Breton Rd. SE. The route of the run will include a combination of trails and roads, mile markers and Valentine’s Day candy stations.

“The route for this race is great for first-time and experienced racers alike,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Whether you plan to run with your sweetie, family, friends or new acquaintances, our Valentine’s Dash is a great way to celebrate the holiday and your love of running.”

Valentine’s Day-themed costumes are encouraged. Fellow participants will vote to determine who is the “best dressed” and awards will also be presented to the fastest runners. While the 5K is intended to be a fun run, it will be chip-timed.

Following the race will be an after-party in the library’s community room, which will include music, Valentine’s themed snacks, a photo booth, an award ceremony and more.

Online registration is available and costs $30 until Feb. 8, after which the price will increase. Runners who sign up as a couple will save $5 each.

Check-in, on-site registration and packet pick-up will all take place at the library at 9:30 a.m. Participant packets include a long sleeve shirt and other goodies.

Proceeds from the race will support Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which provides food and hygiene products to community members in need, no questions asked. Individuals are encouraged to bring $5 or a non-perishable item to donate to be entered to win a special door prize.

For more information visit kentwood.us .

Recently appointed Kent County Sheriff on WKTV Journal In Focus

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, WKTV Journal In Focus


By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, visiting our studio is Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young. Sheriff LaJoye-Young has a long history in law enforcement, specifically with the Kent County Sheriff’s Office where she most recently served as Undersheriff.

Sheriff LaJoye-Young talks about her years working within the Sheriffs Office, the broad scope of the duties and responsibilities of the office she leads, and what she thinks about being the first female to be the county’s top law enforcement official.

She was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Sheriff Larry Stelma, who retired in November and whose term goes through December 2020, at which time there will be an election for the badge.

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Pine Rest is chosen as one of five organizations to participate in National Institute on Aging Study

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,
Pine Rest is one of five ordinations to participate in at the National Institute on Aging Study

Colleen Cullison
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services

It is a 5-year study to investigate the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to treat severe agitation and aggression in people with Alzheimer’s disease. The study was made possible by a 5-year award which is expected to total $11.8 million from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) under award number R01AG06110001.

Researchers at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School Affiliate, will lead the study. Pine Rest will receive a $1.3 million sub-award for the study from McLean. The NIA, part of the National Institutes of Health, leads scientific efforts to study aging and Alzheimer’s disease.

The principal investigator is Brent P. Forester, M.D., M.Sc, and heads McLean’s Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry Research Program. McLean Hospital researchers will collaborate with investigators at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Emory University, Mayo Clinic, and Northwell Health. The Medical University of South Carolina will serve as the study’s data coordinating site.

The study will be the first randomized, double-blind, controlled study of ECT for agitation and aggression in Alzheimer’s dementia. It will compare how ECT treatment plus standard treatments, such as antipsychotic medications and behavioral therapies, compares with standard therapies alone for individuals with Alzheimer’s dementia with severe aggression and anxiety.

“It is wonderful to have this grant from the National Institute on Aging. We have been interested in the use of ECT for the treatment of advanced dementia for many years and have been offering this treatment to patients and families for a long time,” says Eric Achtyes, M.D., M.S., D.F.A.P.A., staff psychiatrist, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, and Michigan State University – College of Human Medicine, associate professor and chair, department of psychiatry west. “Several years ago, we conducted a pilot study of ECT in this patient population which showed promising results for reducing agitation associated with dementia. Now, thanks to this grant, we will be able to conduct a definitive study to assess the benefits and risks of using ECT for these individuals and the families who care for them.”

For the study, 200 patients will be enrolled across the five sites. The study will be open to older adults or individuals who have been admitted to the inpatient geriatric psychiatry units of any of the five participating sites and who have moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s disease, are experiencing agitation and aggression, and who have not been responsive to other forms of treatment. Enrollment is expected to begin in spring 2019.

Louis Nykamp, M.D., Pine Rest’s geriatric fellowship director and electroconvulsive therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation clinic director will be serving as the Pine Rest principal investigator for this study. Dr. Nykamp is a geriatric trained psychiatrist with expertise in the assessment and treatment of dementias, as well as the use of ECT and other neuromodulation techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation. He was involved in drafting the grant and will lead the team here at Pine Rest in the safe conduct of this critically important and impactful study.

“Agitation and even aggression are unfortunately common in the context of the brain changes which occur in the late stages of Alzheimer’s dementia,” says Dr. Nykamp. “Many people can think of a family member or friend to whom this has occurred. There are currently no approved treatments and the medications typically used for these complications of the illness can come with troublesome side effects and often they don’t work as well as we’d hope.

“Pilot studies of ECT for these symptoms have been promising, and it has been a part of our clinical practice at Pine Rest to offer this when symptoms have been severe and refractory. We are very fortunate to have this grant opportunity to collaborate with excellent partners to study the effectiveness of ECT for severe agitation in dementia.”

Preliminary work to prepare Pine Rest’s ECT Clinic to participate in the NIA grant was funded by a $20,000 grant from the Pine Rest Foundation. With this funding the capacity to accurately and consistently track data and measure outcomes using standardized assessment tools was improved. This process gave staff experience with administering the standardized diagnostic, efficacy and side effect scales that are used in research and incorporated these measures into the clinic work flow preparing our team to participate in transformational research projects such as this.

When the study begins this spring, the teams from the five hospitals will interact regularly with a data safety monitoring board composed of experts in geriatric psychiatry, biostatistics, and ECT who will review every piece of data as well as the overall conduct of the study to provide an independent objective review of safety. The researchers will also provide a yearly progress report to the NIA.