Category Archives: City of Kentwood

Ford Airport gets closer to 3 million passenger mark with October numbers

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, ,
A young passenger arrives from Phoenix-Sky Harbor at the Ford Airport. (Courtesy of the Ford Airport)

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) now sits less than 300,000 passengers away from setting another all-time annual record for passengers served. October 2018 saw 16-percent growth year-over-year, putting the Ford Airport at over 2.7 million passengers served in 2018 with two months left.

 

October marks the tenth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 63 of the last 70 months. October 2018 was the busiest October ever, and at this point in the year GFIA has surpassed its annual totals reached in every year except 2017.

 

October 2018 had 284,710 passengers come through the Ford Airport, up from 245,319 in 2017. GFIA is up 15.7-percent in annual passenger totals.

 

“We still have two months left in the year and these are big months for us with November and December holiday travel mixed in. We know we will hit our three million passenger mark and then some,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “We continue to work on adding more air service, working with our airline partners to serve the destinations West Michigan travelers want to visit. Our work isn’t done and we only expect more big things in 2019.”

 

Allegiant recently announced nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) which will begin in April 2019, and American Airlines kicks off new nonstop service to Miami (MIA) and Phoenix Sky- Harbor (PHX) beginning in December 2018. Frontier also started Phoenix (PHX) and Tampa (TPA) this month.

 

“We are proud to have airlines investing in the Ford Airport and recognizing the growth of our West Michigan community,” said GFIA Board Chairman Dan Koorndyk. “We are thrilled to be on the edge of three million passengers, and we’re looking forward to celebrating that milestone.”

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project began in November 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, curbside, and ‘front of house’ area. For more information on construction updates and upgrades, please visit: http://www.flyford.org/construction.php

 

GFIA monthly passenger statistics are available on our website: http://www.grr.org/

Kentwood’s holiday tree lighting, parade set; volunteers, parade entries needed

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events
At 6:30 p.m., Kentwood city officials accompanied by carolers will conduct the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.

 

City of Kentwood

 

The City of Kentwood invites the community to begin the holidays with its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Light Parade, slated for Friday, Dec. 7. Centered around the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, the free event will take place from 5 to 8 p.m.

 

The evening will be filled with festive activities, including a parade, live holiday music and carriage rides, as well as caroling and a tree lighting ceremony. Hot chocolate and cookies will be offered, and Santa, of course, will be there to take pictures with families.

 

“The holidays are special times every year that bring families and communities together,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “In Kentwood, we are working diligently to create memories for both the young and old by sponsoring a holiday evening in Kentwood. The tree lighting and parade along with other family activities that night are becoming a tradition in Kentwood that we hope our friends and neighbors will enjoy.”

 

The Holiday Light Parade will start at 6 p.m., at the Kentwood Public Works, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, and travel north to the Kentwood Justice Center at 4740 Walma Ave. SE. Roads will be closed from 5:50 p.m. to 6:25 p.m. for the parade, which will affect both Breton Avenue and Walma Avenue.

 

At 6:30 p.m., city officials accompanied by carolers will conduct the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.

 

Following the tree lighting, community members will have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa, go on carriage rides and enjoy a musical performance by the East Kentwood High School Jazz Band. The Elves Express Gift Shop will be open at the library for the duration of the event, offering a variety of gift items and gift-wrapping services.

 

As with any large community event, the city relies on volunteers to ensure a smooth-moving event. Individuals interested in helping with the evening festivities may sign up online. The cost to participate is $15.

 

There are also openings for the parade. Groups interested in participating can submit a parade entry form online, The cost to participate is $15.

 

More information about Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Light Parade, as well as other community events, is available on the City’s website at www.kentwood.us.

 

WKTV reviews fall high school sports highlights, plans winter schedule

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, WKTV Featured sports
WKTV’s coverage of girls high school basketball begins in December. (WKTV)

 

Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director

sports@wktv.org 

 

As the always busy holiday months are upon us starting with November, the high school sports world does just the opposite as the last of the fall seasons crown their newest state champions and the winter seasons slowly begin with boys hockey and basketball at the end of the month.

 

The schools that WKTV covers certainly had some highlights during the fall competition and here are just some of them.

 

The girls golf season held their state championships near the end of October in some tough cold and wet conditions, and for an amazing 23rd consecutive time, the South Christian High School girls team was there to compete for that title. At the end of the two-day tournament, the Sailor ladies finished behind only Flint Powers Catholic to earn the runner-up trophy for the second consecutive season.

 

The soccer state championship was held the first weekend in November and had the East Kentwood Falcons in the championship game where they too finished as runner-up to Ann Arbor Skyline.

 

The football season had four of our six area teams qualify for the playoffs.  South Christian finished the season with a 6-5 record and in fourth place in the O-K Gold after defeating another of our local teams, Godwin Heights, in the opening round but dropped the second-round game to Hudsonville’s Unity Christian.

 

East Kentwood had a great season as they won nine straight games after losing their season opener to win the O-K Red title and finish 9-2 on the year. The Falcons defeated Brighton in the opening round of the playoffs before coming up short against Saline in round two.

 

Godwin Heights completed their year at 6-4 and in second place in the O-K Silver and lost in the opening round to South Christian. Kelloggsville finished in fourth place in the O-K Silver with a 4-5 record, Wyoming finished the season 2-7 and 1-5 in the OK Gold, and Wyoming Lee finished with a 1-8 record on the year.

 

The 8-man division had the Tri-Unity Christian Crusaders cruise through the regular season undefeated and ranked in the top 5 in the state as they won the Midwest Central 8 Man conference championship. The Crusaders defeated Webberville in their playoff opener before dropping the second-round game to No. 2 ranked Morrice to finish the year at 10-1.

 

Congratulations to all teams and athletes!

 

The WKTV Featured Game winter broadcast schedule is being finalized but there will once again be boys and girls basketball coverage showcasing all of the local teams, boys hockey, and swimming and diving competitions so be watching for the schedule, but in the meantime, get out and enjoy some of your local schools games in person.

 

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 features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.

 

Following is this week’s schedule:

 

Thursday, Nov. 22

Happy Thanksgiving – Watch the WKTV Turkey Bowl

 

Friday, Nov. 23

Boys Hockey

@ East Kentwood – Thanksgiving Falcon Classic

 

Saturday, Nov. 24

Boys Hockey

@ East Kentwood – Thanksgiving Falcon Classic

 

Monday, Nov. 26

No events scheduled

 

Kentwood police help retailers prevent holiday thefts with Operation P.R.I.C.E. 

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Crime Prevention, Holidays, Local Business, Woodland Mall, ,
Operation P.R.I.C.E. was launched in 2014 by the Kentwood Police Department in an effort to curb retail theft along the 28th Street corridor.

By City of Kentwood 

 

In preparation of the holiday shopping season, when incidents of shoplifting and retail fraud often spikes, the Kentwood Police Department is again partnering with local store owners to prevent retail theft with Operation P.R.I.C.E., an educational program that has helped area retailers reduce crime during the holidays since 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.

 

According to the National Retail Federation’s 2018 National Retail Security Survey, shoplifting was the top source of inventory shrinkage for the fourth year in a row, outpacing employee theft.

 

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.

 

Kentwood Police Chief Tom Hillen says the key to the program’s success is the focus on collaborating with business owners and employees.

 

Kentwood Chief Thomas Hillen. (Supplied)

“At the end of the day, we are working toward the same goal: reducing crime in our community,” Hillen said. “By proactively engaging with business owners and employees, and having open communication early on, we are able to equip them with knowledge and skills needed to help prevent crime. Being able to increase police presence at their shops also helps discourage theft.”

 

This year, Operation P.R.I.C.E. will run from Nov. 24 through Jan. 4. During this time, participating retailers will have posters and signs displayed declaring their partnership with the Kentwood Police Department. Shoppers will also see police officers in and around the community’s prime retail destinations, such as Woodland Mall.

 

Woodland Mall in Kentwood.

“Operation P.R.I.C.E. has been well-received by retailers and shoppers at Woodland Mall,” said Tony DeLuccia, Woodland Mall general manager. “Beyond the increased police presence in and around the mall, store owners have appreciated the education police provide on how to spot potential shoplifters to keep theft down during the busy holiday season.

 

“We’ve found the proactive approach of the program combined with the mutual respect between officers and retailers to be empowering for employees. The personal connections made with officers help employees feel more comfortable calling for assistance when they notice suspicious activity.”

 

Operation P.R.I.C.E. was launched in 2014 by the Kentwood Police Department in an effort to curb retail theft along the 28th Street corridor.

 

The program has since grown beyond 28th Street in recent years, extending to 29th Street and doubling in participating businesses to more than 70 the past two years. Initially, calls for police services increased, resulting in more retail fraud arrests as store owners and employees used police as a resource. More recently, police have seen retail theft during the holidays on a downward trend.

 

“The apparent decline in retail theft during the holiday season is a result of proactive policing activities from the P.R.I.C.E. task force,” Hillen said. “Retailers are becoming familiar with how to file a police report, how to spot theft and what legal actions they can take. These education efforts along with the visibility of retailers’ partnerships with us are helping deter potential offenders.”

 

WKTV’s 18th Annual Turkey Bowl cable channel fest returns Thanksgiving Day

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Holidays, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, WKTV Featured sports
WKTV’s sports coverage team was at the NorthPointe Christian at Wyoming Lee football game. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

WKTV’s sports coverage crew was busy this fall, as our high school football Featured Game crew covered every local team in the first six weeks of the season and then was at the biggest local games as the season ended.

 

As every year, high school football fans can get their Turkey Day football fix this year as we broadcast several of those big games on our cable Channel 25.

 

The 15-hour special starts at 9 a.m., highlights the best of our high school football games from the season. The schedule and approof games (with link to the games on WKTV’s On-Demand video internet channel) is as follows:

 

9 a.m. — Hamilton @ Godwin Heights. On-Demand

 

11:25 a.m. — Ashley @ Tri-unity Christian. On-Demand

 

1:22 p.m. — NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee. On-Demand

 

3:25 p.m. — Wyoming @ South Christian. On-Demand

 

5:35 p.m. — Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville. On-Demand

 

8 p.m. — Rockford @ East Kentwood. On-Demand

 

10:25 p.m. — MHSAA Playoff: Godwin @ South Christian. On-Demand

 

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 cChannel, 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 give the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26).

 

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

 

WKTV takes a look at Kentwood’s Police Volunteer, and why you should join

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Crime Prevention, Going Local, Local Faces, Newscast, Volunteers,

 

By Zac Sgro

ken@wktv.org 

 

In a recent interview with Kentwood City Police Department Deputy Chief Richard Roberts, and local resident Pam Schichtel, WKTV Journal found out more about the department’s volunteer program as part of our November WKTV Journal newscast.

 

As a way to give back to the community they love so much, Kentwood residents volunteer thousands of hours annually to the program in order to keep the city safe. Schichtel tells us why she volunteers.

 

Deputy Chief Roberts and the rest of his department are grateful for the assistance given to them by these citizens and hope to see more involvement in the program in order to better serve the community with excellence. He tells us what the volunteers do and how people can join the team.

 

WKTV Journal 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). All interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos. For more information regarding the police volunteer program please click here.

 

Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming weekend happenings you need to know about

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Food, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Food, Upcoming Events

By WKTV Staff
victoria@wktv.org

 

Quote of the day

"People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing."
                                                 ~ Dale Carnegie

Don’t forget your roots

 

Searching for the perfect Christmas tree? You might want to check out Downtown Market’s Christmas Tree & Decor Lot, beginning Saturday, Nov. 17th. The market also has lots of other treasures and events coming up. Go here for more info.

 

Must open before Christmas

 

Bring the kids! The Grand Rapids Symphony Pops has quite the lineup this holiday season, from  thrilling acrobatics, classic films and timeless music, to the the sublime sounds of the holidays, sure to make spirits bright. Go here for info.

 

It’s OK to wax nostalgic

 

This holiday season, you’re in for an extra-special treat! From Saturday, Nov. 17 through Jan. 18, the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will have a community favorite on display — the Herpolsheimer’s Child Passenger Train. While you’re there, enjoy the Museum’s holiday decorations. Go here for more info.

 

Fun fact:

It was a simpler time.

Between 1887-1933 a fishing schooner called the "Christmas Ship" would tie up at the Clark Street bridge and sell spruce trees from Michigan to Chicagoans. 

County commission election, voting changes discussed at Chamber’s WKTV Government Matters meeting

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Election, Politics, WKTV Projects, ,
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

 

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

The election aftermath — from the passage of recreational marijuana, to more voting day volunteers needed, to the partisan politics on the Kent County Board Of Commissioners — were some of the discussion items of a wide-ranging inter-governmental leaders meeting Monday, Nov. 11, at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Kentwood City Hall.

 

Newly re-elected county commissioner Harold Voorhees, who represents the City of Wyoming as District 8 commissioner, pointed out with the election results the partisan split on the commission went from 13 Republicans and six Democrats to now a 11-8 split.

 

“It does have its influence, that’s why we go through the election process,” Voorhees said to WKTV. “But on the board it has been very congenial, working together. We are hopeful it will stay that way.”

 

Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley also made a call for citizens to work with the city as election-day volunteers. The mayor pointed out that the high number of absentee battles — expected to be even higher in two years due to a voter approved ballot measure which allows same-day registration and no-reason absentee ballot requests — as well as other reasons, will create the need for more volunteers in the city. For more information contact the City of Kentwood city clerk’s office.

 

The meeting is rebroadcast on WKTV’s channels and on-demand website (wktvondemand.com). This month’s meeting is available here.

 

The Government Matters meeting brings together representatives from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, Kent County commissioners, local Michigan state senators and representatives, as well as often representatives of Michigan’s U.S. senators and U.S. congressman who represent the Wyoming and Kentwood area.

 

The next meeting will be Dec. 10 will be at the Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Road SE, from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.

 

The intergovernmental discussion hosted by the chamber focuses on issues that effect residents and businesses in the two cities.

 

For more information about the chamber and Government Matters visit southkent.org .

https://www.southkent.org/government-matters/

 

The meetings are on the second Monday of each month, starting at 8 a.m. WKTV Journal will produce a highlight story after the meeting. But WKTV also offers replays of the Monday meetings on the following Wednesday at 7 p.m. on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26.

 

Gerald R. Ford International Airport Preps for Thanksgiving with ‘Operation Handshake’

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

A welcome home for West Michigan troops and other festivities are on tap for the Thanksgiving holiday, and one of the busiest days of the year at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).

 

On Wednesday, Nov. 21, airport volunteers including therapy dog teams, and the Patriot Guard Riders will participate in “Operation Handshake,” an event to welcome home returning military members and veterans, and to thank them for their service.

 

Volunteers will staff both airport concourses from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

 

“We are so appreciative of our military members’ service to our country and we know that not everyone can make it home during the holidays because they are making other sacrifices. For those returning to West Michigan we want to make it extra special and let them know we are thankful for their service,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “The Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan do a tremendous job taking time out of their holiday week to welcome home our military, and we appreciate their loyalty to serving our community through events like Operation Handshake.”

 

The event is free and open to the public. The media is also encouraged to put a call out to the community, asking family members to notify the Patriot Guard Riders of returning military members’ arrival times and flight information. Information can be sent to Tony VanGessel at 616-862-1984 or tvange58@yahoo.com.

 

For more information on the Patriot Guard Riders, visit http://www.patriotguardmi.org

 

“This is what Thanksgiving is really all about,” said VanGessel, Captain of the Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan. “What we see each year is an inspiration. We get a thank you from the military members, but it’s also heartwarming for the general traveling public around us to see what transpires.”

 

page2image11160

 

The Airport is currently under construction on its Gateway Transformation Project, and along with the busy holiday traffic, lines could be longer than normal. The Airport encourages passengers to arrive at least 90-120 minutes before their flight.

 

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expecting a record breaking number of flyers this upcoming Thanksgiving holiday travel period with more than 25 million passengers traveling through security screening checkpoints around the U.S. from Nov. 16 through Nov. 26 – an increase of five-percent from 2017.

 

“As Thanksgiving and the holiday travel seasons arrive, ensuring the safety and security of the millions of passengers traveling daily remains TSA’s top priority,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “We marked several records over the spring and summer travel periods this year, screening more than 525 million passengers and crew. This upcoming season will be very busy as more passengers choose to fly, and TSA officers will be on duty over the holidays so travelers can enjoy theirs.”

 

TSA also encourages passengers to stay up-to-date on the latest travel notices and information about what you can or cannot bring on your flight by visiting: www.tsa.gov. Additionally, travelers should keep these top three tips in mind:

  1. Pack smart. Prepare for security when packing and ensure that there are no prohibited items in baggage. As always, passengers can bring pies, cakes and other baked goods through the checkpoints; however, liquids such as eggnog and maple syrup, and gels such as preserves and jellies, should go into checked bags. Liquids in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Download the MyTSA app or use the “What can I bring?” tool on tsa.gov. This allows you to type in an item to find out if you can bring it in your carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither.
  1. Renew your TSA PreCheck membership. Individuals who obtained TSA PreCheck five years ago are now able to renew their TSA PreCheck membership online. Individuals who do not have TSA PreCheck should enroll now to get TSA PreCheck benefits, available at more than 200 U.S. airports, in time for their holiday travel. Travelers enrolled in a trusted traveler program, like TSA PreCheck, do not need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets. To find the trusted traveler program that best suits your travel needs, use the DHS trusted traveler comparison tool.
  2. Ask for passenger support. Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities and/or medical conditions may call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours prior to flying with any questions about screening policies, procedures and to find out what to expect at the security checkpoint. TSA Cares also arranges assistance at the checkpoint.

 

Wyoming leader recently named president of Rotary Club of Grand Rapids

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,
Chelsea Dubey was recently named the new president of the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

“I’m a Michigan State graduate, so when I took this job I knew there would be a lot of wearing of blue and gold,” said Strategic Relations Manager Chelsea Dubey as she walked through the halls of the Metro Health – University of Michigan Health Professional Building.

 

Blue and gold are not only the colors of Dubey’s place of employment but of the civic organization that she is very passionate about and recently was named president of — the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids. 

 

“I guess you can say I am a Rotary junkie,” said Dubey, who is the youngest female to take the helm of the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids, which has been a part of the city for 105 years.

 

Yes, we said Rotary Club

 

“I think people have an image of what Rotary is,” Dubey said. “They think of a group of older, white men and it is very diverse, with members ranging from ages 21 to 92.”

 

And the professions represented are quite varied as well from small business owners to executives of large corporations with many being like Dubey, mid-level leaders representing their particular company or organization, she said. 

 

“There are people early in their careers, those who have advanced, and those who are retiring or entering a different phase of their career,” Dubey said, adding that one of the reasons she has enjoyed being a part of Rotary is because of the diversity of professions, ages and career levels. 

 

Chelsea Dubey is the Strategic Relations Manager for Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Original from Michigan’s thumb area, Dubey and her husband were living and working in Memphis, Tenn., but always knew they wanted to return to Michigan, she said.

 

“We had heard a lot of great things about West Michigan and basically looked exclusive here to make it our home,” she said.

 

Six years ago, the couple moved back, settling into the Ada area. While she knew of Rotary due to her father-in-law’s involvement, it was not until Dubey started working for WGVU that she became a member.

 

“Basically my predecessor Phil Catlett (who is the current president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Western Michigan) had been a Rotarian,” Dubey said. “My boss said, ‘You have to be a Rotarian.’”

 

It made sense to Dubey since her job at WGVU was about philanthropy and making connections within the community. So Dubey joined the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids and quickly discovered how much she loved being a part of it.

 

“Rotary gives me so much joy,” Dubey said. “No matter what my mood is, those Thursday meetings just really make my day.”

 

Like many civic organizations, the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids has seen a decrease in membership over the years. At its peek in the 1990s, according to Dubey, the club had around 400 members. Today that number is around 220. Dubey said there are a number of reasons for the decline, one being that there are just so many more opportunities for professionals.

 

“There are organizations more tailored to your profession,” She said. “For example, if you are in fundraising, there is a fundraising professionals group along with the other possible civic organizations like Rotary,” Dubey said. The Rotary Club of Grand Rapids has partnered with many young professional groups to make those members aware that once they age out that Rotary is an option, she said.

 

People of action, not accolades

 

Another reason for the decline, is that Rotary Clubs and Rotarians do not “toot their own horn” so to speak.

 

“People are not really aware of what Rotary has done because we tend to want to do something but are not interested in being acknowledged for what we have done,” Dubey said, adding that Rotarians have been involved in much of the development of Grand Rapids, from its parks to its buildings and many area businesses, with the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids having included such members as Fred Meijer and Gerald R. Ford.

 

Following the lead of Rotary International, the Grand Rapids club has focused on the eradication of polio and clean water supplies with Rotarians traveling to countries to help install club-purchased water filtration systems.

 

Dubey said the group is also at the beginning of doing an iconic project for the city of Grand Rapids. What it will be, Dubey said she is not certain yet, but it will be a pretty significant investment into the city.

 

For now, Dubey is looking at her one-year term, focused on strengthening a couple of the clubs’ committees and inspiring members to volunteer locally and contribute to both the local and Rotary International foundations. 

 

“I believe the reason why the Rotary has been around so long and that people have been able to be in it for 40 years or so is because it ebbs and follows according to your career,” Dubey said. “You can be as involved as you want or you can step back and just come to the luncheons. It’s what you want to do.

 

“Rotary has done a lot for me. I have grown as a leader from running a board meeting to presenting to about 100 people a week. It is the best professional development I could every have had.”

 

To learn more about Rotary Club of Grand Rapids, visit grrotary.org.

 

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

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

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

 

Quote of the Day

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
  
                                                  ― Oscar Wilde

One hot, little number

 

We don’t know from whence these lists come, but apparently 4 9 5 0 8 is being hailed by Realtor.com as the hottest zip code in the entire US of A. And, it just so happens to be Kentwood’s zip code. Read all about it here.

 

Gobble, gobble

 

Mel Trotter Ministries is asking the community to donate frozen turkeys for its 15th annual ‘Turkey Drop’ project — their goal is to collect 1,500 gobblers to distribute to neighbors in need throughout West Michigan during the holiday season. They’re accepting donations Nov. 14th. Go here for more info.

 

Here’s to your health

 

Open enrollment for Healthcare.gov marketplace insurance plans ends Dec. 15th, so be sure to act now. There are some changes for 2019, and you know how time does fly when there’s a ridiculously short deadline. Go here for more info.

 

Fun Fact:

There is a technical name
for the “fear of long words”

It’s called “hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia.”

Kentwood Mayor Kepley, city’s ‘hot’ zip code, on WKTV Journal In Focus

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kentwood Public Schools, Recreation, WKTV Journal In Focus,

 

K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley — a staunch, vocal advocate for the livability of his city and the interests of its residents — was recently, given another point of pride about the city.

 

Kentwood’s 4 9 5 0 8 zip code was recently named the Hottest Zip Code in the nation by Realtor.com, beating out hot-spot cities such as Colorado Springs and Kansas City suburb Overland Park, Kansas.

 

In Focus, Mayor Kepley talks why he is not surprised by the national notice and other special items of note that are happening in the city.

 

“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). But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

 

Carbon Monoxide safety and awareness important year-around

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health

 

By Consumers Energy

 

With fall’s colder temperatures across Michigan signaling the start of the deadliest season for carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings, Gov. Rick Snyder and Michigan’s two largest energy providers last week urged residents to protect themselves against toxic gas known as the “silent killer” because it is colorless, odorless and tasteless.

 

“Carbon monoxide can be deadly and is the leading cause of unintentional poisoning in the United States and we applaud Gov. Snyder for declaring Nov. 5 – 11 Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Week in Michigan,” said Charles Crews, vice president of gas operations for Consumers Energy.

 

“At Consumers Energy safety is our top priority. We are committed to helping families stay safe by sharing information to prevent this life-threatening hazard that can occur almost anywhere – including homes, businesses, RVs, hunting blinds and when using portable generators,” Crews said.

 

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, provides natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

 

CO poisoning occurs when appliances and consumer products are improperly operated or vented and fuel does not burn properly – including oil, propane, natural gas, wood, charcoal, gasoline, kerosene and diesel. December, January and February are when the most carbon monoxide poisonings occur because furnaces are operating and buildings are more airtight.

 

“DTE urges families to protect themselves against CO poisoning by installing an Underwriters Laboratory (UL)-approved audible carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Businesses should install carbon monoxide alarms in main areas to protect their employees and customers,” said Dan Brudzynski, vice president of Gas Sales & Supply for DTE Gas.  “We also recommend interconnecting all CO alarms, so that when one alarm goes off, they all will sound.”

 

Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often flu-like and can include headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath and stinging or burning of the eyes. Prolonged exposure can cause loss of consciousness and even death.

 

Anyone experiencing these symptoms and suspects carbon monoxide poisoning should leave the affected home or building immediately, call 9-1-1 for medical attention and stay out of the building until the problem has been corrected. Other important tips to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning include:

 

Inspect furnaces annually, and have regular tune-ups performed by a qualified service professional.

 

Change or clean furnace air filters at least once a month (more if pets are present) during the heating season.

 

Inspect chimneys and vent pipes regularly to be sure they are free of obstructions like leaves and animal/bird nests.

 

Keep generators at least 25 feet away from enclosed areas and away from doors, windows and fresh air intakes. Never use a generator in a basement, enclosed garage or covered porch.

 

Vehicles, power lawn equipment and snow blowers should only be operated where there is adequate ventilation, never in enclosed spaces.

 

Never use gas stoves or charcoal grills for heating a room. Never leave a supplemental heater or fireplace unattended.

 

To learn more about carbon monoxide visit ConsumersEnergy.com/cosafety

 

Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming weekend news you need to know

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Business, Recreation, Upcoming Events, Veterans

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

On Veteran's Day: "It’s about how we treat our veterans every single day of the year.  ... It’s about serving all of you as well as you’ve served the United States of America.”."
                                           - President Barack Obama

 

Wyoming to host Vets Day breakfast

Veterans lay a wreath during Wyoming’s 2017 Memorial Day ceremony.

This year, the City of Wyoming has decided to switch things up when it comes to its annual Veterans Day program, replacing its outdoor evening ceremony for a morning breakfast event. Set for Nov. 12 at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW, the breakfast is free for veterans, $5 for non-veterans. For the complete story, click here.

 

Santa and more headed to Mall

There will be plenty of photo ops with Santa for kids at Woodland Mall this holiday season.
As the holiday season nears, Woodland Mall is preparing for Santa’s arrival, setting up decorations and hosting a series of events to help shoppers spread holiday cheer this winter. And all the fun starts this weekend. For the complete story, click here.

 

A weekend of holiday cheer near

Scenes from the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, returning Nov. 15-17 to downtown Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
It doesn’t matter if your a chardonnay sipper or a porter pounder, there will probably be something to your taste at the 11th Annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, returning Nov. 15-17 to DeVos Place downtown, with food, beverage and culinary-themed entertainment presented by area chefs, restaurants and purveyors of the spectrum of libations — including of the caffeinated variety. For the complete story, click here.

 

Fun Fact:

2,252 brewpubs

At the end of 2017, there were more than 6,266 craft breweries subdivided into 2,252 brewpubs, 3,812 microbreweries and 202 regional craft breweries. (Source)

School News Network: Local companies find solutions in high school seniors while they explore careers

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming,
Alvin Hughes, a 2017 graduate, gained work experience in the die shop during his senior year and now works part time in the CAD department at Mark-Maker while attending Davenport University.

 

By Bridie Bereza

School News Network

 

Alvin Hughes sat at his desk at Wyoming-based Mark-Maker Co. Inc., and explained how he uses computer-aided design to ensure that dimensions are correct before die preparation begins on a customer’s product.

 

“I didn’t know any of this before I came in here,” said Hughes, a 2017 graduate of Kelloggsville High School.

 

It was on-the-job training for Hughes, who was among the first KHS students to participate in a program that lets seniors forgo their three elective courses to earn credit – and an hourly wage – at work.

 

Kelloggsville’s work-based learning program began with four students, one employer, and John Linker – then a high school science teacher – who coordinated the program during his lunch breaks and planning periods. Now, just two years later, it has 20 students and  seven employers. Linker is still there, but is no longer volunteering his breaks: the district hired him as the full-time work experience coordinator.

 

Kamrin Zube, a senior at Kelloggsville, spends mornings in the classroom and afternoons in the die shop at Mark-Maker Co. Inc.

A well-timed call

 

The idea to start this work co-op style program began with a conversation between Linker and two colleagues.

 

“We said, ‘We’ve got all these companies in the area – why don’t we partner with them?’” Linker said. “As fate would have it, two or three days later Mark-Maker called us up and said, ‘We have an older workforce… What are the chances of us partnering up?’”

 

And that’s what the school has done, adding new employers and more students each year. The work-based learning program requires participants be on track to graduate. Furthermore, employers who want to hire a student agree to do so only after the student receives a high school diploma.

 

While the goal is to get students who want to work hired, “It’s definitely not a given” that they will get a job offer, Linker said.

 

Initially, he thought it might be geared toward students who were not college-bound, but he’s since discovered it’s for anybody. Some of the employers retain students after graduation and offer tuition reimbursement. This is the case with Hughes, who receives tuition-reimbursement from Mark-Maker for his courses at Davenport University.

 

Mark Fellows (Kelloggsville High School class of 1981) pitched the idea to Mark-Maker, his employer of 35 years, to recruit talent from his alma mater

The real world

 

This year, 37 of the 150 seniors in the class of 2019 expressed interest in the work-based learning program. The placement process is methodical as Linker assesses student interests, arranges tours of participating companies, and matches students and employers for interviews. Twenty students found a match this fall, and more hope to be matched next semester.

 

All positions are paid, Linker said, at $11 to $13 hourly.

 

“I’ve yet to have a student that doesn’t enjoy it. The chance to get into the workforce and be paid to do something and learn a skill…? It’s a huge plus,” he said.

 

Linker said that as students learn the job, they often realize the answer to an age-old question asked in classrooms: “How is this going to help me in the real world?” They begin to see how geometry and mathematics skills can be applied on the job. The students have embraced the work opportunity, he said.

 

“I really like it. It’s fun coming in here every single day. I could definitely turn this into a career,” said Kamrin Zube, a KHS senior working in the die shop at Mark-Maker.

 

Austin Schmidt, a 2018 graduate of Kelloggsville, found permanent employment at Mark-Maker after being placed with the company as a senior

A nice long courtship

 

Employers give the work-based learning program high marks, too.

 

Mark-Maker consultant Tom Stanfield made the well-timed call that started the partnership at the suggestion of diemaker Mark Fellows, a 1981 KHS graduate and 35-year employee of the company.

 

“Hiring somebody in the normal fashion is almost like getting married on a blind date,” Stanfield said. “You spend two or three hours together and say, ‘Hey, come spend the rest of your life with me.’ It’s kind of stupid. With an internship or in this case, a co-op, you get a whole semester or maybe two, and they know if they like us and we know if they’ve got the right skill sets — it’s such a better way to hire.”

 

Mark-Maker’s entry-level turnover rate has gone from 80 percent to zero since the partnership began, Stanfield said. They no longer need to recruit, as they have found plenty of talent through the program. Having students in the building has also been great for morale, he said.

 

“You get all that youth and all that energy. Yeah, they have to learn some things — you’ve got to come to work on time, you don’t text in the middle of the day — but the kids are learning constantly and I love the way they energize the older employees.”

 

Kelloggsville’s Work Experience Coordinator John Linker with Tom Stanfield of Mark-Maker

More growth in sight

 

Linker believes we’ll see more of these sorts of programs in the near future, thanks to Michigan’s Marshall Plan for Talent, signed into law in June. The plan devotes $100 million to career-oriented school programs and training students for high-demand jobs in fields like manufacturing, trades, IT, and healthcare, including $59 million in innovation grants. Linker said Kelloggsville is part of a talent consortium that is applying for some of those funds.

 

He anticipated placing  30-40 students in the program next semester. While the focus so far has been manufacturing and skilled trades, he hopes to make inroads in technology and health services.

 

“I see it taking off and doing really well.”

 

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Woodland Mall’s holiday season begins with Santa, pups and lots of fun

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, Woodland Mall
Woodland Mall in Kentwood.

By Woodland Mall

 

As the holiday season nears, Woodland Mall is preparing for Santa’s arrival, setting up decorations and hosting a series of events to help shoppers spread holiday cheer this winter.

 

SantaFest, storytime at Barnes & Noble, a menorah display and family pet photos are just some of what is in store for the holidays at Woodland Mall, as well as an exclusive PREIT Perks Member Weekend and, of course, special shopping deals on Black Friday.

 

“It’s exciting seeing Woodland Mall transform for the holiday season,” said Cecily McCabe, Woodland Mall marketing director. “As our decorations are put up and all the festivities come to fruition, it’s easy to feel the holiday spirit.”

 

Guests will have the opportunity explore Woodland Mall’s Arctic Forest again this year, home to the man in red himself. The forest will be surrounded by decorated trees stretching up to 22 feet, snow-covered islands and icicle archways, as well as Ursa, an enormous 12-foot polar bear.

 

Santa photos for you and your pet

 

Seated in the heart of the Arctic Forest will be Santa, ready to take photos with shoppers of all ages from Nov. 10 through Dec. 24 during regular mall hours. Families are welcome bring their “fur babies” with them for photos with Santa on Mondays from Nov. 12 through Dec. 17.

 

Pet photos with Santa will be offered every Monday until Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. All pets are welcome, as long as they are kept on a leash at all times. Families with pets should use the east and west entrances closest to Macy’s.

 

“Seven out of every 10 American households have pets who are integral members of the family,” said McCabe. “We recognize their importance and are setting aside a special time to encourage families to bring their dog, cat or other animal to be part of a photo with Santa.

 

“This is just another way we are helping the community create fun holiday memories at Woodland Mall.”

 

With every pet photo purchase, families will receive a pet handkerchief for their furry friends while supplies last.

 

Santa will be on-site during regular mall hours for family photos without pets through Christmas Eve.

 

SantaFest, Jewish holiday, and much more

 

SantaFest, a celebration of everything wonderful about the holiday season, will kick off at the mall at 10 a.m. on Nov. 17. The event will feature live music, games, crafts and holiday gift giveaways through 1 p.m. While the event is free to attend, pre-registration beginning Nov. 8 at shopwoodlandmall.com is recommended.

 

Woodland Mall is once again partnering with Chabad House of Western Michigan to display a 6-foot tall menorah for Hanukkah from Dec. 2 until Dec. 10. A Hanukkah story will be read during Barnes & Noble’s storytime event at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 6.

 

“It means a lot to have our Jewish faith represented in the mall,” said Rivka Weingarten, program director of Chabad House of Western Michigan. “It’s always very touching for us to have a menorah displayed publicly, and to be able to take pride in our Jewish community here.”

 

Woodland Mall is also partnering with Artists Creating Together, an organization that brings the arts and art projects to children, youth and adults with disabilities, to present a holiday concert at the mall from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 3.

 

“Our concert at Woodland Mall is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our students’ skills and the joy they get out of participating in our programming,” said Krista Prischner, ACT program coordinator. “It is really exciting for our students to perform in a public space, and especially at the mall during the busy holiday season.”

 

Musicians from the organization’s drum and choir groups will perform a few holiday songs, some of which will include an opportunity for audience participation. The performance is free and open to the public to enjoy.

 

“This is truly a magical time of year for all the retailers at the mall,” said McCabe. “We’re delighted to be working with organizations such as ACT and the Chabad House to offer a variety of holiday activities for all our shoppers to enjoy.”

 

The mall will be open on Thanksgiving evening from 6 p.m. to midnight and on Black Friday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Woodland Mall will have special holiday hours to ensure that guests are able to get all their shopping completed before the holiday. The Woodland Mall website has a full list of updated hours.

 

Several seasonal stores offering gift items for the holidays are open now at Woodland Mall. For custom ornaments, shoppers can visit Christmas Treasures in the Von Maur Wing. For toys and handmade goods from Michigan-owned businesses, there’s Roeda Studio and The Glove in the Macy’s Wing, and Toysaro in Center Court.

 

We the People: Election Results

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Election, Politics, ,

By WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Kentwood City Clerk Dan Kasunic was spot on with his prediction of 50 percent voter turnout for the Nov. 6 general election.

 

All across the state, there was record turnout at the polls with the state indicating that the numbers could break previous records set in the early 1980s. The City of Kentwood had a 57.2 percent voter turnout with 20,509 of the 35,865 registered voters casting their vote in the mid-term elections. The City of Wyoming has a 53.5 percent turnout with 26,961 of its registered 50,378 voters coming to the polls.

 

The Democrats swept away the state’s top three spots, Governor, state Attorney General, and Secretary of State. Both incumbent Bill Huizenga (R), for the 2nd District of the U.S. House of Representatives, and incumbent Justin Amash (R), for the 3rd District of the U.S. House of Representatives, were able to retain their seats by narrow margins. For complete statewide results, click here.

 

Here is the outcome of the local races:

 

Incumbent Sheldon DeKryger when he took the oath of office earlier this year. DeKryger retained his seat for another four years.

City of Wyoming

The only contested race for the City of Wyoming was the 1st Ward seat with incumbent Sheldon DeKryger and challenger Pete Ricketson both vying for the seat. The race was fairly close with DeKryger only having a 300-vote lead for most of the night. A 2 a.m., DeKryger said he got a text stating he had retained his seat with almost a 500-vote lead over Ricketson. The vote count was 3,220 to 2,709.

 

“I’m really excited that the residents spoke out in my favor,” DeKryger said in a Wednesday morning phone interview. “I am looking forward to representing the people and being their voice on the city council.”

 

DeKryger, who was appointed to the seat earlier this year after longtime Councilor Bill Ver Hurst stepped down due to health concerns, said he enjoyed getting out and talking to residents, discussing all that is happening within the city.

 

“It is a exciting time for the City of Wyoming,” DeKryger said. “There is a lot of great things going on in our city.”

 

The rest of the candidates, Mayor Jack Poll, and Councilors-at-large Kent Vanderwood and Sam Bolt, ran unopposed.

 

Democrat Monica Sparks will take over the 12th District seat from Harold Mast who did not seek re-election.

Kent County Board of Commission

 

With the announcement that incumbent Harold Mast would not seek re-election, there were a lot of people who threw their hat into the ring for the District 12 seat, which covers a portion of the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming. Early in the evening, with only 15 percent of the county election results having been reported, Democrat Monica Sparks was leading by more than 1,100 votes over Republican candidate Jill Martinez. Sparks hung on to that lead the rest of the night beating out Martinez 5,393 to 4,171.

 

“It feels amazing,” Sparks said last night as she celebrated with supporters. “What pulled me through was my faith, my family and my friends.

 

“I just felt it was the right thing for me to do. It is a right time and for the right reasons. It is just meant to be.”

 

In the rest of the Kent County Commission races, the incumbents defeated any challengers. According to the Kent County election results:

 

District 7
Incumbent Stan Ponstein (R) 6,439
Challenger Mike Johnson (D) 5,072

 

District 8
Incumbent Harold Voorhees (R) 9,199

 

District 9
Incumbent Matt Kallman (R) 9,725
Challenger Bob Smith (D) 5,037

 

District 10
Incumbent Emily Brieve (R) 10,801

 

District 12
Challenger Monica Sparks (D) 5,393
Challenger Jill Martinez (R) 4,171
Challenger Charolette Aikens (Green) 312

 

District 13
Incumbent Betsy Melton (D) 7,504
Challenger Jessica Ann Tyson (R) 5,817

 

Republican Aric Nesbitt is the new 26th District State Senator.

State Senate

A Republican incumbent and a Republican with a history of state government service will be representing Wyoming and Kentwood in Lansing next year. In the 26th District of the State Senate, which includes the City of Kentwood along with all of Allegan and Van Buren counties, Republican Aric, who has been a state representative and served in Gov. Rick Snyder’s cabinet, will replace term-limited Republican Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker. In the 8th District of the State Senate, which includes the City of Wyoming as well as the cities of Walker, Rockford and Cedar Springs, Republican incumbent Peter MacGregor finished with a strong lead over his challengers.

The results are:

 

26th District

Challenger Aric Nesbitt (R) 61,509

Challenger Garrett Lewis (D) 43,293

Erwin Haas (L) 2,374

Robert M. Alway (Green) 1,153

 

28th District
Incumbent Peter MacGregor (R) 68,744
Challenger Craig Beach (R) 45,937
Challenger Nathan Hewer (L) 3,059

 

State House of Representative

 

Both incumbents for the 72nd District, which covers a portion of the City of Kentwood, Cutlerville, and parts of Allegan County, and the 77th District, which covers a portion of Wyoming, Byron Center, and Cutlerville, retained their seats. The results are:

 

72nd District

Incumbent Steve Johnson (R) 21,373

Challenger Ron Draayer (D) 17,271

Challenger Jamie Lewis (L) 1,184

 

77th District

Incumbent Tommy Brann (R) 22,514

Challenger Dana Knight (D) 13,820

Patty Malowney (L) 866

Brandon Hoezee (US Taxpayers) 398

 

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Health, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, ,

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

"It occurred to me at one point it was like I had two diseases — one was Alzheimer's, and the other was knowing I had Alzheimer's."
                                                 - Terry Pratchett

 

What’s next in battling Alzheimer’s?

 

“Alzheimer’s Disease: A Look into the Future” is set for Monday, November 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the L. William Seidman Center, 50 Front Ave. SW, on Grand Valley’s Pew Grand Rapids Campus. The event is free and open to the public.  For the complete story, click here.

 

What’s new (soon) at Ford Airport?

 

Construction on the second phase of the Gateway Transformation Project begins today at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA), and will continue through Summer 2020. For the complete story, click here.

 

What’s the deal with ‘Strive for Five’?

 

The straightforward message behind “Strive for Less than 5”, the countywide campaign to reduce absences: The more school a child misses, the further they fall behind and the more at risk they are of eventually dropping out. For the complete story, click here.

 

Fun Fact:

5.0 million vs. 5.5 million

In fall 2018, about 1.4 million children are expected to attend public prekindergarten and 3.6 million are expected to attend public kindergarten. (Source) In contrast, An estimated 5.7 million Americans of all ages are living with Alzheimer's dementia in 2018. This number includes an estimated 5.5 million people age 65 and older and approximately 200,000 individuals under age 65 who have younger-onset Alzheimer's. (Source)

Gerald R. Ford International Airport begins Gateway Transformation Project – Phase II

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,
A rendering of the future west ticketing area at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Renovations begin November 2018 and will continue through Summer 2020.

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

Construction on the second phase of the Gateway Transformation Project begins today at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA), and will continue through Summer 2020.

 

Construction improvements are focused on the airline ticket counters and baggage service offices, baggage claim, curbside, and ‘front of house’ areas. The main features will include relocating TSA screening equipment from the airline queuing areas, upgrading the space around the baggage claim carousels, and adding food and beverage establishments and restrooms to the space near baggage claim.

 

Remodeling will include new terrazzo flooring, new LED lighting fixtures, upgraded signage, and more.

 

Phase I of the Gateway Transformation Project started in December 2015, and wrapped up in September 2017. The first phase included a consolidated security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening, along with new retail and concession space, restrooms and nursing rooms, business centers, and more.

 

“The comments we have received regarding Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project have been overwhelmingly supportive and have generated excitement for what’s to come in Phase Two,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We look forward to completing the next round of construction to make our entire airport reflective of the scenery and beauty of West Michigan as we continue to be the gateway to our region.”

 

Because some of the construction will have an impact on passenger operations both in the terminal building and those picking up and dropping off passengers at the curb front, we encourage visitors to prepare ahead of time by arriving at least 90 minutes before their scheduled flight, and by visiting: http://www.grr.org/construction.php. Updates on the progress of the construction, photos, and other helpful tips are listed here. Additionally, signage, maps, and airport ambassadors are available in the terminal building to assist with any passenger needs or directions.

 

The second phase construction and design is expected to cost $18 million and generate over 40 full-time jobs.

A rendering of the future bag claim area at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Renovations begin November 2018 and will continue through Summer 2020.

School News Network: County weighs in on attendance campaign

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , ,
The Strive for Less Than 5 campaign seeks to improve attendance at all area schools

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

The straightforward message behind “Strive for Less than 5”, the countywide campaign to reduce absences: The more school a child misses, the further they fall behind and the more at risk they are of eventually dropping out.

 

Kent ISD and Kent County hosted a media briefing recently at the Kent County Building to share that message, backed by statistics presented by Kent ISD data analyst Sunil Joy. There is a 14 percent gap in third-grade reading scores between students who are chronically absent and those who aren’t, with the impact much worse for low-income students, Joy said. Also, students who have been chronically absent every year since kindergarten are performing at levels lower than those never chronically absent.

 

To address the issue, Kent ISD districts recently created a common definition for chronic absenteeism: missing 10 percent or more school days. Ten percent translates to two days per month or 18 days in a 180-day school year. Then they created the campaign, including flyers, posters, yard signs and a video, with the help of sponsors.

 

Kent County Circuit Court Judge Kathleen Feeney said she helps to connect students who end up in front of her for truancy with transportation, mental health services, housing programs, removing whatever barrier might be keeping them from school.

 

“We are trying to impress upon parents that they need to take children to school all day every day,” she said. “It all starts with attendance. They have to show up to be successful.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

 

We the People 2018: Election Guide

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

 

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

The mid-term election is tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 6. Before you head to the polls, here are a few items you should know.

 

No photo ID, no problem: According to the state’s rules, a Michigan voter is required to show a photo ID or sign an affidavit attesting that he or she is not in possession of a photo ID to vote. In other words, if you forget your photo ID or don’t have one, but you are a register voter, you simply sign the ID and then you can cast your vote. All percents are required to have affidavits available for voters.

 

No straight ticket balloting: This year, the ballot does not have straight party ticket voting for Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Green Party, etc. This means that voters will have to vote for each office: governor, secretary of state, etc., right on through to school boards. 

 

Turn that ballot over: Ballots are two-sided. So make sure to flip the ballot over. The order is governor, secretary of state, state attorney general, congressional candidates, state candidates, county candidates, judgeships, community college, local school districts, state proposals and, finally, county and local proposals.

 

Vote the number: If a section says vote for no more than two, vote for only two. If you vote for more, your vote will not be counted.

 

Absentee balloting: You have until 4 p.m. today (Monday, Nov. 5), to request an absentee ballot. You have until 8 p.m. the day of the election to return the absentee ballot to your municipality’s clerk’s office.

 

Get an early peek of the ballot: If you want to get an idea of which candidates and proposals will be on the ballot for your area, visit michigan.gov/vote. All the candidates will be listed along with their campaign finances and links to their websites. You can check to see if you are registered, where your polling place is, and if you filled out an absentee ballot, the status of that ballot. 

 

All polls are open from 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. 

Make sure you are in line by 8 p.m. to vote.

 

Here is another look at the state, county, and local candidates running in the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming,

 

City of Wyoming

 

Mayor Jack Poll is seeking his third term as the city’s mayor. He is running unopposed for the seat. Also running unopposed are Sam Bolt and Kent Vanderwood, both who are seeking re-election as council members at large. For the city’s 1st Ward Councilor seat, incumbent Sheldon DeKryger will face candidate Pete Rickertson. For more from the candidates, click here.

 

Kent County Board of Commissioners

 

The Kent County Board of Commissioners has 19 districts of which six represent portions of the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming. Of those six districts, two have unopposed candidates. Those districts are 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 12th, and 13th. Harold Voorhees is running unopposed in the 8th District and Emily Brieve is running unopposed in the 10th District.

 

In the 7th District Kent County Commissioner race Republican incumbent Stan Ponstein, of Grandville, will be facing off against Democrat challenger Mike Johnson, of Wyoming.

 

In the 9th District Kent County Commissioner, Republican incumbent Matt Kallman is being challenged by Democrat candidate Bob Smith. Both are from Byron Center.

 

With the announcement that incumbent Harold Mast would not be seeking another term, the 12th District Kent County Commissioner race features three new faces, Republican Jill Martinez, Democrat Monica Sparks, and Green Party Charlotte Aikens.

 

For the 13th District Kent County Commissioner, Republican candidate Jessica Ann Tyson is challenging Democrat incumbent Betsy Melton. Both are from Kentwood.

 

For more on the candidates, click here.

 

State House of Representatives

 

The 72nd District House of Representative seat covers the cities of Kentwood and Wayland, along with a portion of Cutlerville and the community of Dorr. There are three candidates, one a one-term incumbent, seeking the 72th District House of Representatives. They are, in alphabetical order, Republican incumbent Steve Johnson, Libertarian candidate Jamie Lewis and Democratic candidate Ron Draayer.

 

The 77th District House of Representative seat covers the City of Wyoming, Byron Township and a portion of Cutlerville. There are three candidates, one a one-term incumbent, seeking the 77th District House of Representatives. They are, in alphabetical order, Republican incumbent Tommy Brann, Democratic candidate Dana Knight, and Libertarian candidate Patty Malowney.

 

For more on the candidates, click here.

 

State Senate

 

The 26th District of the State Senate includes the City of Kentwood along with all of Allegan and Van Buren counties. Three candidates are running in the Nov. 6 General election to replace term-limited Republican Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker. They are, in alphabetical order, Libertarian candidate Erwin Haas, Democratic candidate Garnet Lewis and Republican candidate Aric Nesbitt.

 

The 28th District of the State Senate includes the City of Wyoming as well as the cities of Walker, Rockford and Cedar Springs. In the 28th District State Senate race, three candidates are running in the Nov. 6 General election. They are, in alphabetical order, Democratic candidate Craig Beach, Libertarian candidate Nathan Hewer, and Republican incumbent Peter MacGregor.

 

For more from the candidates, click here.

 

U.S. House of Representatives

 

Michigan’s 2nd District of U.S. House of Representatives includes Lake, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon and Ottawa counties as well as portions of Allegan, Mason and Kent counties including the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood. Three candidates are running in the Nov. 6 General election. They are, in alphabetical order, Democratic candidate Dr. Rob Davidson, U.S. Taxpayers Party candidate Ronald Graeser and Republican Incumbent Bill Huizenga.

 

For more from the candidates, click here.

 

School Boards

 

All five public school districts in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas have school board elections. Of those districts, only two have contested races, Godwin Heights and Wyoming. School board elections will be towards the end of the ballot. For more on the candidates, click here.

School News Network: Helping young children the purpose of countywide millage request

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Election, Kids Activities,
An estimated 45,000 children in Kent County are below age 5. Too many of them and their parents need help so they can be healthy and prepared for kindergarten, according to early childhood advocates. (Supplied)

By James Harger, School News Network

 

An estimated 45,000 children in Kent County are below age 5. Too many of them and their parents need help so they can be healthy and prepared for kindergarten, according to early childhood advocates who are backing a millage proposal on the Nov. 6 ballot.

 

They are asking Kent County voters to approve a 0.25 mill property tax levy that would provide an estimated $5.7 million a year to agencies and programs that support early childhood development programs. The millage would cost the average Kent County homeowner about $23 a year, or $1.90 a month.

 

The millage request was placed on the ballot this summer by the Kent County Board of Commissioners on a 13-5 vote. The request was made by First Steps Kent, a coalition of local foundations, community leaders and United Way agencies that support early childhood programs.

 

“We are reaching only a fraction of these children,” said Karen Lezan, program coordinator for Bright Beginnings, a Kent ISD program that helps parents prepare their children for school success. Although Kent County offers great services for early childhood development, they lack the funding to reach all of the children who could benefit, she said.

 

Bright Beginnings, an affiliate of the national “Parents as Teachers” initiative, provides parents with tools to encourage language, intellectual, physical and social and emotional growth. Their program was only able to see 532 children last year, Lezan said.

 

“Investing in early childhood pays off not only for children and their families, but for the entire community,” according to a 2017 “gap analysis” report that inspired the millage request. The study concluded 20,500 children under age 5 in Kent County are “economically disadvantaged.”

 

“Every child in Kent County deserves to be healthy and ready to learn by kindergarten, and this proposal will help make sure children under age 5 receive vital early childhood and health care services,” said Annemarie Valdez, president/CEO of First Steps Kent. “Working together, we can make sure all Kent County children have brighter futures and the opportunity to succeed.”

 

If the millage request is passed, the money would be passed along to successful programs selected by a board that is appointed by the county board. The millage request was patterned after the Kent Senior Millage, which provides funding for programs that benefit senior citizens in Kent County.

 

Taxpayer dollars raised by the millage would go through an independent financial audit every year to ensure taxpayer funds are spent wisely, according to its sponsors. This audit would evaluate the effectiveness of the funded programs to ensure transparency and accountability, sponsors said.

 

School News Network: Collaboration centers in every school to foster student engagement

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , , ,
From left, freshmen Marisol Pham, Sewa Ojo, Madison Rogers and Sylvia Shaver work in the Collaboration Center

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

In U.S. History teacher Tyler Pettit’s class, ninth-graders formed arguments on the treatment of Japanese Americans during World War II. While students debated, others pulled up information on laptops to support their points and make counterpoints as to whether actions were justified. They sat in a “fish bowl” style, in a circular formation.

 

A new wide open space with lots of technology made the activity run smoothly, Pettit said. Students gathered in the Collaboration Center, a large wide-open space fully equipped with technology, such as large screens affixed to the walls, a huge screen on the wall of a stage and ample outlets, plus comfy furniture, moveable desks, and breakout rooms. It’s an optimal environment for group work, presentations, skits and instruction that requires movement and engagement, said teachers and students.

 

“It allows for students to learn how they want to learn. It allows for ownership really; that’s the biggest thing,” Pettit said.

Students say they love the open-space concept in the Collaboration Center at East Kentwood Freshman Campus

 

“Everything is very cutting edge,” added Principal Andy Kolzow. “It allows students to innovate. It allows teachers to be creative in their lesson planning and create more engaging lessons.

 

As the facility improvements made possible through a $64.8 million bond passed in November 2015 continue to take shape, the district is coming together – literally –  in big, open spaces at all 16 schools and the Kentwood Administration Building, 5820 Eastern Ave. SE.

 

“One of the centerpieces of the bond was for each school have a Collaboration Center,” said Superintendent Mike Zoerhoff.

 

Collaboration Centers were built over the past two years at several schools including Valleywood and Crestwood middle schools,  East Kentwood High School and Freshman Campus and Glenwood, Bowen and Explorer elementary schools. All will be built by 2021. At the elementary level, the centers serve as redesigned media centers blending features of a traditional library with the collaboration-center concept.

 

Zoerhoff said technology in the centers will be kept up to date, with bond money set aside to replenish equipment and devices.

 

Students are enjoying the spaces for many subjects and uses. “It’s not a classroom, and that helps because we are so used to being in a classroom seven hours a day,” said freshman Sylvia Shaver. “It’s nice to be in an open space with comfy seating.”

 

“I like being in here because it’s bigger and it’s not like being in a box,” added freshman Madison Rogers.

 

Tables, desk and other seating areas allow students to collaborate easily

A Community Hub

While students are using Collaboration Centers for academic purpose, a space under construction with plans to open in January at the Administration Building will bring together community groups. It will be a venue available for rent, with space for 50 to 100 people to meet, use technology, and have another connection to the schools.

“Kentwood Public Schools is a hub for the community and surrounding communities.

 

We love to have our facilities used because the taxpayers paid for them,” Zoerhoff said.

 

He envisions it as space for government and business partners to meet and as a professional development hub for teachers. “We appreciate the community support and want to make sure we are a community school and share these facilities with the surrounding community.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

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Voter registration — local, county and statewide — setting new records as Nov. 6 looms

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Voters at the voting booth. (Photo by Jeff Miller/UW-Madison)

 

By. K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

If voter registrations are any indicator, all indications are that next week’s Nov. 6 presidential-midterm election turnout could be record-setting in Michigan, in Kent County and in the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming.

 

There are nearly 7.5 million registered voters in the state of Michigan, about 459,000 in Kent County, about 54,000 in the City of Wyoming and about 36,000 in the City of Kentwood, according to information provided to WKTV. Those totals exceed the registered voter totals for the 2016 presidential election on the county and both city levels, and, according to Fred Woodhams, spokesperson for the Secretary of State’s office, “is a (state) record for a mid-term election.”

 

How total voter registration numbers will translate to actual voters at the polls, and those submitting absentee ballots, is unclear at this point. But Robert J. Macomber, Chief Deputy County Clerk with the Kent County Clerk and Register of Deeds Office, give some “indicators”.

 

“It’s always more difficult to predict turnout in a mid-term election, when a Presidential race is not on the ballot,” Macomber said to WKTV. “Kent County tends to turn out in the high 60’s percent range for Presidential elections and in the mid 40’s, when the Governor’s office is at the top of the ticket.

 

“However, there are indicators that can guide our clerks as they plan to allocate resources for Election Day, such as absentee ballot voting. We’ve seen those requests hit a record high statewide – over 1 million requests – which is about a 63 percent increase over the gubernatorial election in 2014. Whether those figures represent a shift in Election Day voters who now prefer to vote absentee, or that same increase in participation will be mirrored in the precincts on Election Day remains to be seen.”

 

Macomber pointed out, however, that “either way, our clerks are very well prepared to ensure that our elections are efficient, secure, and transparent.”

 

For example, the City of Wyoming, in anticipation of possible record numbers at the polls Nov. 6, offered some advice to the public for election day.

 

Megan Sall, Assistant City Manager for the City of Wyoming, told WKTV that voters can — should — check Michigan Voter Information Center (Michigan.gov/vote) prior to election day to verify registration, polling place, and see a sample ballot.

 

“Do your research ahead of time as the ballot is quite long with a wide variety of offices and issues,” Sall said in an email. “Exercise patience and expect to wait in line due to the length of the ballot and the high turnout we’re expecting. … (And) we love voter selfies, but you cannot take them with your ballot. Please wait until you leave your polling location.”

 

City of Kentwood, by the numbers

 

In the City of Kentwood, city clerk Dan Kasunic said there are 35,868 registered voters in the city this election cycle. That compares to 34,990 in the last mid-term in 2014, and  35,824 (according to the county) in the 2016 presidential election cycle.

 

Kasunic said, in the last mid-term election, there were 13,366 votes cast out of the 34,990 registered voters, about 38 percent. But this year he “expects 50 percent or better turnout.”

 

Another indication of Kentwood voter turnout is that there were 2,981 absentee ballots received in 2016 and that there are already 3,120 received as of early this week — and, Kasunic added, there are “more to come for 2018 … (and he expects) over 4,000.”

 

City of Wyoming, by the numbers

 

In the City of Wyoming, city clerk Kelli VandenBerg reported that there were 53,961 registered voters as of Oct. 30, with an average of 1,000 new registrations coming each month in September and October (the Aug. 2 total was 51,654 and the Sept. 25 total was 52,800).

 

Historically, in Wyoming, there were 46,758 registered voters in 2010, a total of 48,300 in 2012, with 48,791 in 2014, and 50,277 in 2016.

 

Wyoming also reported numbers on absentee ballots sent and returned, with there being an unusually high number sent this non-presidential election cycle: 4,257. There were 5,643 absentee ballots sent and 5,458 returned in 2016’s presidential cycle, but only 2,896 sent and 2,734 received in the last mid-term cycle in 2014. As of early this week, according to the city clerk’s office, there were 3,028 absentee ballots returned (out of the 4,257) with a week remaining for counting.

 

Kent County, by the numbers

 

Countywide the breakdown, according to the County Clerk’s office, is that there were 418,386 registered voters in 2010 (the last open gubernatorial election, without an incumbent running) with a turnout of 195,999 or 46.9 percent. In the 2014 gubernatorial election year there were 440,461 registered voters and a turnout of 189,517 or 43 percent.

 

In the 2016 Presidential election year, there were 453,437 registered voters with a turnout of 313,396 or 69 percent.

 

“Kent County’s number of registered voters has climbed steadily from 418,386 in 2010, when Michigan had its last (open) gubernatorial election, to 458,666 this year,” Macomber said in summary.

 

State of Michigan, by the numbers

 

According to Woodhams at the Secretary of State office, there are 7,471,882 registered voters this year, which is a record for a mid-term election, and that represents about 95 percent of the possible registered voters. As far as how many of those will show at the polls, state numbers are that there were abut 3.2 million voters in 2014, about 3.85 million in 2006 (the current record for a non-presidential election), about 4.9 million in the 2016 presidential election and about 5 million in the 2008 presidential election (the current record).

 

For really detailed historical state election turnout information visit here.

 

Kentwood, to improve community access, tries new city hall hours starting Nov. 12

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City of Kentwood City Hall will be trying out new hours to better serve the community. (WKTV)

 

By City of Kentwood

 

The City of Kentwood will pilot new office hours at city hall for one year in an effort to improve customer service and access to government services.

 

Beginning Nov. 12, city hall office hours will change from its traditional 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to the following:

 

Monday:  7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday:  7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday:  7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Thursday:  7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday:  7:30 a.m. to noon

 

“We continuously evaluate and seize opportunities to improve customer service” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “Amending our traditional hours seeks to improve access and better meet the needs of our working community.”

 

The city launched an online community survey in May regarding office hours for city hall. A majority of the respondents were in favor of amended office hours. In particular, results revealed an interest in City Hall opening before 8 a.m. and closing after 5 p.m.

 

With survey results in mind, the City identified alternate office hours that would meet the public need and provide greater access to in-person services, while also being mindful not to create an undue burden on staff nor require overtime. Many office hour scenarios were vetted before deciding on the new hours for a one-year trial period.

 

Due to the wide range of departments and tasks located at City Hall, interdepartmental flexibility remains a key component to achieving optimal performance. Department heads will retain their ability to schedule staff as they best see fit to achieve departmental and city objectives.

 

For more information on the City of Kentwood, visit kentwood.us .

 

East Kentwood narrowly tops Brighton, moves on to Saline for second-round playoff game

Area Education, City of Kentwood, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, WKTV Featured sports,

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By Micah Cho, WKTV Sports Intern

ken@wktv.org

 

East Kentwood, now 9-1, is traveling to Saline for the second round of the Division 1 state football playoffs with a narrow victory over Brighton last Saturday.

 

The Falcons were able to put 426 yards on the offensive stat sheet. A big contributor to the total yardage is senior wide receiver Stephan Bracey.

 

“We didn’t really click in the first half,” said Bracey. “We just thought about the bigger prize and executed the best we could.”

 

And clicked they did. With a juggled pass from quarterback Kyle Dent, Bracey ran for 81 yards in the second quarter which helped contribute to his 108 receiving yards for the game.

 

Trailing most of the first half, the Falcons were able to tie the game late in the second quarter, 28-28. That’s when East Kentwood head coach Anthony Kimbrough was able to readjust his game plan.

 

East Kentwood head coach Anthony Kimbrough. (WKTV)

“They showed us some things we hadn’t seen in the (defensive) secondary,” said Kimbrough of Brighton’s passing attack.

 

With Brighton trailing 31-28 with 20 seconds left on the clock, a 41-yard field goal from Brighton could have tied the game up and sent it into over time. But after three consecutive timeouts, Brighton missed a field goal that would have extended play.

 

“I was just praying that he missed,” said Kimbrough. “It was a great battle on both sides. You hate for someone to come out as a loser but were fortunate to move on. … But give Brighton credit. They’re a well-coached football team.”

 

However, at the end of the game, Kimbrough did have some tough love for his players. Falcon quarterback Dent threw for 188 yards. but with three interceptions, and Bracey was a total of -16 yards rushing.

 

“We can’t play the way we played today and beat Saline, we just can’t,” said Kimbrough. “We have to have our best. We have to play like the team we’ve been all year.”

 

MaxPreps, a CBS affiliated website dedicated to high school sports, has East Kentwood football ranked 7th in Michigan with Saline behind at 18th.

 

Just like Brighton, the Falcons have never faced Saline. With an unfamiliar opponent, anything can happen. But for now, Bracey and his teammates are thankful.

 

“We’re just truly blessed for what happened,” said Bracey.

 

East Kentwood will be on the road Saturday facing the Saline Hornets, a team that also went 8-1 in the regular season. Saline beat Kalamazoo Central last weekend.

 

You can check out the MaxPreps state rankings here.

 

Kentwood’s annual Fall Festival’s Trunk or Treat brought the family fun to community

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Local Faces, WKTV Projects

 

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org 

 

There was a whole bunch of kids and candy, and a fair amount of spooky things, as the City of Kentwood invited families and trick-or-treaters to the city’s annual Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat event Saturday, Oct. 20.

 

The free event was held at the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility, and WKTV was there to record the family friendly activities including hayrides, face painting, a bounce house and games. The festival also featured the community fall-favorite, Trunk or Treat, where various City and community vehicles decorate and fill their trunks with candy. Oh, and Honest Abe (Mayor Stephen Kepley) also made an appearance.

 

For more information on other City of Kentwood events visit kentwood.us  .

 

School News Network: Grant will help prepare Wyoming area students for college

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By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

Grand Rapids Community College is the recipient of a $2.1 million, six-year grant from the U.S. Education Department to boost chances for all students to succeed in college and beyond.

 

The college will partner with the Godfrey-Lee, Godwin Heights, Kelloggsville, and Wyoming school districts in using the grant, allocated through the Gaining Early Awareness for Readiness for Undergraduate Programs – or GEAR UP.

 

The competitive federal program provides resources to promote college awareness; improve performance in math and writing; increase high school graduation rates; and improve students’ transitions from middle school to high school, and from high school to college – particularly for at-risk, low-income and first-generation students.

 

GRCC is the only Michigan college to receive the federal grant this year.

 

The funds will serve a cohort of seventh-graders, following them from middle school to high school and off to college or career training. GEAR UP funds also can provide college scholarships to low-income students.

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Ford Airport on Pace to Break Three Million Passenger Mark

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

By Tara Hernandez

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

The three million passenger mark is drawing in closer after the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) recorded another month of record growth with a September that served 255,888 passengers – marking 15.74-percent growth year-over-year.

 

September marks the ninth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 62 of the last 69 months. September 2018 was the busiest September ever, and this quarter marks the busiest third quarter ever – beating out September 2017 for that title.

 

Through September 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual totals reached in all years through 2014 with 2,432,413 passengers served in 2018.

 

“Our excitement in record-breaking month after record-breaking month is genuine and we are so appreciative to the community for supporting and utilizing the Ford Airport throughout this amazing year,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are thankful to have a supportive West Michigan community that is not only flying in and out of the Ford Airport, but seem to be telling their friends near and far what an easy, efficient, and customer-focused airport we have.”

 

September 2017 saw 218,671 passengers, while September 2018 topped that in serving 255,888 – the first time GFIA has served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of September.

 

GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.

 

Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in November 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.

 

“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”

 

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

Be safe: trick-or-treat safety tips for kids, parents

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Holidays, Kids Activities, Recreation
Halloween is a great time for kids. The Michigan State Police want to keep it that way. (Supplied)

 

By Michigan State Police

 

Halloween is filled with excitement and spooky tricks, but with Halloween being the deadliest night of the year for pedestrians, the Michigan State Police is reminding parents to make safety a priority. 

 

On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year, according to Safe Kids Worldwide. 

 

“Part of enjoying Halloween festivities is recognizing possible dangers and taking precautions,” said Community Service Trooper Martin Miller, Rockford Post. “There are potential risks involved with trick-or-treating, but with the proper safety measures everyone can have an enjoyable and safe Halloween.”

 

Trick-or-treat safety tips include:

 

Children of any age should be accompanied by an adult.

 

Cross the street only at corners or crosswalks. Do not cross the street between parked cars.

 

Carry a flashlight. Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible.

 

Accept treats at the door and never go into a stranger’s house. Only visit homes that have the porch light on.

 

Stay in familiar neighborhoods. Plan your route and share it with your family. Stay in a group.

 

Stay in populated and well-lit areas.  Do not cut through back alleys or fields.

 

Make sure all costumes are flame retardant.  Avoid walking too close to open fires, candles and jack-o-lanterns.

 

Make sure an adult inspects all candy before eating it.  Do not eat candy that is already opened.

 

Be sure to follow community curfew rules.

 

Four Wyoming, Kentwood teams preparing to make deep playoff runs

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kentwood Public Schools, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, , ,

 

By Micah Cho, WKTV Sports Intern

ken@wktv.org

 

Four area teams are going to the playoffs this year, including Tri-unity Christian, South Christian, Godwin Heights and East Kentwood. Although the first round of the playoffs can be a door to something bigger, all four coaches are taking a “back-to-basics” approach this week.

 

“We’re just trying to keep things consistent,” Godwin Heights head coach Brandan Kimble, echoing his fellow coaches, said to WKTV.

 

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Kimble and his team are taking on the South Christian Sailors Friday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m., at East Kentwood High School. Godwin Heights finished the regular season 6-3, while Mark Tamminga’s South Christian Sailors gained the playoffs as an at-large team with a 5-4 record.

 

For Kimble, this week comes with excitement and uncertainty. The Wolverines started off the season 1-3, but as players became more comfortable with their coach and started buying into the system, Kimble says that’s when things started to take off. Now their hoping their kids can keep with the system a little longer.

 

“We’re just trying to keep things consistent,” said Kimble. “We’re just going to change a few things so they can understand the importance of the week, tweak some things and then add a little bit more intensity to practice.”

 

Curt Copeland, assistant coach and athletic director for South Christian, is trying to help head coach Mark Tamminga win their first playoff game since 2014, the year they won their last championship.

 

“We’re trying to retrain our kids and get them back to understanding what it takes to make a deep run and it starts with the first week of the playoffs,” said Copeland.

 

All you need to know about the Wolverines vs. Sailors matchup

 

Also at East Kentwood High School this weekend is East Kentwood’s opening round playoff game. The Falcons (8-1) will be hosting Brighton High School. Located towards Eastern Michigan, the Bulldogs went 7-2, with their only loses coming twice to Belleville.

 

East Kentwood won their final game last week against Rockford, giving them the OK-Red title. And head coach Anthony Kimbrough couldn’t be more excited for his kids.

 

“I coach because of them,” said Kimbrough. “I come out everyday seeing these kids wanting to get better. One of our goals was to be OK-Red champs, and beating Rockford Friday, for that to come true is tremendous for our program.”

 

In 8-man playoff action, head coach Tim Heath and his Tri-unity team have gone 9-0 this season, beating No. 2 ranked Colon in Week 9. They will be hosting Webberville at Grandville Middle School,m also Friday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m. Colon finished their season 4-5, another at-large team sneaking into the playoffs.

 

Coach Heath doesn’t plan on changing anything in preparation of his Defenders. For his undefeated team, Heath’s mantra for this week is “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.

 

“We don’t do anything different,” said Heath. “… The same preparation that goes into every game we’re taking into this game.”

 

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This week’s WKTV Featured Game and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.

 

WKTV’s featured football games are rebroadcast on the night of the game (Thursday or Friday) at 11 p.m. and Saturday starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports for complete schedules.

What you need to know about Godwin Heights vs. S. Christian playoff game

City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Entertainment, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports,

 

By Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director

sports@wktv.org 

 

WKTV’s Featured Game this week is a Division 4 football playoff game at East Kentwood Friday at 7 p.m., with Godwin Heights (6-3 overall, 5-1 and 2nd place in O-K Silver) facing South Christian (5-4, 3-3 and 4th place O-K Gold).

 

This will be the pre-District game for Region 2 District 1 in Division 4.

 

Both teams earned the same number of playoff points, 57.667.  The victor will face the winner of Otsego (5-4, 49.111 points) against Holland Christian (6-3, 63.444 points), with the game being played at the team with the highest playoff points earned.

 

This will be the 13th meeting between these two schools with South Christian leading 8-4 overall, but it’s the first meeting since the fall of 1983 when both teams were in the O-K White. That was the last of those 12 consecutive games as conference opponents.

 

South Christian Notes

 

This is the 22nd time that South Christian has qualified for the playoffs, their 3rd consecutive, 7th in the last 8 years, and 17th of the last 20.

 

South started 2-0 this season but then only were 3-4 the rest of the season, highlighted by their Week 7 win when they defeated conference co-champ Grand Rapids Christian, 24-10, which was Christians only conference loss and one of only two on the season.

 

That game was the only win South had against an above .500 team.

 

Souths wins were by an average margin of just under 24 points a game while their defeats were by 5 to Wayland (4-5), 14 to Unity Christian (7-2), 13 to EGR (6-3 and conference co-champs with Christian), and 1 to Middleville (7-2); so their losses were by an average of just over 8 points a game.

 

They faced 4 teams that qualified for the playoffs and were 1-3 against them.

 

Their defense has given up just 154 points for an average of just over 17.11 points a game which will keep you in many games.

 

Their last playoff win was in the fall of 2014, which was their Division 4 State Championship (24-23 over Lansing Sexton). That also was their 3rd consecutive year being in the state championship game, having lost to Marine City in 2013, 49-35, and won in 2012, 40-7, over Detroit Country Day.

 

They also played for state championships in 2002, winning, 42-13, over Riverview; in 1999, losing to Orchard Lake Saint Mary’s, 34-13; in 1986 (Class B), losing to Marysville 38-15; and in 1984 (Class C) losing to Detroit DePorres, 38-26. Their overall playoff record is 40-18 (.690).

 

Godwin Heights Notes

 

Godwin Heights started 1-3 but closed on a 5-game winning streak highlighted by a Week 7 win against Belding (7-2), 25-21. That was their only win against a team with above .500 record.

 

Unlike last year, when Godwin was known for their offense after scoring 395 points on the season, this year’s team is known for its defense as they have only given up 155 points (17.2 average per game). That is the lowest total allowed since 1987 when they gave up just 84 points, so the game could be a low scoring battle led by the two defenses.

 

This is just the school’s 5th playoff appearance but is their 4th consecutive. However, they are still searching for their 1st playoff victory, having lost in 1989 to Muskegon Catholic Central (Class C), 46-20; in 2015 to Catholic Central (Division 4), 55-0; in 2016 also to Catholic Central, 43-0; and last year to Kelloggsville, 49-7.

 

Their only conference loss was to conference champ Hopkins 27-8, in Week 4.

 

Following that loss, they scored at least 23 points each game and a total of 143 for an average of just under 29 a game.

 

They played three games against playoff teams this season and were 1-2 against them (Unity Christian, Hopkins, and Belding).

 

One common opponent with South Christian was Unity Christian, which Godwin lost to 38-18 and South Christian lost to 28-14.

 

WKTV Note: Because of the MHSAA usually taking over Week 2 playoff broadcasts, this will be the final WKTV football coverage of the season. But should local teams still be alive, we will be producing online/print stories. Stay tuned.

 

We the People 2018 General Election: State House of Representatives Candidates

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Election, Politics, WKTV Projects, ,

 

State of Michigan 72nd District House of Representatives

 

The 72nd District House of Representative seat covers the cities of Kentwood and Wayland, along with a portion of Cutlerville and the community of Dorr. For a district map, click here.

 

There are three candidates, one a one-term incumbent, seeking the 72th District House of Representatives. They are, in alphabetical order, Republican incumbent Steve Johnson, Libertarian candidate Jamie Lewis and Democratic candidate Ron Draayer.

 

Steve Johnson – Incumbent (R) MI State Representative 72nd District

 

Name: Steve Johnson

 

Party: Republican

 

Occupation: State Representative, 72nd District

 

Why did you decide to run for the 72th District House of Representatives seat?

 

During the last two years I’ve been working on several key issues, one of them being auto insurance rates. I think that is one of the biggest issues facing our state right now, so I want to continue to be a voice for lower auto insurance rates. We came close this time and I want to continue to fight for those lower auto insurance rates.

 

If elected, what (other that auto insurance) issues do you want to focus on?

 

I think we need to get rid of some of the special interest deals we have created for certain industries, certain companies. And I think: ‘How can these special interest deals be good for the people of the 72nd District?’ I am looking out for the people of the 72nd District instead.

 

Ron Draayer – Candidate (D) MI State Representative 72nd District

 

Name: Ron Draayer

 

Party: Democrat

 

Occupation: Retired classroom teacher

 

Why did you decide to run for the 72th District House of Representatives seat?

 

I feel that Michigan needs experienced leadership to solve the many problems that we face in this state.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

There are three top issues that are most important to me: education, repairing our infrastructure, and protecting and preserving our great natural resources.

 

Note: Libertarian candidate Jamie Lewis was invited but did not participate in the We the People candidate profiles.

 

State of Michigan 77th District House of Representatives

 

The 77th District House of Representative seat covers the City of Wyoming, Byron Township and a portion of Cutlerville. For a district map, click here.

 

There are three candidates, one a one-term incumbent, seeking the 77th District House of Representatives. They are, in alphabetical order, Republican incumbent Tommy Brann, Democratic candidate Dana Knight, and Libertarian candidate Patty Malowney.

 

Tommy Brann – Incumbent (R) MI State Representative 77th District

 

Name: Tommy Brann

 

Party: Incumbent, Republican

 

Occupation: Owner of Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille on Division Avenue

 

Why did you decide to run for the 77th District House of Representatives seat?

 

Because I am good at the job. I own a small business and every night, I comeback and work at that business and through that I bring the issues that I learned about and discuss at that business back to Lansing, which is not something many of my colleagues are able to do.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

I have an animal cruelty bill that I have been working on. Also, I want to continue the work on homelessness by getting that $2 additional per bed for the shelters. Michigan is one of the lowest in the country, $16 per bed when the average is $26, in contributing to shelters. This additional money would help with new bedding and operations. We have more than 60,000 homeless people, so it is a big problem. I also want to bring the concept of free enterprise into the schools to give students more career choices.

 

Note: Democratic candidate Dana Knight and Libertarian candidate Patty Malowney were invited but did not participate in the We the People candidate profiles.

 

Kentwood police deputy chief explains importance of this week’s Drug Take Back Day

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Local Faces, Senior Living, Upcoming Events

 

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

On Saturday, Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Kentwood Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration will give the public its 16th opportunity in 8 years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.

 

WKTV asked Kentwood Police Department Deputy Chief Richard Roberts why the take back effort is so important.

 

Pills for disposal can be brought to the Kentwood Police Department at 4742 Walma Ave SE Kentwood. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. The event cannot accept liquids or needles, only pills or patches.

 

For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the Oct. 27 Take Back Day event, please contact Vicki Highland at highlandv@kentwood.us or 616-656-6571.

 

More information about National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is available at takebackday.dea.gov.

 

We the People 2018 General Election: U.S. Congressional Candidates

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Election, Politics, WKTV Projects, ,

 

State of Michigan 2nd District U.S. House of Representatives

 

Michigan’s 2nd District of U.S. House of Representatives includes Lake, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon and Ottawa counties as well as portions of Allegan, Mason and Kent counties including the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood. For a district map, click here.

 

Three candidates are running in the Nov. 6 General election. They are, in alphabetical order, Democratic candidate Dr. Rob Davidson, U.S. Taxpayers Party candidate Ronald Graeser and Republican Incumbent Bill Huizenga.

 

Dr. Rob Davidson (D), candidate, U.S. Congress 2nd District

 

Name: Dr. Rob Davidson

 

Party: Candidate, Democrat

 

Occupation: Emergency room physician

 

Why did you decide to run for the 2nd District U.S. House of Representatives seat?

 

I decided to run because I realized that congress needs more representatives who are not influenced by special interest money and are instead focused on serving their constituents. After attending town halls with Congressman Bill Huizenga … I came to the realization that his votes on critical issues such as healthcare and the economy often aligned with the interests of big businesses and wealthy special interests instead of the interests of the people in his district.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

Healthcare. I would immediately join current members in supporting legislation HR676: Expanded and Improved Medicare For All. Too many Americans cannot afford health insurance, and too many who do have health insurance struggle with high deductibles and copays.

 

Rep. Bill Huizenga (R), incumbent, U.S. Congress 2nd District

 

Name: Rep. Bill Huizenga

 

Party: Incumbent, Republican

 

Occupation: U.S. Congressman

 

Why did you decide to run for the 2nd District U.S. House of Representatives seat?

 

I want to create a better future for all of West Michigan. As Congressman, I have led bipartisan efforts to preserve and protect the Great Lakes while also working to provide real solutions that remove government barriers, lower taxes for middle class families, and increase opportunity for hardworking individuals across West Michigan.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

I was elected to Congress based on three key principles: create jobs, stop spending, and protect life. These principles still define my role in Congress.

 

Note: Contact information was not available for U.S. Taxpayers Party candidate Ronald Graeser to invite him to participate in the We the People candidate profiles.