“You never change your life until you step out of your comfort zone; change begins at the end of your comfort zone.”
Roy T. Bennett
Finny, the finback whale skeleton, greats visitors as the enter the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Supplied)
Free day at GR Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM), in partnership in the 15th annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day on Saturday, Sept. 21, is offering the opportunity for free general admission to Museum Day ticket holders. Get more info here.
A scene from a previous West Michigan Freedom Cruise and Gold Star Family Honor Ride at the Fifth Third Ball Park. (Supplied)
Honor America with a ride
The 2019 West Michigan Freedom Cruise and Gold Star Family Honor Ride — an event intended to to “Remember Gold Star Families, Support All Veterans and Never Forget!” — will return to Fifth Third Ball Park in Comstock Park Sunday, Sept. 22. Get more info here.
A close-up of part “Community” by British installation artist Rebecca Louise Law. (Supplied by the artist)
New show at Meijer Gardens
When Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park opens its next exhibit, “Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb”, on Sept. 20, the Gardens horticultural staff and community volunteers might be excused if they feel a little ownership of the artwork. Get more info here.
Fun fact:
2.32 hours
On average, in 2018, people watched TV for 3 hours 19 minutes per weekend day and 2 hours 32 minutes per weekday. (An NFL game lasts at least 3 hours, so …)
Wyoming High School’s football team practicing at their soon-to-be ex-home field this week. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
When Wyoming High School’s football team plays its last game at Davies Memorial Field this week, at the current middle school but at what was once Wyoming Park high, those in attendance will have many memories of games and players on the field.
Jack VerDuin, in a historic photo from Wyoming High School Athletic Department Facebook page.
And the Friday, Sept. 20, game pitting the Wolves against the visiting South Christian Sailors will also be filled with memories of the late Jack VerDuin, who rolled up a 243-118-6 record with the Wyoming Park Vikings before the school merged with Wyoming Rogers into Wyoming high in 2012.
The Friday game will be the first part of a two-part, two-home game special event for Wyoming high as the Wolves will honor VerDuin during their last varsity football game at Davies field before moving to the new football stadium for a Oct. 11 home game.
One person who will have special memories, especially at this week’s game, will be Ted Hollern, Wyoming High School Athletic Director, who remembers VerDuin as an opposing coach, mentor and friend.
Ted Hollern, Wyoming High School Athletic Director. (WKTV)
“I can remember, as a high school student, playing against Jack VerDuin’s teams and how good they were,” Hollern said this week to WKTV. “They were well coached. What a machine they had operating.
“And then (later) … I was at Wyoming Rogers, when he was at Park … to be able to rub shoulders with him. At the time, I was a young football coach … you know, I could pick up on some of his ideas. I was the head football coach at Rogers and he was still coaching here. We shared a lot of time together.”
There will also be many memories by VerDuin’s family and many friends who will be in attendance at the game, set to start at 7 p.m. The Jack VerDuin family will be there as they will be announced as our Honorary Captains for the game.
VerDuin, who died in 2007, coached the Vikings for 38 seasons beginning in 1962. During the years, Wyoming Park won 19 conference championships and the Class B state championship in 1984, a 33-20 victory over Monroe Catholic Central. The Vikings were state runner-up in 1985, falling to Dearborn Divine Child 21-0.
VerDuin is a member of the Wyoming Hall of Fame, Grand Rapids Hall of Fame, Michigan High School Hall of Fame and the Michigan Football Hall of Fame.
Clearly Coach VerDuin and his “Mighty Vikings” built a tradition of excellence — a tradition which Hollern hopes can carry over from the “the house that Jack built” at Davies field to the new football stadium.
“I think of all the players and coaches who have played here, at what was Wyoming Park. How many championships they won. The tradition they had,” Hollern said. “I just think it will be great to remember some of their past, and some of their accomplishments, and then hope that tradition, those accomplishments, kind of springboard into the new place.”
For a story on the new football stadium, and how students and staff at Wyoming high are anticipating its opening, see a School News Network story here.
The South Christian vs. Wyoming Community Night Football Game at Wyoming Junior High will be the WKTV High School Sports Featured Game of the Week, with on-demand video replay available at WKTVLive.org.
The game will have a 7 p.m. kick-off, but, among many special events, will have a Jack VerDuin Family Night pregame with a hospitality tent opening at 5:15 p.m. in the north end zone, with all family and friends welcome.
The Sept. 13 East Kentwood vs. Caledonia football game is available on-demand at WKTVlive.org. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
At East Kentwood High School Friday, the Falcons rallied for 13 points in the fourth quarter — on a 30-yard touchdown pass from Christian Tanner to Josh Ledesma and a 4-yard run by Ledesma — to overcome a 14-10 Caledonia advantage and gain a 23-14 win.
The East Kentwood win Sept. 13 pushed the Falcons to 2-1 on the season and began their OK Conference Red slate with a home win over the Fighting Scots (1-2). East Kentwood had posted a 10-0 first half lead on 25-yard field goal by Tanner and a 51-yard pass from Tanner to Colton Emeott. Tanner was 13-of-23 passing for 198 yards while Drapher Cribbs led the team in rushing with 56 yards on 15 carries.
The Caledonia at East Kentwood game was the WKTV High School Sports Featured Game, with on-demand replays of the game available at WKTVlive.org. This week’s featured game will be South Christian at Wyoming high.
South Christian also pushed their record to 2-1 with a 42-0 win at home over Wayland to open the Sailors’ OK Gold schedule. In the game, short runs by Daniel Possett and Chase Bradman, with extra point kicks by Jeff Heerema, staked South Christian to a 14-0 first half lead. Two more rushing touchdowns by Possett, the second a 29-yard scamper, and a short run by Eli Smith pushed the score to 35-0 to enter the fourth quarter.
Also on Sept. 13, Wyoming high (1-2) lost at Grand Rapids Christian (1-2), 54-14.
In other local football action, Godwin Heights (1-2) and Wyoming Lee (1-2) both gained their first wins of the season. The Wolverines defeated Wyoming Kelloggsville (0-3) 36-14 in the OK Sliver opener for both teams. (Due to three teams in the conference playing non-conference football schedules, the two teams will meet later in the season at Kelloggsville.) For more information on the Lee Legends win, see a story here.
Tri-unity Christian won a 8-Man Midwest Central conference game at Lawrence, 40-28.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
This past July, many communities, such as the City of Wyoming, observed National Parks and Recreation Month, an opportunity to showcase the many offerings parks and park programs provide.
WKTV was able to catch up with Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt, who oversees the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department. Rynbrandt discussed some of the newest features at a couple of the city’s parks, such as the the new pickleball courts at Pinery Park and the playground at Marquette Park.
Rynbrandt also talked about how the department continues to change and grow to meet its residents’ needs and interests.
“We are seeing an increase of request from our citizens, our residents, to have more special events, like the Trick or Treat Trail, formerly known as the Pumpkin Path Trail; like the Miranda Park parties,” Rynbrandt said. “So you are going to see us increasing our investment in those large scale events that will really engage the entire community.”
The Trick or Treat Trail is Oct. 12 from 4-6 p.m. at Lamar park. The event is free, but children must be under the supervision of an attending adult.
Other popular Park and Recreation events coming up are:
The Veterans Day Breakfast is Nov. 11 at 9 a.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center. Cost is $10 per attendee and free for veterans.
The Great Candy Candy Cane Hunt and Lunch With Santa is set for Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center. Cost is $5/residents, $7, non-residents. Best for children ages 3-10 but open to all ages.
For more City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation activities, visit wyomingmi.gov. Go to the “About Wyoming” tab for a scroll down menu that includes Parks and Recreation or visit the Facebook page, Wyoming Parks and Recreation.
Lee High School’s football team celebrating a win over Galesburg-Augusta, 18-12, at home Sept. 13. (Supplied)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Lee High School — after opening its non-conference season with two competitive losses when the offense scored but the defense struggled — defeated Galesburg-Augusta, 18-12, at home Friday as the Legends rode a big-play offense and a bend-but-not-break defense to the team’s first win while playing an independent schedule.
The visiting Rams actually out-gained the Legends in total yards, 258-230, and ran 81 offensive plays compared to Lee’s 39. But the Lee defense limited the Rams to just two scores and came up big in the fourth quarter.
“It was a huge test on the defensive side if you look at time of possession and number of snaps we played,” Lee defensive coordinator William Hollstein said to WKTV. “Over the first two games, we gave up big plays which put us in a tough spot. Going into Friday night, we really stressed limiting those big plays through a simplified scheme and getting pressure on passing downs.”
Lee High School freshman Elijah Beckwith had 97 yards and a touchdown in the win over Galesburg-Augusta on Sept. 13. (Supplied)
In the Legends’ win, freshman running back Elijah Beckwith scored on a 36-yard run and Ke’ontae Taylor caught a 45-yard scoring pass from Niko Mena in the first half. Beckwith totaled 97 yards on 12 carries to lead the Legends ground game.
After Galesburg-Augusta tied the score, 12-12, at the half, Taylor and Mena again hooked up, this time for a 47-yard pass in the third quarter, and the Lee defense made that score hold up for the win.
Senior Gumer Rodas was one of the stars on the Legends defense. (Supplied)
“During Galesburg’s final offensive possession, I was able to speak with the defense during a timeout,” Hollstein said. “It was all smiles in the huddle and I told the kids that this is why we play the games, for moments like this. They were fired up to play on 4th down and you could feel their confidence. As a team, our theme has been to ‘win the next down.’ As a coach, it’s rewarding when you see the kids come together and play for each other like that.”
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
While the Lee High School teams are still wearing old uniforms this season, they are already Legends. (Note: This football team t-shirt, worn here by head coach Tom Degennaro, is not the new official logo for Godfrey-Lee school district or its sporting teams). (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Godfrey-Lee Public Schools announced this week two major donations for the rebranding of the district and high school’s mascot to become the Legends — including $98,000 from the Native American Heritage Foundation to “rebrand the current mascot from ‘Rebels’ to a new mascot and nickname that is culturally responsive.”
“Godfrey-Lee Public Schools is proud to share the announcement of $120,000 in donations to support the district with the change of our mascot to the Godfrey-Lee Legends,” Kevin Polston, Superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, said Sept. 17 in supplied material. “The support of our community through the transition has been critical to the success of the project.
“Financial contributions will ensure that operating expenses will be spent in the classroom to support our students. The donations will offset costs for a new logo design, athletic and performing arts uniforms, signage, murals, the electronic footprint of the district, and more.”
The grant from the Native American Heritage Foundation (NAHF) adds to a grant made by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, as well as other smaller donations.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation was established in 1922 and is Kent County’s philanthropic leader, according to a statement by the Godfrey-Lee district. “The Community Foundation creates partnerships to overcome inequities in West Michigan, supporting racial, social and economic justice for all.”
“We are committed to providing opportunity, prosperity and belonging for everyone who calls West Michigan home,” said Diana Sieger, president of the Community Foundation, said in supplied material. “A new Godfrey-Lee mascot will unify the school community and help students shift their focus to using their talents and creativity to fuel our shared future.”
The official receipt of the grant from the Native American Heritage Fund will take place at a check ceremony on Monday, Sept. 30, at the FireKeepers Casino-Hotel in Battle Creek.
The Native American Heritage Fund, established in 2016 as part of the Second Amendment to the Tribal-State Gaming Compact between the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) and the State of Michigan, allows for a portion of NHBP’s annual state revenue sharing payment to be distributed by the NAHF.
According to the NAHF, the fund “serves to promote positive relationships between public and private K-12 schools, colleges, universities, local units of government and Michigan’s federally recognized Native American Tribes. The NAHF provides resources to help improve curricula and educational resources related to Michigan Indian history, as well as to replace or revise mascots and imagery that may be deemed as offensive to or inaccurately conveying the culture and values of Native Americans.”
The district is still soliciting donations and individuals or organizations that want to contribute toward the district reaching its’ goal of $200,000, Polston said in supplied material.
Those interested can make a tax deductible contribution online via the District’s PayPal account (the link is found at the bottom of the district’s homepage (godfrey-lee.org) or by sending a check to the district’s administration building, 1324 Burton St. SW, Wyoming, MI, 49509.
The 2019 West Michigan Freedom Cruise and Gold Star Family Honor Ride — an event intended to to “Remember Gold Star Families, Support All Veterans and Never Forget!” — will return to Fifth Third Ball Park in Comstock Park Sunday, Sept. 22.
This year, the annual event will honor fallen soldier U.S. Army Sgt. Chad J. Vollmer, of Grand Rapids, who while serving with the Army 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry, was killed in action in Iraq on Dec. 23, 2006.
Each year, the event, this year co-sponsored by West Michigan Veterans Coalition, honors a family with a ceremony unveiling a specially commissioned portrait of “their fallen hero” and then escorts the Gold Star Family (the family of a military man or woman killed in defense of the United States) and the portrait on an honor cruise.
The free-to-the-public Freedom Cruise and Gold Star Family Honor Ride event will begin at the ball park, 4500 West River Drive NE, with gates opening at 11 a.m., the Fallen Soldier Ceremony beginning at 2 p.m., and the Freedom Cruise beginning at 3 (to 3:15) p.m. and ending back at the ball park after a 25-mile motorcycle and classic car ride to Sparta.
The Stars & Stripes Cars & Bikes Freedom Cruise Honor Ride online pre-registration closes Friday, Sept. 20, at 8 a.m., with on-site Honor Ride registration at Fifth Third Ball Park on Sunday, Sept. 22, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
According to event organizers, including principal organizer Tom Antor and Capt. Paul J. Ryan, US Navy Reserve (Retired) and board member of the West Michigan Veterans Coalition, there will be many activities in addition to the ceremony and the ride.
There is a classic car and motorcycle show with 1,000 plus vehicles anticipated. An additional feature this year will be a “Veterans and Family Resource Fair” sponsored by the West Michigan Veterans’ Coalition. The resource fair providers will include organizations that assist veterans and their families in areas including housing, barriers to employment, legal issues, issues affecting female veterans, mental health, spiritual well-being/social support and transportation.
The West Michigan Veterans Coalition, according to supplied information, is a collaboration among local military-friendly organizations that provide support, information, and resources to veterans and their families, employers, and other organizations throughout West Michigan. It’s mission “is to improve the lives of veterans, their families, and anyone who served in the Armed Forces by connecting them to all available services and resources throughout West Michigan.
For more information and registration information visit the Freedom Cruise website at freedomcruisegr.com.
If anyone understands the need to eliminate plastic it would be Martha Vermeulen.
As one of the organizers of the Friends of the Buck Creek Annual Clean Up, which took place in August, Vermeulen and the team have pulled out lots of plastic along with styrofoam and tires out of the river.
“We estimate we pull about a half ton of trash out of the creek every year,” Vermeulen said.
Unfortunately, plastic, styrofoam, and tires are not the only items the volunteers have found. In the past there have been a dryer, partial dishwasher, drums of mysterious liquids, and tennis balls.
“Lots of balls seem to make it in the river,” Vermeulen said. “This year’s most unusual item was a volunteer thought there was a body in the water as it was floating face down. It turned out to be a doll.”
First started by Trout Unlimited, the clean up has been taking place about seven years. The group primarily focuses on the Buck Creek in the Grandville and Wyoming area, selecting about seven sites along the river with a mix of brand new and repeat locations.
And while every year it can seem frustrating on the amount of trash removed, the positive is the number of people who come out each year to help with the clean up.
“We had more than 100 people come out this year,” Vermeulen said. “The better benefit is having people come out and see what is in the river. What our throwaway society does to our watershed.
“Hopefully they begin to reuse things more. Maybe they say this is the year I get that water filter and refill a stainless water bottle.”
The Buck Creek, which is one of the few cold water creeks that runs through a municipality, empties into the Grand River, which the West Michigan Environmental Action Council’s 16th Annual Mayor’s Grand River Cleanup is set for Saturday, Sept. 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event starts at the 6th Street Park in Grand Rapids. Refreshments before the event and a light lunch after with a beverage garden (must be 21 or old with ID) will be hosted by Founders Brewery and Cascade Blonde.
Bilal Muhammad is the new supervisor of 54th Street Academy, the district’s alternative high school. The role is similar to a principal.
Other positions you have held in education:
Student services coordinator at Kelloggsville Middle School
Middle School athletic director at Grand Rapids Public Schools
How about jobs outside education? I worked in customer service for JC Penney Catalog for seven years.
Bilal Muhammad and wife Stacy; daughter Illiana, 14; and son Amir, 8. (School News Network)
Education/degrees: Bachelor of social science and master of education from Ashford University
Spouse/children: wife, Stacy; son, Amir, 8; and daughter Illiana, 14
Hobbies and Interests: I like sports. I coach basketball and I still play basketball. I like to travel.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? I was big into athletics. I played basketball and I ran track. Academically, I was stellar, I got the work done.
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… I feel students want to know you have their best interests at heart. They won’t really learn from you if you don’t build that positive relationship with them.
Finish this sentence: If I could go back to school I would go to grade ? because…I kind of feel like everything happens for a reason so I wouldn’t change anything I went through, because I learn from my experiences. I wouldn’t go back to a grade, because everything I’ve been through made me who I am.
For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
In 1969, a group of woman, all with Mexican roots, came together with the vision to share their culture and heritage with the Grand Rapids community.
That event — called a Kermés, a combination of food and artisan market with a collection of performances from local artists — has evolved into the La Fiesta Mexicana which will run Friday – Sunday, Sept. 13 — 15, at the Calder Plaza, 300 Monroe Ave. NW.
The very first Fiesta Mexicana featured a parade with horses. (Supplied)
“The first Fiesta Mexicana was organized to be an intimate gathering for people from the local church,” said Mexican Heritage Association President Gabriela De La Vega. “The result was a much larger festivity including horses and a parade through the city.”
De La Vega said she was fortunate to work along side many of the people who were part of that original planning committee.
“Because of them, I continue to be ruled by the same spirit that powered the creation of ‘La Fiesta Mexicana,” she said.
The three-day event is packed with music with two mariachi bands scheduled to perform on Saturday. Mariachi Orr y Plata, which is set to perform 2-4 p.m. and 10 p.m. – midnight on Saturday, and the Grammy-nominated Mariachi Herencia de Mexico is scheduled to perform from 6 – 7 p.m. Saturday. There are several other performances by a variety of bands such as Latinos Klan, Súper Nova, and Banda El Bajio.
There also will be the annual La Fiesta Mexican queen contest, traditional clothes contest, and a Carreolas alegóricas (strollers with Mexican motives). There also will be clowns and a street supermarket (Piñatas).
And of course, what would a 50th anniversary party be without cake, which De La Vega promised a “huge one.”
A tradition at the festival is the crowing of the queen. (Supplied)
“It is within our nature as a community to overcome any situation because we are a group of hard-working people with many different dream and a passion to share our culture and traditions with our community,” De La Vega said. “This is why it’s so important now more than ever to share the great news that we continue to overcome, to be resilient, proud, and grateful about this beautiful city of Grand Rapids.
“I thank our community for letting us celebrate 50 years of tradition, culture, history, perseverance and success.”
For more about La Fiesta Mexican visit the Mexican Heritage Association’s Facebook page. Also participating in this event is the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Kent District Library, and the Grandville Avenue Arts and Humanities Inc., which includes the Cook Arts Center and the Cook Library Center.
Recently WKTV’s Donna Kidner Smith sat down with Kent County Commissioners Betsy Melton and Monica Sparks to talk about the challenges women face when running for public office.
Of the 19-member Kent County Board of Commissioners, six positions are held by women. The commission oversees services for about 660,000 people living in the county with a budget of around $444 million dollars.
Both the seats that Melton and Sparks currently have previously were held by men both of whom had served on the Board of Commissioners for a number of years. Harold Mast served in District 12 until 2018 when Sparks was elected to the seat. District 12 covers the western portion of the City of Kentwood and the eastern portion of the City of Wyoming. Dick VanderMolen served District 13 up until 2016 when Melton was elected to the seat. The 13th District covers the eastern portion of the City of Kentwood.
“I don’t think people really looked at it was a man and now it is a women,” Melton said. “I think it was who has more experience in Kentwood and, actually my opponent was a woman equally as qualified. It is how you bring your passion for where you are representing to the city is what I think people look at.”
Sparks said before running for any seat know the issues that impact that specific board or governmental unit.
“In this political climate, we want to fight for this or that and many of those things don’t affect us [on the Board of Commissioners),” Sparks said, adding that the main focus for the Kent County Board of Commissioners is to make sure it provides continued services for the county’s residents.
“So run on the platform of your passion but it has to meet with the job so you are not out here speaking about things that don’t really have anything to do with the position,” Sparks said.
Both Melton and Sparks will be up for re-election in 2020.
“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.”
Mark Twain
A kaleidoscope of cultures
Immigrants in 1892
For many of our immigrant ancestors, the process of coming to this country was relatively simple. It is much more complicated today. Understanding your own family history and immigration story can help put the current discussion about immigration in context. Go here for more info.
A timely topic, discussed
From right to left: Emily Bridson, Skot Welch, Patti Caudill, and Ken Norris. (WKTV)
The latest episode of WKTV Journal’s In Focus series of podcasts focuses on the anti-discrimination public policies — a timely topic as the City of Grand Rapids City Commission just this last passed a Human Rights Ordnance which will be the basis of the formation of future public policies. Go here.
Make one wish — or a hundred
Magic is everywhere!
Egads! It’s that time of year again — when insects seek a nice, cozy place to spend the winter. Meet your new neighbors here.
Fun fact:
Something in common
See? They even walk like us.
The beaks of octopuses and squids (yes, they have beaks) are made of keratin, the same material that a bird’s beak — and our fingernails — are made of. Say hello to your newfound relatives.
Sixth-graders Ny’Leah Friend, Yaren Villagomez, Marleni Rios and Aliyah Santiago-Romero hang out in the hall during their lunch and break period. A district reconfiguration moved fifth-graders out of the building, giving the remaining sixth- through eighth graders a little more freedom to do what they choose on break. (School News Network)
As a first-grader last year, Carlos Ortiz was one of the younger students at North Godwin Elementary. Now he’s top dog.
Second-graders Chloe Powers and Carlos Ortiz were first-graders in two separate kindergarten through fourth-grade buildings last year. Now, they’re under one roof at West Godwin Elementary. (School News Network)
“Last year at North, I was in school with a lot of big kids, but this year I’m in school with kids my age,” said Carlos, a second-grader at West Godwin Elementary.
Last year, North Godwin and West Godwin elementaries housed students in kindergarten through fourth grade, while the middle school housed students in fifth through eighth grade. When the school year commenced Monday, West Godwin opened its doors as a kindergarten through second-grade building, North Godwin as a third- through fifth-grade building, and Godwin Heights Middle School as the place for sixth- through eighth-graders.
While he’s had to get his bearings in the new building, Carlos said he likes the new setup — and he’s not alone.
A Welcome Change
West Godwin Principal Mary Lang said the change has been a welcome one. While the main objective was to move fifth-graders out of middle school, she said, there have been benefits at all grade levels.
Principal Mary Lang in her office at West Godwin Elementary, which now houses students in kindergarten through second grade. (School News Network)
“We really felt strongly that it was going to be great for our learning environment to have all of our grade level teachers under the same roof, collaborating and working together,” said Lang, who was principal at North Godwin before moving to West Godwin this year. “Also, it allows for our student population to be together from kindergarten through 12th grade. They’re not making that awkward transition to a different group of peers at sixth grade.”
Last spring, Kristen Socha packed up her classroom at North Godwin, where she taught for 12 years. This summer, she unpacked that classroom at West Godwin, where she now teaches second grade.
“The feeling in the building — the attitude in the building — is very positive,” Socha said. “I think our students feel calmer, the teachers feel calmer and we have a greater opportunity to work together for the better of all the second grade students.”
Socha said that a recent professional development day highlighted this benefit: some teachers had been trained in a certain curriculum and others had not. Being together allowed those teachers who had been trained to share what they had learned.
“Having all the second grade team there, hearing exactly the same thing at exactly the same time lets us work together,” she said. “And it’s not long distance; it’s next door.”
Seventh-grader Liyah Laseur in the Godwin Heights Middle School gym. (School News Network)
Taking the Fifth
Perhaps the biggest difference is at Godwin Heights Middle School, where Bradley Tarrance is principal. Last year, the logistics of housing fifth- through eighth-graders were tricky at best with fifth- and sixth-graders on different times and class schedules than the older students. Certain hallways and staircases prohibited older students in an attempt to keep the oldest and youngest students separate.
Now, said Tarrance, there is unity: the sixth, seventh and eighth grades are on the same class schedule, the student body shares student leadership, classrooms are clustered by content rather than grades and there are no prohibited areas for the older students.
By minimizing the logistical and social challenges, Tarrance said, “we can have a laser-like focus on content.”
Seventh grader Liyah Laseur said she likes the new setup, even though the halls are a bit busier during class switches, with three grades switching at the same times.
“I feel like fifth grade is more toward elementary anyways,” Liyah said.
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
At Northview High School Friday, Wyoming high got a great effort from running back Cameron (Cam) Simon, who rushed for rushed for 192 yards and one touchdown, and quarterback Matthew Berg threw scoring strikes to Mahki Mathews and Diamonte Parks.
But the Wolves could not match the Wildcats’ big-play power in a 49-21 non-conference loss Sept. 6.
After a finishing the first half with a 21-21 tie, Northview (2-0) scored 28 unanswered points to hand Wyoming (1-1) its first loss of the season.
Last season, Northview was 7-3 including an opening round playoff loss to Grand Rapids Christian, which ended a six-game winning streak. They were 5-1 in OK White and finished second to Cedar Springs, their only conference loss.
Against Wyoming, Wildcat running back Jakaurie Kirkland rushed for 270 yards and four touchdowns, including runs of 60, 37, 82 and 57 yards.
The Wyoming at Northview was scheduled to be televised as a WKTV Featured Games, but technical issues forced plans to be cancelled. This week’s featured game will be at East Kentwood.
In other local football action, East Kentwood (1-1) bounced back from an opening season loss at Muskegon Mona Shores with a 39-6 road win at Grand Ledge Friday. In the win, the Falcons jumped out to a 25-0 first half lead on a 40-yard run by Josh Ledesma and a 13-yard pass from Christian Tanner to Colton Emeott in the first quarter, and then a 39-yard run by Willie Berris and a 22-yard run by Tanner.
Also on Friday, South Christian (1-1) lost at Muskegon Reeths-Puffer, 35-21; Godwin Heights (0-2) lost at Hudsonville Unity Christian, 36-0; Kelloggsville (0-2) lost at Williamstown, 27-0,Wyoming Lee (0-2) lost at Gobles, 37-20; and Tri-unity Christian lost at Martin, 20-0, in 8-Man football.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
School may be in session but for Denise Kooiker, aka School Supply Santa, collecting school supplies does not stop just because the bell has rung.
“Once school starts, people can bring supplies right to Byron Ministries for the following year,” Kooiker said. “Our main part we tried to do before school starts, but we receive items throughout the year.”
School Supply Santa’s main push for collections takes place in July and August when donation boxes are put out at many area business. Staff from 36 area schools are invited to an event in August where they can pick out items for students in their school.
Almost 1,100 backpacks were handed out along with about 46,000 school supplies at the 2019 event. Schools serviced by the program include Byron Center, Godwin Heights, Godfrey-Lee, Kelloggsville, Kentwood and Wyoming.
It was 12 years ago when Kooiker, a hair stylist, had a client tell her about the needs for her students.
“I was naive,” Kooiker said. “What do you mean kids don’t have school supplies?”
She started School Supply Santa by filling her car and now has a storage facility along with the space at Byron Ministries for donations.
So as area residents hit the stores for sales throughout the year, keep in mind of the needs of area students, Kooiker said. Items most needed are dry erase markers as many schools do not use chalkboards but dry erase boards.
“Backpacks are always a big thing,” Kooiker said. “It is such a confidence booster. It is hard to come to school without one or one that is old and frayed.”
For a complete list of school supplies, visit the School Supply Santa website, schoolsupplysanta.com
WKTV Journal In Focus’s podcast on the anti-discrimination public policies featured Kentwood City Commissioner and community advocate Emily Bridson, at right, along with Patti Caudill, manager of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion for the City of Grand Rapids, and Skot Welch of Global Bridgebuilders. The program is hosted by WKTV’s Ken Norris, left. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal’s In Focus series of podcasts, we discuss the anti-discrimination public policies — a timely topic as the City of Grand Rapids City Commission just this last passed a Human Rights Ordnance which will be the basis of the formation of future public policies.
Visiting our studios, each with unique perspectives on the subject, are Kentwood City Commissioner and community advocate Emily Bridson; Patti Caudill, manager of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion for the City of Grand Rapids; and Skot Welch of Global Bridgebuilders which, according to its website, has the “core belief that inclusion is a business discipline.”
For a link to the ‘Anti-discrimination Policies” audio podcast, click here; for a link to the episode’s interview video, click here and scan down the list to the Sept. 5 In Focus podcast. (If you’d like to give us some feedback on our special In Focus podcasts, please contact Ken Norris at ken@wktv.org.)
Regular episodes of 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).
As his team “went to work” at practice this week in preparation for a high school football Week 2 game at Northview High School, Wyoming high head football coach Irv Sigler Jr. sounded like an X’s and O’s football coach as he talked to WKTV.
He praised his offensive line play in the team’s dominating 59-25 win over Holland opening week. He praised his opponent this week and said his team would need to be better to beat the Wildcats on their home field — a game which WKTV’s Featured Game sports coverage crew will be covering. UPDATE: Due to technical issues, WKTV was unable to video record the game.
But Coach Sigler also went a bit beyond the X’s and O’s by talking about the “culture” of his program, which has a modest 5-13 record in his first two years but may be about to turn the competitive corner.
Coach Sigler. (WKTV)
“We’ve grown a great deal in our ability to practice with purpose, with having a sense of urgency about getting better every day when we come out … the little things are the difference between being good and great,” Coach Sigler said in a WKTV interview. (See the entire interview on YouTube here.) “I describe our kids as lunchbox kids. They come here every day. They got a lunch box and they go to work.”
In their opening night games, Northview defeated Comstock Park 28-7 while Wyoming defeated Holland 59-25 in a game which was began on Thursday night but finished on Friday night due to storms moving through the area.
Wyoming High School football practice. (WKTV)
For the Wolves, junior running back (and linebacker) Cameron (Cam) Simon rushed for just shy of 200 yards and scored four touchdowns, while junior quarterback Matthew Berg passed for three TDs.
Northview, out of OK White, had 10 new starters on defense against Comstock Park but still held the Panthers to a single touchdown. Running back Jakaurie Kirkland had 220 yards on 23 carries. Senior quarterback Dan Frey went 7-of-11 for 72 yards, with two touchdown passes to sophomore Kyler VanderJact.
Northview, last season, was 7-3 including an opening round playoff loss to Grand Rapids Christian, which ended a six-game winning streak. They were 5-1 in OK White and finished second to Cedar Springs, their only conference loss.
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 wktvlive.org.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
SpartanNash is encouraging its store guests to celebrate National Family Meals Month and share one more meal per week at home, using items purchased from the grocery store. Sponsored by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) Foundation, Family Meals Month emphasizes the importance of sharing a meal together.
According to FMI, kids – from elementary to high school age – who eat meals with their families four or more times a week earn better test scores and succeed in school. Eating family meals together is also tied to a 24 percent increase in healthy food consumption, with kids eating more fruits, vegetables, fiber, calcium-rich foods and vitamins.
During Family Meals Month, SpartanNash and its 160 corporate-owned stores are challenging customers to pledge to have one more meal together each week at home. To make it easier to do so, SpartanNash and its Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery, Dan’s Supermarket and Family Fresh Market stores are offering tips and tricks online, in-store and through social media using the hashtags #FamilyMealsMonth and #OurFamilyMeals.
Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery, Dan’s Supermarket and Family Fresh Market Facebook pages will share weekly recipe videos featuring Our Family® products, all of which are easy and nutritious weeknight family meals.
The Family Fare Facebook page (@shopfamilyfare) will host a live Q&A session on Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. ET, where fans can ask food and nutrition questions to SpartanNash’s Living Well team.
Store guests are encouraged to share their own family meals using the hashtag #OurFamilyMeals.
“Sharing meals can improve a family’s health and well-being, because the more meals families share, the more likely they are to eat more fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods together,” said Tom Swanson, SpartanNash senior vice president and general manager, corporate retail. “At SpartanNash, we’re proud to do our part to support our store guests as they look for healthy, nutritious ways to bring their families together at the dinner table.
“From ready-to-cook healthy proteins to pre-cut fruits and vegetables and stir fry ingredients, our stores are stocked with ingredients to make it easier for time-starved families to enjoy a quick and easy meal together – all at budget friendly prices. During Family Meals Month and beyond, we hope all our store guests will be inspired to return to the kitchen to enjoy wholesome meals together.”
In 2017, SpartanNash earned the FMI Gold Plate Award for its support of Family Meals Month, recognizing its commitment to raising awareness of the importance of eating healthier and together as a family.
Late game action from the Lee at Godwin Heights boys soccer game Aug. 29. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
The Lee High School boys soccer broke open a tight, defensive struggle with two goals near the end of the first half, and then ran their early-season record to 7-0 overall and 3-0 in OK Conference Silver with a 5-1 win over cross-town rival Godwin Heights on Thursday, Aug. 29.
Jesus “Chucho” Cruz.
The game was televised by WKTV Community Media’s high school sports coverage team with special Spanish-language announcing by local soccer instructor and radio host Jesus “Chucho” Cruz. The Spanish language audio game telecast will be replayed Saturday, Aug. 31, at 11 a.m., and then again Wednesday, Sept. 4, at 6:30 p.m. on WKTV cable channels. It will also be available both with Spanish and English announcers on-demand at WKTVlive.org. (See note below for details.)
Cruz is a goalie trainer for GRAS Academy of Grand Rapids and hosts the local La Mejor GR radio program.
In the actual game between Lee and Godwin Heights, Legends junior Gerardo Montañez broke the scoreless tie with about 4 minutes remaining in the first half, then about two minutes later sophomore Edgar Vasquez scored to push the score to 2-0. Lee and Vasquez wasted little time getting on the board in the second as he scored again with only about seven minutes played in the second half.
Lee pushed the score to 5-0 with goals by junior Willi Diaz and senior Michael Esqueda before Godwin sophomore Mario Aguilar tallied late for the final 5-1 score. Senior Godwin goalkeeper senior Eric Truong had several good saves despite the one-sided score. Lee sophomore Jacob Flores faced relatively few threats on goal as the Legends defense played very well.
With the loss, Godwin Heights’ record is now 1-1-1 overall and 0-1-1 in conference play.
In the lead-up to the contest, WKTV interviewed Lee coach Jamie Ramirez on the state of this current team and the school’s soccer program. For a story visit here. For a video, visit here.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
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 wktvlive.org .
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey” which holds true for Grand Rapids resident Luis Solis.
Solis has a ticket for a very special flight — one of the last flights of the American Airlines MD-80. American Airlines announced several months ago it would retire the last of its 26 McDonnell Douglas MD-80 aircrafts, also known as the Super 80 or Mad Dog.
“When I first heard about it, I was like they are going to retire the MD-80, too sad,” said Solis, a commercial airplane aficionado who easily admits he sometimes books a flight based on the type of aircraft being used. The announcement came and went but then, American Airlines released the schedule of the final revenue (passenger) flights for the iconic plane.
“When I opened up the schedule and saw that there was a flight leaving from Grand Rapids on Sept. 3, I just began to take a look to see if there were seats and, well I was able to get one.”
The flight is scheduled to leave at 2:25 p.m. Sept. 3 from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and will land in Fort Wayne, Texas, the final destination for many of the American Airlines’ MD-80s.
Knowing it planned to retire the MD-80, American Airlines did not update the aircraft’s exterior logos. (Wikipedia)
There is some sentimental value as well in taking the flight as the aircraft was an instrumental key to the U.S.’s current air transportation system, Solis said.
A deal in 1982 between the MD-80’s maker, McDonnell Douglas, and American Airlines is credited for saving both the companies from financial ruin. Considered a workhorse, the aircraft was crucial to American Airlines planned growth in the 1980s that included the hub concept with the carrier being able to service smaller markets such as Grand Rapids. Other airlines soon followed American Airlines lead, purchasing the MD-80.
About anyone who flew in the 1980s or 1990s probably has done so on the MD-80, especially if they took an American Airlines flight. American Airlines had the largest fleet of the aircraft, with more than 250. That number grew to around 380 — about 40 percent of the airline’s fleet — when American Airlines acquired TWA in 2001.
Because the aircraft was so common, it was associated with many fond memories for those who piloted it and were along for the ride.
“MD-80 was often the one that was taking me to my vacation or bringing me back from my vacation. It was simple and it had a smooth ride,” Solis said. “It didn’t have all the amenities that new planes have but I loved it. It is one of those planes that when you saw it, you just knew what you were going to fly.”
Time marches on and the global fleet of MD-80s started to age with American Airlines being the first to stop investing in the aircraft. The newer aircrafts are quieter and offer more entertainment amenities.
And while American Airlines is retiring its MD-80s, you still will see them in the sky. Delta, along with several foreign airlines, still utilize the aircraft and the MD-80s also are used as cargo planes.
When a U.S. airline retires an aircraft after decades of service any one of three things can happen: the aircraft can be immediately destroyed and the metal recycled; the aircraft can sit in the dry graveyard in California’s Mojave Desert; or the aircraft can be re-sold to air services in smaller, foreign countries.
The combination that this is one of the last MD-80 flights for American Airlines, which is credited with helping to develop today’s high frequency pattern of air service, and it is leaving from Grand Rapids, a rarity for last flights, makes the Sept. 3 truly an adventure, Solis said.
“It really is about the journey,” Solis said. “To know that sometime in the past I rode this and that this is it, this is the last time; it is like somebody retiring. It’s done.”
Godfrey Elementary teacher Alex Kuiper prepares his classroom for the first day of school on August 19. Kuiper and his colleagues spent many days over the summer prepping for their students and the new school year. (School News Network)
Seating options including exercise balls and cushy chairs, calming decor and tech-ready environments were classroom amenities teachers had in mind long before students arrived for the first day of school Aug. 19.
As they do every August, the educators spent many hours and days preparing their classrooms to create the perfect learning environment. The following four Godfrey-Lee teachers shared how they prepped for opening day and beyond.
From his classroom library and bulletin boards to the seating arrangement and many other details, Godfrey Elementary teacher Alex Kuiper wants his classroom to be a home away from home for his students; one that feels safe and inviting. (School News Network)
Alex Kuiper, third-grade, Godfrey Elementary:
Kuiper, in his fifth-year teaching, said he wanted to make sure the classroom was inviting to his new students.
“I’m making sure when they come in that they feel like it’s a home away from home, and that they feel safe in the classroom,” Kuiper said. “I want my room to be conducive to learning … an environment that is inviting. It needs to be a place where they feel comfortable and cared about.
“I also want to make sure the kids have everything they need in order to have a successful school year; notebooks, folders, crayons, pencils. We’ve had some great community partners who have been able to donate school supplies for us, but that doesn’t mean I don’t spend my own money. I’ve spent at least a thousand dollars on my class library to make sure there’s a good selection for reading. The Guido A. and Elizabeth H. Binda Foundation has generously donated money to help us get more books, and with other grants we’ve been able to get more classroom library books so I don’t feel as pressured.”
After years of helping his mom, Mary Kuiper, set up her classroom as a youngster, his mother now returns the favor.
“I grew up in a family of teachers,” Alex Kuiper said.
There’s a good reason Early Childhood Center teacher Kimberly Radcliff’s classroom looks disheveled a few days before opening day. She was hired one day before open house and is rushing to get things ready with her mom Kathy Sporer (School News Network)
Kimberly Radcliff, early childhood special education (ages 2-1/2 to 5 years old), Early Childhood Center:
After getting hired just a day before open house last week, Radcliff worked overtime to get her room ready for the first day of school.
“It was kind of a rush this year,” laughed Radcliff, as she spoke about her recent hiring. “Right now I’m just organizing and putting toys away and I’ll figure out room space and classroom setup.
“I’m going to take down the bright bulletin boards. A lot of early elementary/special ed kiddos have sensory issues, so I want to do something that’s a calmer, lighter color for them. Classroom environment is huge. They need to feel safe and excited about the environment.”
Similar to Kuiper, Radcliff also had help from her mother, Kathy Sporer.
“I’m looking forward to the impact I can have on the students, not just in the classroom, but with their families. Some of it is helping parents parent as well as teaching kids.”
Eryn Watson’s classroom is well under way (School News Network)
Early Childhood first-grade teacher Eryn Watson gets her class ready for the new school year. (School News Network)
Eryn Watson, first grade, Early Childhood Center:
Entering her sixth year teaching at Godfrey-Lee, Watson is moving up with her kindergartners to first grade.
“I’m lucky because I was in kindergarten last year and I have the same group of students this year,” said Watson, who first thought of being a teacher in elementary school. “I’m setting up my classroom with them in mind. I want to make it feel cozy, fun and collaborative.
“This summer, I came here every Friday for a full day to prepare, and I spent three days last week and all of this week here.”
Like other teachers, she is using other option than just desk for her students to sit in.
“I am doing a lot of flexible seating this year,” said Watson. “We’re going to be using technology quite a bit, so I want it to be comfortable.”
Alicia Provencal, second-grade teacher at the Early Childhood Center, said she wants her classroom to be clean, organized and simple. She also likes the flexible seating concept. (School News Network)
Early Childhood Center second-grade teacher Alicia Provencal prepares for a new classroom of students. (School News Network)
Alicia Provencal, second grade, Early Childhood Center:
Provencal tries to keep her classroom clean, organized and simple.
“I don’t like a lot of stuff on the walls. I leave my bulletin boards empty so I can add things during the year that they’re proud of and put certain things on display.”
And she’s all in with flexible seating.
“It helps students that are uncomfortable in chairs.”
For more stories about area schools, visit the School News Network website schoolnewsnetwork.org.
GM Components Holdings Planet Manager Troy Comiskey (far left) and UAW Local 167 Bargaining Chair Martin Wood (far right) presented $30,000 in GM Community Impact Grants at the 28th Street Metro Cruise. (WKTV)
As plant manager of Wyoming’s GM Components Holdings, Troy Comiskey can tell you a lot about the facility located at 2100 Burlingame Ave. SW, such as the plant added 330 new jobs last year when it opened its axle department last year.
But the highlights for Comiskey, who has been with the plant for about a year, is the dedication the team has to helping better its community.
“Last year, for the mayor’s river clean-up, we filled a bus with volunteers who worked on both the Buck Creek and the Grand River,” Comiskey said.
Martin Wood, the bargaining chair for Local 167, the union that represents many of the employees at GM Components Holdings, said the team at the plant has had a long history of giving back to its community.
“The members of Local 167 do a lot in the community from working with robotics programs to helping collect school supplies for area schools,” Wood said. “Today it is just great to be highlighting some of the organizations that we work with that give back to our community.”
On Aug. 24, Comiskey and Wood were at the 2019 Metro Cruise to present $30,000 in GM Community Impact Grants, funded by GM Corporate Giving, to three organizations that provide services to the Wyoming and Kentwood communities. The organizations, each receiving $10,000, were the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), and Kids Food Basket.
“Last year, we were able to use the money to bring in the distracted driving simulator to two different high schools,” said the City of Wyoming Chief Kim Koster, who received the check for the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance. The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance has received money from the GM Corporate Giving program for the past several years.
“This year we are planning to purchase several portable speed detectors,” Koster said, adding that these detectors have been helpful in monitoring speeds on local roads.
“They provide a way for drivers to self monitor how fast they are going,” she said. “They have proven to be very efficient in that a driver is able to see the speed they are going and self adjust. They see they are exceeding the limit and slowdown.”
Koster said how many monitors would be purchased and where they would be located still had to be determined.
[huge_it_slider id=”85″]
Another organization that has received GM Community Impact Grants in the past is WMEAC. The organization uses the funds to support its Teach for the Watershed at Godfrey Lee Public Schools. The program is a hands-on opportunity for students in kindergarten through sixth grade to learn about their watershed, storm water contamination, and what the students can do to prevent pollution. The funs also helped to support WMEAC’s Annual Mayors’ Grand River Cleanup, the largest annual river clean up in Michigan.
Receiving its first GM Community Impact Grant was the Kids Food Basket, which provides sack suppers to at-risk children who are in food-insecure households. Kids Food Basket provides meal to children who attend schools in the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming.
The GM Community Impact Grants program this year will provide nearly $2.3 million in funding to hundreds of organizations in 47 communities where GM employed live and work. Of that amount, $30,000 was awarded to the GM Components Holdings LLC in Wyoming to give to local organizations.
This Labor Day weekend will be filled with music on WKTV 25 as the station runs two marathon events featuring the summer outdoor concerts from both the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood.
A tradition for many years, WKTV has features the City of Wyoming’s Concerts int the Park series on Labor Day, Sept. 2. This year, the station has included a marathon of the City of Kentwood Summer Concert series on Saturday, Aug. 31, giving residents from both communities away to enjoy the past summer before the school year starts.
The Crane Wives were a featured group at the City of Kentwood’s Summer Concert series. (WKTV)
Kick off the Labor Day holiday with the Saturday special of the Kentwood Summer Concerts. The concerts will be shown in the following order:
1:30 p.m. The Cranes Wives, a popular West Michigan band
2:50 pm. That Beatles Thing, hits from The Beatles’ catalog
4:20 p.m. Brena, oldies, top 40 hits, classic rock, R&B and country
5:55 pm. Melophobix, an alternative band with a funky musical outlook
7:05 p.m. Hannah Rose and the Gravetones, funk, blues and rock n’ roll
Brena performed at both the City of Kentwood and the City of Wyoming summer concerts series. (Supplied)
On Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, the station will air the City of Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park series. The concerts will be shown in the following order:
9:30 a.m. Midlife Crisis, oldies, classic rock band
11:05 a.m. Brena, oldies, top 40 hits, classic rock, R&B and country
12:40 p.m. Ray Watkoski and Family, polka music
2:10 p.m. Paradise Outlaw, Americana with Motown and Southern rock
3:40 p.m. Jared Knox, country music
5 p.m Jack and The Spare Tires, sixties, seventies, and eighties covers
6:35 p.m. Broadman Brown, country music
8:05 p.m. Daddyz Breakdown, classic rock
9:45 p.m. Shadows of the Night, music from the women of rock ‘n’ roll
11:10 p.m Brena, oldies, top 40 hits, classic rock, R&B and country
For more program information, visit wktv.org or go to the tab WKTV Schedule at the wktvjournal.org.
The Lee High School boys soccer team is off to a 6-0 start this season, and coach Jaime Ramirez has plenty of reasons to smile about their goals of a conference title. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Lee High School boys soccer coach Jaime Ramirez likes the state of his program, top to bottom, from the nearly 40 kids in the middle school program to the deep, talented varsity roster that has posted a 6-0 early-season record heading into a cross-town rivalry with Godwin Heights on Thursday, Aug. 29.
But Ramirez and his newly-named Legends expect more after last season’s 18-7 record including two playoff wins with an 8-3 record in OK Conference Silver standings, and this season’s fast start including a 2-1 comeback road win over Grandville Calvin Christian in conference play.
“The kids are working really hard. They have ambitions to make history on their own this year. The last conference championship we had was in 2010,” Rameriez said to WKTV early this week. “They are anxious to put another conference championship on their shoulders.”
The Lee boys soccer game at Godwin Heights will be this week’s WKTV High School Sports Featured Game of the Week.
Lee lost only two players from last year’s squad and feature not only five seniors and five juniors on the varsity roster, but also several young players who are too good to keep off the varsity roster.
“That is what is making the team pretty strong,” Ramirez said. “This is my dream team. I can substitute like four of them and not notice a big difference on the team, which is what I believe all the coaches dream for.”
Coach (reluctantly) pointed out several players who are the “players to watch” on the offensive side of the squad, starting with senior Raul Antonio Montañez — “He is one ofr the best leaders I have. He works hard every single game and, right now, he is the number one we are looking for. … but like I said, we have a lot of good players coming back.”
Among those “good players coming back” is senior goalkeeper Jorge Andres Montes — “He is another straight-up leader.” As is junior Gerardo Montañez and senior Tristan Perez.
“I’ve got quite a few of them,” Ramirez said. “On defense I’ve got (sophomore) Alexander Ruiz, he is really good. And I’ve got a couple others coming back … (but) my midfielders are new this year. Wili Diaz has been playing really good. And Leonardo Maldonado, I put him up (on varsity), he was playing JV last year. … We have a lot of good players, it is hard for me to name just a few.”
The depth, on the varsity team and in the program, is not something the Legends have had in past years.
The Lee High School varsity team before a recent game. (WKTV)
“We have, if I’m not mistaken, something like 38 kids in the middle school program, and we are shooting to have two teams,” Ramirez said. “Back in 2007, when I started as a coach, I had 13 players on varsity. That’s it. That says something right there.
“The program is getting better and better. We’ve got more kids joining and we got a girls (program building the numbers) too. … The kids they really want to do things.”
And what the varsity “kids” want to do is win a conference title for a school which has struggled in many varsity sports in recent years.
“I talked to the guys and I keep telling them ‘We’ve got a lot of chances, a lot of potential to become OK champs this year.’ I’m not going to say we will, because I don’t like to say that. I’m going to say we’re going to try really hard.”
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 wktvlive.org.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Is your body clock out of whack? Not only might you not be sleeping right, you may have other medical problems. What you need to know to stay in time. Visit here for the story.
My heart will go on
It only makes sense, but a blood test can help you and your doctor gain information on your susceptibility to heart attack or stroke. Visit here for the story.
Behind the wall of sleep
Its OK to feel a little tired after a busy day. But if you’re drowsy in the middle of the day, it could be a sign of a deeper problem. Visit here for the story.
Fun fact:
21 (maybe only 20)
How many song titles in the Old Dominion song “Song for Another Time”? Depends on if the song itself is one of the titles. Source. (Ps. Did you notice all the headlines were song titles?)
Jake Cabada had a mighty start to kindergarten. While visiting his Gladiola Elementary classroom for the first time, he stood up tall, a serious look on his face, flexed his arm muscles and proclaimed, “I’m strong!”
Around him, his new classmates looked around curiously, chatted with new friends and some even fought back a few tears. It was a practice run for their first day of school, and the beginning of their K-12 journey.
The Wyoming Public Schools’ four elementary schools — Gladiola, West, Oriole Park and Parkview — hosted the two-hour Kindergarten Smart Start on the Friday before school started Tuesday, Aug. 20 to help the little ones feel comfortable with their new school.
Students Josiah Kink and Christian Aleman play together
After arriving by bus, they met their teachers, toured the building, sat “criss-cross applesauce” on the classroom rug, ate breakfast and visited the cafeteria.
They also received words of encouragement from their parents. “Can you go look for your name?” dad Victor Cabrera asked a shy Jaden Cabrera. Moments later, Jaden located the owl-shaped name tag on his new cubby and stood by it smiling.
Longtime kindergarten teacher Rebecca Schaffer said Smart Start serves as a great warm-up for beginning full-day school.
Teacher Karen Ward meets her new kindergartners
“The first day is chaos, so it’s a little more calming,” she said. “It acclimates them to their new environment. They meet their teacher, so it’s a familiar face on the first day.”
Schaffer is ready to start a new year with her pint-sized pupils. “The kids are so fun,” she said. “They are funny and they are so smart. You might think they are just kindergartners, but they are geniuses.”
Several fourth-graders worked as crossing guards and helped their younger peers. Fourth-grader Kaleah Lacy had some sage words for kindergartners: “It’s going to be OK. I went to kindergarten at this school too and it was good.”
For more stories on the local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org
Teacher Amber Middlemiss reads the book, “My New School,” to her new class.
When someone says wine tours, you might immediately think Traverse City or Sutton Bay area, but probably not in your own backyard of Greater Grand Rapids.
For Kris Mathis and his wife Chawntrell, both avid wine drinkers and who have been on a number of wine tours, having just such a tour in Grand Rapids made sense.
“People were like how are you going to create this wine experience when there are no wineries?” Mathis said. “What we do have in Grand Rapids is a rich, diverse restaurant scene many of which serve an array of wines from all over the world.”
So Mathis decided to incorporate the restaurants into a wine tour that celebrates the city’s rich diversity of food and culture. The public quickly embraced the tours, which is appropriately called Raise A Glass Wine Tours. The popularity of these weekend events, many of which have sold out, has encouraged Mathis to expand to include a walking tour that makes stops at downtown’s House of Wine and Bar Divani.
No matter what tour you attend, Mathis said it is all about the experience and breaking down the barriers to wine tasting and enjoyment.
“People view wine tastings as you have to have a certain level of knowledge, which is not true,” Mathis said, adding that when people sign up for a Raise A Glass tour, they are asked about their level of knowledge along with if there are any food allergies.
“Often times when my wife and I would go to wine pairings or tours, we would be the only African-American couple in the room,” Mathis said. “I saw the tours as way to introduce more people into the world of wine where sometimes they feel like it is over their head.”
Mathis added that the ulitmate goal is to make everyone feel welcome enough to share their experiences and thoughts regardless of their expertise.
What to expect?
Recently Mathis and his wife were host to a media tour that was A Taste of Culture Dinner Tour. The program, which takes about four hours, includes three stops: Forty Acres Soul Kitchen, 1059 Wealthy St. SE; St. Julian Winery – Rockford Tasting Room, 4425 14 Mile Rd. NE; and House of Wine, 53 Monroe Center St. NW.
The entire venture is like a progressive-style meal with the first having appetizers, the second, a small plate meal, and the third, dessert. All the pairings were small plates and to be honest, all the restaurant hosts offered more than just what was on the menu. In fact, owners and representatives were on hand to talk about the food and wines, answer questions, and discuss trends in the industry.
Kris Mathis and his wife Chawntrell
Forty Acres Soul Kitchen Chef Trimell Hawkins
Salmon Chowder Soup at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
Earl Stevens’ Tropiscato at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
Nashville Hot Chicken at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
Meochia Thompson and her daughter Disha Roddy at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
Our hosts from Here.To.Serve, a local hospitality company, commented on how much they love going to Forty Acres because the experience is never the same. In fact, Holland-raised Chef Trimell Hawkins delivered an incredible sampling of food from a watermelon salad to Nashville Hot Chicken (which I did not know you could get in Grand Rapids).
Co-owner Lewis Williams came to the table to talk about the night’s presentation which he said focused on traditional African-American soul food that has been upscaled paired with wines from African-American-owned wineries such as Earl Stevens, better known as rapper E-40, who had a twist on the moscato called Tropiscato.
St. Julian Winery offers more than just wine.
Cheers with the A&G Reserve brandy
Guest Becky DeYoung and Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
St. Julian Winery is a familiar name to many Michigan residents having operated in the Paw Paw area for almost 100 years. More recently, the winery entered into a joint venture with Flo’s Wood Fired Pizza and thus the tasting room in Rockford was opened last year. Brushetta, Caponata (an eggplant dip) and cheese bread from Flo’s menu were paired with wines from St. Julian which included a Pinot Grigio, Michcato, and Red Sangria.
Another item people may not know is that St. Julian also has its own line of spirits, A&G Reserve, which has been aged in Hungarian and French barrels. The winery also has a line of ciders.
Tucked neatly along Monroe Center, House of Wine is a father-daughter team of Jim and Emily Lynch. Opened in December 2018, House of Wine offers more than 70 wines that are from Michigan and beyond. The reason for the range is to allow patrons to discover what they like and to be able to venture out of their confront zone.
For us, it was samplings of a Canard Duchene Champagne, a Chateau de Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc, and a Napa Valley Quilt Cabernet Sauvignon paired with a three-generation recipe cheesecake — all of which made for a nice conclusion to the evening.
Kris Mathis with WKTV host Meochia Thompson, WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma and Becky DeYoung (Sam Cooper Photography)
Wrap Up
The tours are all inclusive so the $129.99 per person covers all the wine tasting fees, six different wine tastings, dinner small plates at each location, a wine tour guide and gratuity along with some other amenities. The walking tour, which is $74.99, includes the same amenities except there is no transportation as you walk to the different locations. To contact Raise A Glass Wine Tours, visit raiseaglasstours.com.
Mathis said expansion is definitely in the future which is mostly focused on building the brand of Raise Your Glass. He has no intention of moving into beer, a market that has a number of tour and tasting opportunities. He also noted that beer and cider changes the tour and he wants to continue to provide that luxury experience (which includes a Mercedes 12-seat bus) for people to explore wine and its many facets.
And in a city that is known for its beer, it is nice to know there is another option that celebrates the state’s long history of wine making by not only presenting Michigan wines but expanding upon it to give residents a better understanding of the global affair with wine.
The high school soccer season has already started with football close behind.
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
WKTV’s high school sports coverage truck will all over our local Wyoming and Kentwood football teams this season, but with a change of schedule for Wyoming Lee High School’s football team, we have switched our coverage to the other “football” — we will be at Godwin Heights as the Wolverines host the Lee Legends for a boys soccer game Thursday, Aug. 29.
As far as the Lee football game is concerned, after the originally scheduled home game against White Cloud was cancelled by the visiting school, Lee added a second game against Grandville Calvin Christian, which will be at Lee on Thursday, Aug. 29, at 7 p.m.
And, there is no shortage of high school sports action all over the Wyoming and Kentwood area, so check out something live if you can.
Where and when to see featured games
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
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 wktvlive.org .
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this weeks’s schedule:
Saturday, Aug. 24 Girls Volleyball Tri-Unity Christian vs TBA – WMVOA Invitational @ MSA Fieldhouse Godwin Heights vs TBA – Officials for Kids Tourney @ MSA Fieldhouse Potter’s House vs TBA – Official for Kids Tourney @ MSA Fieldhouse Zion Christian vs TBA – WMVOA Invitational @ MSA Fieldhouse South Christian @ Grand Haven Boys Tennis South Christian @ East Kentwood – EK Invite TBA @ Wyoming – David Bentley Tournament Boys / Girls Cross Country South Christian @ East Kentwood Wyoming Lee @ Muskegon Catholic Central Boys Soccer TBA @ Zion Christian – Zion Soccer Invite Boys Water Polo East Kentwood @ Ann Arbor Pioneer – Pioneer Invite Girls Volleyball East Kentwood @ Grand Haven – Lakeshore Classic
Monday, Aug. 26 Boys Soccer Tri-Unity Christian @ NorthPointe Christian South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Wyoming @ FH Eastern Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Girls Golf South Christian @ Muskegon Mona Shores Boys Tennis Holland Christian @ South Christian Girls Volleyball Wyoming Lee @ Algoma Christian
Tuesday, Aug. 27 Boys / Girls Cross Country South Christian @ St. Joseph Girls Swimming South Christian @ Grand Rapids Christian Central @ East Kentwood Boys Soccer NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee Ottawa Hills @ Wyoming Zion Christian @ Saugatuck Boys Tennis Wyoming @ Zeeland East TBA @ East Kentwood – EK Quad Girls Volleyball Ottawa Hills @ Wyoming Zion Christian @ Martin – Quad TBA @ East Kentwood – EK Early Bird Tournament
Wednesday, Aug. 28 Girls Golf South Christian @ Kent Country Club – OK Jamboree Boys Tennis Unity Christian @ South Christian Girls Volleyball Caledonia @ South Christian – Sailor Invite Boys Soccer East Grand Rapids @ South Christian Wyoming @ Wayland Rockford @ East Kentwood Boys / Girls Cross Country Godwin Heights @ Saranac Wyoming Lee @ Saranac Wyoming @ Wayland
Thursday, Aug. 29 Girls Swimming South Christian @ East Kentwood Boys Football Greenville vs South Christian @ Byron Center Godwin Heights @ Hamilton Grandville Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee Holland @ Wyoming Boys Soccer Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights – WKTV Featured Event Potter’s House vs West Michigan Heat – @ Hudsonville Christian Zion Christian @ Kalamazoo Christian Plainwell @ East Kentwood Girls Volleyball TBA @ East Kentwood – Lady Falcon Invite Boys / Girls Cross Country East Kentwood @ Milford – Invite
Friday, Aug. 30 Boys Football Tri-unity Christian @ Climax-Scotts East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Business owners and employers do no have to permit marijuana use or possession on their property was the main takeaway for a recent Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce meeting.
The program, which was this past spring at the Express Employment Professional offices in Wyoming, was focused on helping local business owners understand the impact of the November-approved marijuana act. The act, which allows for the use of recreational marijuana, went into effect in December.
The reason business owners can restrict marijuana is that federal law still deems it as an illegal drug.
“The federal law does supersede the state law,” said Heather Merrick, a professional/technical recruiter for Express Employment Professionals. “From an employer standpoint, we can stick to the federal guidelines. We can still have a drug enforcement policy within our organization and say we are 100 percent drug free and marijuana can be included in that even though it is legal under state law.”
Kent County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher Becker talks to local business owners about the Michigan Marijuana Act. (WKTV)
The bigger challenge is proving that a person is under the influence of marijuana when running equipment or at the job site, according to Kent County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher Becker.
“Proponents were like lets treat this like alcohol and we can, but there is no per se limit for marijuana,” Becker said. For alcohol that limit is .08. The other issue is that alcohol has a bell curve where as marijuana does not, he said.
“You have five beers at eight o’clock in the morning…you are going to have a high alcohol content in your blood stream and that is going to go down by four or five o’clock and you are going to be fine, probably,” Becker said.
“Marijuana stays in for days. So one of your employees can go out on a Friday and smoke marijuana, come to work on Monday and still have marijuana in their system. Now is he impaired? Depends on the person and how it is impacting him.”
For an employer, they need to be able to show that marijuana is affecting the employee’s ability to operate a motor vehicle in a safe manner, not that it is just in the person’s system.
“Legally, you can not operate, navigate or be in physical control of any motor vehicle, aircraft, snowmobile, off-road vehicle or motherboard while under the influence of marijuana,” Becker said. “We can do a blood test to say marijuana is in their system but just because marijuana is in their system does not mean they are operating under the influence.”
The prosecutor’s office may not be able to charge criminally because it can not show the person is under the influence but civil liability may attach because a company has got an employee driving a motor vehicle or a hi-low while having marijuana in his/her system, Becker said, adding that some of these issues may have to be litigated in the courts.
Heather Merrick, from Express Employment Professionals, talks to local businesses about updating their drug testing policies. (WKTV)
With these gray areas on what is considered “under the influence,” now is the time for employers to take a look at any existing drug testing policies or create new ones, Merrick said.
There are three options that employers have. The first is to maintain a drug-free workplace. Those who are federally contracted or under specific federal guidelines must maintain a drug-free workplace because the federal government views marijuana as illegal, she said.
Those who are not under federal rules have some factors to consider such as employment in Kent County is low, around 2.9 percent. Also, it is estimated that about 33 percent of workers will use marijuana in 2019. Statistics show that about 20 percent of people who are 26 or older are or will use marijuana, which could greatly reduce the possible pool of candidates for a business with a drug-free policy, Merrick said.
Option two would be to continue doing pre-employment drug screening, continue doing accident injury drug screening but take marijuana out of that mix. Merrick said that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, recommends that employers do not conduct any test if an accident would have happened regardless if the employee had taken drugs or alcohol.
“Say someone gets stung by a bee and they go to the med center and they are under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or whatever it is, they would have been stung by that bee whether they have it in their system or not,” Merrick said. “But you test them, they come up positive and now you are terminating the employee. So OSHA says not to test in that scenario because it discourages people from reporting accidents and injuries if they know they are going to get terminated because they are going to come up positive on the drug screen.”
Now if the accident involves a hi-low and it was caused by an employee who potentially was impaired, then do the testing, she said, adding “OSHA wants people to report accidents, so that is how they are looking at it.”
The last option is to completely stop drug testing. This move could save money on drug testing but could cause some safety issues, Merrick said.
Merrick did agree with Becker that until it is determined “what is under the influence” and how that is tested, businesses will be operating in somewhat of a gray area on the marijuana issue which makes it even more important for businesses to make sure that the company’s drug policy is in place and specifies what you will be testing for.
“Whether you have a policy or not, it is a good time for employers to look at what they have, revamp or put one together,” she said.
You sometimes hear it said that America’s love affair with cars peaked in the 1960s and has since started to fade. Anyone who believes that has probably not ventured a trip down 28th Street during the annual Metro Cruise, because if they had, they would be quick to discover that America’s love affair with cars is stronger than ever.
Started 15 years ago by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses and patrons to travel the “Sunset Strip of Grand Rapids,” the annual event has become a two-day car extravaganza with more than 100,000 people attending. This year’s Metro Cruise is Friday and Saturday Aug. 23 and 24, and it’s packed with more to do and see, according to organizers.
New this year will be a 4 p.m. Official Cruise along 28th Street. (WKTV)
“The stars are the cars,” as Chamber President /CEO Bob O’Callaghan likes to say. There will definitely be plenty of cars with the Main Event, located at Rogers Plaza, 972 28th St. SW, featuring nearly 400 stationary collector cars, which does not count the cars that will be cursing 28th Street or featured at other business along the road such as Berger Chevrolet.
Berger Chevrolet, 2525 28th St. SE, again will be hosting its All GM Show on Saturday, Aug. 24. The free event, which is open to the public, will feature NHRA drag racer and 2017 NHRA Drag Racing Series Top Fuel dragster champion Brittany Force and her father, drag racer John Force.
WKTV Community Media will produce a one-hour special live broadcast at Metro Cruise scheduled to air at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 23, on WKTVLive.org as well as on WKTV Comcast Cable Channel 25 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99, and, later on demand at WKTV.org.
There are a host of activities taking place at The Main Event located at Rogers Plaza: Those activities include:
A Blind Donut TasteTest is at 10 a. m. Saturday. The first 100 people will get the opportunity to blind taste test donuts from Wyoming’s Marge’s Donut Den and Kentwood’s Cindy’s Donuts and Ice Cream and then tell judges which donut they felt was the best.
Dynamometer, or Dyno, will return, allowing cars to rev up to more than 160 mph. There is a fee to participate in the Dynamometer. Visit 28thStreetMetroCruise.com for more information.
Metro Cruise Tours is new this year. Five different times at the Main Event at Rogers Plaza, an expert in the car world will be leading walking tours down Collector Car Row. The tour, which is free, is an opportunity to see some very special cars, meet the owners, and hear their stories.
Official Cruise Time is another new addition. Any collector car owner participating in the 2019 Metro Cruise is invited to participate in the official Cruise, which is at 4 p.m Saturday. Cars may enter or exit anywhere along 28th Street as there is no lead car. The goal, according to organizers, is to create a one- to two-hour concentration of collector cars along 28th Street.
The final round for the Miss Metro Cruise contest will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Main Event stage. The field of contestants was whittled down at the June preliminaries to 10 finalists who will compete on Saturday for the title of 2019 Miss Metro Cruise.
The final round of the Miss Metro Cruise contest takes place at 2 p.m. on Saturday. (WKTV)
Also at the Main Event will be 26 food vendors, including 16 food trucks, 35 local vendors, and official Metro Cruise souvenirs. There also will be music featuring five area bands. On Friday will be Flexadecibel (funk soul, rock) and Onager (rock, pop, country), and on Saturday will be Stolen Horses (country), La Aria del Ritmo (Latin) and Azz Izz (pop, R&M, Top 40). Activities at the Main Event at Rogers Plaza are from 4 – 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, and 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24.
Through a partnership with The Rapids, there will be a free shuttle service. The shuttle will pick up and drop off attendees at the Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway, and the Wyoming library, 3350 Michael every 20 to 30 minutes during the peak times on Friday, Aug. 23 and Saturday, Aug. 24.
There are other Metro Cruise-related activities happening on Thursday, Aug. 22, as well. The Cascade Metro Cruise Warm Up, Cascade Road and 28th Street, will feature more than 200 cars, a live DJ, food vendors, and activities for the children. This event runs from 4:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Also, the Blessing of the Cars, at Wesley Park United Methodist Church, 1150 32nd St. SE. The event runs from 6-7 p.m. More than 100 show cars are expected. No registration is required.
In the wake of recent mass shootings, state and federal efforts to introduce and pass so-called “Red Flag” laws — which would allow persons with access to guns to be investigated as being possible dangers to themselves and others, and to give authorities the ability to seize that person’s guns — was one topic discussed as part of a wide-ranging inter-governmental leaders meeting Monday, Aug. 12, at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Wyoming City Hall.
With bipartisan bills being introduced both in Lansing and in Washington, D.C., Peter Dickow, West Michigan Regional Director for U.S. Sen Gary Peters (D-Mi.) echoed other leader at the meeting by saying: “There is room for common sense legislation” on this issue.
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 Sept. 9 at Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, 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.
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 latest meeting on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., as well as on select Saturdays, on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26. For a highlight schedule of WKTV cable programs visit wktvjournal.org .
Mitch Miller’s 1955 Chevrolet is expected to be on display at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 28th Street Metro Cruise. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Anybody who has rebuilt a classic car will tell you there are somethings that just have to be modernized, that some of the original mechanicals simply can no longer be renovated.
That is especially true with classic pickups, most of which were bought and used as work vehicles — farm vehicles often — including Mitch Miller’s 1955 Chevrolet, a now annual visitor at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 28th Street Metro Cruise, this year on Aug. 23-24.
So while “Old Yeller” carries much history with it — including its original bright yellow paint job and his mother’s graduation tassel hanging from its rear view mirror — it also carries something few classic pickups possess: a fuel system running off of ethanol.
“It’s named ‘Old Yeller’ because it had that name, that color, when we bought it,” Miller said to WKTV. But in another way it is very, very different from when it was new or when it came into the family.
A Quick Fuel Technology carburetor, some new fuel lines and cleaned the fuel tank allows the vehicle to run on 85 percent ethanol . (Supplied)
“One of the interesting things is I converted it to E85,” he said. “I put a Quick Fuel (Technology) carburetor on it. Replaced the fuel lines and cleaned the fuel tank. It runs great on 85 percent ethanol and that is the only fuel I run through it now. That is kind of a thing (when he shows it off). I’m an ethanol producer, we have the NuVu (Fuels) gas stations, and we wanted to do a little bit of proving that ethanol can run great on older vehicles. It burns really clean and has good power.”
While the ’55 may have modern technology and a little bit of modern purpose associated with it, it also carries a family history that will be passed on in the family, Miller said.
“My father bought the truck in 1992, 27 years ago, in Bismarck, North Dakota … It was his favorite year of pickup. He was a Chevy guy for a lot of years,” Miller said. “But it had basically sat in a barn, in storage, for 15 years in Bismarck … I have had an interest in older vehicles, and have redone a number of vehicles — a ’74 Corvette, a ’68 Camaro — so I asked my brothers to ship that truck to me.”
As with almost any classic car rebuilt, the vehicle was in worse shape than he thought when it was finally parked in his garage — “A lot of pickups were used as farm trucks and they were really abused. I think they are more rare than the cars. … just preserving the history and keeping them on the road.
Mitch Miller’s 1955 Chevrolet “Old Yeller”. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
“I spent the winter of 2016, into 2017, just going through all the mechanical. Brakes. We added power steering. Radiator. Rims and tires. Took the dash out if it, got all the old gages working. … We were having trouble with the original straight six cylinder motor and we put a Crate 350 in it. So it has a little more horsepower. So, just got it road worthy. … Now it’s a great cruiser. We use it on the Interstate. It’ll run 75 miles an hour down the road.”
And with a reminder of its family history hanging from its rearview mirror, it will likely stay cruising down the Miller family road for a while.
“When my dad first bought it, my mom put her 1970 graduate class tassel on the rear view mirror and that would never be touched by our family. That stays there,” he said. “This truck will go down to my brother’s son, or my son. It will stay in the family.”
WKTV Community Media will produce a 1-hour special live broadcast scheduled to air at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 23, on WKTVLive.org as well as on WKTV Comcast Cable Channel 25 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99, and, later on demand at WKTV.org.
For more information Metro Cruise 2019, visit the chamber’s website at southkent.org and keep up on the latest news of Metro Cruise and DreamWheels at WKTVjournal.org.
The Kent District Library (KDL) Kentwood Branch Library. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
Kent County may be governed by the elected Board of Commissioners, but a ton of advisory and oversight work is done by various boards, commissions and committees, where members are often ordinary citizens with knowledge and/or interest in various fields and an interest in community service.
The Kent County Board of Commissioners, last week, announced it is seeking residents who are interested in serving the community through appointment to various boards, commissions and committees starting Jan. 1, 2020.
Among the Wyoming and Kentwood residency required positions are a position on the Kent District Library Board for Region 6, including Caledonia of Gaines townships, or City of Kentwood.
Any Kent County resident may apply by completing an online application form on the County’s website at accessKent.com/boardappointments. The application deadline is Sept. 30. Resumes and cover letters are encouraged for positions with specific skill sets required.
Among the boards, commissions and committees that have openings for terms effective Jan. 1, 2020 (unless opening otherwise noted) are:
Agricultural Preservation Board (openings for agricultural interest representative and real estate/development representative)
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (Advisory Council and Board of Directors)
City/County Building Authority
Community Corrections Advisory Board (openings for media representative and police chief)
Community Health Advisory Committee (openings for at-large member, community-based organization, and health care provider)
Community Mental Health Authority (Network180) Board — term begins April 1, 2020
County Building Authority
Department of Health and Human Services Board
Foreign Trade Zone Board
Friend of the Court Citizen’s Advisory Committee (openings for mental health professional and non-custodial parent)
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRFIA) Authority Board
Housing Commission
Jury Commission
Kent County Community Action Advisory Governing Board (openings for consumer, private, and public sector)
Kent County Family & Children’s Coordinating Council (openings for business representative, private agency representative, and private funding representatives)
Kent District Library Board (Region 2 — resident of Algoma, Cannon, Courtland, Grattan townships, or City of Rockford; and Region 6 — resident of Caledonia, Gaines townships, or City of Kentwood. Applicants must live in Region 2 or 6.)
Remonumentation Peer Review Group (must be a professional surveyor to apply)
Road Commission Board
Veterans Services Committee (must have served honorably on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces to apply)
For detailed information on meeting schedules and current board, commission and committee members visit here.
Questions about boards and applications should be directed to Pam VanKeuren in the Board of Commissioners’ Office, at 616-632-7580 or Pam.VanKeuren@kentcountymi.gov.
The portion of U.S. 131 between exits 80 and 81 has been named the PCF Nicholas H. Blodgett Memorial Highway. (Tom DeVette)
Remembering the heroes
Have you noticed some new signs along U.S. 131? The signs honor three fallen soldiers who were all from Wyoming: Army Private First Class Nicholas Blodgett, Marine Cpl. Ross Smith, and Army Specialist 4th Class Eric T. Burri. All three died during the Iraq conflict. State Rep. Tommy Brann introduced a bill earlier this year for the memorial highways with the signs being installed this spring. To learn more about the three men honored, click here.
Interim CEO Brian Picardat swears in new Police Chief Bill Nowicki (Ford Airport)
Wage theft can occur everywhere, in offices, on construction sites and in farm fields. (WKTV)
Fair Wage
U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.), last week announced he is conducting an investigation into illegal wage theft practices that “harm American workers.” And he is asking for worker input on possible wage theft in their lives. In a statement issued by his office, “wage theft violates basic fair pay laws and denies workers a fair wage for their work. It takes many forms, including failure to pay the applicable minimum wage, failure to compensate employees for overtime, and misclassifying employees as ‘independent contractors’ to avoid paying certain benefits or taxes.” If you are interested in sharing your story, click here.
I’ve Got a Gal…
So we are talking about our neighbors to the south, Kalamazoo. Michigan is the only state to have a city named Kalamazoo, which is believed to be a Native American name meaning “mirage of reflecting water” or “bubbling” or “boiling” water. It is the midway point between Detroit (142 miles to the east) and Chicago (138 miles to the west) and the home to some pretty famous businesses: Gibson Guitars and Upjohn, to name a couple. And of course, it is memorialized in that famous Glenn Miller song “I’ve Got a Gal in Kalamazoo,” which with the help of Bell’s Brewery, for some has become “I’ve got a beer in Kalamazoo.”
Top: Mark Smith, State Rep. Tommy Brann, and John Burri. Bottom: Susan Smith, Rita Blodgett, Joanne Burri. (Tom De Vette)
Story By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma joanne@wktv.org Photos by Tom De Vette Photographer and WKTV Volunteer
When John Burri drives down US 131 and sees the the brown-and-white sign with his son’s Eric’s name on it, he smiles a little.
“It is just what every parent wants who has lost a son, that he’s remembered. That a stranger would remember him and the sacrifice he made,” Burri said. Stationed in Iraq, Army Specialist 4th Class Eric Burri died on June 7, 2005 when an explosive device detonated near his Humvee in Baghdad.
Burri was one of three Wyoming residents who were killed while serving in Iraq. Army Private First Class Nicholas H. Blodgett died July 21, 2004 while serving during operation Iraqi Freedom when his patrol vehicle hit an improvise explosive device in Abdalluyah, Iraq. On Feb. 9, 2006, Marine Corporal Ross A. Smith died by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Fallujah, Iraq.
The U.S. 131 portion between exits 78 and 79 has been named the SPC Eric T. Burri Memorial Highway. (Tom De Vette)
Army Specialist 4th Class Eric T. Burri
The three men were honored earlier this year through House Bill 6025, sponsored by Rep. Tommy Brann, that would allow for portions of U.S. 131 to be designated as memorial highways. The three sections are all in Wyomig with the portion between exits 78 and 79 named the SPC Eric T. Burri Memorial Highway; between exits 79 and 80 is the Cpl. Ross A. Smith Memorial Highway; and the portion between exits 80 and 81 is now the PCF Nicholas H. Blodgett Memorial Highway.
“Eric knew the risk he was taking when he went over,” John Burri said when his son decided to enlist right after graduating from Kelloggsville High School. Burri said his son wanted to see the world, learn languages and meet different people.
Burri said Eric was touched by the poverty he witnessed, commenting to family members that if he could he would “give them the shoes off my feet.” After Eric’s death, as a tribute, the family organized a shoe drive for the children in Iraq.
The portion of U.S. 131 between exits 79 and 80 has been named the Cpl. Ross A. Smith Memorial Highway. (Tom De Vette)
Marine Cpl. Ross Smith
Ross Smith was the youngest of three and wanted to follow in his older brother’s footsteps and become a Marine. He enlisted before his senior year at Wyoming’s Park High School and was on his third tour of Iraq when he was killed. After the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Sue Smith commented that she has asked her son to reconsider his enlistment.
“He said they needed him even now more than before,” she said.
The portion of U.S. 131 between exits 80 and 81 has been named the PCF Nicholas H. Blodgett Memorial Highway. (Tom DeVette)
A Grand Rapids Central Catholic High School graduate, Nicholas Blodgett joined the army a couple of years after graduating from high school. Family members recalled that Blodgett wanted to be in security or a police officer so he enlisted in the Army in 2003. His former high school principal said he remembered Blodgett as wanting to stay involved, so he returned to the school the year after his graduation to help with the color guard.
Army Private First Class Nicholas Blodgett
Blodgett’s troop commander Capt. Cory Mack, remembered him as a “highly motivated and disciplined soldier, answering every question with ‘Yes, sir’ or ‘Roger sergeant.’”
Brann introduced the bill for the memorial highway designations earlier this year. The bill was approved with the signs installed in the spring. Brann hosted a special program in May for the families and friends at his restaurant, Brann’s Steakhouse and Grille, located on Division Avenue.
“It is not so much for me,” Burri said of the memorial highways. “It is to let my grandkids know that there uncle was here. That he was part of this community.”
