“Eating good food is, too me, one of life's favorite joys, and I will never punish myself for it.”
― Miriam Shor
A scene from a previous Taste of Kentwood. (WKTV)
Taste of Kentwood this week
The community is invited to explore a smorgasbord of local cuisine during the 18th annual Taste of Kentwood event on Thursday, March 14. Held at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, a variety of local restaurants will offer food and desserts during two sessions: one from 4:30 to 6 p.m., and another from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For the complete story, visit here.
Kent County Land for planned Sustainable Business Park, aerial shot that includes the property adjacent to the landfill, with the landfill in the background. (Supplied/Kent County)
Plans developing on business park
The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) and The Right Place, Inc. have announced a multi-year strategic partnership for the planning and development of the Kent County Sustainable Business Park. In October 2018, the Kent County Board of Public Works (BPW) approved the Sustainable Business Park Master Plan for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Landfill in Byron Center. For the complete story, visit here.
Dr. John Mulder. (Supplied)
Local doctor earns national honor
Holland Home recently announce that John Mulder, MD, has been recognized by the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) with the 2019 Project on Death In America (PDIA) Palliative Medicine Community Leadership Award. Dr. Mulder is Medical Director of the Trillium Institute, an affiliate of Holland Home. For the complete story, visit here.
Fun fact:
0.0173 percent
Today only 0.0173% of Americans live to 100. The population of the United States in 2010 Census was approximately 309 million. (Source)
Kent County Land for planned Sustainable Business Park, aerial shot that includes the property adjacent to the landfill, with the landfill in the background. (Supplied/Kent County)
By Kent County
The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) and The Right Place, Inc. have announced a multi-year strategic partnership for the planning and development of the Kent County Sustainable Business Park.
Under the terms of the three-year agreement, The Right Place will support the planning and development of the Kent County Sustainable Business Park through business development and infrastructure planning efforts. The Right Place will also assist the county with managing community partnerships and identifying new sources of funding for the Sustainable Business Park.
In October 2018, the Kent County Board of Public Works (BPW) approved the Sustainable Business Park Master Plan for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Landfill in Byron Center. This plan was created by local and national experts and includes recommendations on how Kent County can transition from a reliance upon disposal of trash in landfills toward a sustainable materials management system where waste materials are either reused in new production processes or products, recovered, or converted into renewable energy.
Kent County DPW processes over 1 billion pounds of waste each year and estimates 75 percent of that waste could be reused, recycled, or converted. The Sustainable Business Park could generate $500 million in direct private sector capital investment and 150 jobs could be created by processing and waste sorting alone. As part of the master plan approval, BPW authorized DPW to form a business development team to implement the plan, which includes The Right Place.
“The Sustainable Business Park will significantly reduce the amount of trash going into landfills and attract investment from companies that can convert waste into usable products,” said Dar Baas, director of the Kent County DPW. “The Sustainable Business Park is part of our community’s vision for a Circular Economy and our partnership with The Right Place will help attract businesses, technology developers, startups and non-profits from across the country that align with the Sustainable Business Park’s goals.”
As part of DPW’s Reimagine Trash strategic vision, there is a goal to reduce Kent County-generated municipal, commercial, and industrial solid waste going to landfills by 90 percent by 2030. The development of the Kent County Sustainable Business Park is critical to reaching that goal.
“The Sustainable Business Park has the potential to generate investment and create jobs in West Michigan, while serving as a national model of what communities can achieve with a practical, innovative approach towards recycling and upcycling,” said Birgit M. Klohs, President and CEO, The Right Place, Inc. “We look forward to partnering with Kent County Department of Public Works to bring the Sustainable Business Park to life.”
Kelloggsville head coach Bilal Muhammad talks to his squad during the team’s district game against Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
The Kelloggsville High School girls basketball team ended their season this week standing “solid” after tripling their season win total from a year ago and offering a good defensive effort against Wyoming Godwin Heights in the 56-40 loss Wednesday night in the Division 2 District 44 tournament at Grand Rapids Christian.
In the March 6 semifinal game, the Rockets had to rely on young players to provide much of their minutes and scoring due to a short bench. But the team’s coach had nothing but praise for his team’s 12-9 season, its emerging young talent and the toughness of his small senior class.
“We tripled our wins from last year,” head coach Bilal Muhammad said to WKTV after the game. “Last year we had four, this year we had 12. We stand solid and I am excited for the future … I’m proud of the effort they gave tonight, the effort was there. I just want to have the girls keep working hard.”
The future includes the Rockets fielding a team in the district tournament that included three freshmen and two sophomores among a nine-player squad.
This year’s Rockets girls basketball team relied on youth but had some good senior leadership. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Kelloggsville was led by sophomore Nariah Collier’s 12 points, with 10 coming in the second half as she almost singlehandedly kept her team in the game. Junior Mercedes Chandler and freshman Brea’Ana Smalley each added six points. Freshman Sydney Hansma added five points.
“Our youth has stepped it up,” Muhammad said. “We are making strides. The future is looking great.”
The only seniors on the squad, Indonesia Carpenter and Symone Britt, scored four and five points, respectively But coach Muhammad said the pair brought much more than scoring to the Rockets this season.
“The seniors brought toughness to our team, toughness and leadership,” he said. “They have been here before so they can let the girls know what to expect here, but really toughness and leadership.”
Season highlights for the Rockets this season included starting 5-1, with a streak of four straight home wins highlighted by a win over Zeeland West and the title of their own Holiday tournament. They finished 6-4 overall at home and 4-6 in the tough OK Conference Silver.
Yup, it’s time to change your clocks this weekend.
Spring is right around the corner. Really, it is, and the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department points to its Spring Activities Calendar as proof. Check out all the fun things you can do here.
The best things in life are free
The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers free admission March 10.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers fun, hands-on learning opportunities for all ages through a variety of core and traveling exhibits. Visitor favorites include the Streets of Old Grand Rapids, an immersive exhibit that transports visitors back to 19th century of downtown Grand Rapids, and West Michigan Habitats, that showcases the vast wildlife found in West Michigan. More info here.
Live and let live
That’s it, in a nutshell.
Domestic violence abuse attorney Kinza Khan
A presentation on Monday, March 11 at Grand Valley State University will explore the importance of encouraging young people to grow in their interfaith understanding in order to become positive religious leaders of the 21st century. Kinza Khan, a domestic violence attorney, will be the featured speaker during the 2019 Rabbi Phillip Sigal Memorial Lecture. More info here.
Fun fact:
85%
The percentage reduction in the number of children named ‘Katrina’ after Hurricane Katrina.
For the record, according to one of our volunteers, the recent storm we had is just the final hurrah before springs big entrance.
So with that in mind, the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department has compiled “10 Programs You Have to Try this Spring.”
1. Mother-Son Bowling Event
This is just around the corner on March 23. Moms get to spend the afternoon with their sons at the Park Center Lanes bowling alley. The event includes bowling, pizza, and pop. The cost is $12.50 per person with the registration deadline March 14. Note, this event does book up fast, so if your interested save your spot ASAP.
2. Tumble and Play
After the winter we have had, everyone has a little energy to burn off. In this Wednesday class, children, 18 months – 2-years-old, will have the chance to learn skills on the balance beam, bars, and floor. This class also includes strength and flexibility activities. The parent-child class is Wednesdays March 13 – April 24 at South Godwin School. Fee is $30 for residents and $45 for non-residents. Registration has passed but if interested, contact the Parks and Recreation office at 616-530-3164.
3. Slow Pitch Softball Leagues
Soon it will be time for the boys — and girls — of summer, so sign up now for a softball league. Leagues will be offered for men’s and co-ed teams. Participants must be 18 years or older. Games start in mid- to late April and will be at Kelloggsville, Lamar, Lemery, and Palmer field. Registration is open until March 18 or until the leagues are full.
Individual plays are accepted. For more information on individual players, contact Kenny Westrate at westratek@wyomingmi.gov or 616-530-3164.
4. Zumba
An activity where adults can burn off some energy with a mix of Latin and international music and dance that creates an exciting and effective cardio workout. The program is on Wednesdays from March 13 to May 1 and located at the Wyoming Senior Center. Fee is $36 for residents and $54 for non-residents. Registration is open until March 7.
5. Health and Wellness Expo
Mark those calendars because the annual Health and Wellness Expo is April 13. This free event runs from 1 – 3 p.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center. The Health and Wellness Expo is an afternoon focused on increasing health awareness and overall wellness. Gather information from local health organizations; enjoy fitness demonstrations, healthy snacks and more. This event is for all ages and will get everyone motivated to make healthy choices.
6. Kickball
Coed league for kickball begin May 22. Games take place Wednesday nights at Lamar Park. Participants must be 16 or older. The fee is $250 per team. Registration is open until April 29 or until the league is full.
7. Sunday Youth Flag Football
Flag football is open to students ages 5 to 13. The program runs for five weeks, April 28 – June 2 at the Gezon Park Sports Complex. The focus of this program is on teaching the fundamental skills of football and playing. The fee is $24 for residents and $36 for non-residents. The registration deadline is April 15.
8. Older Adult Fitness – Sweet & Low
This program is designed for the 50 and older crowd with its low impact activities consisting of chair-based exercise designs to stretch muscles, increase muscle town, and get you moving. It takes place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 – 10:45 a.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center Community Room.
9. Tae Kwon Do
This class introduces participants to the Korean martial art form of Tae Kwon Do. The class focuses on flexibility, concentration, balance, and self-defense. The spring session is April 8 to June 17. Fees for the 30-minute class is $18 for residents and $27 for non-residents. The two-hour class is $46 for residents and $69 for non-residents. There is $5 off for additional household members. The program includes eight classes plus two bonus classes.
10. Tap and Jazz
This Saturday class offers two levels for beginner and more experienced. Level One includes simple stretches and jazz moves and develops tap techniques and routines. Level Two classes continue to build on the principles of the Level One class. It also will include the tempo and introduce a variety of moves for your enjoyment. Classes are at Godfrey Lee Early Education Center and run from March 23 to May 25. The fee is $24 for residents and $51 for non residents.
Through a partnership with the Greater Wyoming community Resource Alliance, the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department offers scholarships to Wyoming residents for use in department youth programs For more information about those scholarships, call 616-530-3164 and ask for Kenny Westrate
“March is the month God created to show people who don’t drink what a hangover is like.”
~ Garrison Keillor
A force with which to be reckoned
The construction industry is a virtually untapped source of high-demand, well-paying jobs for women. Women in Construction Week focuses on raising awareness of the opportunities available in construction and emphasizing the growing role of women in the industry. Read more here.
Listen to those pipes
The gift of song has always been Thomas Carpenter’s saving grace. His deep baritone-bass voice has opened doors many times, and he delights in singing at church, for Dégagé, nursing homes, Heartside Art Studio and Ministry, and other organizations that help the homeless. Read more here.
Boo!
It’s rare, but you can actually be scared to death. When a person is frightened or perceived to be in danger, the brain triggers a surge of adrenaline, which makes the heart beat faster and pushes the body instantly into “fight-or-flight” mode. It also affects the liver and pancreas, triggers perspiration and pushes blood toward major muscle groups. But don’t let that scare you. Read all about it here.
Fun fact:
It’s a thing
Spring fever isn’t just a saying — experts say the body’s makeup changes due to different diets, hormone production and temperature.
WKTV’s coverage of girls high school basketball continues this month with District tournament play. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
Wyoming and Kentwood area girls basketball teams will be in district play this week, but you will need to travel a little to catch any of the action live as the nearest district tournament site is at Grand Rapids Christian, where Kentwood Grand River Prep, West Michigan Aviation, Godwin Heights, Kelloggsville and South Christian will all be in action.
And at GR Christian is where WKTV’s featured high school sports coverage team will be this week, starting Wednesday, March 6, and continuing coverage of the tournament on Friday, March 8. Additionally, WKTV will file WKTV Journal online-print reports on the results of all the games involving local teams as the week goes on.
At Christian, action begins Monday, March 4, in the Division 2 District 44 tournament, where West Michigan Aviation (9-11) and Godwin Heights (7-10) play at 5:30 p.m., and Grand River Prep (9-8) vs. GR Christian (10-10) @ 7 p.m.
The tournament will continue on Wednesday, March 6, with the W. Mich. Aviation/Godwin Heights winner vs. Kelloggsville (12-8) at 5:30 p.m., and the Grand River Prep/Christian winner vs. South Christian (11-9) at 7 p.m. The winners will then play Friday, March 8, at 8 p.m. for a spot in the Regional 11 tournament at Coopersville.
Division 1 District 11 at East Grand Rapids
At the Division 1 District 11 tournament at East Grand Rapids, the Monday games will have East Kentwood (15-4) vs. Grandville (4×16) at 6 p.m., and East Grand Rapids (18-2) vs. GR Ottawa Hills (15-5) at 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 6, games at East Grand Rapids will have the East Kentwood/Grandville winner vs. Wyoming (8-12) at 6 p.m., and the East Grand Rapids/Ottawa Hills winner vs. Byron Center (15-5) at 7:30 p.m. The winners will play Friday, March 8, at 7 p.m., for a spot in the Regional 3 tournament at Grand Haven.
Division 3 District 74 at Saugatuck
At the Division 3 District 74 tournament at Saugatuck, the Monday games will be Fennville (8-12) vs. Wyoming Potter’s House (13) at 6 p.m., and Grandville Calvin Christian (6-11) vs. Holland Black River (8-11) at 7 p.m.
Wednesday games at Saugatuck will have the Fennville/Potter’s House winner vs. Covenant Christian (4-15) at 5:30 p.m., and the Calvin Christian/Holland Black River winner vs. Saugatuck (9-11) at 7 p.m. The winners will play Friday, March 8, at 6 p.m., for a spot in the Regional 19 tournament at Kent City.
Division 4 at Martin and Muskegon Catholic Central
At the Division 4 District 114 tournament at Martin, the Monday game will be Covert (5-12) vs. West Michigan Lutheran (14-6) at 6:30 p.m. On Wednesday, March 6, the games will be Lawrence (4-15) vs. Byron Center Zion Christian (8-11) at 5:30 p.m., and the Covert/West Michigan Lutheran winner vs. Martin (15-3) at 7 p.m.
Also in Division 4, at the District 113 at Muskegon Catholic Central, starting on Wednesday, March 6, the games will have Muskegon Heights Academy (0-16) vs. Fruitport Calvary Christian (15-5) at 5:30 p.m., and Tri-unity Christian (2-17) vs. Muskegon Catholic Central (6-13) at 7:15 p.m.
The winners from the Wednesday District 113 games will play Friday at 7 p.m., at Muskegon Catholic Central, while the winners from the Wednesday District 114 games will play Friday at 6:30 p.m. at Martin. Both district winners will move on to play at the Regional 29 tournament at Mendon.
Featured game coverage
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Social worker Maggie Hummel handed out resources to parents at Wyoming High School’s recent student conferences, providing information about youth mental health, symptoms of distress and where to get help.
She wants parents to know there’s somewhere to turn — that they can tap into school and community services — if their child is showing signs of anxiety, depression or other mental health issues. Ultimately, the goal is help students have happy, healthy futures and even save lives.
“Our teens are facing a number of social stressors. These often include family or peer conflicts, self-esteem, social media challenges, as well as critical challenges with having adequate housing and food,” said Hummel, who started working at the high school last year. “Our county, state and country are seeing suicide rates and attempts rise, and we are witnessing this and responding.”
“We do see more and more kids presenting with major issues,” said high school Principal Nate Robrahn. “(Hummel) has been able to help identify that … and make more informed decisions about what students need.”
Hummel is the source for “triage” at the school,” Robrahn said.
March is Social Worker Appreciation Month. This year’s theme, “Elevate Social Work” embodies the need to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the profession to our society.
“She can make decisions about what students need, which then has freed up my counselors to do more of their role. She’s very connected with resources out in the community and can help parents and students access them.”
Hummel, who has worked as a medical social worker and clinical therapist for Spectrum Health and Cherry Health, said she’s worked with more than 130 Wyoming High School students, many of whom come to her by choice because they are struggling. Others are referred by staff members who notice signs of distress.
“We definitely want families to know we exist, and come to us with concerns,” she said. The high school team includes another social worker, two academic counselors and a college adviser to help meet students’ needs — academic and emotional.
Hummel said she’s thankful her role has allowed her to help students get the treatment they need, and she’s also seen valuable connections made within school. “I also see our staff responding through investing and connecting with our teens. When staff connect with and support students, this serves as a protective factor that can reduce the risk for suicide and promote positive mental health.”
Mom Julie LaMar checks out resources during parent teacher conferences
Screenings Serve as Indicators
Hummel offers student screenings in the form of questionnaires to help identify symptoms of anxiety and depression. Results — a tally of numbers, low to high, indicating possible disorders — can provide her an opportunity to talk to parents. “The screening gives a number, and it’s an objective number. It gives parents and kids something to latch on to and say, ‘We should probably take action.’”
Still, there are a number of students with high scores for depression and anxiety who lack resources due to finances, time and other stressors that are having a hard time getting into therapy.
The district allocated Title 1 funds, earmarked for schools that have high percentages of children from low-income families, to fund Hummel’s position.
“Our district is one of several that have invested funds to support a position like mine,” Hummel said. “They’ve done a really great job in recognizing that schools do need additional mental health resources and supports, beyond what school are expected to support. They’ve done a good job of going the extra mile.”
Other districts have expanded their counseling teams as well. Cedar Springs Public Schools recently hired a child life specialist and two child life interventionists as part of the mental health team, whose goal is making sure that every student is at their best mental state to perform academically.
‘DATA SUGGESTS TEENAGERS TODAY ARE FACING MORE SOCIAL CHALLENGES THAN BEFORE.’ — SOCIAL WORKER MAGGIE HUMMEL
Byron Center High School added a part-time counselor to help with social and emotional needs, and has another part-time social worker in the alternative North Star Academy program.
Students Struggling in High Numbers
The “why” behind the increases in youth mental health issues is hard to nail down Hummel said, but she believes social media is a big factor. “Data suggests teenagers today are facing more social challenges than before.”
While anxiety and depression is increasing in general, Hummel said low-income students face particular challenges connected to basic needs that can both create distress and cause barriers to treatment.
“Students have their best outcomes when they are connected to therapy and have consulted with a primary care doctor or psychiatrist about medication management,” Hummel said. “This can be a big feat for families, especially if they are working long hours, have transportation challenges or other family stressors.”
Parents, together with staff, can make a big difference in helping students.
“We’ve got some phenomenal parents in our district that are responding appropriately when these crises arise. That’s something we really need to celebrate, Hummel said.
Angel Chan talks to WKTV about her being honored. (WKTV video)
By WKTV Staff ken@WKTV.org
Wyoming High School honored great players past and present as the Wolves hosted their Hall of Fame Basketball Community Night, and hosted Hudsonville high’s teams, for a pair of games and several ceremonies Friday, Feb. 15.
The highlight of the evening was Wyoming Hall of Fame (which includes players from Wyoming Park and Rodgers high schools) inducting Rick Heuvelman, Robin Bolitho, Angel Chan, Roxie Claxton, Dave Greco and Anthony Thomas — as well as the 1994 state semi-final Wyoming Park boys basketball team.
But there was plenty of other events on what was also 2018-19 basketball senior night. On the boys side, four seniors played their final regular season game on their home court. They were Payton Stark, Andrae Wells, Menilek McGee and Zach Fry.
1994 Wyoming Park team
At the halftime of the boy’s game, the 1994 Wyoming Park boys basketball team, led by coach Kelly McEwen, was recognized and honored.
Their 22-5 record won an OK White conference championship, along with a district, regional and quarterfinal championship. According to supplied information, the team was comprised of five seniors and nine juniors, and “they combined defensive toughness and offensive togetherness” to defeat two of the top three ranked Class B teams in the state during its 1994 tournament run, including a dramatic 64-60 victory over a 24-1 Sturgis team. In that game the team made 13 three pointers, which tied a tournament record for 3’s made in a game at that time.
The team included Mike Brown, Marc Drougal, Mark Herrema, Jerry Jordan, Terry Krosschell, Daryl Lamar, Joe McKenzie, Kirk Scharphorn, Shawn Veenstra, Mark Baker, Ryan Baumbach, Joe Burke, Bob Henning and Matt Perez, along with assistant coach TJ Restau and head coach McEwen.
Individual Hall of Fame inductees
After the conclusion of the boys game that night, the individual Hall of Fame inductees were honored.
Heuvelman is a graduate of Rogers High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball, and was Athlete of the year at Rogers High School in 1974. He earned All Conference honors in football on offense and defense. In baseball, he was All Conference for two years. Heuvelman went on to play baseball at Aquinas College, where in 1979 he was named to the All American Baseball Team and is also in the Aquinas College Hall of Fame.
Bolitho graduated from Rogers High School in 2001. She was a four year varsity basketball letter winner while averaging 17 points a game. She was a three-year All Conference, All Area player in basketball. In 2001 She was received basketball All State honors and her teams won the conference championship for two of her four years. In softball, she was on three state championship teams. During this time she was All Conference, All Area, and All State three times at three different positions.
Chan was one of Wyoming Public Schools best basketball players. She earned her varsity letter at Wyoming Park all four years and was twice selected to the Associated Press and Detroit Free Press All State team. In 2004 and 2005 She was O.K. Gold All Conference and scored over 1400 points for Wyoming Park. She led her basketball team to Conference Championships and to the State Regional Finals. After high school, Chan received a full ride scholarship to play basketball at Central Michigan University. At Central Michigan she became one of the schools all-time leading scorers.
Greco played for three years of varsity football at Wyoming Park. He was named to the 1979/80 All Conference all Areas football team. His senior year, he was All Area and All State in football at Wyoming Park. In 1981 he was selected from thousands of players throughout the State of Michigan to play in the 1st Annual MHSAA High School All Star at Michigan State University. In baseball, he was a three-year letter winner, two-year All Conference, and his senior year was selected to the All Region Team. As a one-year wrestler his senior year he was 15-8 and a member of the Conference Championship team. He went on to play football in college and he earned baseball scholarship to attend Grand Valley State University.
Thomas was a three sport athlete for Wyoming Rogers High School during the 1990-91 season. He played football, basketball and track, and it was in track and field were he set records and went to MHSAA State Meet. He ran the 100 yard dash, 200 yard dash and the 4X100, 4×200 yard relays. In football, he was a two-way starter and selected to the All O.K. White All Conference, All Area and All State Class B teams at Rogers, and was the leader of the Rogers High School 1994 Class B State quarterfinalist. He went on to play football at Ferris State University.
Claxton was honored as a life-time achievement awards winner. In 1988 she started working in the concession stand at Wyoming Park High School. Since then, she has worked on the Frank Grimm Relays, became a athletic booster, band booster, Hall of Fame Committee member, chaperone, academic booster, Bond Construction Committee member, Title IX Committee member, and volunteered at all athletic events — including keeping scorebook for more than 25 years for the boys basketball team. She received her Master’s Degree from Michigan State University at age 55.
At halftime of the girls game, there was a ceremony for the Wyoming Dance Team Senior/Parent Night. Seniors on the team included Taina Rodriguez, Nicole Rodriguez, Guadalupe Rivera-Parada, Sanae Magoon, Heaven Coleman and Ramatu Kanneh.
“My theory on housework is, if the item doesn't multiply, smell, catch fire or block the refrigerator door, let it be.”
― Erma Bombeck
Michael Jr. (Supplied)
Clean and funny, comedy
Grand Rapids very own comedian Michael, Jr. will be coming home to perform on March 3 at Grand Rapids First Church for his “In the Moment Tour.” His comedy is fresh, funny and has no foul language. For the complete story, visit here.
Wyoming High School will host a District final game Friday. (Supplied)
High school teams in big games
Wyoming, South Christian and Tri-unity Christian high schools will each host boys basketball state playoff District championship games on Friday, March 1 — with each host team playing for a title. WKTV’s featured high school sports coverage team will be at South Christian on Friday, but you can catch any of the games live. For the complete story, visit here.
One local resident enjoys his food at a pst year’s Taste of Kentwood event.
And, oh the Taste of Kentwood
The 18th annual Taste of Kentwood event is coming on Thursday, March 14, coming to the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, with two sessions: one from 4:30 to 6 p.m., and another from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The event will also include live music from Just Cuz, an acoustic duo that performs an eclectic mix of cover tunes from a variety of genres. For the complete story, visit here
Fun fact:
Five tastes, maybe
Five basic tastes are recognized today: salty, sweet, bitter, sour, and umami. (Umami is a category of taste in food corresponding to the flavor of glutamates, especially monosodium glutamate.) (Source)
The senior Godwin Heights High School boys basketball line up for the national anthem prior to the game at South Christian. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Godwin Heights High School head boys basketball coach Tyler Whittemore wanted more for his group of eight seniors who have been essential in building the Fighting Wolverines into the dominate team in the OK Silver Conference, again.
The team, as a fan t-shirt pointed out, have been the conference champs for 10 straight seasons and hoped to add another district title to its resume.
But in a Division 2 District 44 tournament semifinal game Wednesday that felt a whole lot like a finals game, Godwin Heights season came to an end with a tough-as-nails battle with tournament host South Christian, 47-45.
Both teams came into the district tournament with impressive records and OK conference titles: Godwin Heights finished the season at 15-6 (12-0 in the OK Silver), while South Christian is now 17-4 (10-2 and a conference title in the OK Gold).
As Whittemore said to WKTV after the game, he could not have been more proud of his team, especially his seniors, for their effort in this game and during a sometimes trying season.
Godwin Heights senior guard Jamaal Bailey (32), who drives to the basket here, and his fellow guards were part of a great defensive and rebounding effort. (WKTV/Drew Dargavell)
“Senior-led team. I love them. I appreciate all their hard work, their leadership and their toughness,” Whittemore said. “We started out 1 and 5, and being that tough mentally, they came in to the gym during the Christmas break, and all those other snow days and the stuff that we had. The guys were in the gym and improving every single day.
“These guys can be proud,” he said. “These guys are Godwin Heights basketball players and you can’t be more of a warrior than that.”
In the South Christian game, it was about as back-and-forth defensive struggle as possible: Godwin led 8-7 at the end of the first quarter, trailed 16-18 at the half and 30-31 at the end of three. And its seemed that the lead changed with every possession in the fourth quarter including a 3-pointer by Wolverine senior James Horrell with 35 seconds left gave his team a 45-43 lead.
But then the Sailors responded with a 3-pointer by junior Tyler Buwalda with 14.5 seconds remaining to give South Christian the lead for good.
Up to that late scoring outburst, defense and rebounding were the keys to the Wolverines matching points and toughness with the Sailors.
“That is a very good team there,” Whittemore said of the Sailors. “You have to give a lot of credit to South Christian, to that coaching staff — their players came to play and we did too, and that was a fun game to watch. … We were able to be very intense, but level-minded, against this very good team that really helped us.”
While it seemed as though senior Godwin big man Marshawn Kneeland was in the middle of the Wolverine down-low defense and rebounding effort all night, coach Whittemore also loved the work of his guards.
The rebounding success was “our guards coming down, our 5(-foot)-8, 5-10 guards coming down and grabbing those balls,” he said. “A lot of credit goes to our big guys, they were really being physical, but a lot of credit to our guards coming down and helping out as well.”
For the game, South Christian was led by senior Peyton Vis’s 17 points, while Buwalda had 15 total and senior Derek Meyering added 10 points.
Godwin Heights was led by Horrell’s 13 points, while senior Jaylen Coates added 12 and Kneeland and fellow senior Jamaal Bailey added eight points each. Other seniors on the team included Bryson Chandler, Karen Brown, De’Amontae Clark and Jadon Ivy.
For the season, Bailey, Coates and Horrell gained First Team All-Conference honors, while Clark earned All-Conference Honorable Mention.
This game, and all Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
Trash being dumped at the Kent County landfill. (Supplied/Kent County)
County’s waste reduction plans
A major component of the Kent County Department of Public Works’s plan to reduce county landfall waste by 20 percent by 2020 — and 90 percent by 2030 — is to gain community buy-in for the plan. As part of that effort, the county Department of Public Works (DPW) recently announced a major addition to department’s educational programs with the hire of a new resource recovery specialist. For the complete story, visit here.
A previous game televised by WKTV with East Kentwood High School’s boys basketball team at Wyoming. (WKTV)
Local sites for playoff basketball
Wyoming, South Christian and Tri-unity Christian high schools will each host boys basketball state playoff District opening-round tournaments concluding with championship games on Friday, March 1. WKTV’s featured high school sports coverage teams will be at South Christian starting Wednesday, Feb. 27, and will continue coverage of the tournament on Friday. For the complete story, visit here.
Kentwood councilor In Focus
WKTV Journal In Focus recently talked with Kentwood City Commissioner Maurice Groce, who has a long history serving the city his family has called home for nearly three decades, and Metro Health — UM Health’s Dr. Peter Hahn, who is one of the few leaders of a healthcare system with hands-on experience with patients. Their discussions are must-see YouTube video. For the complete story, visit here.
Fun fact:
300
Hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute. (Source)
Deadline for the City of Wyoming Spring Youth Soccer League is fast approaching. The registration deadline is Thursday, Feb. 28.
Those interested should register by the Thursday deadline to avoid a $5 late fee. The fee is $40 for a resident and $60 for a non-resident with $10 for additional children.
The Spring Youth Soccer League is April 9 – June 1. Practices, which are at Marquette Park, will begin April 9 or 11.
Preschool-kindergarten teems meet on Saturdays only. Every Saturday, teams practice for 30 minutes and then complete a 20-minute game. First – sixth grade players complete several weeks of practice prior to the start of games. Teams will practice once per week on Tuesday or Thursday nights and play games on Saturdays.
The featured KDL books for this month focus on two teenagers both bent on getting what they want — one seeks revenge while the other seeks a boyfriend.
Award winning young adult author, Jason Reynolds, writes “Long Way Down”–a compelling novel of free verse poetry.
The story follows the life of 15-year-old Will and his inner turmoil when dealing with the recent death of his brother, who was recently shot in their neighborhood streets.
As the story begins to unfold, Will heads down the seven floors of his apartment building, on his way to seek revenge for his brother’s murder.
He is then joined by ghosts of his past at each floor the elevator stops at. As the elevator travels downward, the ghosts help Will to realize that his plan for revenge may not be as clear a picture as he assumed it would be.
Reynold’s novel addresses gun violence in a chilling yet powerful way. In a 2017 interview with NPR, he remarked that “it’s about us, a community, thinking about those of our family members and our friends who we’ve already lost to this thing, and allow their haunting to be the thing that creates our psyche and our conscience.”
Another absorbing Young Adult novel that KDL Youth Librarian Courtnei Moyses suggests is “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” by Maurene Goo.
The story follows the lovable protagonist, Desi Lee, and her journey as a high school senior.
After many attempts at flirting that turn into failures, adorably awkward Desi turns to the Korean Dramas on TV that she watches with her dad. She realizes that all K-Dramas have a special equation that they follow that consistently results in the boy falling in love with the girl.
Desi decides to implement these steps when she meets the artistic, mysterious, new boy at school named Luca. This plan to get a boyfriend works for a while, but soon things begin to go wrong.
Both of Goo’s most popular novels, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” and “The Way You Make Me Feel,” feature strong father daughter relationships, which is appealing yet hard to find in most Young Adult fiction. As a Korean woman herself, Goo also features strong Asian girls as the protagonists in her novels.
For more great reads and other suggestions, visits your local KDL branch or visit kdl.org.
A previous game televised by WKTV at Wyoming High School. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Wyoming, South Christian and Tri-unity Christian high schools will each host boys basketball state playoff District opening-round tournaments, starting Monday for some, and each concluding with championship games on Friday, March 1.
South Christian (16-4, 10-2 in OK Gold) will enter district play as a conference champion. In the same district tournament will be Wyoming Godwin Heights (15-5, 12-0 in OK Silver), also a conference champion. They could meet in a district semifinal on Wednesday, Feb. 27, at South Christian.
So, WKTV’s featured high school sports coverage teams will be at South Christian starting Wednesday, Feb. 27, and will continue coverage of the tournament on Friday. Additionally, WKTV will file WKTV Journal online-print reports on the results of all the games involving local teams as the week goes on.
Wyoming Potter’s House (18-1, 8-0 in Alliance League) was also its conference champion, edging out Tri-unity Christian (17-3, 7-1 in Alliance League) by virtue of a 54-53 win on the road at Tri-unity in January.
Division 1 tournament at Wyoming
The Division 1 District 11 tournament at Wyoming will open with games Monday, Feb. 25, with Byron Center (5-15 record on the season) squaring off against East Kentwood (11-9) at 6 p.m. and Ottawa Hills (2-16, before a Feb. 22 game vs. Lowell) vs. Wyoming (8-11) following at 7:30 p.m.
The winners of the Monday games will play Wednesday, Feb. 27, with the winner of the Byron Center/East Kentwood game playing East Grand Rapids (7-13) at 6 p.m., and the Ottawa Hills/Wyoming winner playing Caledonia (4-15) at 7:30 p.m.
The winners of the Wednesday games will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m., and then move on to the Regional 3 at Holland West Ottawa.
Division 2 tournament at South Christian
In the Division 1 District 44 tournament, South Christian will play in the opening-round, Monday game, on their home floor, playing Wyoming Kelloggsville (4×16, 3-9 in OK Silver) at 7 p.m.
The tournament continues on Wednesday, Feb. 27, with Grand River Prep (10-4) playing West Michigan Aviation Academy (9-11, 5-4 in Alliance League) at 5:30 p.m., and the Kelloggsville/South Christian winner playing Godwin Heights at 7:30 p.m.
The winners of the Wednesday games will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m., and then move on to the Regional 11 at Fremont.
Division 4 tournament at Tri-unity Christian
In the Division 4 District 114 tournament, starting on Wednesday, Feb. 27, Zion Christian (6-13) will play host Tri-unity Christian (17-3, 7-1 in Alliance League) at 7 p.m. In the other game, Holland Calvary (11-6) will play Martin (13-3) at 5:30 p.m.
The winners of the Wednesday games will play for the district title March 1 at 6:30 p.m., and then move on to the Region 29 at Mendon.
Other local teams in District play
In the Division 2 District 43 tournament, this one at Ada Forest Hills Eastern, Wyoming Lee (2-17, 1-11 in OK Silver) will play the winner of a Monday game between Wellspring Prep (5-13) and Forest Hills Eastern (11-9), in a second round game Wednesday, Feb. 27, at 7:30 p.m. In the other Wednesday game in this tournament, Grand Rapids Catholic (17-2) against the winner of a Monday game between Grand Rapids West Catholic (10-8) and Grand Rapids Christian (14-5).
The winners of the Wednesday games at Forest Hills Eastern will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m., and then move on to the Regional 11 at Fremont.
Finally, in a Division 3 District 75 tournament at Grandville Calvin Christian, Wyoming Potter’s House will play the winner of a Monday contest between Covenant Christian (7-13) and Fennville (10-10), with the second round game on Wednesday, Feb. 27, at 5:30 p.m. In the other Wednesday game, Calvin Christian (8-10) will play the winner of a Monday game between Holland Black River (3-17) and Saugatuck (3-15).
The winners of the Wednesday games at Calvin Christian will play for the district title March 1 at 7 p.m. and then move on to the Regional 19 at NorthPointe Christian.
Other local sports schedule:
Monday, Feb. 25 Boys Basketball East Kentwood vs Byron Center @ Wyoming – Division 1 MHSAA Districts Kelloggsville @ South Christian – Division 2 MHSAA Districts
Tuesday, Feb. 26 Girls Basketball East Kentwood @ Christian Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights Wyoming @ Union West Michigan Lutheran @ Potter’s House Grand River Prep @ Muskegon Catholic Central FH Northern @ South Christian Boys Hockey @ East Kentwood – MHSAA Regionals Boys Swimming South Christian @ Holland
Wednesday, Feb. 27 Boys Swimming @ East Kentwood – Second Shave Meet
Thursday, Feb. 28 Boys Swimming @ East Kentwood – MHSAA Diving Regionals Girls Basketball Kelloggsville @ Tri-Unity Christian Holton @ Wyoming Lee – Senior Night Grand River Prep @ Zion Christian Potter’s House @ Wellsprings Prep South Christian @ Byron Center
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
By Drew Dargavell, WKTV Sports Intern ken@wktv.org
The Wyoming Lee Rebels this season were wrestling district champions for the first time in their program’s history.
While some may see this as a true underdog story — and it was for a very small program which had to resort to practicing in the basement of a church, to which the kids had to walk three quarters of a mile, because the school did not have any extra facilities for them to practice at. But, for the wrestlers, it was all hard work and determination.
To win the district title, the Rebels took out Hudsonville Unity Christian in the first round, 50-29. Then in the district final, it seemed like all hope was lost when they were trailing 36-12 against Wyoming Kelloggsville with five matches to go.
The Rebels were then able to win their next four matches to tie it up at 36, with senior Enrique Moreno-Martinez up in the final match. And he was in the right frame of mind for the task.
“What I was thinking in my head was ‘This is it, this could finally be the district title we need and that we want’,” Moreno-Martinez said to WKTV. And he won the match.
Mike Beasley. (WKTV)
Another big factor in the Rebel’s title was junior Mike Beasley, who scored for his team in both matches and eventually finished in third place in individual districts.
“I put the work in and I know my team has,” Beasley said. “But I am just going to have to work harder and harder.”
Lee head coach James Maxim was, understandably, very proud of his team’s dedication this season.
“They wrestle for the team more than anything else,” he said. “Win, lose, or draw, they’re always on the corner, supporting each other, that’s what’s so cool about these kids.”
Assistant coach Flavio Gomez. (WKTV)
Maxim said they couldn’t have done this without assistant coach Flavio Gomez, who realized the history of the Rebels winning the district title.
“Knowing that we had managed to make history happen, I was so happy,” Gomez said. “I had never felt any happier in my whole wrestling career.”
Wyoming Lee ended up losing in the first round of regional play to Comstock Park, but they still walked away from the season with their heads held high and history made.
This video story and all sports news segments are available on the WKTV YouTube channel. All featured games covered by WKTV’s sports coverage crew, as well as other community events covered, are available on-demand at wktvondemand.com .
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports.
The Kentwood Justice Center which houses the 62-B District Court (WKTV)
By Kent County
The 62-B District Court in Kentwood and the 63rd District Court announced today a waiver program for individuals to comply with court orders by settling their debts without further penalty or incarceration.
Specifically, the program addresses outstanding warrants for non-compliance with a court order of fines, fees, court costs and any outstanding traffic or parking tickets that have gone into default or suspension. The waiver program will be effective March 1-31.
“The waiver program gives people who have outstanding fines, fees, and court costs an opportunity to more reasonably resolve their business with the court,” said Chief Judge Sara J. Smolenski. “During the month of March, individuals have a great chance to meet their responsibilities and the program allows for payment plans to resolve their debts to the court without the worry of incarceration. This is a great program and people who qualify should jump at it.”
The 62-B and 63rd District Courts guarantee that those who pay in full will not be jailed because of the late payment. If the account is paid in full, the courts will waive all court-imposed late fees or warrant fees except for the $45 License Suspension Reinstatement Fees.
If an individual is unable to pay in full, but makes a significant payment, the courts will work with the individual to set-up a new payment plan regarding any outstanding balance and they will not be jailed. Any existing driver’s license suspension will not be lifted until the account is paid in full.
Payments can be made by, and for more information contact, calling 62-B at 616-698-9310 or 63rd District Court at 616-632-7770.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@WKTV.org
Only one more week before the boys basketball playoffs start, but WKTV’s featured high school sports contests this week include a boys basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 19, with Belding at Wyoming Lee as well as a Friday, Feb. 22, boys hockey contest with Grand Rapids Christian at East Kentwood.
Later in the month and in early March, WKTV plans to send it coverage crew to boys basket district playoff sites for games that have our schools playing in.
Starting Monday, Feb. 25 and continuing Wednesday, Feb. 27, with finals on Friday, Feb. 27, local possibilities include the Division 1 district group at East Kentwood and/or the Division 2 district group at South Christian.
Starting Monday, March 4, and continuing Wednesday, March 6, with finals Friday, March 8, local teams will be playing in the Division 1 district group at East Grand Rapids and the Division 2 district group at Grand Rapids Christian.
In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person — including state-level completions in bowling, swimming and competitive cheer.
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Tuesday, Feb. 19 Boys Basketball Grandville @ East Kentwood Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming – Senior Night Belding @ Wyoming Lee – WKTV Featured Event Fennville @ Tri-Unity Christian Holland Black River @ Zion Christian Holland Calvary @ West Michigan Aviation WMAES @ West Michigan Lutheran Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Grand River Prep Wayland @ South Christian Girls Basketball East Kentwood @ Grandville Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Wyoming Lee @ West Michigan Aviation Fennville @ Tri-Unity Christian Holland Black River @ Zion Christian Martin @ Potter’s House WMAES @ West Michigan Lutheran Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Grand River Prep South Christian @ Wayland Boys/Girls Bowling Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee
Wednesday, Feb. 20 Boys Hockey East Kentwood @ FH Northern Girls Basketball Godwin Heights @ Benton Harbor South Christian @ Hudsonville
Thursday, Feb. 21 Boys Swimming East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – Diving Prelims Boys Basketball Tri-Unity Christian @ West Michigan Aviation West Michigan Lutheran @ Battle Creek Academy Girls Basketball Tri-Unity Christian @ West Michigan Aviation Potter’s House @ NorthPointe Christian
Friday, Feb. 22 Boys/Girls Bowling @ Jenison – Fairlanes Bowling Center – Division 1 MHSAA Team Regionals @ Vicksburg – Continental Lanes – Division 2 MHSAA Team Regionals @ Catholic Central – Park Center Lanes – Division 3 MHSAA Team Regionals @ Lake Odessa Lakewood – M-66 Bowl – Division 3 MHSAA Team Regionals @ Holton – Sherman Bowling Center – Division 4 MHSAA Team Regionals Boys Swimming East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – Swimming Prelims South Christian @ Hastings Boys Basketball Grand Haven @ East Kentwood Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights Kelloggsville @ Covenant Christian Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian Tri-Unity Christian @ Muskegon Oakridge Calhoun Christian @ Zion Christian Potter’s House @ Lansing Christian Sparta @ Grand River Prep South Christian @ FH Eastern Girls Basketball Grand Haven @ East Kentwood Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights Kelloggsville @ Holland Black River Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Calhoun Christian @ Zion Christian Potter’s House @ Lansing Christian Tri-Unity Christian @ West Michigan Lutheran Grand River Prep @ Lakewood Lake Odessa South Christian @ FH Eastern Boys Hockey Christian @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Event Girls Gymnastics Potter’s House @ Lowell
Saturday, Feb. 23 Boys/Girls Bowling @ Jenison – Fairlanes Bowling Center – Division 1 MHSAA Individual Regionals @ Vicksburg – Continental Lanes – Division 2 MHSAA Individual Regionals @ Catholic Central – Park Center Lanes – Division 3 MHSAA Individual Regionals @ Lake Odessa Lakewood – M-66 Bowl – Division 3 MHSAA Individual Regionals @ Holton – Sherman Bowling Center – Division 4 MHSAA Individual Regionals Boys Swimming East Kentwood @ Hudsonville South Christian @ Hastings Boys Hockey East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids Girls Cheer @ Hartland – Division 1 MHSAA Regionals @ Kenowa Hills – Division 2 MHSAA Regionals @ Rockford – Division 3 MHSAA Regionals @ Caledonia – Division 4 MHSAA Regionals Boys Basketball West Michigan Lutheran @ Battle Creek Academy Girls Basketball East Kentwood @ Union
Monday, Feb. 25 Boys Basketball East Kentwood vs Byron Center @ Wyoming – Division 1 MHSAA Districts Kelloggsville @ South Christian – Division 2 MHSAA Districts
The latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus offers a discussion with Kentwood City Commissioner Maurice Groce, who has a long history serving the city his family has called home for nearly three decades, and Metro Health — UM Health’s Dr. Peter Hahn, who is one of the few leaders of a healthcare system with hands-on experience with patients.
First up, In Focus is City of Kentwood Commissioner Maurice Groce, who was appointed late last year to fill the unexpired term of at-large commissioner Richard Clanton. Groce is a 29-year resident of Kentwood and previously served the City as 2nd Ward Commissioner for two years. But his service to the city runs much deeper that. WKTV talks about his past, present and future work with the city and the community.
Then In Focus is Metro Health — University of Michigan Health President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Peter Hahn, who was selected to lead the healthcare system late last year after serving as Metro Health’s Chief Medical Officer. As a doctor, he is one of the few healthcare provider leaders who has worked directly with patients as some of the national finest hospitals, but that does not mean his business credentials are not equally impressive.
WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times).
In Focus is also available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com. All individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.
During a Presidents Day weekend closure, the Michigan Department of State will replace the outdated vehicle records system Secretary of State offices have used for decades with a modern computer system to better serve customers. More info here.
They who drink beer…
There will be no shortage of beer related activities starting Friday, Feb. 15, when Beer Month GR begins its annual month-long celebration of craft beer brewing and drinking all across the greater Grand Rapids area. More info here.
Get your groove on
KDL’s vinyl collection, KDL Grooves, launches on Record Store Day (Saturday, April 13, 2019), but you can get an early taste at the launch party on Feb. 16th. Here’s the scoop.
Fun fact:
Blame it on the cows
During Prohibition, moonshiners would wear “cow shoes.” The fancy footwear left hoofprints instead of footprints, helping distillers and smugglers evade police.
Doubtful this fashion statement would catch on in today’s world.
Police are looking a male, approximately 5-4″-5’5″.
At approximately 9:40 am on February 14, 2019, a robbery occurred at the Lake Michigan Credit Union, 2636 44th St SW.
The suspect entered the bank and announced it was being robbed. After obtaining an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect fled out of the bank and was last seen running northbound across 44th St. SW. There were no injuries during this robbery and no weapons were seen.
The suspect is described as being an unknown race male, approximately 5’4” – 5’5” tall, wearing a black ski mask, yellow ski sunglasses, and all black clothing. Witnesses described the suspect as having a deep voice.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 866-774-2345.
As children, neither musician was interested in studying stringed instruments, much less classical music. Baptiste, who wanted to study the saxophone, told NPR he ended up in the string section due to a bet between two teachers. The duo, who are Black Violin, are set to perform at the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Symphony with Soul Feb. 18 concert. Read more here.
Waiting by the window for the cats and dogs to come raining down
Before Jimmy King was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome (a developmental disorder on the Autism spectrum), his parents knew only that he was different from other kids. Read King’s story here.
And all that jazz…
Xavier Davis
Pianist Xavier Davis will be the featured artist during a concert Sunday, Feb. 10, at 3 p.m., at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE. Tickets are $15 general admission and $5 for students with ID, on-line or at the door. More info here.
Fun fact:
No kneecaps = no jumping.
Elephants are the only land mammals that cannot jump. Unlike all other mammals on earth (well, except for maybe whales and dolphins), elephants do not have kneecaps. Therefore, they are unable to bend their legs and acquire the needed propulsion to leave the ground.
Kent County Department Of Public Works resource recovery specialist Lauren Westerman, in black, leads a tour of the county’s current waste recovery process. (Supplied/Kent County)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
A major component of the Kent County Department of Public Works’s plan to reduce county landfall waste by 20 percent by 2020 — and 90 percent by 2030 — is to gain community buy-in for the plan.
And a big part of that component is having Resource Recovery Specialists provide tours and presentations and “work collaboratively with community organizations to help them realize the impacts of waste on our community and how they can take action to help reduce our reliance on landfills,” according to supplied information.
As part of that effort, the county Department of Public Works (DPW) announced last week a major addition to department’s educational programs with the hire of Katelyn Nettler as a new resource recovery specialist.
In addition, the DWP announced that Lauren Westerman, also a resource recovery specialist, recently earned her environmental educator certification from the Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education.
“We are always looking for ways to enhance our educational programs, and our resource recovery specialists play a vital role in our commitment to community outreach and education,” said Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, said in supplied material. “Both Lauren and Katelyn bring fresh perspectives to our program and will help us develop new strategies for educating our community about the importance of protecting our environment through reducing, reusing, recycling and reimagining how we manage discards.”
Nettler comes to the DPW from the Blandford Nature Center where she was a volunteer and outreach manager. She will support Westerman with outreach and education through developing audio and visual content for the DPW’s website, social media and other platforms. Nettler’s role will focus on giving the community a look at the county’s trash and recycling process and teaching people how to safely dispose of chemicals and other hazardous materials.
“I am looking forward to working with community partners to ensure access and awareness of programs that help reduce waste designed for the landfill,” Nettler said. “There are many opportunities to reduce landfill waste in our community and I’m excited to hit the ground running in this new role.”
Westerman completed her environmental certification in November. The Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education offers an Environmental Educator Certification that is recognized by the North American Association for Environmental Education, a leading professional organization in environmental education.
According to MAEOE, environmental literacy can be defined as understanding how to make decisions that minimize environmental impact. Westerman will use her certification to grow Kent County DPW’s recycling and waste management education programs.
“I pursued this certification to expand my communication skills and gain experience as an environmental educator that I can apply to the Kent County DPW’s programs,” Westerman said. “This program challenged me to define objectives and goals for each program and to incorporate evaluation tools throughout the process. I am excited to continue using these new skills as I teach more recycling and waste programs in the coming years.”
Westerman has been with the Kent DPW for three years. In her role, she leads tours through the Recycling Center and Land ll, visits schools for various education programs, and interacts with the public throughout the year. She earned her Master of Environmental Science from Taylor University in Indiana.
For more information on Kent County’s 2020/2030 plans visit reimaginetrash.org .
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@WKTV.org
With the playoffs looming, WKTV’s featured high school game this week will be a Friday, Feb. 15, boys and girls basketball games with Middleville Thronapple-Kellogg at South Christian.
The rest of the tentative monthly featured game coverage schedule is:
Tuesday, Feb. 19: Boys basketball, Belding at Wyoming Lee Friday, Feb. 22: Boys Hockey, Grand Rapids Christian at East Kentwood Week of February 25–29: Boys basketball, TBD
In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person.
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s schedule:
Monday, Feb. 11 Boys/Girls Bowling Rockford @ East Kentwood Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee Hopkins @ Kelloggsville Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Girls Cheer Wyoming @ FH Eastern Girls Basketball Zion Christian @ Saugatuck Girls Gymnastics Potter’s House @ Rockford Boys Basketball Muskegon Catholic Central @ Grand River Prep
Tuesday, Feb. 12 Boys/Girls Bowling East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Crossroads Charter Academy @ Potter’s House South Christian @ East Grand Rapids Boys Basketball East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Christian @ Wyoming – Teacher Appreciation Night Holland Black River @ Tri-Unity Christian Western Michigan Christian @ Zion Christian Kalamazoo Hackett @ Potter’s House West Michigan Aviation @ Martin West Michigan Lutheran @ Algoma Christian South Christian @ Covenant Christian Girls Basketball Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Hopkins @ Kelloggsville Wyoming @ Christian Holland Black River @ Tri-Unity Christian Zion Christian @ Muskegon Catholic Central West Michigan Aviation @ Martin West Michigan Lutheran @ Algoma Christian Covenant Christian @ South Christian Boys Swimming South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
Wednesday, Feb. 13 Boys Wrestling Wyoming Lee @ MHSAA Team Regionals Boys/Girls Bowling Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian Girls Cheer East Kentwood @ Comstock Park Wyoming @ Comstock Park Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Thursday, Feb. 14 Boys/Girls Bowling Grand Haven @ East Kentwood Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville Tri-Unity Christian @ Potter’s House – Boys only FH Eastern @ South Christian
Friday, Feb. 15 Boys Basketball East Kentwood @ Rockford Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian Belding @ Kelloggsville Hudsonville @ Wyoming – Hall of Fame Night Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian Zion Christian @ Calvary Christian Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation West Michigan Lutheran @ Barry County Christian Grand River Prep @ Holland Calvary Middleville T-K @ South Christian – WKTV Featured Event Girls Basketball East Kentwood @ Rockford Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian Belding @ Kelloggsville Hudsonville @ Wyoming – Hall of Fame Night Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian Zion Christian @ Calvary Christian Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation West Michigan Lutheran @ Barry County Christian Hopkins @ Grand River Prep Middleville T-K @ South Christian – WKTV Featured Event Boys Hockey East Kentwood @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer Girls Cheer Wyoming @ Muskegon Mona Shores – Division 2 MHSAA Districts Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park – MHSAA Districts Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park – MHSAA Districts Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park – MHSAA Districts Girls Gymnastics @ Potter’s House
Saturday, Feb. 16 Boys/Girls Bowling East Kentwood @ Grandville Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian Wyoming @ Christian Boys Wrestling @ Grand Haven – MHSAA Individual Regionals Girls Dance East Kentwood @ Davenport University Invite Girls Cheer East Kentwood @ Rockford – Division 1 MHSAA Districts Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park – Division 3 MHSAA Districts Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park – Division 3 MHSAA Districts Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park – Division 3 MHSAA Districts Boys Hockey East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
With a focus on safety, power restoration work is underway after an overnight ice storm cut power to approximately 50,000 West Michigan Consumers Energy customers – including residents in the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood – and created slick and hazardous conditions across the state.
Crews are assessing damage, securing downed wires to make them safe and beginning the power restoration process. The public is reminded to stay at least 25 feet away from downed wires and anything they are touching and to call 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
“We appreciate our customers’ patience as we make situations safe and begin restoring power,” said Guy Packard, Consumers Energy vice president of electric operations. “Safety of the public and our crews is our utmost importance.”
As of 11 a.m., 52,500 Consumers Energy customers were without power. Since 1 a.m. Wednesday, approximately 63,000 customers have been affected. Some customers who lost power overnight may not have their service restored until late Thursday night. With additional winter weather expected over the next two days, additional outages are possible, Packard said.
From damage assessors to call center representatives and lineworkers, more than 1,100 Consumers Energy employees and contractors are engaged in the restoration efforts. Twenty mutual assistance crews are headed to Michigan from Kentucky and other Consumers Energy crews from around the state are being deployed to the hardest hit areas.
Consumers Energy urges the public to keep tips in mind:
Stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines and keep children and pets away. Call 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050 to report them.
Be alert to utility crews working along roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they safely can go past workers on roadsides.
Never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas.
Call 2-1-1 if you are looking for help connecting to temporary shelter or other resources that offer assistance in your community. 2-1-1 is a free statewide service.
Customers can also report an outage, check the status of an outage and get useful tips what to do after a storm by visiting www.ConsumersEnergy.com/OutageCenter.
Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.
"Take care of the minutes and the hours will take care of themselves.”
― Earl of Chesterfield
Some of the runners at a previous Kentwood Valentine’s Dash 5K. (WKTV)
Kentwood hosts Valentine’s Day run
The City of Kentwood is hosting its second annual Valentine’s Dash 5K at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 9, an event that will feature candy stations, awards and after-party including music, snacks, a photo booth, and the award ceremony. For the complete story, visit here.
A scene form a previous Wyoming Daddy-Daughter Dance. (WKTV)
Wyoming hosts daddy-daughter dance
The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation is currently taking registrations for its annual Daddy Daughter Dance, which will be Saturday, Feb. 9. The popular dance, which is for girls ages 3-15, will be at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW. Cost is $8 for residents and $12 for non-residents. (Fee is per person.) For the complete story, visit here.
WKTV’s coverage of girls high school basketball continues this month. (WKTV)
High school sports action abounds
February will bring some MHSAA State tournaments starting already as the high school winter seasons begin to wrap up, this includes girls cheer, boys wrestling, boys bowling, girls bowling and, starting the last week of the month, boys basketball will tip off “March Madness” in February with the girls version starting the following week. For the complete story, visit here.
Fun fact:
4,2076,800 minutes
Number of minutes in the lifetime of a person living to the age of 80.
Local business and community leaders attended the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce annual awards event recently (WKACC)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
A manufacturer of rubber products and more, a provider of water and water systems of all kinds, and an organization committed to the deaf and hard of hearing were among the honorees as The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses and persons at its 2018 Award event recently.
And WKTV was privileged to provide video stories for each of the business winners.
“We are so proud of Grand Rapids Rubber Products history,” Chamber President and CEO Bob O’Callaghan said. “They have been a family owned business operating in our area since 1943. They are your source for industrial supplies and custom fabrication in the Wyoming-Kentwood area.”
“Gordon Water Systems was selected as our Retail Business of the Year because in their seven years as a Chamber Member, they have been very involved with our events and committees, as well as serving our community needs,” O’Callaghan said.
“The Service Business of the Year is the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services,” O’Callaghan said. “They were selected because they break down barriers for the deaf and blind in our area. They do not receive any government funding, but still make a difference for the people of Wyoming & Kentwood.”
Also honor at the event was Shane Myas of Axa Advisors, which was named the Dan Vandyke Outstanding Volunteer of the Year; Michelle Born of Fischer-Bratschie & Born P.C., who was given the Gerald E. Fessell Distinguished Service Award; and the Daniel T. McLaren Outstanding Committee of the Year was the Ambassador Committee.
Many of the Kent County District Court Judges gathered for an 50th anniversary event for the courts. (Supplied/Kent County District Court)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Many of the judges of the District Courts of Kent County, as well as other county leaders, gathered Jan. 11 at the 63rd District Court on East Beltline NE to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Michigan’s district court system.
Established in 1968, when Michigan created district courts and abolished justices of the peace and circuit court commissioners, district courts are seen as “the public’s court” where matters such as small claims, land contact issues and misdemeanor criminal offenses are handed, and where many people attend without an attorney.
At the event, 63rd District Court Chief Judge Sara J. Smolenski spoke at the event about her family’s long involvement with the court system. Her father, J. Robert Smolenski, was a judge for 17 years, beginning in 1968; her brother, Michael R. Smolenski, spent 25 years as a judge; Sara was elected in 1990.
“My brother took over when my dad retired in 1984 … in 1990, I was elected here and my brother was elected to Circuit (Court),” Judge Smolenski said. “So the entire 50 years, there has been a Smolenski on this bench.”
Judge William G. Kelly, of Kentwood’s 62-B court, and a local historian of the court system, also spoke at the event.
“Before it was non-lawyers who handled many of these types of cases,” Judge Kelly said. “When they created this district court (system) 50 years ago, they really did not know what was going to happen. They had a good idea, a very good idea. And I think the creators would be very proud of what they established as the district courts now.”
The local 62-B court, which is celebrating its 40th years of service, opened its doors in January 1979 on 44th Street where a Fields Fabric Décor store now sits, before moving into the Kentwood City Center. In 2002, it moved to its current home in the Kentwood Justice Center.
The establishment of district courts was June 17, 1968, and most courts began operation on Jan. 1, 1969.
The courts have exclusive jurisdiction over all civil claims for damages up to $25,000, small claims (damages up to $6,000), landlord-tenant disputes, land contract disputes, and civil infractions. The court may also conduct marriages in a civil ceremony.
Additionally, it handles a wide range of criminal proceedings, including most misdemeanors, for which the maximum possible penalty does not exceed one year in jail. Typical misdemeanor offenses include driving under the influence of intoxicants or on a suspended license, simple assault, shoplifting, and possession of small amounts of marijuana.
Lastly, district courts also conduct preliminary examinations in felony cases, after which, if the prosecutor provides sufficient proofs, the felony case is transferred to the circuit court for arraignment and trial.
Wilmer and Orvid Lawson (seated left), Rep. Bill Huizenga and Col. Rajesh Kothari (standing right) and others at a ceremony at the Roger Chaffee American Legion in Wyoming. (Supplied/Rep. Bill Huizenga’s office)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, who represents both Wyoming and Kentwood, was at the Roger Chaffee American Legion in Wyoming on Saturday, Jan. 19, as part of a ceremony to present Congressional Gold Medals to father and son Irwin and Orvid Lawson for their service in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II.
Rep. Huizenga (R-2nd District) presented the award to 92-year-old Wyoming resident Orvid Lawson, while Col. Rajesh Kothari, Commander of the Michigan Wing of Civil Air Patrol (CAP), presented Wilmer Lawson, son of Irwin and brother of Orvid, with Irwin’s Congressional Gold Medal.
After Rep. Billl Huizenga presented the Congressional Gold Medal to Wilmer Lawson, Commander of the Michigan Wing of Civil Air Patrol, Col. Rajesh Kothari, congratulates him. (Civil Air Patrol photo by Maj. Bill Carson, CAP)
“I had the honor of presenting 92-year-old Orvid Lawson of Wyoming with a Congressional Gold Medal for his service in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II,” Rep. Huizenga said in material supplied to WKTV. “We also posthumously presented Irwin Lawson, Orvid’s father, with a Congressional Gold Medal for his service in the CAP. Irwin was one of 65 CAP volunteers who lost their lives during World War II.”
Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals “as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. Each medal honors a particular individual, institution, or event,” according to supplied material.
Father and son Irwin and Orvid Lawson served in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II. (Supplied office of Rep. Bill Huizenga)
Orvid served in the Sault Ste. Marie CAP Squadron until joining the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1945. His father, Irwin was one of 65 CAP members to lose their life while serving as a volunteer in the CAP. Irwin died August 10, 1945.
“Irwin was the head of the Civil Air Patrol in the Soo and Orvid was right by his side,” according to a statement from the congressman’s office. “In addition to some surveillance work, the Soo Civil Air Patrol was used for positioning barrage balloons and for identifying locations for anti-aircraft installations. The Soo was one of the most heavily defended inland sites in the United States during World War II because of the vital importance of the Locks. At its peak, approximately 12,000 troops were stationed there.
“During the early days of American involvement in World War II, the threats CAP faced were in the form of Nazi U-boats threatening U.S. shipping – especially oil tankers – off the Atlantic and Gulf coasts,” the statement continues. “CAP’s founders flew patrols that discouraged and eventually stopped the U-boat attacks saving hundreds of American lives. They also patrolled the country’s borders by air, towed targets for military trainees, spotted forest fires, conducted search and rescue missions, provided disaster relief and emergency transport of people and parts, and conducted orientation flights for future pilots.”
The ceremony at the Roger Chaffee American Legion included National Commander of the American Legion, Brett P. Reistad, as well as the Commander of the Roger Chaffee American Legion post, Bill Charon.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@wktv.org
WKTV Featured Game high school sport coverage this week will include two girls/boys basketball doubleheaders, with Potter’s House visiting Tri-unity Christian Tuesday, and Wyoming high hosting Middleville Thornapple-Kellogg on Friday.
Show the local schools your support by going in person, but then watch WKTV for the events that are showcased each week. Check out the broadcast schedule at wktvjournal.org for replay dates and times.
The final featured coverage on the current tentative January featured game schedule is Thursday, Jan. 31, with boys swimming/diving, as Rockford visits East Kentwood.
In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person.
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s schedule:
Monday, Jan. 21 Boys/Girls Bowling Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian South Christian @ Christian Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep Wyoming @ FH Eastern Grandville @ East Kentwood Girls Gymnastics Potter’s House @ Rockford
Tuesday, Jan. 22 Girls Basketball Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Wayland @ South Christian Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Potter’s House @ Tri-unity Christian – WKTV Featured Event Grandville @ East Kentwood Fruitport Calvary @ West Michigan Aviation Zion Christian @ Algoma Christian Boys Swimming South Christian @ East Kentwood Boys Basketball South Christian @ Wayland Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming Wyoming Lee @ Belding Potter’s House @ Tri-unity Christian – WKTV Featured Event East Kentwood @ Grandville Fruitport Calvary @ West Michigan Aviation Flat River @ West Michigan Lutheran Zion Christian @ Ravenna Boys/Girls Bowling Northpointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee Tri-unity Christian @ Wyoming Lee NorthPointe Christian @ Potter’s House
Wednesday, Jan. 23 Boys/Girls Bowling Godwin Heights @ Hopkins East Grand Rapids @ South Christian Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Christian @ Wyoming East Kentwood @ Rockford Boys Wrestling Godwin Heights @ Belding Kelloggsville @ Belding Wyoming @ FH Eastern Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian Cedar Springs @ East Kentwood Girls Cheer Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee Wyoming @ Byron Center Girls Gymnastics FH Central vs Potter’s House @ Kenowa Hills
Thursday, Jan. 24 Boys Swimming South Christian @ Middleville T-K East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Boys/Girls Bowling East Kentwood @ Wyoming Lee Potter’s House @ Tri-unity Christian Girls Basketball Potter’s House @ Howardsville Christian Boys Basketball Potter’s House @ Howardsville Christian
Friday, Jan. 25 Boys Basketball Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian FH Eastern @ South Christian Tri-Unity Christian @ Kelloggsville Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Event East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Barry County Christian @ Zion Christian Girls Basketball Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian FH Eastern @ South Christian Middleville T-K @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Event East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Potter’s House @ Kalamazoo Hackett West Michigan Lutheran @ Zion Christian Girls Cheer Wyoming Lee @ Hamilton Boys Hockey Kenowa Hills @ East Kentwood
Saturday, Jan. 26 Boys/Girls Bowling Godwin Heights @ Rockford South Christian @ Rockford Wyoming @ Rockford Boys Wrestling Godwin Heights @ Northview Kelloggsville @ Northview Wyoming @ Montague Wyoming Lee @ Reed City East Kentwood @ Lakewood Girls Cheer Kelloggsville @ Caledonia Wyoming @ Caledonia East Kentwood @ Caledonia Boys/Girls Dance Wyoming @ Jenison Boys Hockey East Kentwood @ Byron Center Girls Gymnastics Potter’s House @ Kenowa Hills
Monday, Jan. 28 Boys/Girls Bowling Godwin Heights @ Potter’s House South Christian @ Byron Center Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Wyoming Lee @ Belding East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Girls Gymnastics Rockford vs Potter’s House @ Kenowa Hills Girls Basketball Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep
Tuesday, Jan. 29 Girls Basketball Muskegon Heights @ Godwin Heights South Christian @ Hudsonville Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep FH Central @ East Kentwood Potter’s House @ Grand River Prep West Michigan Aviation @ Holland Black River West Michigan Lutheran @ WMAES Zion Christian @ Ravenna Boys Basketball Calvin Christian @ South Christian FH Central @ Wyoming NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep Potter’s House @ Grand River Prep West Michigan Aviation @ Holland Black River West Michigan Lutheran @ WMAES Muskegon Catholic Central
Wednesday, Jan. 30 Boys/Girls Bowling Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights Wyoming @ South Christian Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian Grand Haven @ East Kentwood Boys Wrestling Hopkins @ Godwin Heights Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian Grandville @ East Kentwood Girls Cheer Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins Wyoming @ FH Eastern Girls Gymnastics Potter’s House @ Rockford
Thursday, Jan. 31 Boys Swimming South Christian @ West Catholic Rockford @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Event
GRS Symphony Music Director Marcelo Lehninger (Supplied)
WKTV Staff
This week, both the Grand Rapids Symphony and the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre have announced free tickets to federal government employees who have been furloughed or are working without pay due to the government shutdown.
“The Grand Rapids Symphony is a community supported orchestra, and it’s our duty and privilege to support our community as well,” said Grand Rapids Symphony Vice President of Marketing and Communications Denise Lubey.
“Music not only is one of our greatest pleasures, it’s one of our greatest sources of comfort in trying times,” Lubey said. “Music nourishes the soul and lifts the spirts. It sustains us when we’re sad and entertains us when we need to set aside the worries of the day.”
More than 22 percent of all federal employees in Michigan totaling about 5,700 workers currently are affected by the shutdown in the Great Lake State.
For the Grand Rapids Symphony, federal employees who are affected by the shutdown may receive up to two free tickets to any upcoming Symphony concert. The exception is “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” on Feb. 1-2, which is sold out. The Grand Rapids Symphony also is offering four free tickets for any of its upcoming Family series or Lollipop concerts to affected workers and their families. Federal employees will be asked to provide their job and office or agency for confirmation.
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” through Jan. 27. (Civic Theatre)
The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre is offering two tickets to its current production “And Then There Were None,” which runs through Jan. 27. Federal employees must show their federal ID for the tickets.
Advance tickets are available at civic’s box office, which is located at 30 N. Division Ave., or the night of the performance. For more information, call 222-6650.
Today The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Wyoming, announced that Grand Rapids-based Stone Fox Ventures LLC will be relocating a portion of its recent acquisition, Even Cut Abrasive Company, to a new location at 4050 Roger B. Chaffee Memorial Blvd, in Wyoming, which was the former Ferris Nut and Coffee warehouse. Additionally, the company will invest $3.76 million in equipment and facility to expand product offerings, resulting in the creation of 52 jobs.
Stone Fox Ventures is a private equity investment firm that acquires, structures, manages and grows middle-market manufacturing, distribution, and services companies with industrial and business customers. Recently, the firm closed the purchase of Even Cut Abrasive Company, currently located in Cleveland, Ohio. The manufacturer produces coated and non-woven specialty abrasive products for industrial use.
After considering keeping the full-scope of the company’s operations in Cleveland, Stone Fox Ventures ultimately decided to relocate and expand a portion the industrial manufacturer to Wyoming with the assistance of The Right Place and the MEDC. The new Wyoming facility will take over the production of two product lines, as well as the expansion of several others.
“We believe the City of Wyoming is a great place to build a company and a community. Not only is the area full of talented individuals who will make fantastic team members, but it also provides a quality of life we believe is important to our business culture,” said Robert Shindorf, Managing Member, Stone Fox Ventures LLC, “The Right Place and their partners at the MEDC have been incredibly helpful as we’ve worked through this process, and we’re grateful for their continued support as we move forward.”
The MEDC is supporting the expansion effort with the approval of a $400,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The Right Place also connected the company with workforce development resources at West Michigan Works! to assist with talent attraction and workforce training.
Eric Icard, senior business development manager with The Right Place (Supplied)
“Stone Fox Ventures’ decision to expand Even Cut Abrasive’s operations into Wyoming is a testament to the economic strength of our region,” said Eric Icard, Senior Business Development Manager and project lead, “West Michigan has always been exceptionally well-suited to support manufacturers, and the addition of Stone Fox Venture’s recent acquisition only strengthens our reputation as a place where manufacturers thrive.”
“We’re thrilled Stone Fox Ventures selected Wyoming as the location for its expansion project,” said Mayor Jack Poll, City of Wyoming, “We look forward to welcoming them to our community and being part of their continued success.”
About Stone Fox Ventures LLC Stone Fox Ventures is a private equity investment firm focused on bringing growth and improvements to the communities our companies serve. Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan our values mirror the collective principles and conservative nature of our state. We structure our acquisitions and business process improvements to protect the interests of our employees, providing security, stability and advancement opportunities. For more information, please visit http://stonefoxventures.com. For information on Even Cut Abrasive Company, please visit: http://evencut.com
About The Right Place, Inc. The Right Place, Inc., is a regional nonprofit economic development organization founded in 1985 and supported through investments from the private and public sector. Its mission is to promote economic growth in the areas of quality employment, productivity and technology in West Michigan by developing jobs through leading business retention, expansion and attraction efforts. For more information, visit:www.rightplace.org.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been running at normal times but staff recommends that people get to the airport at least 90 to 120 minutes before their flight takes off. (WKTV)
With reports of some TSA officers not coming in and potentially long wait times at local airports, area residents will be happy to know things are running smoothy at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
“The security wait times are running at normal times,” said Alicia Roberts, marketing coordinator for the Ford Airport. “We appreciate the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and CBP (U.S. Customers and Board Protection) staff continuing to work hard to keep things at the airport running smoothly.”
Roberts statement matches what the TSA website has stated. According to the site, TSA screened 1.89 million passengers on Jan. 14. The overall wait time for 99.1 percent of passengers was less than 30 minutes with 94.3 percent of the passengers waiting less than 15 minutes. For the TSA PreCheck lanes, the average wait was less than 10 minutes.
Wait times vary at each airpot. For example, Atlanta was reporting a max standard wait time of 88 minutes with a TSA PreCheck maximum wait time of 55 minutes. For Chicago’s O’Hare, the maximum waiting time was 16 minutes and the maximum wait time for TSA PreCheck was three minutes. At the Detroit airport, the maximum wait time was 19 minutes and the maximum wait time for the TSA PreCheck was four minutes.
Roberts said that it is always recommended that passengers come to the airport early to get checked in and through security. GFIA encourages passengers to arrive at least 90-120 minutes before their flight and check flight information at www.flyford.com.
To help with moving through security, passengers should utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one-quart zip-top bag. Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag.
Suntan & Sun Block Lotion:Lotions fall under the 3-1-1procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
Makeup:Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
Beverages:Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.
Due to safety concerns, the FAA yesterday recalled thousands of furloughed inspectors and engineers back to work. It happened after unions representing aviation safety inspectors and air traffic controllers raised concerns that the shutdown was eroding the safety of the nation’s air travel.
All FFA TSA and CBP employees are working without pay during the government shutdown.
CNN recently compiled a list of impacts from the government shutdown. Click here to read more.
“No matter at all, I replied; for the point is not who said the words, but whether they are true or not.”
― Plato, The Dialogues of Plato, Vol 1
The Lee High School’s current mascot is a caricature of Confederate soldier. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
To change or not to change the Rebel
When the Godfrey-Lee Board of Education announced it was going to host forums to discuss whether to change or keep its Rebel mascot, the goal, according to school officials, was to have an open and honest discussion among students, parents, staff and the community. For the complete story, visit here.
Young people can get too much screen time, no matter what they say. (Pexels)
Study finds kids at risk for myopia
Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is on the rise worldwide. And kids, who spend long hours playing on smartphones and tablets, might be at greater risk for vision problems, a new study suggests. For the complete story, visit here.
An Allegiant Airlines plane at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Supplied/Ford International Airport)
And the beat goes on at Ford airport
The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, announced that Allegiant Air, LLC will be opening a new base at GRR in Grand Rapids. This expansion will result in the creation of at least 66 new jobs and a capital investment of $42.8 million. For the complete story, visit here.
Fun fact:
2 hours, 19 minutes
Average screen time of an American child under 8 years old in 2017. (Source)
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director sports@wktv.org
WKTV Featured Game high school sport coverage this week will include two girls basketball games, a solo game from Wyoming High Tuesday, and part of a boys-girls basketball doubleheader Friday from Godwin Heights.
The Jan. 15 game will feature Grand Rapids Christian at Wyoming. The Jan. 18 game will featured NorthPointe Christian at Godwin Heights.
Show the local schools your support by going in person, but then watch WKTV for the events that are showcased each week. Check out the broadcast schedule at wktvjournal.org for replay dates and times.
The rest of the current tentative January featured game schedule is:
Tuesday, Jan. 22 — Boys/Girls basketball: Potter’s House at Tri-Unity Christian Friday, Jan. 25 — Boys/Girls basketball: Middleville T-K at Wyoming Thursday, Jan. 31 — Boys swimming/diving: Rockford at East Kentwood
In addition our featured games — where our sports crew and remote coverage truck will be on hand — we also have a weekly list of all local sporting contests for local fans to get out and enjoy in person.
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/ .
Following is this week’s schedule:
Monday, Jan. 14 Boys/Girls Bowling South Christian @ Wayland Kelloggsville @ Belding Wyoming @ Byron Center Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Girls Gymnastics Potter’s House @ Lowell
Tuesday, Jan. 15 Boys Basketball Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee Hopkins @ Kelloggsville Wyoming @ Christian Wellsprings Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian Hudsonville @ East Kentwood Holland Calvary @ Potter’s House Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation Creative Tech @ West Michigan Lutheran Muskegon Catholic Central @ Grand River Prep Girls Basketball Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Christian @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Event Fruitport Calvary @ Tri-Unity Christian East Kentwood @ Hudsonville Holland Calvary @ Potter’s House Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation Creative Tech @ West Michigan Lutheran Holland Black River @ Grand River Prep Boys/Girls Bowling Wyoming @ Unity Christian Calvin Christian @ Potter’s House
Wednesday, Jan. 16 Boys/Girls Bowling Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Middleville T-K @ South Christian Kelloggsville @ Hopkins Wayland @ Wyoming Caledonia @ East Kentwood Boys Wrestling Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins Allendale @ Kelloggsville Christian @ Wyoming Caledonia @ East Kentwood Girls Cheer Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian Wyoming @ Zeeland East East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
Thursday, Jan. 17 Boys Swimming South Christian @ Muskegon Mona Shores East Kentwood@ Grandville Boys/Girls Bowling Potter’s House @ Hopkins
Friday, Jan. 18 Boys/Girls Bowling Ottawa Hills @ Godwin Heights Girls Cheer Godwin Heights @ West Catholic Boys Basketball NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights – WKTV Featured Event South Christian @ Middleville T-K Kelloggsville @ Belding Wyoming @ Benton Harbor Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee Tri-Unity Christian @ Zion Christian Rockford @ East Kentwood Holland Black River @ Potter’s House West Michigan Lutheran @ Libertas Christian Girls Basketball NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights – WKTV Featured Event South Christian @ Middleville T-K Kelloggsville @ Belding Benton Harbor @ Wyoming Tri-Unity Christian @ Zion Christian Rockford @ East Kentwood Holland Black River @ Potter’s House West Michigan Lutheran @ Libertas Christian Boys Wrestling Wyoming Lee @ Pinconning Boys Hockey East Grand Rapids @ East Kentwood
Saturday, Jan. 19 Boys Wrestling Godwin Heights @ Hopkins Kelloggsville @ Christian Wyoming @ Jenison East Kentwood @ Holt Boys Basketball Catholic Central @ South Christian Girls Cheer Kelloggsville @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer East Kentwood @ Rochester Girls Dance East Kentwood @ Wayland Boys Hockey FH Central @ East Kentwood
Monday, Jan. 21 Boys/Girls Bowling Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian South Christian @ Christian Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep Wyoming @ FH Eastern Grandville @ East Kentwood Girls Gymnastics Potter’s House @ Rockford
