By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights right now, Friday, March 3!
Check out our local girls district final highlights here (East Kentwood, South Christian and Potter’s House) and our boys district bracket preview.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
Led by one of the top players in West Michigan, Byron Center put an end to the season for the East Kentwood girls basketball team Friday evening.
Byron Center junior Lillian Zeinstra poured in 33 points and led the Bulldogs to a 69-57 decision over East Kentwood in a Division 1 district championship game at Wyoming High School.
Zeinstra, who is committed to play her college basketball at Butler University, not only gave East Kentwood problems with her scoring skills, but the multi-dimensional guard also played havoc with Kentwood’s pressure defense with her ability to handle the basketball and took advantage of Kentwood’s lack of size on the defensive boards. Making Zeinstra’s effort even more impressive was the fact she overcame an ankle injury in the second quarter.
“I think Lily showed her grit tonight,” said East Kentwood Coach Eric Large. “You could see it when she got banged up. I think one of her greatest assets is her leadership. Her rebounding is also a big asset. We missed a lot of 50-50 shots and she was there to get the rebound. One of our strong points is our defensive pressure and she was also able to take that away from us with the way she handles the ball against our pressure.”
East Kentwood stayed close in the game’s early going until Byron Center closed out the opening stanza with a 6-2 run to take an 18-13 lead into the second quarter. Zeinstra was at the heart of the run on offense for Byron Center as she scored 13 of the Bulldogs’ 18 first-quarter points.
Byron Center stretched the lead to 24-15 midway through the second quarter before Zeinstra fell to the floor with an ankle injury. After limping off the floor, Zeinstra came back into the game two minutes later and helped Byron Center take a 31-20 lead into halftime.
“Lily is one of our team leaders,” said Byron Center Coach Jen Slot. “She rolled her ankle in the second quarter, but was able to tough it out. She had a really nice game tonight and gave it everything she had. She does whatever it takes to win.”
East Kentwood quickly cut the deficit in half in the early moments of the second half. Harmonie Belton came up with back-to-back steals that led to back-to-back three-pointers by Sophia Wozniak, cutting the margin to five points just a minute into the third quarter.
Byron Center, however, quickly regrouped and outscored Kentwood 8-2 to regain a double-digit lead at 39-28. The two teams then traded buckets the remainder of the third quarter with Byron Center up 48-36 going into the final quarter.
With Zeinstra and senior guard McKenna Ferguson handling East Kentwood’s defensive pressure in the final quarter, the Falcons were unable to get the margin under double figures the remainder of the game.
“I think in the second half we came out and matched their intensity,” Large said. “I think we were a little tight in the first half. Our tallest players are 5-foot-6 and 5-foot-7 so we had a tough time matching up with them on the boards. Our kids fought to the end and I was proud of them.”
Makayla Porter led East Kentwood with 16 points and Tianna Daye added 13. Sophia Wozniak scored nine points, followed by Harmonie Belton and Santana Eubanks with six apiece.
East Kentwood closed out the season with a 16-8 overall record and finished third in the O-K Red at 9-5.
“I’m not disappointed with the season at all,” Large said. “The girls should hold their heads high. They continued to get better all season. I saw a lot of improvement all throughout the season. The O-K Red is the toughest conference in the state and I’m proud of the way my girls battled the entire way.”
Large also is looking forward to next season.
“We had two seniors on the team, Jaevym Montgomery and Tianna Daye, and both of them were all-conference players,” Large said. “We will miss both of them. We will have five or six juniors returning and Landen Smith is a sophomore who really played well tonight. We will have some good players to build around next season.”
Byron Center improved to 21-3 win the win. The Bulldogs were champions of the O-K White Conference this season with a 14-0 record. Along with 33 points from Zeinstra, the Bulldogs received 13 points from Makenna Crandell and 12 from McKenna Ferguson.
South Christian ended the season with a 16-8 record and finished second place in the O-K Gold at 10-4.
Potter’s House ended the season with an 18-7 record and won the Alliance League title at 7-0 for the second straight year.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Lee 76, Benton Harbor Countryside 50
(LEE: Ny’Zhem Marshall, 33 points, 10 rebounds; Marc Whitfield and Joe Russau, 10 points apiece; Whitfield, 11 boards and 15 assists; Russau, 10 boards)
South Christian 64, East Kentwood 48
(SC: Jake Vermaas, 23 points; Jake DeHaan, 21; Carson Vis, 12. EK: Marshaun Flakes, 14 points; Christian Humphrey and Darryl Thompkins Jr., 11 apiece)
Tri-unity 63, Fennville 40
(TU: Roy Fogg, 11 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists; Keaton Blanker, 10 points)
Unity Christian 69, Wyoming 61
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 22 points; Avonte’ Wiggins, 17)
West Michigan Aviation 74, Allegan 42
(WMAA: Luke Riebel, 20 points, 2 steals, 4 turnovers; Ethan Dyksterhouse, 18 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals, 5 blocks; Heath Tamlyn, 16 points, 1 steal, 2 turnovers)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
It was a showdown of two of the hottest teams in West Michigan Tuesday as OK Gold co-champion South Christian hosted OK Red champion East Kentwood. The matchup also featured two of the premier defensive teams in the area and defense proved to be the difference as South Christian defeated East Kentwood 64-48.
The Sailors entered the game riding a nine-game winning streak while Kentwood came in with seven consecutive wins. Both teams have relied on defense during their winning streaks and defense dictated the course of the game.
South Christian came out and established its defense early as the Sailors held Kentwood to a single bucket by Darryl Thompkins Jr. in the opening quarter. South Christian, meanwhile, put up 13 points during the opening quarter to build a double-digit lead and the Sailors kept the lead in double figures for nearly the remainder of the game.
“I thought our defense was just great early in the game,” said South Christian Coach Taylor Johnson. “We knew that if we wanted to beat Kentwood we would have to have a great defensive effort and that’s what we had. They have some great players. They have three all-conference guards, but our defense was great tonight. We also rebounded the ball well.
“On most of their possessions we held them to one shot and that was just as important for us.”
South Christian continued to play strong defense in the second quarter. The Sailors came close to holding Kentwood to single figures in the quarter as the Falcons put up 11 points during the period. South also built on its lead with some timely buckets on the other end of the floor. Jake Vermaas led the way on offense for the Sailors in the second quarter pumping in seven points to help South build a 28-13 halftime lead.
“It just wasn’t our night tonight,” said East Kentwood Coach Michael Thomas. “We were not able to play our style of play. We did not get any rewards for going to the basket. I thought our guys played hard, but hats off to South Christian, they are a great team.”
East Kentwood chipped away at the South Christian lead during the early stages of the second half. Kentwood opened the second half with an 8-2 run and cut the Sailor lead to 30-21 after a steal and layup by Marshaun Flakes midway through the third quarter. That would prove to be as close as the Falcons would get in the second half as South Christian responded with six consecutive points to build the lead back to 15 points at 36-21. South Christian headed into the fourth quarter up 44-25 as Vermaas closed out the third by hitting a three-point shot at the buzzer.
South Christian carried that momentum into the final quarter as the Sailors outscored Kentwood 8-5 to start the quarter and built the lead to 52-30. Kentwood managed to whittle the lead down to 10 points at 54-44 when Flakes scored off a steal with 3:05 remaining. The Sailors, however, squashed any hopes of a late rally by closing out the game on a 10-4 run.
The Sailors, who finished the regular season at 19-3 overall and 13-1 in the conference, were led by Vermaas with 23 points. Jake DeHaan added 21, followed by Carson Vis, 12 and Sam Medendorp, eight.
South Christian now turns its focus to the state tournament that begins next week at their district in Plainwell. South has a bye in the first round and faces the winner of Hastings and Grand River Prep in the semifinals next Wednesday.
“I’m proud of these guys,” Johnson said. “They have had a heck of a season. I feel like we are playing our best basketball of the season right now. This team has just gotten better and better as the season has gone on.
“We have to stay humble and play the right way. Our defense is getting better and better. That is our culture and that has got to carry us.”
Flakes led East Kentwood with 14 points, followed by Christian Humphrey and Darryl Thompkins Jr., 11 apiece and Jamell Hatchett added nine.
East Kentwood, which finished the regular season at 16-6 overall, 11-3 in the conference, heads south to Middleville Thornapple-Kellogg for their district next week. The Falcons play the winner of Middleville and Ottawa Hills next Wednesday.
“I think we have some momentum heading into March,” Thomas said. “We have to go to the drawing board and touch up a few things. We have to make sure we don’t come out and start the game the way we did tonight.”
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
East Kentwood 72, Caledonia 56
East Grand Rapids 65, Wyoming 50
Semifinals: East Kentwood 61, Thornapple Kellogg 27
Semifinals: Byron Center 63, East Grand Rapids 39
Sparta 59, Lee 7
Godwin Heights 60, Grand River Prep 23
Semifinals: Grand Rapids Christian defeated Godwin Heights
Semifinals: South Christian 42, Kelloggsville 16
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 11 points; Emerald Hoekwater, 9)
Hastings 61, West Michigan Aviation 16
Potter’s House 43, Saranac 32
Semifinals: Potter’s House 57, GR Covenant Christian 54 (Double OT)
(PH: Anyieth Nhial, 20 points; Emily Baez (freshman), 18 points; Isabelle Baez, 9 points and 5 steals; Joy McClendon, 9 points and 6 rebounds)
Semifinals: NorthPointe Christian 48, Grandville Calvin Christian 45
Zion Christian 41, Decatur 29
Semifinals: Martin 45, Zion Christian 35
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
After his East Kentwood basketball team defeated Hudsonville 61-49 to clinch the OK Red Conference championship Friday, Kentwood coach Mike Thomas said the Falcons have the best high school atmosphere in all of America.
With the way the Falcons ignited the home crowd, few people would doubt him.
Some of the veterans of the East Kentwood sports scene said the Kentwood fieldhouse hasn’t been as loud as it was Friday since the days of Loy Vaught in the mid-1980s. With the conference title on the line, the Falcons gave their fans plenty to cheer about.
After falling behind 15-3 in the first quarter, the Falcons whipped the crowd into a frenzy as they stormed back at the start of the second quarter to take a 22-18 lead.
As it has all season, defense provided the fuel for the rally. East Kentwood began the second quarter by reeling off 14 unanswered points to turn a 15-6 deficit into a 20-15 lead. Marshaun Flakes, Darryl Thompkins Jr. and Christian Humphrey all came up with key steals to ignite the rally while Humphrey also came up with a big blocked shot.
“I think we came out a little flat,” Thomas said. “We switched to a zone defense in the second quarter and I thought that caused them some problems.”
Hudsonville, however, was not about to fold in the battle of the conference co-leaders in a winner-take-all final game of the conference season.
Hudsonville surged ahead in the third quarter with a run of its own to take a 35-30 lead. Kentwood then closed the third quarter strong to regain a 40-38 edge going into the final quarter.
The fourth quarter saw the Falcons again turn up the heat on defense. East Kentwood held Hudsonville scoreless the first four minutes of the final quarter. During that span the Falcons extended the lead to 47-38.
East Kentwood closed even closer to its first conference title in several seasons when it built the lead to double digits at 53-43 with 1:14 remaining in the game.
Hudsonville made one final run, and in the next 30 seconds cut the Falcon lead to 53-49 after three-point buckets by Griffin Baker and Gibson Heethuis.
The Falcons were not to be denied, however, and closed out the game with an exclamation point by scoring eight unanswered points in the final 47 seconds. The run was capped by back-to-back dunks from Humphrey and Flakes in the final 10 seconds of the game that brought the house down.
“I’ve coached at a lot of special places, but this is by far the best,” said Thomas, in his first season coaching the Falcons. “I’ve never experienced a crowd like this in high school. I believe we have the best high school basketball atmosphere in all the USA. With the replay screen, our student section. They are like a sixth-man for us.
“We haven’t won a conference title in like seven or eight years and to win it in my first year here is special. I’m new to this community and the community has been so welcoming. I wanted to give them something back, but this is just the beginning.”
Senior Marshaun Flakes led East Kentwood in scoring with 23 points. The win was extra special for Flakes who is one of the seniors on this year’s squad.
“It feels real good,” Flakes said. “I haven’t won anything at all in my four years here. This was one of our goals this year. It was great to see all the fans come out and it feels even greater to get the win.”
Fellow senior Christian Humphrey added 14 points, followed by Darryl Thompkins Jr. with 10.
“We really came together as a team this year,” Hatchett said. “The way we have been winning is with our defense. That is the way we came back tonight. Winning the title feels great.”
With the win, East Kentwood finished the conference season with an 11-3 record and improved to 16-5 overall.
Brayden Szamrej led Hudsonville with 15 points and Mason Dykstra with 14 points. The Eagles finished the league season at 10-4 and fell to 15-6 overall.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights right now, Friday, February 24!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you some great high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org
South Christian 80, Cedar Springs 41 WKTV Game of the Week
Sailors OK Gold Champions
(SC: Jake DeHaan, 25 points; Sam Medendorp, 20)
East Kentwood 61, Hudsonville 49
Falcons OK Red Champions 11-3
(EK: Marshaun Flakes, 20 points)
Wyoming 59, Zeeland East 43
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 15 points, 9 rebounds; Donavyn Edwards, 11 points, 6 assists, 6 steals)
Covenant Christian 56, WMA 52
(WMA: Luke Riebel, 24 points, 3 steals; Heath Tamlyn and Ethan Dyksterhouse, 10 points apiece)
Potter’s House 74, Fremont 55
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 20 points)
Tri-Unity Christian 78, Wellspring Prep 31
(TU: All 13 players scored for Tri-Unity. Jordan VanKlompenberg, 13 points; Dylan Bruinsma, 11)
Godwin Heights 84, Kelloggsville 66
South Christian 63, Cedar Springs 26 WKTV Game of the Week
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 13 points; Sophia Prins, 12)
Kelloggsville at Godwin Heights
Wyoming at Zeeland East
Hudsonville 49, East Kentwood 40
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Get an early glimpse of our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show right here! The Legends beat visiting Grand River Prep 89-68 Tuesday to win their first conference crown since 1980.
Be sure to watch the complete FNH show on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and ATT U-verse Channel 99.
By WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is requesting proposals for murals and 2D wall art applications to be displayed in the newly expanded $110 million Concourse A.
Designed by architect Jorge Barrero of HKS, Concourse A will mimic the experience of arriving in West Michigan. Artists should aim to complement West Michigan’s identity from the blues of Lake Michigan and the natural tans of the dunes to the grays and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between.
“This new modernized concourse was designed to reflect the unique characteristics of our region,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “Our design team was very intentional about creating opportunities within this new space to showcase the diverse talents of our local art community.”
The Concourse A project – part of the Elevate capital expansion program to enhance the Airport’s facilities and infrastructure – is designed to reflect the culture of the region. This $110 million extension will more than double the length and width of the existing concourse to meet the growing passenger demand for air travel.
New dining options, amenities, such as an executive lounge, and retail options will be located throughout the 90,000 square feet of new space.
Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport will continue to invest in the local art community through its public art program. Concourse A will feature three art mediums, including custom terrazzo flooring, a suspended art installation and wall art.
Artists interested in submitting proposals for mural and 2D wall art can find more information at flyford.org/elevate/opportunities. Submissions are due March 26, 2023.
By WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is pleased to announce that four local artists have been selected to install permanent terrazzo floor art designs in the $110 million Concourse A expansion.
Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport will continue to invest in local artists through its public art program. The Concourse A extension – part of Elevate capital expansion program – will feature three art mediums, including custom terrazzo flooring, a suspended art installation and wall art. The four artists selected to feature their terrazzo designs include:
“We are thrilled to feature these talented artists, each of whom brings a unique viewpoint of West Michigan, in our newly enhanced and modernized Concourse A,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “With millions of passengers passing through our Airport every year, we are delighted that the diverse talents of our art community will be showcased to all coming to our region.”
Each terrazzo design reflects a different aspect of West Michigan — from the blues of Lake Michigan to the natural tans of the dunes, the grays and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between. Artists crafted designs to complement the physical context of the local region while also expressing the non-physical perception, diversity and unique identity of the larger West Michigan community.
George Eberhardt III, inspired by aspects of Katsushika Hokusai’s “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” referenced Lake Michigan and its water elements in his design that measures a diameter of 15 feet.
With a background in program development and curriculum design, Eberhardt focuses on enriching the lives of youth and diverse communities as an artist, muralist and art teacher. A previous ArtPrize® winner, Eberhardt’s mural work can be seen across West Michigan with pieces at Slows BBQ in downtown Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Public Schools, West Grand Neighborhood Organization, Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, among many others.
Kim Nguyen referenced the cities and towns of Grand Rapids and surrounding West Michigan areas while also including representations of Grand Rapids’ agricultural, medical and manufacturing industries in her design. Her installation will pay homage to our community’s former moniker, “Furniture City,” while winding the Grand River and Grand Rapids’ proximity to the shores of Lake Michigan.
“I am overjoyed and feel incredibly honored to be one of the artists helping new residents and future travelers see the beauty of our home through artwork beneath their feet,” Nguyen said. “I have always felt a fondness for airports because they bring me the thrill of travel, and in the case of Ford International Airport, the relieving feeling of being almost home.
“I have a photograph where I am two years old and meeting my three older brothers at Ford International Airport, it is there that I met them and my grandparents for the very first time. Though I was born in Grand Rapids, my family are refugees and immigrants from Vietnam, and I can’t imagine what they felt when they landed here in West Michigan.”
Maureen Nollette, inspired by a photograph she took of a Sand Cherry shrub on a roadside beach in Michigan, created designs to showcase the vastness of the Lake Michigan Dunes and the region’s native flora.
Nollette is currently the visiting assistant professor at Grand Valley State University in the department of Visual & Media Arts and was previously a resident artist for the Josef and Anni Alvers Foundation and Ngo Le Korsa Project in Sinthian, Africa, as well as for the Marble House Project in Dorset, Vermont.
Michael Pfleghaar recently completed a collection of plein air paintings which was translated into his terrazzo designs to replicate West Michigan’s natural forestry and agriculture.
Pfleghaar has permanent collections at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Steelcase, Inc., Herman Miller, the State of Michigan and Grand Valley State University. Apple, HBO, CBS, ForeSee, Hayworth and Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts are a few of the organizations that have utilized his illustrative artwork.
The four terrazzo designs will be installed in highly visible locations for direct interaction with passengers. The artists worked closely with contractor, Central Tile and Terrazzo Co., to ensure the terrazzo accurately matches their artistic intent.
The installation of the terrazzo art pieces is expected to be completed by June 2023. For more information about the artists and the capital expansion program, Elevate, visit flyford.org/elevate.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Lee 89, Grand River Prep 68
South Christian 82, Catholic Central 54
(SC: Carson Vis, 24 points; Jake Vermaas, 22. CC: Kaden Brown, 27 points)
Wyoming 50, Zeeland West 48
(WY: Quintin Williams, 13 points, 4 assists, 4 steals; Alyjah Chandler, 12 points, 3 rebounds, 4 steals)
Tri-unity 57, Pewamo-Westphalia 52
(TU: Keaton Blanker, 21 points, 6 assists; Jordan VanKlompenberg, 15 points, 5 assists, 7 rebounds; Roy Fogg, 10 points)
Potter’s House 76, Fruitport Calvary Christian 37
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 17 points; Malachi VerWys, 15)
West Ottawa at East Kentwood
Godwin Heights at Sparta
Calvin Christian at Kelloggsville
Zion Christian at Wellspring Prep
Potter’s House 55, Fruitport Calvary Christian 32
Calvin Christian 57, Kelloggsville 30
Catholic Central 53, South Christian 50
Zeeland West 48, Wyoming 40
Black River 58, WMA 34
Sparta 51, Godwin Heights 39
West Ottawa 53, East Kentwood 50
Grand River Prep 70, Lee 32
Zion Christian at Wellspring Prep
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, February 17!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you some great high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
West Michigan Aviation 75, Wellspring Prep 38
(WMA: Joseph May, 19 points, 17 in the first half; Ethan Dyksterhouse, 18 points, 13 rebounds)
Tri-unity 68, Zion Christian 32
Lee 83, Fruitport Calvary Christian 63
(LEE: Joe Russau, 26 points, 15 rebounds, 4 blocks; Marc Whitfield, 18 points; Ny’Zhem Marshall and Troy Fox, 12 points apiece)
Muskegon 74, Wyoming 50
(WY: Quintin Williams, 27 points, including 9 Threes)
Potter’s House at Muskegon Catholic Central 7 pm
South Christian 72, Wayland 34
(SC: Carson Vis, 16 points; Jake Vermaas, 14)
Belding at Kelloggsville 7:30 pm
East Kentwood at Caledonia 7:30 pm
Godwin Heights at Hopkins 7:30 pm
Muskegon at Wyoming 7 pm WKTV Friday Game of the Week
Muskegon Catholic Central at Potter’s House 5:30 pm
West Michigan Aviation 50, Wellspring Prep 18
(WMA: Audrey Mileski and Ava Bazuin, 15 points apiece; Amber Hilbrands, 7 points)
East Kentwood at Caledonia 6 pm
Belding at Kelloggsville 6 pm
Godwin Heights at Hopkins 6 pm
Lee at Fruitport Calvary Christian 6 pm
Wayland 47, South Christian 39
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 12 points; Lily Nitz, 10. WAY: M. Terry and H. Laker, 15 apiece)
Zion Christian at Battle Creek Calhoun Christian 6 pm
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
Extraordinary price hikes on eggs over the past year and continuing inflation costs have had consumers and local business owners concerned.
340 Million: Prior to the avian influenza outbreak in 2022, that was the number of laying hens across the United States. 15 million of those hens could be found in Michigan.
Those numbers average one hen for every consumer in the country.
“For every citizen in the United States, there was one laying hen,” said Ernie Birchmeier, Senior Relations Specialist with the Michigan Farm Bureau.
Since the avian influenza outbreak, however, over 58 million birds were affected countrywide, creating a hitch in egg production that resulted in higher prices for one of the country’s main staples.
In January of 2022, the average cost of a dozen large Grade A eggs was $1.93. During the past year, consumers were hard pressed to find a dozen of those same eggs for under $5.
“We lost about 45 million laying hens across the country from that influenza outbreak. That has had an impact on the size of the laying flock in the United States and has decreased egg production,” Birchmeier said.
Various strains of avian influenza are an annual occurrence.
“Typically, when you have an avian influenza outbreak, it is spread during the spring and the fall when wild birds migrate back to the north from the south and vice versa in the fall,” Birchmeier said. “When you co-mingle those birds, they bring different sets of diseases and will typically cause an influenza outbreak.”
The number of birds affected by influenza is not normally so high. So why was the bird population hit so hard in 2022?
“In 2022, (avian influenza) lasted all year, during both seasons,” Birchmeier said. “So it’s continued to have an impact.”
When will egg prices decrease?
Birchmeier said there have been reports of consumers seeing a softening in egg prices, with many lowering to more normal levels. But he cautions that it will take time to see a significant change.
“It takes time for eggs to be set, then for those eggs to hatch,” said Birchmeier, relaying that birds are typically 5-1/2 months old before they start laying. “It’s going to take time to replenish those flocks.”
Consumers are urged to remember that labor, transportation and energy costs also are up and that factors into the cost of food along with the influenza outbreak.
There was a general food inflation of around 20 percent in 2022. Add in the impact of a reduction in egg production, and it influences those prices even more.
“If we can get through spring without any major problems, and farmers can replenish those flocks, we should see a decrease, a softening, of egg prices back down to more normal levels,” Birchmeier said. “It’s just going to take time for supply to catch back up (with demand).”
For many local businesses, eggs are a staple — one needed in abundance.
“It’s hard to be a breakfast place (right now),” said Delanie Haisma, a server at Anna’s House restaurant. “That’s a common thing that we supply.”
But Haisma also said that the post-pandemic general inflation is what has had the biggest impact on their business.
When asked if Anna’s House has increased prices due to rising egg prices, Haisma said, “Since the eggs have gone up, no, but about a month before that happened, we did raise our menu prices by 25 to 75 cents on a couple of items.”
Continuing supply issues also have had a large impact.
“It’s hard to keep stuff in stock, and sometimes we have to go through a third party,” Haisma explained.
Other local restaurants also have had to adjust menu pricing due to general inflation.
Real Food Café recently instituted a three-percent surcharge to all checks to offset fast-rising expenses, including rising employee wages, fuel charges, and the escalating cost of food and other goods.
Even though rising prices have stunned most consumers, Birchmeier urges buyers to consider the true value of a dozen eggs priced at $5. “That’s still a pretty good value when you consider the amount per egg. Forty cents per egg is still a pretty good value compared to a lot of foods.”
Perspective also plays a role in remembering the value of a product: “Five dollars for a dozen eggs versus $5 for that cup of coffee you stood in line and waited for,” Birchmeier said.
Birchmeier went on to say that although the entire United States has been impacted by the influenza outbreak, Michigan as a whole has been spared any major outbreaks in our laying flock, and that other areas of the country are paying more for eggs than Michiganders.
“We are very fortunate in this country to have the food supply that we do,” Birchmeier said. “And we have choices. And we have the ability to shop around.”
Birchmeier encourages consumers to shop around for better prices than what they may find at their usual store.
“Very seldom do we ever have to worry about whether or not there is product on the grocery store shelf,” Birchmeier said. “We saw that for the first time in many people’s lives in our country during the pandemic. But our farmers are out there every day to make sure that we have a wholesome and abundant food supply in this country.”
Egg-laying facilities have tight bio security measures implemented by farmers that have been in place for many years. Because of these extra steps, Michigan has been spared major outbreaks in our laying flocks.
Controlling traffic flow on and off the farm, regulating the number of visitors to the farm, and making sure trucks are cleaned as they enter and leave the farm, are all steps Michigan farmers have taken to diligently keep diseases from their flocks.
“Our farmers know they need to protect the birds inside those buildings,” Birchmeier said. “For their livelihood, but also to make sure that they are producing a (safe) product for the consumer.”
With emotions running high and bank accounts running low, Birchmeier warns against incorrect theories about causes for the egg price hike.
“We have to be very careful about everything we read on the internet and social media and make sure that we are getting accurate information rather than potential theories.”
There are other factors as to why chickens may not be laying eggs. In the winter months, it is common for chickens to go into a molt, or molting process, during which it is typical for chickens to stop laying eggs.
Regardless of the reason, Birchmeier said it is important to remember that production and distribution systems are already set and in place no matter how much farmers produce in a year.
“If there is a chink in the armor, or a link in the chain that’s broken, that’s when we run into disruptions,” he explained. “A lot of our consumers don’t understand that because we never have to think about it. (Food) has always been there.”
“Relative to the rest of the world, we are in a fantastic position here in the United States to have a wholesome, abundant, affordable food supply typically all of the time,” Birchmeier said.
He explained the importance of understanding that farmers are greatly impacted by all this as well.
“We’re feeling the brunt of high labor, high energy costs, as well, across our food production system. But farmers themselves can’t pass those costs on, they have to absorb them, versus other manufacturers and goods and services (that) typically add those costs on and pass them along to the consumer. We see our ups and downs in the agricultural department from an economic standpoint as well.”
Birchmeier strongly encourages consumers to know the facts before jumping to conclusions, and to ask farmers if they have questions.
“We are glad to share our information because we’re all together in this.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Get an early glimpse of our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show with these exciting clips and interviews from our Tuesday WKTV Game of the Week: Muskegon Catholic Central at Lee boys. The Legends beat visiting MCC 69-58 to stay atop the Alliance League at 5-0, 15-1 overall.
Be sure to watch the complete FNH show on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and ATT U-verse Channel 99.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Lee 69, Muskegon Catholic Central 58 WKTV Tuesday Game of the Week
Potter’s House 69, Zion Christian 29
(PH: Malachi VerWys, 17 points)
Tri-unity 63, West Michigan Aviation 38
(TU: Owen Rosendall, 18 points; Jordan Vanklompenberg. WMA: Joseph May, 15 points; Luke Riebel, 11 points; Ethan Dyksterhouse, 8 points, 7 rebounds)
East Kentwood 53, Grand Haven 47
(EK: Darryl Thompkins Jr. and Marshaun Flakes, 12 points apiece; Christian Humphrey, 11 points, including 3 treys)
South Christian 87, Kenowa Hills 34
(SC: Sam Medendorp, 28 points, a career high)
Wyoming 58, Holland 49
(WY: Maxi Morales, 15 points, 7 rebounds; Quintin Williams, 14 points)
Grand River Prep 65, Fruitport Calvary Christian 64
(GRP: LJ Cambric, 21 points, 13 rebounds, 2 blocks; Jaydon Weddle, 18 points, 5 rebounds; Julian Hardy, 16 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists)
Godwin Heights 50, Belding 35
Kelloggsville at Hopkins
Wyoming 55, Holland 15
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 18 points; LaAnna Griffin, 10 points, 12 rebounds; Shakya Anderson, 8 points, 8 rebounds off the bench)
Potter’s House 39, Zion Christian 32
Grand River Prep 60, Fruitport Calvary Christian 55
Muskegon Catholic Central 40, Lee 21
Hopkins 53, Kelloggsville 31
Belding 65, Godwin Heights 56
South Christian 43, Kenowa Hills 30
East Kentwood 40, Grand Haven 39
By WKTV Staff
Woodland Mall will host the second annual Unity Walk to Honor Martin Luther King Jr. with the City of Kentwood and the ninth African American Live Museum with New Hope Baptist Church on Saturday, Feb. 25.
To kick off the day’s events, community members are invited to gather at the food court inside Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE, at 11 a.m. for a walk that will end in front of Von Maur at 11:30 a.m. A ceremony will immediately follow and feature welcoming remarks from Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley, a proclamation presented by various community members, live music and refreshments.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to again host our Unity Walk to Honor MLK at Woodland Mall,” Kepley said. “It will be the start to a great day celebrating the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr., as well as other leading African American figures through New Hope Baptist Church’s Live Museum. We welcome community members of all ages to join us.”
The Unity Walk will be followed by the African American Live Museum presented by New Hope Baptist Church. Starting at 1 p.m., community members can witness more than 25 live performances featuring notable African American figures throughout history and in current culture across several areas, including politics, sports, science, arts and entertainment. Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald and Judge Kentaji Brown Jackson will be among the legends appearing throughout the mall until 5 p.m.
A distinguishing factor of the Live Museum is how the performers, ranging in age from 10 to 66, bring their persona to life by adopting mannerisms of the legendary figures they are portraying while sharing facts and stories from their lives. Visitors can watch and listen to the performances to learn about the figures and enjoy the realistic depictions.
“The African American Live Museum is one of our outreach ministries with the intentionality of relationship building,” said Dr. Cathy Large, drama ministry leader of New Hope Baptist Church. “This is a great opportunity to help educate the community about the historic achievements of Black Americans and to share the wonderful talents of our performers.”
The Live Museum was an annual event for many years at the mall until the pandemic. Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall, says the mall is thrilled for its return, along with the continuation of the Unity Walk.
“We are proud to partner with the City of Kentwood and New Hope Baptist Church to offer these impactful events,” Ross said. “Both will give our guests the opportunity to learn through personal connections and interactive experiences.”
For more information about the Feb. 25 events at Woodland Mall, visit ShopWoodlandMall.com/events.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, February 10!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you some great high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
If Friday’s result is any indication, opponents of East Kentwood might thick twice about coming out in a zone defense against the Falcons.
Thanks to some accurate outside shooting and timely drives to the basket, East Kentwood’s offense reached overdrive in the second half as the Falcons defeated Grandville 73-58 in an OK Red showdown of conference frontrunners.
“I thought this was a good game for us,” said East Kentwood Coach Mike Thomas. “Our guys struggle against a zone, but they showed tonight they are starting to figure the zone out. This is the largest amount of points we’ve scored against a zone in a long time.”
The 73 points the Falcons scored Friday was almost double the amount of points they scored a month ago when the Falcons dropped a 48-41 decision to Grandville on the road. The win also crowded things at the top of the OK Red as East Kentwood, Grandville, Grand Haven and Hudsonville are all tied for the top spot in the league with 7-3 conference records.
East Kentwood was especially productive against the Grandville zone defense in the second half. Trailing Grandville 32-27 at halftime, East Kentwood outscored the Bulldogs 46-26 in the second half.
East Kentwood stormed out of the locker room at the start of the second half to outscore Grandville 20-5 and take control of the game. Senior Marshaun Flakes led the charge in the second half as he scored Kentwood’s first seven points of the third quarter.
“This was big,” Flakes said. “The last time we played them (Grandville) we started slow. Tonight, we came out with a lot more energy and intensity. We really brought the energy in the second half.”
East Kentwood brought plenty of defensive energy to the floor in the second half. Steals on the defensive end led to some layups on the offensive end of the floor. Both Flakes and Jaden Bowman came up with big steals in the early going in the third quarter as the Falcons took the lead in the game.
“It’s always our defense that gets us going,” Thomas said. “Our defense has kept us in every game. We also made some defensive adjustments at halftime.”
On the offensive side of the floor, the Falcons sliced apart the Grandville zone with a combination of accurate shooting from the perimeter and timely drives to the basket. East Kentwood connected on seven three-point shots during the game. Jamell Hatchett led the way from outside as he connected on three, three-point shots while Rasheed Watkins hit a pair of treys.
Balance also was a key for the East Kentwood offense. Hatchett and Flakes led the way for the Falcon offense as they both totaled 19 points. Darryl Thompkins poured in 15 points, while Watkins added 12.
A standout on both ends of the court, Flakes also was instrumental in providing the Falcons with strong leadership, especially coming out in the second half facing a five-point deficit.
“Marshaun was unbelievable tonight,” Thomas said. “He is the leader of our team. I’ve been coaching for a while now and have had some great leaders. Like I told my wife, Marshaun is one of the top leaders I’ve ever had.”
That leadership was evident in the early stages of the fourth quarter when Grandville made an effort to get back into the game. Up 49-43 at the end of the third quarter, Grandville whittled the Kentwood lead to 51-47 before Flakes drained a pair of free throws to stem the tide.
Grandville managed to cut the Falcon lead to 53-49, but a three-point shot by Watkins started a 7-0 Falcon run that built their lead to 60-49 with five minutes left in the game. Grandville managed to cut the Kentwood margin to 60-52, but that was as close as the Bulldogs would get as Kentwood pulled away in the final few minutes of the game.
“This was a big win for us,” Flakes said. “This win will give us some momentum going into March.”
With the win, East Kentwood improved to 11-5 overall. The Falcons return to action Saturday when they travel to Benton Harbor to play Detroit Old Redford in the Wilson Chandler Shootout. The Falcons then travel to Grand Haven on Tuesday to face another team that is part of the logjam at the top of the conference standings before heading to Caledonia on Friday.
Grandville fell to 10-6 overall and 7-3 in the league. The Bulldogs were led in scoring by Tyson Mann who finished with 31 points.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
East Kentwood 73, Grandville 58 WKTV Game of the Week
Lee 62, Tri-unity Christian 59
(LEE: Marc Whitfield, 21 points; Joe Russau, 19, 7 rebounds; Clarence Lewis, 11 points)
Reeths-Puffer 79, Wyoming 63
(WY: Avonte Wiggins, 23 points; Alyjah Chandler, 18)
WMA at Zion Christian
Grand River Prep at Saranac
Potter’s House at Covenant Christian
Calvin Christian at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Sparta
Thornapple Kellogg at South Christian
East Kentwood 63, Grandville 44 WKTV Game of the Week
Zion Christian 56, West Michigan Aviation 51
(ZC: Josie Doezema, 19 points; Sam Deutschmann, 12.; Madi DeRuiter, 10. WMA: Ava Bazuin, 22 points; Audrey Mileski, 21)
South Christian 59, Thornapple Kellogg 29
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 17 points; Ashley Raredon, 11. TK: Jordan Pranger, 11)
Calvin Christian at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Sparta
Wyoming at Reeths-Puffer
Grand River Prep at Saranac
Potter’s House at Covenant Christian
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Get an early glimpse of our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show with these exciting clips and interviews from our Tuesday Game of the Week: Mona Shores at Wyoming Boys. The Wolves beat visiting Mona Shores 71-58.
Be sure to watch the complete FNH show on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and ATT U-verse Channel 99.
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc are partnering to host the eighth annual Freeze Fest doubles disc golf tournament and food drive on Saturday, Feb. 18.
Disc golfers of all skill levels are invited to join the best-shot doubles competition at Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Dr. SE from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. All proceeds will go to support Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
On-site registration begins at 9 a.m. and the first round of the tournament starts at 10 a.m. Pre-registration is encouraged online at kentwood.us/FreezeFest. The cost is $25 per person or $50 per team and one canned food donation.
“It has been exciting to watch Freeze Fest and our other disc golf events continue to grow each year,” said Lori Gresnick, Kentwood recreation program coordinator. “We continue to be amazed by and are grateful for the generosity of the disc golf community.”
The Kentwood Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a community service project in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. The small food pantry is open to all community members year-round and is designed to fill an immediate and local need. It offers nonperishable food and personal care items. Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry. No application is required and no questions are asked.
“The annual Freeze Fest gives the disc golf community a great opportunity to enjoy the game during the off season while also supporting the local community,” said Shea Abbgy, owner of Great Lakes Disc. “This is one of our favorite events of the year and we’re proud to continue partnering with the City of Kentwood on this tournament.”
The demand for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, has steadily increased since its opening. To help meet the growing need, the City of Kentwood opened a second pantry location in 2021 at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. More information is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Wyoming 71, Mona Shores 58 WKTV Game of the Week
(WY: Warren Williams, 17 points, 6 rebounds, 6 steals; Avonte Wiggins, 16 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists)
Lee 81, Saranac 47
(LEE: Marc Whitfield, 20 points, 10 assists; Joe Russau, 19 points)
Tri-unity Christian 71, Ravenna 39
(TU: Jordan VanKlompenberg and Keaton Blanker, 14 points apiece. Blanker also had 5 assists and 4 steals; Trey Rillema and Akais Giplaye, 6 rebounds each)
Potter’s House 78, Wellspring Prep 43
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 19 points)
South Christian 73, Ottawa Hills 51
(SC: Sam Medendorp, 20 points; Jake DeHaan, 17 points. OH: Craig Hureskin 17 points)
West Michigan Aviation 63, North Muskegon 55
(WMA: Luke Riebel, 22 points; Joseph May, 16 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, 2 turnovers; Ethan Dyksterhouse led with 9 rebounds)
NorthPointe Christian 69, Godwin Heights 67
Zion Christian, Grand River Prep
Rockford at East Kentwood
Kelloggsville at Comstock Park
Zion Christian 66, Grand River Prep 24
(ZC: Sam Deutschmann, 15 points; Madi DeRuiter, 14. GRP: Nkia Rodriguez, 10 points)
South Christian 57, Ottawa Hills 10
(SC: Ashley Raredon and Ashley Thomasma, 13 points apiece; Lizzie Wolthuis, 12)
Wyoming 44, Mona Shores 39
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 12 points; LaAnna Griffin, 10 points, 14 rebounds)
Godwin Heights at NorthPointe Christian
Wellspring Prep at Potter’s House
Comstock Park at Kelloggsville
East Kentwood at Rockford
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, February 3!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you some great high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Coming soon, we’ll have coaches and players stop by our studio after their games to chat on the show.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
South Christian 73, Forest Hills Eastern 61 WKTV Game of the Week
(Jake DeHaan, 25 points; Sam Medendorp, 17)
Lee 56, Potter’s House 53
(Lee: March Whitfield, 16 points; Clarence Lewis 13 points, 7 boards)
Jenison 47, East Kentwood 43
Tri-Unity Christian 71, Grand River Prep 48
(TU: Roy Fogg, 20 points, 9 rebounds; Jordan VanKlompenberg, 12 points; Akais Giplaye, 9 rebounds)
Wyoming 72, Union 67
(Alyjah Chandler, 20 points, 6 rebounds; Maxi Morales, 13 points; Avonte Wiggins, 12 points)
Muskegon Catholic Central at WMA
Battle Creek Calhoun Christian at Zion Christian
Godwin Heights at Comstock Park
NPC at Kelloggsville
South Christian 46, Forest Hills Eastern 42 WKTV Game of the Week
(SC: Sophia Prins, 12 points; Ashley Thomasma 11. FHE: Grace Doherty 13 points)
East Kentwood 53, Jenison 24
Wyoming 54, Union 43 Girls
(WY: Michaela Moore, 14 points; Aaliyah Ratliff, 13)
Lee at Potter’s House
Muskegon Catholic Central at WMA
Zion Christian 56, Battle Creek Calhoun Christian 25
(ZC: Jayda Steenbergen and Brie Alsum, 10 points apiece. Josie Doezema, nine)
NPC at Kelloggsville
Godwin Heights at Comstock Park
By WKTV Staff
The Kentwood Police Department is inviting individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to attend its recruitment event on Wednesday, Feb. 15.
The event will take place 6-8 p.m. and include two one-hour sessions at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Similar to the department’s fall event, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current officers, tour the department and more.
The informational sessions will be held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., beginning with an overview about working for the department. Attendees only need to attend one of the sessions, which will cover the same information. Tours, networking and opportunities to learn more about specialized units at KPD will follow. Refreshments also will be provided.
“We’re seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our team, especially as a sponsored police recruit,” Police Chief Litwin said. “This position has been an important part of our efforts to recruit students of all backgrounds and to hire individuals who are representative of our diverse community.
“We met a lot of great candidates during our last recruitment event and look forward to connecting with even more people interested in careers in law enforcement this time around.”
The event will feature information about all department employment opportunities, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Selected police recruit applicants will receive a full scholarship from KPD to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in fall 2023.
In addition to the police academy sponsorship, recruits receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 9 percent employer retirement plan contribution and continuing education and training. Individuals who successfully complete the academy and other required certifications and training will be sworn in as patrol officers with the Kentwood Police Department. No prior law enforcement experience is necessary to apply for this position.
No registration is required for the event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend. Attendees should plan to bring something to take notes with.
Individuals who are interested in working for KPD but cannot attend the event can receive more information by contacting Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us.
More information about the event can be found at kentwood.us/KPD2023. To explore current job openings and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood will host its sixth annual Valentine’s Dash 5K at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 to benefit Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which provides food and personal care items to community members in need.
The 5K route will include a combination of trails and paved pathways starting and ending at Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
Participants are encouraged to wear Valentine’s Day-themed costumes. While intended to be a fun run, the race will be chip timed and awards will be given for the fastest runner overall and in each age group.
An awards ceremony will follow in the library’s community room around noon, including Valentine-themed snacks, music and a photo booth.
“It can be difficult to find opportunities to run in the winter, especially races,” said Spencer McKellar, lead recreation program coordinator. “Our Valentine’s Dash provides a fun, festive opportunity to participate in a winter race, whether you’re an avid walker, first-time runner or a seasoned racer. All are welcome to come out and join us.”
Online registration is available until Feb. 10 and includes a long-sleeved shirt and other participant-packet goodies while supplies last. Racers should register by Jan. 26 to guarantee a shirt. Registration is $30 until Jan. 29, $35 from Jan. 30 to Feb. 10 and $40 on the day of the event. Runners who sign up as a couple save $5 each. Participants who bring a nonperishable item or monetary donation for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry will be entered to win a special door prize.
Kentwood’s first Little Free Pantry opened to the community in 2017 at the Kentwood Activities Center, where it remains available year-round during business hours. The City launched a second pantry at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch in 2021. More information, including a list of suggested donations, is available atkentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
There also are volunteer opportunities available for this event. Volunteers will help with racer check-in and registration, keep traffic off the race route and hand out water to runners during the race.
For more event information, visit kentwood.us/ValentinesDash.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
After trailing 10-1 to start the game, South Christian clawed back to eventually grab a 44-36 win over visiting Caledonia Tuesday.
At halftime, the game was tied at 21 and knotted at 28 to end the third quarter.
“The game went back and forth with both teams just really digging in on defense and struggling to get much going on offense,” said South Christian Coach Kim Legge, whose team is 10-5 overall, 5-2 in the OK Gold.
Caledonia led 36-35 with 3:30 left in the game and then the momentum was all South Christian.
“Ashley Thomasma hit a big three that put us up two points,” Legge said. “Our defense would hold strong from that point on holding Caledonia scoreless the rest of the way.”
Thomasma led the Sailors with 15 points, followed by Ashley Raredon, 13 points and 11 rebounds and Lizzie Wolthuis, 11.
Caledonia’s Gracie Gortmaker finished the game with 18 of the team’s 36 points.
“It was a great non conference matchup against a crosstown school,” Legge said. “Both teams worked extremely hard to keep the other team out of their rhythm. A lot of the players from both teams know each other so that always makes for a fun matchup.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Godwin Heights 76, Tri-unity Christian 62 WKTV Game of the Week
Wyoming 73, Holland Christian 60
(WY: Maxi Morales, 24 points, 6 rebounds; Alyjah Chandler, 20 points 5 rebounds, 7 assists)
Potter’s House Christian 59, Muskegon Orchard View 27
(PH: Malachi VerWys, 16 points; Quincy Winkle, 10)
Wellspring Prep at Grand River Prep
Muskegon Catholic Central at Zion Christian
West Michigan Aviation at Fruitport Calvary Christian
Grand River Prep 56, Wellspring Prep 14
Potter’s House Christian 52, Muskegon Orchard View 14
Zion Christian 50, Muskegon Catholic Central 27
(ZC: Jayda Steenbergen, 13 points; Audra Kaptein, 12)
South Christian 44, Caledonia 36
(SC: Ashley Thomasma, 15 points; Ashley Raredon, 13 points, 11 rebounds and Lizzie Wolthuis, 11 points. CAL: Gracie Gortmaker, 18 points.)
Fruitport Calvary Christian 53, West Michigan Aviation 38
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Wyoming 82, Zeeland East 78 (WKTV Game of the Week)
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 23 points, 6 steals; Quintin Williams, 23 points, 7 assists, 7 steals)
Lee 90, Wellspring Prep 44
(LEE: Marc Whitfield, 22 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals; Jr. Metcalf, 19 points, 7 assists)
Potter’s House Christian 41, Tri-Unity Christian 39
Grand River Prep at West Michigan Aviation Boys 7 pm
Hudsonville 54, East Kentwood 45
Godwin Heights 81, Kelloggsville Boys 48
South Christian 59, Cedar Springs 36
(Carson Vis, 16 points, Sam Medendorp, 9)
Fruitport Calvary Christian at Zion Christian Boys 7:30 pm
Wyoming 55, Zeeland East 33 (WKTV Game of the Week)
West Michigan Aviation 43, Grand River Prep 31
Zion Christian 49, Fruitport Calvary Christian 20
(ZC: Josie Doezema, 17 points; Jayda Steenbergen, 12 points)
East Kentwood at Hudsonville Girls 6 pm
Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville Girls 6 pm
South Christian 63, Cedar Springs
Hart vs. Potter’s House Christian Girls (AT Cornerstone Showcase) 7 pm
Wellspring Prep at Lee Girls 7 pm
BY WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, together with Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines®, Stantec GenerationAV and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, has announced the third round of companies that will receive a total of $171,000 in grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE).
One of the first airport-based initiatives in the nation, FLITE provides funding to encourage the design, development and pilot testing of new products and services in a live airport environment. FLITE has completed two rounds of funding and will launch a third round in spring 2023. The five companies that will receive grant funding through this next round include:
“After the successful completion of two rounds of funding, FLITE has proven to be a key asset to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and the state of Michigan’s local entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “It has become a leading platform in transforming the aviation industry through the introduction of new technologies that advance our ability to provide a world-class experience to all passengers and guests.”
A new partnership for FLITE includes the West Michigan Aviation Academy, a tuition-free public charter high school that provides a unique educational opportunity for students to focus on high-growth employment fields in the aviation industry during their high school education.
“The West Michigan Aviation Academy was very excited about the possibility to bring real-world innovation to the classroom with the partnership with FLITE,” said George Pavey, dean of aviation for West Michigan Aviation Academy. “Many of these cutting-edge projects connected with the FLITE program have provided countless opportunities for our students to experience learning beyond the academic setting. To see and experience the future of aviation and engineering further enhances our ability to develop the next generation of industry professionals.”
As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with a focus on growing the local economy, MEDC provided grant funding to FLITE through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME).
“For Michigan, innovation is in our DNA. With the announcement of FLITE’s round three of funding, we are positioning the state to be a global leader in high-tech and multi-modal mobility innovation,” said Charlie Tyson, technology activation director with OFME. “Programs like FLITE at the Ford International Airport not only support Michigan-based entrepreneurs, but also global tech companies as they seek to grow here in Michigan.”
Based in Ontario, Canada, Cyberworks Robotics is a global leading provider of specialized autonomous self-driving systems for airport wheelchairs, autonomous industrial carpet cleaners, autonomous floor scrubbers and autonomous tow-tuggers. Specifically designed for airport operations, its technology is designed to operate in crowded large-scale environments to safely mitigate labor shortages and reduce operating costs.
“Being based out of Canada, FLITE provides access to test and grow in the U.S. market,” said Vivek Burhanpurkar, CEO of Cyberworks Robotics. “We’re excited about the opportunity to connect with the FLITE partners and advisory committee as resources for our technology and business development.”
Based in Toronto, Canada, Deaf AI is an artificial intelligence venture that focuses on improving communication for those who use American Sign Language due to hard of hearing or hearing loss. Its technology converts flight and boarding announcements into sign language at airport terminals.
“Throughout my communications with different airport authorities, a few of them referred us to the FLITE program as a starting point after noticing that Deaf AI is an early-stage venture,” said Mehdi Masoumi, founder and CEO of Deaf AI. “The aviation industry has a significant gap in pilot studies and soft landings for innovation, making it difficult for early-stage startups to present their innovations to airport authorities. FLITE singularly built a bridge to address this gap by providing resources for early-stage startups.
“For Deaf AI, FLITE is a window of opportunity to test its innovation and reach out to other airports, including airports on the advisory boards of the FLITE program.”
Based in San Antonio, Texas, Renu Robotics the industry leader in autonomous vegetation management systems, was part of FLITE’s second cohort and will be returning for round three to conduct additional pilot testing of their product.
“Round three allows us to further explore the Renubot’s mowing capabilities in areas of the airport where larger mowers cannot easily access, as well as a cost-savings comparison,” said Tim Matus, CEO of Renu Robotics. “We’re also continuing to look into FAA requirements for operating on airport grounds and how those regulations are applicable.”
Based in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Solartonic provides off-grid solar-powered smart poles that are safe, resilient and sustainable. Their smart solahub™ platform integrates cloud-controlled devices with framework products for LED lights, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi networks, IoT sensors and digital signage through remote monitoring and control.
“We are excited to participate in FLITE with the Ford International Airport,” said Harry Giles, co-founder and CEO of Solartonic. “FLITE provides the ideal opportunity for us to demonstrate the value of our solutions to enhance airport perimeter security, passenger experience and airport operations. In partnership with Jacobsen|Daniels, we intend to apply this to airports across the country.”
Based in Grand Haven, Michigan, UV Angel is a leading disinfection technology company that uses UV Light technology, advanced optical engineering and a first-of-its-kind digital software platform, to disinfect surfaces by neutralizing bacteria, viruses and molds.
“We look forward to placing our UV Angel Clean Air™ Technology in the Ford International Airport,” said Tom Byrne, CEO of UV Angel. “The aviation industry has a critical need to protect personnel and travelers, and the FLITE program will provide invaluable insight and feedback to further our mission to make indoor spaces cleaner, safer and healthier for everyone.”
The Ford International Airport has identified six core focus areas for new technology advancements through FLITE:
Applications for round four of FLITE are being accepted now through June 30, 2023, at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Conributor
South Christian had Grand Rapids Catholic Central on the ropes during Tuesday’s OK Gold showdown of state-ranked powers, but the Sailors were unable to land the knockout shot and the host Cougars rallied to pull out a 71-67 win.
First place in the conference was on the line as South Christian sailed into the Catholic Central gym and the two teams gave the packed house what they came to see. South Christian, ranked 13th in the state in Division 2, led for the bulk of the game, but the host Cougars, ranked 18th in the state in Division 2, remained persistent throughout and overcame South down the stretch.
“It’s hard to keep them (Catholic Central) down,” South Christian Coach Taylor Johnson said. “They keep coming and coming. I felt we played with good intensity and our defensive focus was there, but they (Catholic Central) got some big rebounds down the stretch and the ball just didn’t bounce our way at the end.”
South Christian jumped out to an early 9-2 lead in the game and was up 18-12 at the end of the first quarter.
Sophomore standout Carson Vis was a big part of the Sailor offense in the early going and throughout the game. Scoring from the perimeter and on drives to the basket, Vis led the Sailors with 31 points in the game.
“He’s a special kid,” Johnson said. “He loves the game so much. He is such a special player and he is going to be special here for quite some time.”
Catholic Central reeled off 11 consecutive points to open the second quarter and take a 23-18 lead, but the Sailors righted the ship and regained a 37-32 lead at halftime.
While the Sailor offense was led by Vis, the Catholic Central offense has a pair of standout players that can fill the hoop in a hurry in junior Durral Brooks and senior Kaden Brown. Brown, who will be playing his college ball at Wright State next season, led all scorers with 32 points while Brooks, who has been offered by Michigan State, added 21 points.
South Christian went on a 10-0 run early in the third quarter to go up 47-35, but Catholic Central would not go away. The Cougars chipped away at the lead and cut the deficit to 57-50 at the end of the third quarter.
“It was back and forth,” Catholic Central Coach TJ Meerman said. “It was definitely a game of runs by both teams. They are an excellent team and a tough team.”
South was up 61-55 midway through the final quarter when the Cougars mounted a final big push. Catholic Central went on a 13-2 run to go up 68-63 with a minute remaining in the game.
“Our guys pride themselves on toughness,” Meerman said. “They played with a lot of pride down the stretch. There was a timeout when we were down by 10 or 11 and all the guys in the huddle were saying to stay the course. Just stay the course.
“It was a credit to our junior and senior leadership. The guys stayed the course and knew they would pull it out.”
South continued to battle in the final minute of the game and a three-point shot by Jake Vermaas trimmed the Cougar lead to 68-66 with 47 seconds remaining in the game. Brown split a pair of free throws with 18 seconds remaining to put the Cougars up by two points.
With four seconds remaining in the game, Vis was fouled on a three-point shot. Vis connected on one of the free throws before Catholic Central pulled down a rebound. Brown was subsequently fouled and drained a pair of free throws with 3.7 seconds left to give the Cougars the final three-point margin.
“They went on that third-quarter run and that hurt us,” Johnson said. “I think it was a 15-6 run and we missed some easy shots. We showed that we can compete with anyone. We’ve played a tough schedule and we proved we can compete with anyone.”
Along with 31 points from Vis, South Christian received 19 points from Vermaas, nine points from Jacob DeHaan and four points from Sam Medendorp.
With the loss, South Christian falls to 9-3 overall and 5-1 in the OK Gold. South Christian returns to action Friday at Cedar Springs.
Catholic Central improved to 8-3 overall and 6-0 in the conference. The Cougars return to action Friday at Kenowa Hills.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Tri-Unity Christian 51, Schoolcraft 46
(TU: Owen Rosendall, Roy Fogg, 12 points apiece; Akais Giplaye, 11 points, 7 rebounds; Keaton Blanker, 11 points, including the last 4 free throws to clinch the game)
Potter’s House Christian 73, West Michigan Aviation 57
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 32 points; Aaron Leedy, 16)
Wyoming 79, Zeeland West 41
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 14 points; Avonte Wiggins, 9)
Catholic Central 71, South Christian 67
Zion Christian 67, Martin 31
East Kentwood at West Ottawa
Benton Harbor Countryside Academy at Lee
Sparta at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Grandville Calvin Christian
South Christian 65, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 64 OT
(SC: Ashley Thomasma, 20 points; Ashley Raredon, 16. CC: Emily VanTimmeren, 20)
East Kentwood 59, West Ottawa 40 Girls 7 pm (WKTV GAME OF THE WEEK)
Zeeland West 55, Wyoming 41
Zion Christian 44, Kent City Algoma Christian 41
(ZC: Madi DeRuiter, 15 points, Josie Doezema, 11. AC: Izzy Lockwood, 15 points; Kassie Moore, 10.)
Godwin Heights 70, Sparta 53
(GH: Imani Taylor, 20 points; Mikasia Witherspoon, 19, including 4 3-pointers. SP: Averi Poet, 13 points.)
Grandville Calvin Christian 56, Kelloggsville 11
East Kentwood 56, Caledonia 41
Muskegon 84, Wyoming 52
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 16 points, 4 rebounds; Maxi Morales, 10 points, 6 rebounds)
Lee 74, Zion Christian 41
Godwin Heights 66, Hopkins 58
Kelloggsville 60, Belding 42
South Christian 81, Wayland 54
(SC: Jake Vermaas, 27 points; Carson Vis, 19)
Grand Rapids Covenant Christian 46, Tri-unity 35
Grand River Prep 69, Muskegon Catholic Central 57
East Kentwood 65, Caledonia 43
Zion Christian 46, Lee 10
(ZC: Josie Doezema, Jayda Steenbergen, Sam Deutschmann, Brie Alsum, 8 points apiece; LEE: Autumn Johnson, Imonie Davis, 3 points apiece)
Hopkins 68, Godwin Heights 49
(GH: Mikasia Kayter Witherspoon, season-high 19 points; Kashari Babb, 11; Imani Taylor, 10 points. HOPKINS: Matty Weber, 24 points)
Grand River Prep 52, Muskegon Catholic Central 48
(Kennedie Crawford, 25 points, including four 3-pointers; Abby Rivera-Sosa, 19 points)
Belding 52, Kelloggsville 17
Muskegon 70, Wyoming 61
South Christian 54, Wayland 48
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood is inviting local organizations and community members of all abilities to its first-ever Adaptive Recreation Expo on Thursday, Jan. 26.
The free event will take place 4:30 to 8 p.m. at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. It is open to all community members and no ticket or pre-registration is required. The event will feature a variety of local programs and resources for people of all abilities and provide opportunities for community members and vendors alike.
During the event, individuals with disabilities and their families can learn more about a variety of local programs and resources, including recreation opportunities and adaptive equipment demonstrations.
Students and community members interested in adaptive recreation can connect with local agencies and learn about volunteer, internship and employment opportunities.
Vendors will have an opportunity to connect directly with potential new clients and volunteers as well as other organizations.
“Kentwood is incredibly proud to be part of the adaptive recreation community and serve individuals with disabilities through our programs,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Through this event, we hope to build connections and raise awareness about other local resources and programs West Michigan offers for individuals with disabilities and their loved ones.”
Organizations participating in the event include Kentwood Parks and Recreation, Hanger Clinic, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Hunt 2 Heal and many others.
Vendor applications are still being accepted. If your organization is interested in becoming a vendor, contact Ann Przybysz at przybysza@kentwood.us or 616.656.5284.
The event’s gold sponsor is Airway Mobility and Rehab Equipment, and silver sponsors are Creative Mobility Group, Hanger Clinic and Life Beyond Barriers.
Learn more about the Adaptive Recreation Expo at kentwood.us/AdaptiveRecreationExpo. For more on the City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programming, visit kentwood.us/Adaptive.
