Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, January 20!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you an abundance of great local high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, as well as highlighting some top performers and giving 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.
The Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) announced its new leaders to the ACI-NA Board of Directors, including the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority’s President and CEO Tory Richardson.
“I look forward to serving the aviation industry and its communities in this new position with ACI-NA,” Richardson said. “ACI-NA plays a significant role in bettering airports and aviation services across the U.S., Canada and beyond. I’m thrilled to work alongside fellow ACI-NA board members on new advancements that promote a healthy and thriving industry for years to come.”
ACI-NA is a trade association representing commercial service airports in the United States and Canada. They continue to present the unique views and recommendations of airport management to federal, state, provincial and local governments, industry, the media and the general public. These views and recommendations include:
Promoting cooperation with all elements of the commercial civil aviation industry;
Encouraging the exchange of ideas, information and experiences on common airport issues;
Identifying, interpreting and disseminating information to members on current industry trends and practices; and
Creating forums of common interest, building professional relationships and interpreting key airport policy and business issues to members.
“These newly elected leaders of our organization bring broad industry expertise and a deep understanding of the unique challenges we face,” said ACI-NA president and CEO Kevin M. Burke. “With Richardson’s support, ACI-NA remains as committed as ever to our mission to advocate policies and provide services that strengthen the ability of airports to serve their passengers, customers and communities, just as we have for the last 75 years.”
Richardson joined the Ford International Airport Authority in 2019 bringing with him a broad range of leadership and management expertise in the aviation industry. Successful in guiding airports through significant change and boosting regions’ economic vitality, Richardson is leading the Ford International Airport Authority’s capital expansion program, Elevate, among other development efforts.
Richardson will be working alongside several other industry leaders, including Justin Erbacci, CEO of Los Angeles World Airports, Alexis Higgins, CEO of the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust, Myron Keehn, president and CEO of the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority, Ricky Smith, executive director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration, Tamara Vrooman, president and CEO of the Vancouver Airport Authority, Patrick Wilson, president of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, Lesa Seibert, commissioner for the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, and Brian Reed, aviation development director for Burns & McDonnell.
Along with its newly elected Board of Directors, ACI-NA has selected new leaders for the U.S. Policy Council, the Canadian Policy Council and the World Business Partners and Associates Board of Directors. Visit the ACI-NA website for the organization’s full leadership roster.
East Kentwood players Ardrace Morris and Christian Humphrey-Rembert (from left) try boxing out Rockford. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
In a long basketball season, there are certain games that can tip the balance between a good season and a great season.
The East Kentwood boys basketball team experienced just such a game Tuesday at OK Red rival Rockford when it erased a 13-point halftime deficit and defeated Rockford 51-49 on a last-second shot.
Sophomore Jah Hatchett gets winning bucket
Falcon sophomore Jah Hatchett provided the game-winning basket with three seconds remaining in the game as he rebounded an East Kentwood miss and layed it in for the winning points.
The bucket gave Kentwood a win that was special in more than one way. First, the Falcons bounced back in a big way from their first loss of the season the previous Saturday against Birmingham Brother Rice. Second, the Falcons managed to do it on the road in a hostile environment, and third, they erased a 13-point halftime deficit to accomplish the feat.
East Kentwood’s Marshaun Flakes helped turn things around against Rockford. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
“Big Win” says Marshaun Flakes
“This was a big win for us,” said East Kentwood senior Marshaun Flakes, in his third season on varsity. “We haven’t defeated Rockford in a long time. It was also a big win to get after our loss to Brother Rice. It felt good to bounce back.”
Bounce back was what the Falcons needed to do after falling behind by as many as 18 points during the first half. Rockford came out hitting on all cylinders and the Rams led 18-6 at the end of the first quarter. Rockford continued to build on the lead in the second quarter as it feasted on Kentwood turnovers and converted open opportunities.
Big halftime lead for Rockford
At halftime, Rockford went into the locker room with a 30-13 lead, while East Kentwood went back to the drawing board.
The Falcons made some defensive adjustments at halftime and came out in the second half looking like a different team as they picked up the defensive pressure. Using a full-court, trapping press, the Falcons forced Rockford into numerous turnovers and it was Kentwood that turned the turnovers into easy buckets on the offensive end.
“We made a few adjustments to our zone,” said East Kentwood Coach Mike Thomas. “We increased the pressure and started attacking. On offense, once we hit a three our guys really started to feel confident. It was like the light was turned on once they saw that first three fall.”
Marshaun Flakes drained that first three ball of the second half and that trey led to a torrent of points during the third quarter. Down 34-16 in the early minutes of the second half, Kentwood went on a 9-0 run that trimmed the deficit to single digits following a bucket by Jyair Harris.
The Falcons kept applying the pressure on the defensive end producing steals and getting some big blocked shots from 6-foot-9 senior Christian Humphrey-Rembert. Humphrey-Rembert recently joined the team just before Christmas when he transferred back to East Kentwood from La Lumiere prep school in Indiana.
EK grabs the lead by one to end third
Trailing 40-33, East Kentwood finished the third quarter with an 8-0 run and took a 41-40 lead at the end of the quarter on a bucket from Hatchett.
The contest went back and forth during the final quarter with the score tied twice and the lead changing hands four times as both squads played at a slow pace. Kentwood went up 49-47 on a bucket by Flakes with 2:03 remaining before Rockford tied the game with a pair of free throws with 1:36 remaining. After the teams traded turnovers, East Kentwood held the ball for the last 30 seconds of the game before Hatchett put in the final points with three seconds left.
“We are like a new program,” Thomas said. “I’m a new coach and we have some new players and a new system and it’s taken an adjustment period. There were some crazy things happening, but our guys just kept fighting back and never quit. I’m proud of the way the guys kept battling and never quit.”
Hatchett led the Falcons in scoring with 14 points followed by Flakes with 13 and Darryl Thompkins with 10. Harris added six points while Landon Storms added three, Ardrace Morris, two points and Humphrey-Rembert, two points on a highlight-reel dunk during the fourth quarter.
With the win, East Kentwood improved to 5-1 overall and 2-0 in the OK Red. The Falcons return to action Friday at Grandville and then play Detroit Henry Ford on Saturday at 1:45 p.m. at Ottawa Hills High School as part of the Martin Luther King Day Hoops Classic hosted by Ottawa Hills.
The City of Kentwood’s Winter Concert Series will return with free concerts at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
The series features three West Michigan performers on the third Thursday of each month from January through March. Artists will play a range of genres and each concert will feature a food truck outside offering a variety of cuisines for purchase.
“We’re pleased to welcome three great West Michigan artists to perform in this year’s winter concert series,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “This series offers an opportunity to stay connected with the community throughout the cold months, enjoying fantastic company and performances.”
The lineup of performers and food trucks is as follows:
The Kevin Brewster Trio will perform a variety of jazz music with an emphasis on hard bop, bebop, contemporary and R&B genres. (Courtesy, Kevin Brewster)
Dylan (pictured below) will present a mix of original music and covers. She’ll perform a variety of folk, pop and rock styles and top 40 hits.
(Courtesy, Melissa Dylan)
Lighting Matches (pictured below) will perform original alternative-rock tunes featuring thought-provoking lyrics and dynamic harmonies.
(Courtesy, Lighting Matches)
The concerts will take place in the library’s Community Room from 6:30-8 p.m. Guests are welcome to bring their own beer, wine or nonalcoholic beverages to enjoy at the show. More information is available at kentwood.us/WinterConcerts.
Shay Gallagher is the City of Kentwood’s new deputy city administrator.
In this role that began on Dec. 27, Gallagher will oversee a variety of City operations with the mayor to support the City’s mission and vision. He will be responsible for providing policy and procedure guidance, strategic planning, program evaluation and communications strategies to ensure City goals and objectives are met and services are provided in an effective and efficient manner.
Gallagher will foster cooperative working relationships with all City staff, the City Commission, intergovernmental and regulatory agencies and community organizations to develop and implement programs that provide high-quality services, support strong neighborhoods and promote a sustainable economy.
He will facilitate implementation of the City’s parks, trails and recreation millage investment plan and lead other special projects. He also will represent the City on multi-jurisdictional committees and boards.
“We are pleased to welcome Shay to the City of Kentwood,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “Shay brings a strong background in public administration that will be a great benefit to our team and community. I look forward to his partnership in furthering the City’s efforts to foster a thriving community for all.”
Seven years of municipal leadership experience
Gallagher brings seven years of municipal leadership experience to the position, including most recently as village manager of Sparta. In this role, he oversaw the day-to-day operations of all village services, including police, public works and streets, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, airport, finance and administration.
As village manager, Gallagher also oversaw a $12 million annual budget with more than 20 full-time employees in six departments and two bargaining units and implemented a comprehensive capital improvement plan.
Gallagher was resourceful in securing grants and other funding for various village projects. He acquired $363,375 in grant funding from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for revitalization and placemaking. He also assisted in securing an $850,000 grant from the Federal Aviation Administration and Michigan Department of Transportation Aeronautics for a new airport runway lighting system, among other accomplishments.
Prior to Sparta, Gallagher served as deputy city manager of Coopersville, deputy supervisor of Algoma Township and village manager of Lakeview. In these roles, he assisted with budget preparation and presentation, operational oversight, implementation of board/council vision and policies, leadership to various department directors and staff and management of special projects.
“I’m honored to serve the City of Kentwood as deputy city administrator,” Gallagher said. “I look forward to collaborating with all departments, commissioners and community partners to implement commission and community priorities.
“I hope to hit the ground running with Kentwood’s upcoming parks improvement and placemaking opportunities as well as supporting many other department initiatives citywide.”
Gallagher is active in the Grand Valley Metro Council, International City-County Management Association, Michigan Infrastructure Council, Michigan Municipal Executives and West Michigan Municipal Executives.
He has a bachelor’s degree in political science and government and a master’s degree in public administration from Grand Valley State University.
The City of Kentwood is offering tree and string light recycling services to residents this holiday season at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
From Dec. 27 through Jan. 31, residents may bring trees between 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The drop-off site is closed Dec. 30 and Jan. 2 for the New Year’s holiday and Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, when City offices will be closed.
Remove all decorations, lights, wires in advance
All decorations, lights, wires and other non-natural materials must be removed from the trees in advance. A drop-off box for recycling string lights is located near the front doors of the Public Works building now through Jan. 31.
Proof of residency required
The tree recycle site is available to Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required. The string light and tree recycling services provide residents with a convenient, environmentally friendly way to clean up holiday decor.
“This is a special time of year for many, and cleanup is not often top of mind until the flurry of gatherings and parties passes,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director. “We’re glad to offer these services to give residents a convenient and environmentally friendly way to dispose of trees and string lights after the holiday season has come to an end.”
For more information about the Department of Public Works and its other seasonal services, visit kentwood.us/DPW.
Vintage + More is located at 3101 Broadmoor Ave SE. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
Kate Kemperman, granddaughter of New York Yankees baseball player and Grand Rapids native Wally Pipp, recently gained ownership of Vintage + More, LLC in Kentwood.
Though Kate Kemperman’s ownership of Vintage + More is new, Kemperman’s family has deep roots in West Michigan.
Walter Clement Pipp (Wally) was born on February 17, 1893 in Chicago, but at only 2 years old, moved to Grand Rapids with his family in 1895.
Wally Pipp led the American League with 12 home runs in 1916 and nine in 1917 while with the New York Yankees. (Courtesy, Kate Kemperman)
A student at Catholic Central High School, Pipp played baseball for several Grand Rapids leagues because “they didn’t have a baseball team at Catholic Central when my grandfather was there,” Kemperman explained.
Pipp played a few games with the Detroit Tigers in 1913, but his rights were sold to the Yankees in 1915 where Pipp became New York’s starting first baseman.
Pipp led American League in homers for two years
Leading the American League in home runs in 1916 and 1917 (12 and 9, respectively), Pipp was one of the AL’s top power hitters throughout his career, driving in over 100 runs in each of the following years: 1921, 1923 and 1924.
Pipp played in three World Series and helped lead the Yankees to victory against the New York Giants in the 1923 World Series beside Babe Ruth (also Pipp’s roommate and friend), Bob Meusel, Joe Dugan, and Waite Hoyt.
Vintage + More Store owner Kate Kemperman and Wally Pipp’s granddaughter. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
Though her grandfather passed away in 1965 when Kemperman was three years old, she loved hearing stories about Pipp from her father and other people who knew him.
“My grandpa had a presence to him,” Kemperman said.
15 years in the Major Leagues
After playing 15 years in the Major Leagues, Pipp retired at age 35 with a .281 career batting average, 90 home runs, and 1,004 RBIs.
He was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Catholic Central High School a few years ago – the first person to hold that honor without having played for a Catholic Central team – and is a 1972 inductee into the Grand Rapids Hall of Fame.
Enter Lou Gehrig
During a game in 1925, Yankees legend Lou Gehrig filled in for Pipp who was out of the lineup with a headache. Gehrig would then run a streak of 2,130 consecutive games, a record that would last for 56 years, until Baltimore Orioles Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. broke it. Ripken Jr. still holds the record of 2,632 consecutive games played.
Vintage + More store owner Kate Kemperman talks with a customer. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
Generational residence
Kemperman was raised in Grand Rapids, following in her grandfather’s footsteps by attending Catholic Central with her five siblings, and chose to raise her own family in the same area, purchasing a house in her childhood neighborhood with her husband Mark where they raised their two daughters.
A vendor at Vintage + More for the past three years, Kemperman took over the store when previous owner Shelley Cappiello retired.
“It was the perfect opportunity because I was kind of thinking about it, and so was Shelley,” Kemperman said.
Offering an eclectic mix of farmhouse style furniture, home decor, jewelry, clothes and more, Vintage + More was exactly what Kemperman was looking for as she began a new phase in life.
After 35 years of owning her own catering business, Katie’s Cuisine, Kemperman said that “I began thinking the last year or so that maybe I want to do something a little different.”
With costs rising due to inflation, “people are looking at recession,” Kemperman explained. “And I thought this would be a great shop for recession. The prices are so good, and people are looking to buy local, buy secondhand, or little things that are handmade.”
Something for everyone, plus a store greeter
Vintage + More customers are often greeted at the door by Natalie, Kemperman’s 15-year-old dachshund. Natalie wanders the store freely and is quite amenable to attention, though she often chooses to stay by Kemperman’s side.
Kate Kemperman’s 15-year-old dachshund, Natalie, often greets customers at Vintage + More. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
“She’s pretty attached,” Kemperman said about Natalie. “I’ve had her for a long time. She does great here and the customers love her.”
Visitors to Vintage + More also will find a “shop within a shop.” Kate’s Eclectic Fashions, Kemperman’s previous foray into becoming a vendor at the store, is still going strong. Consisting of 27 consigners, the clothing and accessories portion of Vintage + More can be found at the front of the store.
The rest of the shop is comprised of 26 vendors, and Kemperman ensures that each vendor has their own unique style or content to offer.
“We try not to compete with each other,” Kemperman said. “Vendors have their own little niche — which makes shopping all the better.”
Giving back
Though Kemperman lost her husband in 2014 after a short battle with cancer, her future remains in West Michigan as she looks to give back as much as she has received.
Vintage + More offers an eclectic mix of farmhouse style furniture, home decor, jewelry, clothes and much more. (D.A. Reed, WKTV)
As Kemperman takes the reins of Vintage + More, she has already begun serving her community by offering more than just a shopping venue.
Raising money for local causes is high on Kemperman’s to-do list. Snuffle mats for dogs can be found near the front of Vintage + More, with all proceeds going to the Kent County Animal Shelter, and Kemperman is currently looking for another cause to support with the store as well.
All about the people
Kemperman’s favorite part of owning Vintage + More is the people.
“I love hearing stories from the people,” Kemperman said. “I love hearing about why they’re buying something. I love to help them as they look for certain items.”
Special events also are being integrated into the shop’s calendar, offering customers even more opportunities to shop and mingle with other community members. Upcoming events can be found on the Vintage + More Facebook and Instagram social media pages.
“It’s a welcoming store,” Kemperman continued. “There’s always a cup of coffee waiting for you if you want it. The vendors are friendly, and they put their heart into everything they make.”
Vintage + More is currently open to taking a few new vendors for furniture and home goods, and entrepreneurs of all ages are welcome to join the store’s waiting list if space is not immediately available.
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
As we approach holiday travel, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting a busy week and is reminding guests to pack their patience.
The Ford Airport is expecting travel levels similar to 2019. While they are ready for guests, they are reminding travelers of the importance of patience and planning ahead.
“We are eager and ready to help guests connect with their family and friends over the holidays as West Michigan’s gateway to the world,” said COO Alex Peric. “We encourage guests to pack their patience while fellow community members work diligently to ensure a smooth travel experience for everyone.”
Travel Stats
Expected Holiday Travel: 165,000-plus passengers from December 19 through January 2. This includes both departing and arriving passengers.
Traffic: Guest traffic is currently at 98 percent of 2019, which was a record-breaking year for the Airport. Ford Airport expects to be at or near 2019 levels by end of 2022. Currently, they are seeing an average of a 22 percent increase in guest numbers from 2021.
Peak Holiday Travel Dates: December 19 through January 2. The busiest departure day is expected to be December 22.
Top Destinations: Atlanta, Denver, Chicago, Charlotte, Dallas, Punta Gorda and Orlando.
Airline Contacts
For questions about specific flights, baggage handling, and more, reach out directly to the airline.
Allegiant (702-505-8888)
Delta Air Lines (800-221-1212)
Southwest Airlines (800-435-9792)
American Airlines (800-433-7300)
Frontier Airlines (801-401-9000)
United Airlines (800-241-6522)
TSA Inquiries: TSA.gov
Weather and Staffing
As a reminder, the Ford International Airport never closes. Inclement weather can cause delays and cancellations. The Airport manages clearing runways and other infrastructure while individual airlines are responsible for plane de-icing. Individual airlines also are responsible for check-ins and all matters related to gates, including departures and deplanings.
(WMAA: Ethan Dyksterhouse, 23 points, 13 rebounds, 4 blocks; Luke Riebel, 13 points, 3 rebounds; Joseph May, 12 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, 6 turnovers)
Lee at Grand River Prep
Grand Haven at East Kentwood
Godwin Heights at Belding
Hopkins at Kelloggsville
Tuesday, Jan. 17 Girls Basketball
Wyoming 48, Holland 33
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 18 points; Michaela Moore, 10 points off the bench)
Kenowa Hills 54, South Christian 47
(SC: Ashley Raredon, 22. KH: M. Holman, 26 points)
Grand River Prep 50, Lee 27
(Kennedie Crawford, 19 points)
Belding at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Hopkins
Potter’s House Christian 49, Muskegon Oakridge 35
Tuesday, Jan. 10 Girls Basketball
South Christian 61, Ottawa Hills 20
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 16 points, Ashley Thomasma, 15; Ottawa Hills: Semaj Robertson, 8; South Christian Coach Kim Legge, “It was good to have my whole team back and healthy.”)
Mona Shores 58, Wyoming 49 (see story)
Rockford 40, East Kentwood 28
NorthPointe Christian 60, Godwin Heights 48
Comstock Park 77, Kelloggsville 31
Potter’s House Christian 48, Saugatuck 37
Morley Stanwood at West Michigan Aviation
Zion Christian 50, Wyoming Homeschoolers 21
Tuesday, Jan. 10 Boys Basketball
West Michigan Aviation 69, Morley Stanwood 30
(WMAA: Luke Riebel, 14 points, 4 rebounds, 6 steals; Joseph May, 13 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists; Ian Brown, 11 points; Braeden Mowry, 8 points)
Kentwood Police Captain Ryan VanderVeen said the Department’s October recruit open house was very successful and they hope to at least hire 10-15 officers per year through this program.
“We were able to meet with several dozen potential recruit officer candidates that night,” explained VanderVeen, of their Oct. 13 event. “Those selected will attend the 15-week Grand Valley State University Police Academy beginning in May of 2023. In addition, we will soon begin another hiring process in which those selected will attend the GVSU Police Academy beginning in August of 2023.
VanderVeen said they hope to continue this program in the future so they can “recruit great candidates of all backgrounds, who have a passion to serve the citizens of Kentwood as a police officer.”
“Our department officer staffing is down right now,” VanderVeen said. “Even if we were not down, we would still be pursuing the recruit officer position.”
VanderVeen said the recruitment events explain the hiring process and requirements of becoming a police recruit.
“We had many police staff on hand and were able to meet one-on-one with applicants to answer their questions. Those that attended were given the opportunity to tour the Kentwood Police Department and see what we have to offer.”
Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Applicant requirements
High school diploma
Michigan driver’s license
No felony criminal convictions
No prior law enforcement experience necessary
The recruit officer position is considered a “sponsored” position, meaning that once selected and hired, Kentwood pays all costs for the employee to attend the GVSU Police Academy, according to VanderVeen.
Recruits receive wages during academy
Also, because the recruit is an employee, they will be paid wages and receive benefits while attending the police academy. Upon successful completion of the academy and passing the State of Michigan licensing exam, the employee will be promoted to the position of police officer with the Kentwood Police Department.
“This is an excellent way for someone to enter the field of law enforcement in a non-traditional manner,” VanderVeen explained. “We’ve had engineers, accountants, military veterans and others in the business field join the Kentwood Police Department through this program.
“Previously, those that wished to become a police officer likely needed to quit their current employment, foregoing wages, to attend a police academy. This program removes that roadblock because the academy costs will be covered, and the recruit will receive a wage during the academy.”
To find current job openings at the Kentwood Police Department and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.
Joshua Hurt (left) at the MITCA Division 1 Meet. (Courtesy, Miles Postema)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
East Kentwood senior Joshua Hurt isn’t satisfied with staying in one place — in more ways than one.
“Josh is an excellent athlete and student (3.72 GPA), but a better person,” said David Emeott, co-athletic director at East Kentwood High School and the boys track and field coach. “He is kind and caring and always considerate of his teammates … and is willing to do what it takes to improve.”
An All-State 110-meter hurdler the past two years and three-time All-Conference, Hurt is no stranger to hard work. And he doesn’t make excuses.
“I love how there are no excuses,” Hurt told WKTV. “Either you run well, or you don’t, and that’s on you.”
Hurt claimed his outdoor personal best at hurdling and first place in the event during the Charlie Janke Track & Field Invitational in April 2022, with a time of 14.66 during the 110 hurdles. He also placed fourth in the state (14.77) at the Division 1 finals, where his team finished third overall.
Changing it up
Though Hurt excels at hurdling, Emeott said the athlete decided to change things up by joining the cross country team this fall in order to gain an edge on his competitors.
“Before school started, I wasn’t planning to run cross country at all,” Hurt said. “But after my coach invited me to a pre-season meeting with the cross country team, I was persuaded by the possible endurance and mental gains as well as the leadership I could offer the team.”
EK senior Joshua Hurt running at the OK Red Conference meet in 2022. (Courtesy, Miles Postema)
Hurt chose to focus solely on cross country this fall even though he would have liked to compete in hurdling as well.
“It was safer for me to just focus on one thing at a time,” Hurt said.
Despite pulling a personal best at the Otsego Bulldog Invitational with a time of 22:31:3 for the 5,000-meter event, Hurt admitted the highlight of his season came from practices during the season. Specifically, their Roho workouts from an online fitness coaching platform.
Roho in Swahili means “spirit“ or “heart.” Kip Keino, a Kenyan Olympic distance runner, highlighted his Roho workouts in an interview, and how they gave him the ability to push past his physical and mental fatigue during the Olympics.
“We would have our hard workouts, such as our Roho workouts, probably the hardest workout of the season. While our bodies were in pain and we were fighting through this workout, everyone came together to support each other, and helped everyone push through,” Hurt said.
Starting young
“It all started when I was in elementary school, running in the mileage club where I would go run laps around our course every day during recess,” Hurt explained.
Those laps led Hurt to join the Kentwood Track Club, where he was able to try different track and field events for fun, and without pressure.
Hurt began taking hurdling seriously after a cousin who hurdled in college suggested he try it out. Hurt said he did try hurdling, but “wasn’t the best at it.”
The summer of that year, however, he began training with his current high school coach, Stephanie Stephenson, as well as a past East Kentwood hurdler who is now a University of Michigan hurdler.
“Through this experience, I found a love in the adrenaline rush of getting over these intimidating obstacles that the majority are scared of,” Hurt said.
The East Kentwood track and field team won a Division 1 regional championship and finished tied for third in state in 2022. (Courtesy, Miles Postema)
Growing and learning
Hurt has shown that he is always striving to develop his skills and is not afraid to take on challenges and try new things by becoming a leader as well as an accomplished athlete.
A member of the East Kentwood Athletic Leadership Council, Hurt also guides the track team in pre-season conditioning as well as speed and agility training.
That leadership rolls over into marching band as section leader for the drumline. Hurt also is active in the high school Symphonic Wind Ensemble as a percussionist.
Moving forward
Hurt says he loves hanging out with friends when he’s not training in athletics or practicing for band, and also loves learning new information about, and new skills in, the automotive industry.
“It is one of my main passions,” Hurt continued. “I love learning how the different parts work. I love looking at the basic, untouched cars on the road and envisioning the potential that it has to become my personalized art.”
Hurt is looking toward the future, planning to attend college and to continue running track and field. Though he’s had a few colleges approach him, interested in his various skills, Hurt has not yet committed to one school.
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
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and essay contest winner Clara Wells pose for photos after the Tree Lighting on Dec. 1. (Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
It was a chilly, festive and activity-filled event at Kentwood’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Light Parade last Thursday at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch.
The festivities included carriage rides, children’s crafts, food trucks, live music, a visit from Santa, a performance by the Michigan Ballet Academy, and the main events: the parade and tree lighting, of course.
One of the highlights of the night was grand marshal Clara Wells, a fifth grader at Brookwood Elementary, who was in the same float in the parade with Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and later helped him light the Christmas tree in front of the library.
Wells achieved the honor by winning a new student essay competition among Kentwood students/residents from ages 5-18. Participants were asked to write a 1,000 word essay entitled, “Why do you love living in Kentwood?”
“It really was a good essay about what makes Kentwood so special,” said Mayor Kepley of Wells’ composition. “She talked about our parks and trails, and the schools.”
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
(Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin (left), Deputy Chief Stephanie Morningstar at the Kentwood Tree Lighting, 2022. (Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
Kentwood Parks and Recreation staff pose with Santa. Bottom row, from left: Spencer McKellar and Shelby Henshaw. Top row, from left: Ann Przybysz, Laura Barbrick and Lori Gresnick. (Courtesy, DK Photography/City of Kentwood)
When asked what he loves about Kentwood, Kepley said he loves it “because it’s a taste of heaven … because the world has come to Kentwood.”
A city of diversity
“It has such diversity, and to be able to have such diversity and live in peace and love with one another is just a wonderful thing,” Kepley continued. “I live in a neighborhood with 13 homes, and those 13 homes represent the world. We just feel blessed because we have relationships with our neighbors. You see how it can work with different backgrounds.
“A lot of people living in Kentwood weren’t born and raised in the United States, including my lovely wife Susan, who was born and raised in Kenya.”
All in one
Kepley talked about the unity of having all the City’s events in one area, compared to having them spread around in years past.
“We have really focused on bringing everything here (around the library), centralizing things, whether it’s the tree lighting, July Fourth, all our events like the concert series, food truck rallies, the parade, the farmers market.
“We really don’t have a downtown, but we’re trying to create this place around the library and City Hall where people can create traditions and memories.”
Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry
Tree Lighting attendees also had the opportunity to donate non-perishable food items to Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry. For more info, check out this site: kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
Twins Jessica Ann Tyson and Monica Sparks. (Courtesy, Keepsake Photos)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
Despite a turbulent start in life and the odds stacked against them, local twins Monica Sparks and Jessica Ann Tyson didn’t let any roadblocks get in their way.
“People look at us and don’t realize everything we’ve been through,” said Monica Sparks, local business owner and Kent County Commissioner covering a portion of Wyoming and Kentwood. “You look at someone and think that they have it all together or have everything, but we had a very rough start.”
Born to a young heroin addict
Sparks and her twin sister, Jessica Ann Tyson, were born to a young girl addicted to heroin. At 16 years old, their mother already had two children and was in the foster care system when she gave birth to them.
Though they recall a few good memories of their birth mother, most memories involve having to care for themselves as far back as preschool.
“We pretty much had to fend for ourselves all the time,” Sparks said. “I never remember her fixing a dinner, ever, except for one time having fried shrimp from takeout.
“We couldn’t get the cereal because the cereal is on top of the refrigerator, and (their mother and guests) are passed out and we are too small to get it,” Sparks continued. “We tried many things to get that cereal down, but it never worked.”
Many, many days of hunger
At times, the sisters would resort to eating out of dumpsters, but Sparks said they remember “going to bed hungry many, many nights.”
Birth mother viewed with compassion
Despite their harsh childhood experiences, Sparks and Tyson view their mother with compassion.
“Neither of us fault her for that,” Sparks said.
Tyson agreed.
“We’re grateful, if anything else,” Tyson added. “She could have made alternative choices and she really loved us as babies. I believe she was just a product of her environment and her generation.”
Twins Jessica Ann Tyson and Monica Sparks. (Courtesy, Monica Sparks)
Misguided help, that led to a kidnapping
Upset by the lack of care she witnessed from the twins’ mother, their preschool and daycare provider kidnapped Sparks and Tyson in a misguided attempt to help.
“I remember being in the trunk (of her car),” Tyson said. “She was hiding us.”
The police found the twins at their provider’s house and returned the girls to their mother despite the provider explaining about the neglect at home. It was only a few days later, however, when a state worker came to visit them.
“I remember that day like it was today,” Sparks said.
The state worker told the girls that they would need to leave for a time while their mother got some help.
Separated, and lots of tears
“We didn’t know it was going to be forever,” Sparks continued. “They separated us. They put us in two different places.”
Sparks described being separated from her sister as “Sick. Sick. All I did was cry and call my sister’s name.”
After a short time, the twins were brought back together and placed in the foster care system. Unfortunately, it was not a good placement. Once again facing neglect and abuse, Sparks and Tyson found themselves approaching strangers on the street to get food.
“We were little kids, just three or four, on the street, on a corner, hoping that this group of men would feed us,” Sparks said.
Food and safety at school
Tyson remembers loving school because, “school was warm, school let you stay inside, you got free lunch, you could eat.”
Even through these difficulties, compassion flows from both women.
“(Our foster mom) was just a hurting person who hurt other people,” Tyson said. “She was very abusive and was in foster care for the wrong reasons.”
Advocates and angels
Through it all, Sparks and Tyson remember small acts of kindness.
“We had advocates,” Sparks said. “Little angels around that would really take care of us.”
A Muslim family down the street from the twins’ foster home would often give the girls food if they joined the family in evening prayer.
They recalled a lady down the street who left her apartment door open and placed snacks – Sparks remembers raisins and nuts, Tyson remembers Jolly Ranchers – inside the door for them to take at any time.
Finally, a loving, stable home
Sparks and Tyson were seven years old when a school teacher named Joyce Ann Richardson, recently divorced and unable to have children of her own, came to the adoption agency in the hopes of adopting a young child. She found Sparks and Tyson.
The twins’ parents, Joyce and Alonzo Sparks. (Courtesy, Monica Sparks)
Sparks and Tyson both remember Joyce traveling every weekend to come visit the girls no matter the weather. When the abuse at the twins’ foster home was discovered, Sparks and Tyson were allowed to live with Joyce full-time. For the first time, the girls had their own room and a caring provider.
Encountering difficulties with the state allowing her to adopt the twins, Joyce took them to church for prayer. The minister, also a Purple Heart Korean war veteran, fell in love with the girls — and with Joyce.
Alonzo Edward Sparks and Joyce began dating, were married four months later, and have been married for 41 years. Together, they adopted the twins at 8 years old.
Due to lack of structure and socialization in the twins’ lives, Alonzo and Joyce were intentional in their parenting. Sparks openly calls it “damage control.” Both girls were enrolled in private schools, etiquette training, modeling training, public speaking, Girl Scouts, and more.
“There wasn’t anything they wouldn’t do for us,” Tyson said. She admitted that Alonzo and Joyce were strict in their parenting, but, “What did it hurt?” Tyson said with a shrug.
Local business and political leaders
Both Sparks and Tyson are leaders in their community, both as business owners and politicians, and are dedicated to serving others.
Jessica Ann Tyson and Monica Sparks. (Courtesy, Douglas Johnson, Keepsake Photos)
“We have very big hearts and it’s because we want other people to have opportunities,” Tyson said. “We don’t rest on our laurels, and we don’t take excuses. You always continue to strive to do more, to be more, to go further – and take others with you. We are always looking to take others with us.”
“As a person, you want to do your part in society,” Sparks said. She believes that, whether or not you have a hard life, “it’s the choices you make after that” that matter.
“I can rest on my past and blame, blame, blame, but it’s not going to do anything for me. It’s not going to do anything for the area I’m in, the society I’m in, and I have to make the choice to say, ‘How do I do better?’”
Sparks and Tyson both attribute their current success to “good and solid parenting.”
“Parents who were invested and parents who actually cared,” Tyson explained.
Alonzo and Joyce raised the twins to have awareness for “understanding purpose, understanding … that we are in control of our destiny. We are in control of our own fate.”
That awareness instilled a desire to help others in their community.
“Monica and I see more for other people because we are not supposed to be here, statistically,” Tyson said.
Extremely close, but opposing political parties
Sparks and Tyson entered the political realm in an effort to extend that help, but as members of different political parties.
When first running for office, Sparks declared her political affiliation to be with the Democratic party, Tyson, the Republican Party. Both decisions were products of research and personal preferences.
Tyson grew up believing Alonzo and Joyce were Republicans. When Tyson ran for office and had to declare a party, she was surprised to find out they were not. She then asked the question of herself, “What am I?”
“I didn’t want to just check a box, to just assume that I was one thing or another,” Tyson said, “but once I started researching the platforms of the parties, then I tried to see how it aligned with my ‘everyday.’ Once I saw how the Republican party aligned with my ‘everyday,’ and then once I saw how I voted (in the past), I typically voted Republican.”
The reason for voting Republican was not a conscious choice. Tyson said she listened to the message each candidate brought to the table, not their political party affiliation.
“I wish that was something most people would do, but unfortunately we get caught in the cog of being one thing or another,” Tyson said.
Politics don’t drive a wedge between them
Sparks and Tyson believe the political parties are merged in many ways.
“We all say the same thing,” Tyson said. “We want the pursuit of happiness, life, liberty, justice … we want healthy families, healthy schools. Most of the time I find that people are talking about issues and how to solve them.”
However, Sparks and Tyson are not immune to how polarizing politics can be. In an effort to help create hope and understanding between people, Sparks said they are currently working together on publishing a book about “the polarization of America … and how to bridge that gap.”
“There are a lot of gray areas,” Sparks said. “People want you to say something is black or white, yes or no, but there are many different pockets or issues that spawn off one main issue.”
Both sisters recognize a direct correlation between their political and business lives with how they were raised. An example: “Being responsible, making sure we took care of our business financially, things of that nature,” Sparks said.
But that doesn’t mean they don’t have fun.
“We are very close,” Sparks said. “We do a lot of things together. And, we do things that we love to do, so it propels us forward. We don’t feel like we work. We know we work; we don’t feel like we work.”
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
As part of its preliminary investigation into a Nov. 28 house fire that claimed the lives of two people, the Kentwood Fire Department believes the cause was accidental.
KFD, in partnership with the Kentwood Police Department and Michigan State Police, continues to investigate the fire in the 400 block of 48th Street SE. Fire investigators are looking into possible electrical issues after finding a space heater near the fire’s origin.
At 3:23 a.m. on Nov. 28, the Kentwood Fire and Police departments were dispatched to the 400 block of 48th Street SE in response to a residential house fire. A KFD medic unit was the first to arrive and initiated rescue attempts, followed quickly by additional Kentwood and Cutlerville firefighters, who joined efforts to rescue individuals in the home and put out the fire.
The home was occupied by 11 individuals at the time of the fire. Nine of the residents made it out of the home safely. Medical assistance was provided to a 12-year-old female and a 19-year-old female, who were both pronounced dead at the scene.
The cause of death for both individuals was smoke inhalation. Their names are being withheld pending notification of loved ones.
Kentwood Police Department seeking info on recent homicide
The Kentwood Police Department is asking anyone with information on a homicide that occurred Friday, Nov. 25 at the 5100 block of Wichita Dr SE to call 616-656-6604.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Officers arrived on the scene and located a 30-year-old male with multiple gunshot wounds in the hallway of one of the apartment buildings. The subject was pronounced dead at the scene.
No arrests have been made at this time and the investigation is ongoing.
Anonymous tips can be submitted through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345 or SilentObserver.org.
Enjoy the sounds of the holiday season with the Kentwood Community Choir’s Christmas concert. The group will perform classic carols and old-time favorites at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 at Heritage Baptist Church, 1570 60th St. SE. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted during intermission. Learn more at kentwood.us/ChoirConcert
The City of Kentwood is inviting residents to get in the holiday spirit by participating in the second annual holiday light display contest.
Community members interested in participating are asked to first register online at bit.ly/HolidayLightContest. They can then submit photos of their outdoor holiday light display to eRecreation@kentwood.us or on social media using the hashtag #KentwoodLightContest from Dec. 1-14.
First Place: Kentwood’s Clark Griswold Trophy and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Entries must be located within Kentwood city limits or within the Kentwood Public School district. The photos will be posted to the City’s social media platforms, where community members can vote for their favorite display. The three displays with the most votes will earn prizes and bragging rights for a year.
“After a successful inaugural year, we’re excited to host this friendly, festive competition again,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “This is a fun opportunity for our community to get into the holiday spirit and tap into their creative side.”
Winning prizes
First place: Kentwood’s Clark Griswold Trophy, and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag.
Second place: A second place trophy and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag.
Third place: A third place trophy and a Kentwood Parks and Recreation goody bag.
South Christian finds itself in a Division 4 semifinal game against familiar foe Edwardsburg this weekend for a chance to play in the state championship at Ford Field.
Last year, the Eddies (11-1) beat South Christian 28-14 in a regional final. This will be three times in three years the Sailors play Edwardsburg in the playoffs, and they’re hoping the third time’s the charm.
South Christian advanced to the state semifinals for the first time since 2014, the last time the Sailors won a state title.
Right after South Christian (12-0) knocked off Whitehall 28-21 to grab a regional championship last Friday, Coach Danny Brown said Edwardsburg is “obviously good and plays hard.”
“It will be a fun game and I’m sure the kids will be jacked up for it.”
Division 4 Semifinals
1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19 at Battle Creek Harper Creek
Edwardsburg (11-1) vs. South Christian (12-0)
The third time was definitely the charm last Friday as the Sailors advanced out of the regionals after three straight years trying.
Quarterback Jake DeHaan finished the game with four total TDs (three passing) and had 148 yards through the air and 88 on the ground.
Carson Vis led with three receptions for 46 yards, while Nate Brinks had four receptions for 18 yards and two touchdowns. Seth Ritsema added a receiving TD.
DeHaan and Austin Tiesma led with seven tackles apiece.
Check out South Christian’s game-winning touchdown against Whitehall. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Our WKTV truck has been busy all season long covering exciting high school football Games of the Week in the Wyoming/Kentwood viewing area.
If you missed a GOTW, or would like to watch one for a second time, be sure to see our 22nd Annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving Day.
The 15-Hour Special, which starts at 9 a.m. Nov. 24, highlights most of our high school football Games of the Week. The Turkey Bowl is streamed live on the WKTV website at wktv.org or using this link: https://www.wktv.org/live25.html
From Nov. 15 through March 15, parking is not allowed on any public street from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. in Kentwood. Additionally, parking is not allowed during times when street parking could make it difficult for, or prevent snow removal.
To file a complaint about a parking violation, residents can submit the complaint online, by phone 616-656-6574 or in person at the Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE.
Clear fire hydrants
Kentwood is asking residents to help keep fire hydrants near their homes or businesses clear of snow. It is recommended keeping snow and ice at least three feet away from hydrants on all sides. Keeping hydrants clear of snow and ice saves firefighters time when dealing with a fire.
Keep sidewalks clear
In Kentwood, it is the property owners responsibility to clear the sidewalk when there are two or more inches of snow.
The City of Kentwood kicks off the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony and parade on Thursday, Dec. 1.
The festivities take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at and around the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The evening includes outdoor activities for all ages, including carriage rides, take-home children’s crafts, food trucks, live music and a visit from Santa. Entrance to the event and all activities are free of charge.
Student essay competition determines Grand Marshal
New this year, a student essay competition will determine the parade’s grand marshal, who also will help light the tree. Students ages 5-18 who are Kentwood residents or attend school in Kentwood, Kelloggsville, Forest Hills or Caledonia school districts are eligible to participate.
To enter, students can submit an essay that is 1,000 words or less answering the prompt, “Why do you love living in Kentwood?” Entries are due Nov. 17 and a winner will be chosen and notified by Nov. 24. Essays may be submitted online at kentwood.us/TreeLighting or in-person at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE.
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley at a previous tree lighting. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
“The annual Tree Lighting event provides a welcoming place for friends, family and neighbors to gather and usher in the celebratory season of peace and joy,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “I am especially excited to have one of our local students as the grand marshal participating in this memorable event.”
Parade at 6 p.m.
The parade will start at 6 p.m. and travel from the City’s Public Works Facility at 5068 Breton Ave. SE north to the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE. Sections of Breton and Walma will be closed from 5:50 to 6:25 p.m. for the procession.
A visit from Santa is planned at Kentwood’s holiday event on Dec. 1. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.
The tree lighting ceremony will follow at 6:30 p.m. in front of the library. After the ceremony, community members will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa, mail a letter to the North Pole, go on carriage rides, take a stroll through a luminary walk, enjoy live holiday music and a performance by the Michigan Ballet Academy, and more.
Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry
Attendees also have the opportunity to donate non-perishable food items to Kentwood’s Free Little Pantry. A list of suggested items is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
Groups interested in participating in the parade are asked to complete an entry form online. The cost to participate is $15.
Locker Room by LIDS has joined the dynamic lineup of retailers at Woodland Mall, offering a large variety of both collegiate and professional sports team merchandise.
Featuring everything from custom team gear to novelty sports items, the new store is open in the Macy’s wing near center court at Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE Grand Rapids. Within its 1,874 square-foot space, shoppers will find a wide variety of professional and collegiate sports gear.
“We’re thrilled to add another business from the LIDS lineup to Woodland Mall,” said Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director. “Sports fans of all affiliations can find the perfect apparel and merchandise to rep their favorite team, with customized options available.
“The variety and quality available through Locker Room by LIDS align with our vision to provide shoppers with excellent selection and service.”
Locker Room by LIDS is owned by LIDS Sports Group, a leading North American omni-channel sports licensed retailer which is made up of more than 1,100 mall-based, airport, street level and factory outlet locations nationwide, and in Canada and Puerto Rico.
Woodland Mall features an exclusive lineup of dynamic retailers, including Apple, Dry Goods, Forever 21, H&M, The North Face, Pottery Barn, Sephora, Williams-Sonoma and Von Maur, along with several dining establishments, including The Cheesecake Factory and Black Rock Bar & Grill. The mall is also home to the newly renovated Phoenix Theatres, featuring all-new premium heated reclining seating, 4K digital projection with Dolby Atmos, first-run movies and family-friendly pricing.
South Christian hopes to stay perfect at 11-0 and grab a Division 4 district title in the process in Week 2 of the MHSAA playoffs.
The Sailors (10-0) will have to go through Hudsonville Unity Christian (6-4) to get the job done at 7 p.m. Friday in Falcon Stadium.
In their playoff opener last Friday, South Christian beat Grand Rapids Christian 42-7 at East Kentwood, while Unity Christian defeated Forest Hills Eastern 46-20.
Once again, quarterback Jake DeHaan led the way for the Sailors with four touchdowns through the air and one on the ground, completing 12 of 18 passes for 216 yards and 84 rushing.
South Christian Coach Danny Brown said it best after their win over the Eagles.
“You need your best players to play the greatest when the lights are the brightest,” said Brown, of DeHaan. “He definitely answered the bell tonight; it was another stellar performance by Jake.”
DeHaan has posted some incredible numbers this season, totaling 37 touchdowns; 26 through the air and 11 on the ground.
Seth Ritsema led with six receptions for 125 yards and three TDs against GR Christian, while Carson Vis caught the other TD. Nate Brinks had 9 carries for 74 yards and one TD.
Check out these highlights from South Christian’s 42-7 playoff win over Grand Rapids Christian last Friday. (WKTV/Bill Rinderknecht)
Designed to spark a love of science and biology in children, the new Kentwood Parks and Recreation Outdoor Explorers program offers a nature-focused curriculum.
Basic survival skills, plant identification, campfire safety and cooking are just some of the activities taught in the program.
“Our goal is to get kids outside and exploring nature,” said Cassie Wielard, Outdoor Explorers program leader.
Outdoor Explorers Leader Cassie Wielard prepares the group for their adventure in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
Designed for children ages 6-12, the Outdoor Explorers meet Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. primarily within Covenant Park. The program offers many of the same skills and experiences kids may find through a scouting program, but with much greater flexibility.
Focused on the five senses
Outdoor Explorers often focuses on the five senses, encouraging participants to investigate various textures of plants and other aspects of their surroundings through touch, exploring scent as they smell flowers and campfire smoke, and tasting s’mores and other treats.
Leader Cassie Wielard shows the Explorers goldenrod on a walk in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
The purpose, Wielard said, is to give children “experiences that maybe not every kid gets to have outside in nature.”
Along with experiencing nature, instilling a respect for the environment also is a central principal of Outdoor Explorers.
“This feels like an extension of things that I love to do, and it’s been really fun,” said Wielard, who has a background in elementary education.
Covenant Park has three color-coded trails located just outside the clubhouse, each offering approximately one mile of natural space to explore. The park also offers an optional “Hide and Seek” activity for each trail along with maps to help guide explorers.
Rain, no worries
Less than ideal weather doesn’t hinder the young explorers from trekking through the park.
If a planned activity is not possible due to weather, Wielard and her volunteers easily improvise and ensure explorers are still learning and having fun.
“Last week it was raining, so s’mores were microwaved,” Wielard said.
Outdoor Explorer Kristofer shows off a bat he made with sticks and bark. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
Simple crafts offered during each class highlight animals and other aspects of the environment. From building bird feeders, to creating owls and bats out of sticks and bark, participants are treated to a lesson about animals and the natural materials used in their creations.
Looking for winter Explorers
Even though the fall Explorers program has wrapped up, plans are already in motion for a winter session with dates and activities in development stages.
“We are hoping to explore Covenant Park in all the seasons,” Wielard said. “Signs of nature (such as animal tracks) should be obvious with snow on the ground. And, of course, snow opens up a lot of opportunities for activities.”
The winter session is seeking participants for early 2023. To find out more about the program and its benefits, contact the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department.
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
Check out these great highlights of the Rockford/East Kentwood Division 1 playoff opener Friday. Rockford defeated East Kentwood 50-14. (WKTV/Hunter Veltema)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
Momentum swings in football can be fickle and East Kentwood experienced that firsthand tonight as Rockford ran away from the Falcons for a 50-14 Division 1 district semifinal victory.
Things got off to a rough start for East Kentwood as a sack and fumble on the game’s first play led to a Mac VandenHout touchdown on a quarterback keeper from 2-yards out to put the Rams ahead 7-0 at the 11:02 mark.
The Falcons responded with a drive of their own as QB Ben Cash found his receiver J’Kari Couch twice, once on a nice deep ball to setup Elisee Kanda for one of his two TDs tonight to even the game at 7-7 with 6:04 left in the first quarter.
Rockford didn’t waste any time getting back into scoring position as Alex McLean returned the ensuing kickoff all the way back to the East Kentwood 13-yard-line.
Two plays later, VandenHout connected with Ethan Lyon for the 11-yard score and a 14-7 lead.
The East Kentwood offense lines up against Rockford’s defense during Friday night’s Division 1 district semifinal. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Following a Rams’ field goal, the Falcons trailed 17-7 before Couch had another big catch inside the 10-yard line.
Kanda finished off the drive with a 1-yard TD run to bring the score to 17-14 with 1:57 left in the opening stanza.
On the next drive, East Kentwood seized possession on a 4th-and-goal stop at the 1-yard-line by Kanda with 8 minutes remaining in the second quarter.
Then disaster struck as Cash had trouble with a shotgun snap and lost the ball out of the back of the end zone for a Rockford safety to make it 19-14.
The Rams took advantage of the swing in momentum as senior QB VandenHout capped off a 70-yard drive with a 1-yard keeper for the score.
VandenHout later connected with McLean, who outran the entire Falcons’ defense for a 49-yard TD and a 33-14 advantage at halftime.
McLean finished the game with seven receptions for 98 yards and three total TDs, while VandenHout scored five TDs (two on the ground) as Rockford (10-0) advances to next week’s district final against the winner of Caledonia and Grandville.
Despite the loss, East Kentwood (5-5) Coach Tony Kimbrough says his team has a lot to be proud of after qualifying for the playoffs. The Falcons finished 2-7 in 2021.
“Proud of our seniors and the way they turned it around,” Kimbrough said. “They put in the work, they led us, they did all the right things in the offseason.
“I told them not to let this define them, because we did some great things this year.”
The future is bright for East Kentwood football according to Kimbrough, who is challenging his younger players to take it to the next level in the offseason.
“Our seniors had a great message for our underclassmen,” Kimbrough said. “Hopefully, they take it to heart and work twice as hard in the weight room, speed and agility, all the things I’m going to ask of them.
“We’ve got some talented kids coming up from JV and we should be really good on the offensive and defensive line.”
Check out the highlights from South Christian’s 42-7 win over Grand Rapids South Christian in a Division 4 playoff opener Friday. (WKTV/Bill Rinderknecht)
South Christian Coach Danny Brown said it best after his team beat Grand Rapids Christian 42-7 in a Division 4 playoff opener Friday night at East Kentwood.
“You need your best players to play the greatest when the lights are the brightest,” said Brown, of his standout quarterback Jake DeHaan. “He definitely answered the bell tonight; it was another stellar performance by Jake.
“I think at this point in the season you need your best players to step it up when the pressure’s on.”
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan earlier this season. He has a total of 37 touchdowns this year; 26 through the air and 11 on the ground. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
Once again, DeHaan led the way for the Sailors with four touchdowns through the air and one on the ground, completing 12 of 18 passes for 216 yards and rushing for 84.
“You have to credit our receivers,” Brown said. “Our guys were just making moves and getting open and Jake was putting it in there. I think they were really putting a ton of focus on stopping Carson Vis, so other people were open and Seth (Ritsema) was the winner of that.”
Ritsema led with six receptions for 125 yards and three TDs, while Vis caught the other TD. Nate Brinks had 9 carries for 74 yards and one TD.
Coach Brown said his OK Gold champs have done a great job of settling into games quickly this year.
“Every game, we have played really well right from the beginning,” Brown said. “To be 10-0, you have to be talented.”
South Christian knocked off Grand Rapids Christian 42-7 in a Divison 4 district semifinal playoff game Friday. (WKTV/Mike Farage)
Grand Rapids Christian Co-Coach Rueben Riley said it came down to South Christian executing and being more physical and the score indicated that.
“We continue to build a culture of love, tenacity, pride and purpose, and hopefully it shows in the wins and losses column, but right now we’re just making sure that our culture is strong so these young men know that the things they learn in football will take them wherever they want to go and be bigger than football.”
Quarterback Alek Wickstrom led the Eagles in passing with 14 of 22 for 135 yards and one INT, while Noah Funk completed 3 of 6 passes for 92 yards and one TD to Dono Thames. Grand Rapids Christian finished the season at 3-7 overall.
South Christian (10-0) faces Hudsonville Unity Christian (6-4) in a Division 4 district final next week.
Two teams in our WKTV viewing area, South Christian and East Kentwood, are playoff bound and in action on Friday night.
East Kentwood (5-4 overall, 4-3 in the OK Red) travels to Rockford for a 7 p.m. Friday game in Division 1. Rockford is tied for second in the state in D-1 with Macomb Dakota and boasts a 9-0 overall record. The Rams finished atop the OK Red at 7-0.
EK Coach Tony Kimbrough said he’s very proud of what his team accomplished with the strength of their conference and schedule.
In a 34-21 loss to Grandville last Friday, East Kentwood quarterback Ben Cash had 141 yards in the air and 93 on the ground. Stellan Bowman led with 17 tackles.
Getting back to the playoffs was a goal for the Falcons after a 2-7 season in 2021.
South Christian the team to beat
South Christian, No.1 in the state in Division 4, hosts Grand Rapids Christian (3-6 overall) at 7 p.m. Friday at East Kentwood.
The Sailors won the OK Gold Conference this year at 7-0, finishing one game ahead of rival Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Their last undefeated regular season was in 2004.
Check out our story on South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan, who posted some incredible numbers this season, at wktvjournal.org
DeHaan has a total of 32 touchdowns this year; 22 through the air and 10 on the ground. He has completed 129 of 184 passes for 1,883 yards with six interceptions, and leads the team in rushing with 710 yards on 109 carries.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
“Statistically, he is having one of the best seasons any QB has ever had at South,” said Coach Danny Brown, in his fourth year as coach. “His leadership and drive to be great is the thing that has impressed me the most.”
As far as the playoffs go, Brown said their goal is pretty simple; “We want to win a state championship.”
WKTV is sending a cameraman and reporter to both games to get highlights and interviews with coaches and players. Look for our stories late Friday night and Saturday morning on wktvjournal.org
Other Grand Rapids Area playoff teams
Division 1
Grandville (7-2) at Caledonia (8-1, sixth in state) (at East Kentwood) 1 p.m. Saturday
Division 2
Muskegon Reeths-Puffer (6-3) at Forest Hills Central (9-0, fourth in the state) 7 p.m. Friday
Portage Northern (6-3) at Byron Center (7-2) 7 p.m. Friday
Division 3
East Grand Rapids (4-5) at St. Joseph (8-1) 7 p.m. Friday Lowell (6-3) at Zeeland West (8-1) 7 p.m. Friday
Sparta (6-3) at Muskegon (7-2) 7 p.m. Friday
Cedar Springs (5-4) at Coopersville (6-3) 7 p.m. Friday
Division 4
Forest Hills Eastern (6-3) at Hudsonville Unity Christian (5-4) 7 p.m. Friday
Division 5
Kalamazoo Hackett Catholic Prep (5-4) at Grand Rapids Catholic Central (8-1) 7 pm. Friday
Division 6
Watervliet (6-3) at Grand Rapids West Catholic (8-1) 7 p.m. Friday
Temperatures have started to drop in Michigan and winter will be here before you know it. Before the snow flies and the ground freezes, you’ll want to make sure your mailbox is winter ready.
The post can become rusted or rotten over time, and you may find the box itself is missing some screws. These issues can make your mailbox more likely to fall over or be damaged by heavy snow pushed off the road by a snow plow. Plus, fixing or replacing a mailbox in winter can be difficult.
You can avoid all of this by taking a few easy steps now to determine if your mailbox is ready for winter.
To see if your mailbox is secure, simply give it a good shake.
To be secure enough to handle a Michigan winter, your mailbox shouldn’t really move, the box should be solidly attached to the post and the post firmly stuck in the ground. Additionally, the door to the mailbox should remain tightly shut (please see video above for more details).
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Temporary solutions like bungee cords and duct tape won’t last a full season.
Time to replace it?
If tightening screws isn’t enough to make it secure, it’s time to replace it. Addressing necessary repairs now will save you the hassle of a damaged mailbox and delayed mail later.
Please give your mailbox a good shake today and make sure you’re prepared for the season ahead.
The City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc are partnering once again for the annual Fall Fling, a disc golf tournament and food drive set for Saturday, Nov. 12.
Donations will help restock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
Community disc golfers of all skill levels are invited to bring a partner for this best-shot doubles tournament at Kentwood’s Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Drive SE. Each participant will receive a player package at check-in with opportunities for extra prizes during the event. The cost is $25 per person or $50 per team plus a canned donation item for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
“This popular event gives local disc golfers a chance to continue playing through the fall months while also helping us stock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We are very grateful to be partnering again with Great Lakes Disc for this awesome event and for the generosity and participation of the local disc golf community.”
A previous Fall Fling disc golf tournament. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
On-site registration will begin at 9 a.m. Pre-registration is encouraged online at kentwood.us/FallFlingDiscGolf. Players will meet at 9:45 a.m. and the first round of the tournament will begin at 10 a.m. El Jalapeño food truck will be on-site with authentic tacos, burritos and more for purchase.
“This event gives us the opportunity to enjoy a friendly disc golf tournament while giving back to the community,” said Shea Abbgy, owner of Great Lakes Disc. “It’s a great way to get involved and we have enjoyed partnering with the City of Kentwood to host this event each year.”
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which operates year-round, provides food to community members in need. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The Kentwood Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a community service project in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. The pantry is open to all community members year-round and addresses an immediate and local need. It offers non-perishable food and personal care items. Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry, no applications required and no questions are asked.
The demand for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry has steadily increased over the years and the current need for donations is high. The pantry has locations at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE, along with several other donation bins located throughout the City’s campus.
More information about the pantry, including hours and a suggested list of donations, is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
East Kentwood golfer Elise Fennell finished second in state in Division 1 at the MHSAA State Finals held Oct. 14 and 15 at the Bedford Valley Golf Course in Battle Creek.
Fennell finished one stroke behind state champion Kate Brody (Grand Blanc), who grabbed her second title in three years.
Brody took the top prize with a score of 73-72 (145), while Fennell placed second at 76-70 (146).
An inch short of a playoff
“I was so close to tying it up on the last hole to go into a playoff,” said Fennell, a junior who placed fourth and seventh, respectively, in the previous state finals. “I had a 12-to-15 foot putt for birdie, while Kate had a tap in for par and I left it an inch short.
“I am very happy overall to finish second. I played really well the whole event and did everything that I could. I was just trying to enjoy my last high school event of the year.”
Fennell said she will play in the Notah Begay Jr. Golf National Championship the first week of November in Louisiana and will then “take a month off to relax.”
East Kentwood golf standout Elise Fennell at the State Finals.(Courtesy, Mike Ketelaar)
East Kentwood Coach Mike Ketelaar said he couldn’t be happier for Fennell.
“I have been very blessed with memorable experiences throughout my own high school and college golf career, and these were easily my favorite days ever on a golf course watching Elise in her element,” Ketelaar said. “I have never been so proud of a student-athlete before.
“Elise is fearless on the golf course. When she made a clutch par putt on Hole 17, I had a gut feeling she was going to tap into another level and give everything she had to make a run at the current leader at that point, who she was playing with.
“She put together her A-game on the remaining four holes. It was truly special to watch her play those four concluding holes to near perfection.”
From left; Kate Brody, Grand Blanc, state champion in Division 1 (73-72 — 145); Elise Fennell, East Kentwood, second place (76-70 — 146) and Jessica Jolly, Rockford, tied for third with Grace Wang, Rochester Adams, not pictured (72-77 — 149). (Courtesy, Mike Ketelaar)
Grandville topped East Kentwood in a battle of two playoff-bound teams on Friday. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
With both teams firmly in the Division 1 playoffs heading into the regular season finale, Grandville’s defense stood tall in the second half to deliver a 34-21 victory over East Kentwood at Falcon Stadium Friday night.
The Falcons jumped ahead 7-6 on an Elisee Kanda 5-yard TD run in the first quarter and later tied up the game at 14-14 with a 22-yard strike from QB Ben Cash to J’Kari Couch at the 6:56 mark in the second quarter.
The Bulldogs later seized a 20-14 lead before halftime and never relinquished it with 24 consecutive points.
Self-inflicted mistakes played a major part in the loss for East Kentwood, according to Coach Tony Kimbrough.
“We were trying to do too much offensively tonight,” Kimbrough said. “Have to be able to execute the little things and unfortunately we put ourselves into third and long quite a bit.”
Cash led the Falcons with 141 yards through the air, as well as 93 yards on the ground. Stellan Bowman led the defense with 17 tackles.
East Kentwood looks to be back in the playoffs after a 2-7 season in 2021. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Despite the loss, East Kentwood (5-4, 4-3 OK Red) looks to have all but clinched a playoff spot, according to the MHSAA playoff points standings and a rematch with Grandville (7-2, 5-2 OK Red) is a strong possibility.
“That seems to be the most likely from what I’ve heard,” Kimbrough said when asked about the possible rematch with Grandville. “We’re going to look at the film of tonight and fix those mistakes.”
Getting back to the playoffs was a goal for the Falcons after a 2-7 season in 2021.
“To win five games with the strength of our conference and schedule, I’m very proud of what this team has accomplished.”
“The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show,” according to the MHSAA.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan has led the Sailors to 8-0 with one regular season game left. South Christian hopes to make a deep playoff run in Division 4, where they are currently ranked No. 2 in the state. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
By Geoff Kimmerly, MHSAA.com senior editor
Here is a list of Michigan High School Athletic Association football playing schools, displaying their win-loss records and playoff averages through the eighth week of the season.
Schools on this list are divided by division and ordered by playoff average. The top 32 teams by playoff average in each 11-player division and top 16 teams by playoff average in each 8-player division will qualify for the MHSAA Football Playoffs beginning Oct. 28. Divisions were determined prior to the start of the season, and the lists below include not only teams currently positioned to potentially qualify, but also the next eight teams in each division. (Forfeits confirmed for this week already have been added and are reflected in win-loss records and playoff points below.)
To review a list of all football playoff schools, individual school playoff point details and to report errors, visit the Football Playoff Point Summary page.
The announcement of the qualifiers and first-round pairings for both the 11 and 8-player playoffs will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on the “Selection Sunday Show” on Bally Sports Detroit and its website. The playoff qualifiers and pairings will be posted to the MHSAA Website following the Selection Sunday Show.
East Kentwood defeated Jenison 16-0 during the WKTV Game of the Week on Sept. 16. The Falcons are 5-3 heading into the final regular season game and are still alive in the Division 1 playoff hunt, ranked 24th out of the 32 teams that will qualify in that division. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
1. Colon, 8-0, 36.625 2. Marion, 8-0, 34.857 3. Climax-Scotts, 7-1, 34.250 4. Powers North Central, 8-0, 33.958 5. Peck, 7-1, 32.375 6. Au Gres-Sims, 7-1, 31.625 6. Morrice, 7-1, 31.625 8. Crystal Falls Forest Park, 7-1, 30.458 9. Mendon, 6-2, 30.000 10. Posen, 7-1, 29.875 11. Gaylord St. Mary, 6-2, 28.929 12. Central Lake, 6-2, 28.500 13. Lake Linden-Hubbell, 5-3, 25.708 14. Cedarville, 5-3, 25.536 15. Camden-Frontier, 4-4, 25.250 16. Stephenson, 5-3, 24.958 17. Kinde North Huron, 5-3, 24.625 18. Bay City All Saints, 4-4, 23.000 19. Athens, 4-4, 22.625 20. Pittsford, 4-4, 22.250 21. Wyoming Tri-unity Christian, 4-4, 21.875 22. Mio, 3-5, 21.750 23. Atlanta, 3-5, 21.375 24. New Haven Merritt Academy, 4-4, 21.125
The MHSAA is a private, not-for-profit corporation of voluntary membership by more than 1,500 public and private senior high schools and junior high/middle schools which exists to develop common rules for athletic eligibility and competition. No government funds or tax dollars support the MHSAA, which was the first such association nationally to not accept membership dues or tournament entry fees from schools. Member schools which enforce these rules are permitted to participate in MHSAA tournaments, which attract more than 1.3 million spectators each year.
Community members of all ages are invited to the sixth annual South Kent Community Expo on Tuesday, Oct. 25.
The free event is hosted by the City of Kentwood and takes place from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. There will be a variety of products and services from more than 50 local businesses, as well as health screenings, door prizes and refreshments.
The free health screenings will include blood pressure, spine alignment and more.
“We have a great lineup of vendors and goodies that’s sure to have something for everyone,” Recreation Program Coordinator Ann Przybysz said. “All are welcome to join us for this fun, community-focused event.”
The touchdown sponsor of this year’s football-themed expo is Humana. Field goal sponsors are SERVPRO of South and Northwest GR, Star Insurance Agency LLC and Tim Hortons.
Needing a win to improve its playoff chances, East Kentwood pulled away late in the fourth quarter to put away Hudsonville 29-20 at Falcon Stadium.
The Falcons jumped ahead 6-0 in the first quarter on an Elisee Kandee touchdown run that was set up by a J’Kari Couch 40-yard run.
Kandee returned to the end zone once again in the first half, this time on defense with a Pick-6. East Kentwood carried a 22-14 advantage at the half.
Despite being in a solid position to qualify for the 32-team playoff field (the Falcons are ranked No. 23 in playoff points for Division 1 according to MHSAA.com), East Kentwood coach Tony Kimbrough spoke about the importance of playing with a sense of urgency.
The crowd at Falcon Stadium takes in a game between East Kentwood and Hudsonville. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
“We feel like we control our own destiny in terms of the playoffs,” Kimbrough said. “We treated tonight’s game as a playoff game and I think our effort reflected that.”
The Eagles pulled within two in the third quarter on a Trey Carr touchdown pass, his second TD of the night.
However, the Falcons responded with a touchdown of their own as QB Ben Cash kept it himself for a 14-yard scamper to push the EK lead to 29-20 with 9:20 left the final stanza. A fumble on a punt return would later seal Hudsonville’s fate.
The Falcons defense lines up against Hudsonville’s offensive unit. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
“Didn’t play our best football tonight,” Hudsonville coach Brent Sandee said. “Had some turnovers and penalties at key moments in the game.
“The effort was certainly there, but we lacked the execution at times tonight.”
Cash finished with 119 yards through the air with a passing TD, as well as 38 rushing yards and a score. Kandee added 56 yards on the ground. Meanwhile, linebacker Stellan Bowman finished the game with 12 tackles.
East Kentwood (5-3, 4-2 OK Red) now looks ahead to its senior night game next Friday with Grandville (6-2, 4-2 OK Red), as both teams jockey for playoff positioning.
Hudsonville (2-6, 2-4 OK Red) hosts Grand Haven (1-7, 0-6 OK Red) next Friday.
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
The wins keep coming and the pressure keeps mounting for the South Christian football team, which knocked off Kenowa Hills 37-7 Friday to stay undefeated at 8-0.
The Sailors have a chance to go undefeated in the regular season for the first time since 2004 with a win at Forest Hills Eastern next Friday, and hope to stand alone atop the OK Gold for the first time since 2014.
They are currently 6-0 in the conference, one win ahead of Grand Rapids Catholic Central with a 36-34 win over them earlier this year.
“An undefeated regular season would be really cool,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown, whose team reached a Division 4 regional final last year. “We’re playing a really good Forest Hills Eastern (4-2, 6-2 overall) team that is well coached with good players next Friday.
“We want to roll into the playoffs on a good note.”
Jake DeHaan stands tall again
Once again, quarterback Jake DeHaan led the way for the Sailors, completing 15 of 23 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown throw to Carson Vis. DeHaan added 51 yards on the ground with two more TDs.
“He threw the ball really well,” Brown said. “He was taking what the defense was giving him. We ran a lot of swing passes to our running backs, and our receivers did an awesome job of blocking downfield this week.”
(Image Courtesy of South Christian)
Cayden Dykema led the Sailors with 6 tackles, while Sawyer TenHaaf added 5.
“We played really good on defense tonight,” Brown said. “We were flying around everywhere and good at the point of attack. We did a good job of putting pressure on the quarterback and made it tough on them.
“The kids seem to answer the bell every week.”
Nate Brinks “all over the place”
Brown said Nate Brinks had a great game as well, rushing 10 times for 50 yards and a TD and five receptions for 72 yards, plus handling all the kicking duties.
“He kicked a field goal and nearly puts every kickoff into the end zone,” Brown said. “He had a lot of touches today; was all over the place.”
Seth Ritsema had four catches for 99 yards.
Kenowa Hills Coach Rory Zegunis said the Sailors are very impressive.
“They are as advertised, that’s for sure,” said Zegunis, whose team fell to 1-7 overall. “I was super impressed with their defense. They are big, strong and fast. It’s hard to find a place to attack them.
“And offensively, the quarterback is so dynamic. He can throw, he can run, he’s just a smart kid back there and is dangerous.
“With a team like that, I was overall happy with how our defense played. We just couldn’t do anything on offense.”
WKTV Game of the Week
Our Game of the Week airs every Friday night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 & AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 at 11 p.m. with a rebroadcast on Saturday at 11 a.m. If you don’t have cable, visit our website at WKTV.org to watch the livestream. Watch at home on your Smart TV in brilliant HD.
At age 9, East Kentwood golf standout Elise Fennell figured out she was talented.
“I was playing Jr. PGA with boys four years older than me and beating them,” said Fennell, a junior at EK and All-State golfer two years straight.
As a freshman, Fennell finished tied for fourth place at the Division 1 state finals with a score of 74, followed by a seventh-place finish last year with a two-round score of 148 (74-74).
Her determination shined through early on as well.
“My first few words as a baby were ‘no help,’ when I was around 6 months old,” said Fennell, whose favorite food is chicken quesadillas. “I also would always play different sports with my neighbors and would always try my absolute best to beat them.”
Watching golf with dad as a youngster
Fennell said her interest grew while watching golf on TV with her dad, Josh.
“I wanted to try it, so my dad bought me a three-club set,” explained Fennell, whose favorite movie is Shrek. “I was 6 when he bought the set and I got hooked a few months after that. I would hit, and if I didn’t pass my dad’s shot I would pick up and go to his ball.
“I learned how to swing the club just by watching on TV for the most part. I watched and learned from Tiger (Woods) the most.”
Her best golf accomplishment?
Winning the GAM (Golf Association of Michigan) 15 and Under Stroke Play in 2019.
EK golf standout Elise Fennell. (Courtesy, Josh Fennell)
“It was my first GAM win and my first big tournament win.”
EK Coach Mike Ketelaar said though her demeanor is “extremely calm, relaxed and sort of laissez-faire, Elise is the fiercest and most prepared competitor I have ever coached.
“She is truly a complete player,” continued Ketelaar, who’s coached the EK boys and girls golf teams for five years. “This season, she shot 69 twice and 70 twice, and in my opinion, she did not play her “A-game” on those occasions. I am excited to watch her continue striving towards her full potential.”
Her state finals expectations?
“To put up two very solid rounds at the state finals,” Fennell said. “Ideally, I would like to shoot somewhere around 69 or 70 for both rounds and see what happens.
East Kentwood golfer Elise Fennell was OK Red All Conference for a third-straight year. (Courtesy, Mike Ketelaar)
“I think I am very capable of winning this year, but I know there are some amazing players that’ll be there as well.”
Ketelaar said she is no different from most elite players.
“She wants to compete at the highest level, perform her best, and win the state finals as an individual.”
This year’s MHSAA State Finals are Friday and Saturday, Oct. 14 and 15 at the Bedford Valley Golf Course in Battle Creek.
Fennell, who has a GPA of 3.99, would like to play college golf and major in engineering, but is undecided where.
Fennell was OK Red All Conference for a third-straight year, and teammate Camryn Kolzow was honorable mention.
“Elise is undoubtedly the leader of EK’s team,” Ketelaar said. “Elise would probably not refer to herself as a leader, nor desire the role, as most elite high school athletes typically do. Elise leads by her example.
“Players on the team are very aware Elise is one of the best players in Michigan, and they pay attention to Elise and her game.”
