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.”
The City of Kentwood is encouraging local businesses, organizations and community members to gather donations to help replenish the shelves at the Little Free Pantry.
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is a free resource that provides food to community members in need. Anyone can give to and take from the pantry, with no questions asked and no application needed.
The pantry operates year-round and has two locations: the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
Donations needed
The Little Free Pantry has seen an increase in use over the past few years and is in immediate need of donations. Preferred donation items include canned and nonperishable food items and personal care items. A list of suggestions can be found at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
“In the past, the Little Free Pantry has stayed stocked thanks to food drives and donations from our generous community,” said Val Romeo, director of parks and recreation. “We typically see a lot of donations around the holiday season, but there is need all year.
“We’re urging community members to donate a little earlier than normal this year. Whether it’s a handful of canned goods donated by an individual, an entire food drive put on by a local business or a financial contribution, any donation helps families in our community.”
The pantry has several donation drop-off locations throughout Kentwood. Collection hours and locations are as follows:
Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE: Drop off donations 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.
Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE: Place donations inside the collection bin 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and 7:30 a.m. to noon Friday.
Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE: Place donations inside the collection bin located in the lobby from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE: Place donations inside the collection bin 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Kentwood Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE: Place donations inside the collection bin 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a Martin Luther King Jr. Day community service project to fill an immediate and local need. A second location was added in 2021.
To make a financial donation or find more information about Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, visit kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
East Kentwood players receive instruction from their coach during a previous game this season. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributor
Points were at a premium in this match-up, as East Kentwood kept its playoff hopes alive with a 14-6 victory over West Ottawa.
Following a scoreless first quarter, the Falcons found the scoreboard as quarterback Casey Joppie connected with Nate Cobbs on a 14-yard scoring strike. East Kentwood clung to a slim 7-6 lead at the half.
With 3:53 left in the third quarter, running back Ben Cash punched it in from 2 yards out for a 14-6 advantage. The Falcons defense, led by linebacker Stellan Bowman with 15 tackles, held on to the lead with a scoreless final quarter.
Bowman also forced two fumbles, added a sack, as well as 78 rushing yards. East Kentwood Coach Tony Kimbrough had high praise for his star linebacker.
“He’s the best linebacker in the state,” Kimbrough said. “Show me another guy that plays with the passion he has for the game.
“Nobody loves the game more than he does and it’s infectious. Makes everyone around him better football players.”
The biggest takeaway for the Panthers tonight was the missed opportunities offensively, according to Coach Pat Collins.
“Had some short fields, but just couldn’t convert on those opportunities,” Collins said. “Got to examine what went wrong for us tonight.
“A lot of losing moments. A lot of winning moments, too. We will look at those and improve.”
Despite an inconsistent performance from the offense, Kimbrough was pleased to get back into the winning column.
“You take the wins any way you can get them in this league,” Kimbrough said. “A lot of talent in this league and the coaching is outstanding.”
With this crucial win, East Kentwood (4-3, 3-2 OK Red) turns its attention to a home date with Hudsonville (2-5, 2-3 OK Red) next Friday.
West Ottawa (3-4, 1-4 OK Red) travels to Caledonia for next Friday’s game.
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.
Community members are invited to enjoy some spooky Halloween fun at the City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 22.
The free event takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE, where more than 25 City and community vehicles will be stationed with decorated trunks filled with treats.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
In addition to collecting candy, participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk. Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and bring their own bag for collecting candy.
“Trunk or Treat provides a more controlled trick-or-treating environment while also giving local organizations and leaders a chance to connect with residents,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We’re looking forward to enjoying some family fun and seeing many community members in costumes and creative trunk designs at this year’s event.”
Local businesses and community groups wishing to participate in Trunk or Treat can register for free online until 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14. More information and volunteer sign-up can be found at kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat
Viewpond Banquet Hall celebrated a delayed grand opening ceremony on Wednesday in Kentwood. From left, Kentwood City Commissioner Bob Coughlin, Viewpond Banquet Hall Co-Owners Amit Verma and Ajay Chhabra, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley, Kentwood City Commissioner Clarkston Morgan. (WKTV)
At a ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday delayed by the pandemic, Viewpond Banquet Hall disclosed donating a portion of its profits to two popular charities.
Viewpond Manager Elisa Rodriguez said the company would donate to Make-A-Wish Foundation and Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry at the event sponsored by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
“They are in need and we’re all about community so that’s who we chose to help and support,” said Rodriguez, who’s company is located at 1665 Viewpond Dr. SE, Kentwood.
Kentwood Little Free Pantry
Kentwood City Commissioner Clarkston Morgan said the Little Free Pantry is a passion of his.
“We have a lot of transitional families that rely upon that pantry for food, and there’s no questions asked,” Morgan said. “They can come in and get what they need and go home and feed their families right away.
“Viewpond cared about being able to help families. I’m tying in opportunities for local businesses to be able to join our city and support our efforts to feed our families.”
The Little Free Pantry began as a community service project for MLK Day in 2017. Located inside the Kentwood Activities Center at 355 48th St. SE, it helps a number of Kentwood families in need.
Donations can be dropped off at the Kentwood Activities Center during normal business hours and also are accepted at collection bins located at:
Viewpond Banquet Hall Manager Elisa Rodriguez (center) cuts the ribbon at a delayed grand opening ceremony Wednesday in Kentwood, sponsored by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. (WKTV)
Soft opening during pandemic
Viewpond co-owner Amit Verma said his company had a soft opening about 11 months ago.
“Last year, we missed the grand opening because of the pandemic,” said Verma, who’s partner is Ajay Chhabra. “It’s been a year, and we are doing good, so we decided to do it now.”
Viewpond handles everything from corporate meetings and seminars to weddings.
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley was at the ribbon cutting as well, and talked about the business environment coming out of the pandemic.
Mayor Kepley said he thinks business is getting more back to normal after the pandemic, specifically this type of business.
“The owners of venues are telling me that they’re really doing well now, and are booked through 2022 and also getting booked through 2023,” Kepley said. “People are now getting back to getting married with large crowds of 200, 300 people and trying to get back to what it used to be. That’s good to see.”
South Christian ended Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s 42-game winning streak with a 36-34 roller-coaster victory on its home turf at East Kentwood’s Falcon Stadium.
If you’re a high school football fan, this game had everything you want.
It was a battle of two No.-1 ranked teams in the state; South Christian sits atop the state in Division 4, while Grand Rapids Catholic Central is on top in Division 5.
Both teams were unbeaten at 5-0 entering the contest, and Catholic Central had a 42-game winning streak on the line, all the way back to the 2019 season. To top it off, the Cougars have won five state titles in the last six years.
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan led his team by scoring four different ways: rushing, passing, receiving and a Pick 6.
“He was Superman for us tonight; he was unbelievable,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown, whose Sailors improved to 6-0 overall. “We’re glad he’s on our side. You count on your great players to step up in big moments and he did.
“He said, ‘Coach, put the ball in my hands, I want to win it for us tonight. What a heck of a performance.”
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan helped the Sailors beat Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (WKTV)
DeHaan completed 19 of 28 passes for 168 yards and one TD and had 19 carries for 181 yards and another TD.
Catholic Central quarterback Connor Wolf completed 26 of 42 passes for 335 yards and three TDs and had 17 carries for 105 yards and two TDs.
South Christian led 7-6 at the half and the game was knotted at 14 to end the third quarter, and then the real roller coaster ride began in the fourth in a back and forth battle.
After trading touchdowns to reach 21-all, South Christian’s Jackson Haik returned a kickoff 93 yards to give the Sailors a 28-21 lead with 4:59 remaining.
The Cougars punched another score in on the ground from nine yards out with 1:52 left in the game. After a blocked kick, South Christian led 28-27.
The fans enjoyed the game between two top-ranked unbeaten teams in South Christian and Grand Rapids Catholic Central. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
DeHaan scored on an 83-yard run with 1:30 remaining to give the Sailors a 36-27 lead, but Catholic Central had one more drive in them as Wolf threw a 27-yard TD pass to J. Williams to end the scoring.
“I feel exhausted, but I have a little energy because we won,” Brown said. “It was a fun game to be a part of.
“We still have three more games and want to win our conference; you have to keep your focus. It was a great program win against an unbelievable football team, but it can’t just be about beating Catholic Central. We have other things we have to chase.”
Seth Ritsema led South Christian with seven tackles and had a 32-yard TD catch as well.
South Christian quarterback Jake DeHaan lines up behind his team in the third quarter. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
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.
East Kentwood falls to 3-3 on the season following tonight’s 29-0 loss to Caledonia. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After falling to No.-4 ranked Rockford a week ago, East Kentwood received another stiff test with a visit to No. 2 Caledonia as the Fighting Scots remained undefeated with a 29-0 shutout.
Playing in front of a full house of standing-room-only fans, many of whom were in town for Calapalooza as well as the homecoming game, Caledonia coach Derek Pennington said his team felt the support from the community.
“It really was electric tonight,” Pennington said. “Standing room only and I’m just really proud of the way this community comes together to support our team.”
The Falcons fought hard defensively and contained a Caledonia offensive attack that had averaged 48.2 points per game in their five previous games. The physicality of East Kentwood’s defense stood out to Pennington.
“That defense was the best we have seen all season,” Pennington said. “Just a very physical defense and we hurt ourselves by not finishing a couple drives.”
Division 1 offers for Townsend
The Scots leaned on running back Brock Townsend, who accounted for over 200 yards on the ground. The junior halfback has Division 1 offers from Central Michigan, Toledo and Western Michigan.
For East Kentwood, it was a game of missed opportunities, according to Coach Tony Kimbrough.
“We moved the ball, but couldn’t sustain or finish our drives tonight,” Kimbrough said. “Had some key drops as well as some penalties stall some drives.”
With the loss tonight the Falcons drop to 3-3 (2-2 OK Red) as they look to regroup and make a push for the playoffs. Next up for the Falcons is West Ottawa.
“We probably just played the two toughest teams on our schedule,” Kimbrough said. “But in this conference you can’t overlook anyone and it doesn’t get any easier.”
Unbeaten Caledonia (6-0, 4-0 OK Red) travels to Grand Haven for next week’s game.
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.
Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE. (Courtesy, City of Kenwood)
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 Thursday, Oct. 13.
The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. and include two one-hour sessions at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. 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.
Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
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.
“As a midsized police department, we provide both a family-like atmosphere and ample opportunities for growth,” Kentwood Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “We’re seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our team. We look forward to connecting with potential recruits at this event and showcasing the great culture we have at Kentwood.”
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 spring 2023.
In addition to the police academy sponsorship, recruits also 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.
“Our recruit position provides a path for individuals to become full-time Kentwood police officers with a full sponsorship to a local police academy,” Litwin explained. “This position has been an important part of our efforts to recruit both traditional and non-traditional students and to hire individuals who are representative of Kentwood’s diverse community.”
No pre-registration is required for KPD’s recruitment 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/KPD2022. To find current job openings at the Kentwood Police Department and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.
Be sure to check out Kentwood’s Glow in the Park event held on Oct. 15. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
By WKTV Staff
Community members are invited to brighten the night with the City of Kentwood’s Glow in the Park event from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15.
Kentwood’s Glow in the Park 2021. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Taking place at Pinewood Park, 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE, the event features a variety of glow-themed activities, including light-up playground games, a dance party, costume contest, fun run/walk, food, and more.
Participants and supporters are encouraged to wear brightly colored and glow-in-the-dark clothes and accessories.
“We’re excited to get the community together and get our glow on at this special fall event,” said Shelby Henshaw, recreation program coordinator. “With an abundance of glow-in-the-dark materials and activities, it’s sure to be a fun night for everyone.”
Kentwood’s Glow in the Park 2021. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Glow in the Park kicks off with check-in at 7 p.m. The lighthearted race will start at 7:30 p.m. Participants can choose either a 0.3- or 1-mile run/walk along a park path that will be lit with glow sticks and other colorful lights. There also will be a costume contest at 8:30 p.m.
Light-up playground games and crafts, music and snacks will be available throughout the event. The fun run will be followed by an after party with dancing. The evening will conclude at 9 p.m.
Two levels of registration are available online at kentwood.us/GlowInThePark. For entry to the event and glow supplies, registration costs $5. For individuals who also want an event T-shirt, registration costs $20 and includes a goody bag with glow materials. Participants selecting the $20 option should register by Sept. 30 to guarantee an event T-shirt.
With its game last week against Grand Haven forfeited, Rockford made use of extra time in preparation for East Kentwood in a 41-20 victory over the Falcons.
The Rams clung to a 7-0 lead after one quarter and were still ahead 14-7 when disaster struck East Kentwood before halftime in the form of a special teams mistake. The Falcons lined up for a punt late in the first half, but instead were unable to get the punt off and failed to convert on fourth down.
“You can’t give up short field and especially to one of the best teams in the state,” East Kentwood coach Tony Kimbrough said. “You do that and they will make you pay for it.”
The Falcons did indeed pay for their mistake as Rockford converted the short field into a touchdown and a 20-7 lead at the break.
East Kentwood players receive instruction from their coach during Friday night’s game against Rockford. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Using a combination of exotic blitzes and different fronts, the Rams defense was able to shut down East Kentwood’s offense in the second half and build a decisive lead.
“Defensively we were solid all night long,” Rockford coach Brent Cummings said. “Pretty proud of our defensive line and linebackers. We wanted to attack their size with our team speed.”
It is often said that football is a “game of inches” and for East Kentwood it was the “little things” that prevented them from winning tonight, according to Kimbrough.
“We were battling early on and it was very close,” Kimbrough said. “You make a little mistake here and there and it can really make the difference. We have to be more technically sound.”
Ben Cash led the Falcons offensively with 74 rushing yards and a touchdown, as well as Elisee Kanda with 54 rushing yards and two scores. Stellan Bowman had 12 tackles and two sacks on defense.
East Kentwood (3-2, 2-1 OK Red) faces another stiff test as it travels to unbeaten Caledonia (5-0, 3-0 OK Red) next Friday. Meanwhile, Rockford (5-0, 3-0) clashes with Grandville (4-1, 2-1 OK Red).
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.
Leaf and brush drop-off services will again be available to Kentwood residents this fall. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood will again offer leaf and brush drop-off services to residents this fall.
Beginning on Saturday, Oct. 15, residents may drop off loose leaves, brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs and grass clippings at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
Drop-off will be available from noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday through Dec. 3. The sites will be closed Friday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day, as well as Thursday, Nov. 24 and Friday, Nov. 25 for Thanksgiving.
The services are available to Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required, via a a driver’s license, tax bill or water bill.
The following materials won’t be accepted
trash
paper and plastic bags
dirt
concrete
asphalt
tires
rocks
stones
construction materials
glass
metal
The drop-off services provide residents with a convenient way to keep their yards clear of leaves and debris as leaves begin to fall. The accumulation of leaves and debris on a property or in the right-of-way is prohibited in the City of Kentwood, as well as burning leaves and brush.
“Fall is a busy season for yard cleanup,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director. “We’re glad to offer these services to help residents keep their yards free of debris.
“It also helps us keep roadways and storm drains clear, which contributes to making the City of Kentwood a beautiful place to live, work and play.”
After closing for winter in December, both drop-off sites will reopen in the spring.
East Kentwood’s defense delivered another shutout, its second in as many games, as the Falcons halted Jenison’s offense in a 16-0 homecoming victory.
The Falcons clung to a 3-0 lead for most of the first half before Stellan Bowman broke through for a rushing score with just 54 seconds left in the half to put East Kentwood up 10-0 at the break.
Bowman had a stellar game on both sides of the ball with 96 total yards and a rushing score, as well as 15 tackles and a sack on defense.
Quarterback Casey Joppie connected with J’Kari Couch on a touchdown late in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach, finishing with 189 yards through the air on 13 of 28 passing.
Falcons coach Tony Kimbrough praised the defense after the game.
“Our defense won us that game tonight,” Kimbrough said. “We never got clicking on offense and give Jenison credit. Their game plan was to take away our run game and make our quarterback beat them.
“I thought our quarterback played well and we didn’t help him out, but our defense made plays when we needed it.”
East Kentwood players huddle around their coaches during a break in the action. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Other contributors on defense for East Kentwood included Braylon Cox with 10 tackles and a forced fumble, as well as Elisee Kanda with 6 tackles and 2 forced fumbles (1 fumble recovery). Jamari Ross and Mekhi Copes each had an interception.
Despite the inconsistencies on offense, the Falcons improved to 3-1 (2-0 OK Red) on the season with a matchup with undefeated Rockford (3-0, 1-0 OK Red) looming.
“Big one next week, we’re going to see what we’re made of,” Kimbrough said. “Any time East Kentwood and Rockford get together it’s going to be a battle.”
With a close loss to Muskegon (3-1, 2-0 OK Green) and a win over Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice (2-2) on their resume, East Kentwood is hoping those experiences will help them in this crucial stretch of games.
“We’re battle-tested and 2-7 (last year’s record) is our motivation,” Kimbrough said. “All offseason has been about improving on that record and through four games we have already surpassed that.”
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 QB Jake DeHaan completed 8 of 15 passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns and rushed three times for 78 yards. (WKTV)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
One minute into the game, senior quarterback Jake DeHaan threw a 76-yard touchdown pass to sophomore brother Charlie DeHaan to give South Christian the early lead in a 28-6 win over Cedar Springs Friday.
DeHaan completed 8 of 15 passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns and had three rushes for 78 yards.
It was his brother Charlie’s first TD as a wide receiver on varsity for the Sailors. DeHaan filled in for the injured Jake Vermaas.
Despite South Christian’s big play to start the game, coach Danny Brown said his team didn’t get the explosive plays it had in the first three weeks.
“It was kind of a grind-it-out game for us,” said Brown, whose Sailors improved to 4-0 overall. “We had to execute at a high level. I’m just really proud of the kids. It was a hard fought battle.”
“Senior Nate Brinks really carried us in the run game,” continued Brown, whose running back had 15 carries for 102 yards and two TDs. “Our offense was humming along in the first half. We were converting and making plays.”
The Sailors led 21-6 at halftime.
Brown had much to say about Cedar Springs performance.
“They are probably one of the best 0-4 teams in the state,” Brown said. “They’ve played a lot of really good teams. Hands down, they have a phenomenal football program and good coaches.
“We knew it was going to be a fight. We just made enough plays and played phenomenal defense.”
Senior Cayden Dykema led South Christian with 13 tackles, followed by junior Ben Mulder, 6.5, and senior Cam Post, 6.
“Cayden is unbelievable on defense,” Brown said. “He was all over the place.”
Senior Cayden Dykema led South Christian with 13 tackles in the victory. (WKTV)
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.
Stop by the Kentwood Farmers Market between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. tonight for Bike Night, located behind City Hall at 4900 Breton Rd SE.
Marketgoers will have the opportunity to test ride an e-bike, get a helmet fitting and learn how to fix a flat tire. There will be a group bike ride to Railtown Brewing Company at 6:30 p.m. and riders can get $1 off pours. If you’re interested in joining, plan to pedal on over to the market.
East Kentwood beat Jenison 16-0 in last week’s WKTV Game of the Week. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
WKTV is in full swing of football season. Last Friday, our team of writers covered five games, including East Kentwood. Check out the WKTV sports coverage at the WKTVJournal.org
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 Sailors beat Ottawa Hills 51-12 Friday at East Kentwood’s stadium. (WKTV/Ty Marzean)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
A solid ground game combined with sparkling special teams play kept South Christian undefeated with a 51-12 win over Ottawa Hills Friday at East Kentwood’s stadium.
“Special teams definitely played a big outcome in the game; that was what sparked our scoring,” said South Christian coach Danny Brown, whose team improved to 3-0 overall, 1-0 in the OK Gold. “The special teams made a difference.
“We started the game with a kickoff return by Charlie Schreur, so that was huge.”
A quick score
Schreur ran 70 yards to pay dirt to give the Sailors a 7-0 lead immediately. Schreur scored two TDs in the win.
Soon after, South Christian’s Cam VanSolkema blocked a punt that Ben Mulder recovered in the end zone for a TD.
(Image courtesy of South Christian)
The Sailors tallied 356 yards in total offense as senior Nate Brinks led with 62 yards rushing and two TDs.
Quarterback Jake DeHaan was 12 of 17 for 177 yards passing.
Brown was very happy with his team’s defensive performance.
“Our defense was great; flying to the ball,” he said. “They played well at the line of scrimmage, getting a lot of guys to the ball.”
Ottawa Hills coach Christian Verley said South Christian is solid and technically sound, but his special teams broke down.
“If we don’t give up 25 points on special teams it’s a different game; that is unacceptable,” said Verley, whose team fell to 0-3 overall. “If we can clean up those things it’s really a solid game.”
Ottawa Hills junior quarterback Tyreez Buchanan was 5 for 12 for 36 yards passing and one TD and rushed 12 times for 68 yards. Junior Willie Duke had 36 yards receiving.
Send us your live game photos
We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@wktv.org
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.
Wide receiver Razah Townsend had 45 receiving yards and a touchdown in a 42-0 win over Grand Haven. (WKTV)
By: Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
After losing a tight game with Muskegon in Week 1, East Kentwood bounced back with two consecutive wins after an impressive 42-0 victory over Grand Haven on Friday night.
Dominant defense puts clamps on Bucs offense
The Falcons put a stranglehold on Grand Haven’s offensive unit with just 55 total yards allowed. The Buccaneers had just two first downs. East Kentwood coach Tony Kimbrough explained the importance of preventing the big play opportunities.
“It starts with our defensive coordinator, coach [Houston] Glass does a great job of scheming teams,” Kimbrough said. “We watched the film and saw big play after big play. So we went into this game saying we need to eliminate some of those.”
“We were able to contain their quarterback who really is quick and electric, but you’re not going to outrun us side to side.
Bowman enjoying success at new position
Halfback Stellan Bowman saw plenty of green grass in front of him all night, running for 194 yards on just 9 carries and 4 touchdowns. Bowman, who also plays linebacker for the Falcons, made the switch to running back this off season after Kimbrough watched him play rugby last spring.
“I didn’t know he could run like that until I went to a rugby game,” Kimbrough said. “Nobody could tackle him and I went up to him after the game and said you’re playing running back next year.”
Other standouts for East Kentwood on offense included wide receiver Razah Townsend with 45 receiving yards and a touchdown, as well as quarterback Casey Joppie who had 133 yards and a touchdown on 9 of 17 passing.
Homecoming next week for East Kentwood
East Kentwood (2-1, 1-0 OK Red) welcomes Jenison (1-2, 0-1 OK Red) to Falcon Stadium for a homecoming game next Friday. Meanwhile Grand Haven (1-2, 0-1 OK Red) takes on undefeated Rockford (3-0).
Send us your live game photos
We are always looking for great football game photos to post with our WKTV Journal stories on Friday nights. Please email your cool game night football pix to greer@admin
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 event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 17 in the parking lot of the Kent District Library. Pictured is last year’s Food Truck Festival. (Courtesy City of Kentwood)
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood and GR8 Food Trucks have again partnered to host a Food Truck Festival with more than 30 vendors to help the community support small businesses and make the most of the remaining summer season.
The event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 17 in the parking lot of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The festival, which runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., features 32 food trucks, live music and a beer and wine tent.
The event, which is free admission, features 32 vendors, live music and a beer and wine tent. (Courtesy City of Kentwood)
“We have a day full of delicious food, great music and fun planned for this Food Truck Festival,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We look forward to celebrating the last few days of summer with this community-favorite event.”
There will be a wide variety of sweet and savory food options available for purchase. Participating food trucks include:
“Kentwood’s Food Truck Festival gives residents a unique opportunity to enjoy great food, build community and support local small businesses, all at one event,” said Alan Tomlinson, president of GR8 Food Trucks. “We encourage community members to come join the fun.”
The City of Kentwood and GR8 Food Trucks will host a Food Truck Festival with more than 30 vendors on Saturday, Sept. 17. (Courtesy of City of Kentwood)
The event also features a food drive to support Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of canned goods to help restock the pantry shelves. A list of suggested donations and more information about the Little Free Pantry is on our website at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry
This year’s diamond sponsors are Macatawa Bank and NN Mobile Solutions. Entry to the festival is free. The cost for food and beverages varies by vendor.
From high school coaches and former college players to those looking for exercise and recreation, the Kentwood Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues offer something for everyone.
“We have a large age demographic, from people who are college age all the way to retirees,” Kentwood Site Supervisor Christina Dessauer said.
Four competition-grade beach volleyball courts, unveiled in 2019 and located at the Department of Public Works on Breton Avenue, have allowed the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department to expand its beach volleyball program by offering both recreational and competitive beach volleyball leagues to interested community members.
The Kentwood Parks and Rec Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues have enjoyed a great summer at their competition-grade courts at 5068 Breton Ave. SE. (WKTV)
“The incentive of building the courts at our Department of Public Works was to have more courts available so that we could really expand our program,” said Shelby Henshaw, recreation program coordinator for Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “We are the only facility that I am aware of that has four courts like that.
“The senior population just wants to get outside, they want to exercise, they have participated in our 50-plus fall league before — so they come here as just another way to get exercise. In the competitive leagues, I find that there are high school coaches who are currently playing, former college players — I see it all.”
Henshaw said the beach volleyball courts have allowed Kentwood to expand its program from a maximum of six teams to 12 teams that play doubleheader games each week for a total of 16 games per season.
The Kentwood Parks and Rec Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues enjoying a night of competition at 5068 Breton Ave. SE. (WKTV)
Kentwood currently offers three categories of beach volleyball leagues, ages 18 and above: a 2’s (two players per team) recreational co-ed league, a 4’s (four players per team) recreational co-ed league, and a 4’s co-ed competitive league.
Co-ed is defined by Kentwood Parks and Rec as having one male and one female on the court at all times. Participants form their own leagues, finding the required number of players needed and coming to the first league night with their team already in place.
Each team plays doubleheader games in 45 minutes on league night and is responsible for keeping score, giving scores to the site supervisor, and calling infractions as they occur.
Teams also are responsible for starting their games.
Four competition-grade beach volleyball courts, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE near the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility, are home to the Kentwood Adult Beach Volleyball Leagues. (WKTV)
“If you don’t start within the first five minutes, you forfeit your first game,” Dessauer said. “If you don’t start within the first 10 minutes you forfeit all of your games, and the other team wins automatically.”
Scores and points do matter, as the season culminates in a tournament where points seed the tournament.
“We run the tournament like a basic volleyball tournament where it is the best two out of three games,” Dessauer added.
The first two games are played to 18 points, the final game to 15, with a stipulation that the winning team wins by two points.
Volleyball leagues run year-round, ensuring that there are always volleyball activities available for interested participants.
Indoor volleyball as well
Indoor leagues are held at Kentwood Activities Center, but they also have partnered with other facilities because Kentwood’s winter leagues are so popular that the number of players has increased beyond what the Activities Center can hold.
“It is a continually growing program,” Henshaw said. “This year especially, I saw a lot of new faces. We offer four different types of leagues, so getting new people, new faces to sign up and join is always a welcome addition.”
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
A Greece-based snack company has announced its plans to open its first North American manufacturing operation in the City of Kentwood.
The SnackCraft location will be at 4444 52nd St. SE. (Supplied)
Unismack, SA, a developer and manufacturer of high-quality crackers and other snack foods, will open its new location at 4444 52nd Street SE. The U.S. business will operate as SnackCraft, LLC with the website of www.snackcraft.com. The plant will add 185 new jobs and $41.7 million in capital investment over the next five years.
“We are honored SnackCraft has chosen the City of Kentwood as its first location in the United States, bringing well-paying jobs and a significant investment in our community,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “SnackCraft is positioned for success here with an engaged workforce and welcoming community. We are committed to supporting the company’s investment and growth with our solutions-focused team and streamlined development processes.”
Working with the State to Make It Happen
The Right Place worked closely with Unismack to bring this new facility to the Greater Grand Rapids region rather than other out-of-state locations being considered. With the approval of a $1 million Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) is supporting the expansion through the Michigan Strategic Fund. West Michigan Works! and Grand Rapids Community College will also be supporting the project with a $614,000 workforce training package.
“As we looked into another manufacturing location for our company, the Grand Rapids region seemed like an obvious choice,” said Dimitrios Stratakis, Unismack founder & CEO. “There is an abundance of talent and resources here in West Michigan to help us in the next phase of our journey and we’re thankful to the team at The Right Place and their partners at the MEDC for their support.”
The new Grand Rapids facility, led by CEO Joseph Riley, will be a co-packer/contract manufacturer of baked crackers, tortilla chips, single and twin-screw extruded snacks, and pellet snacks such as veggie chips and straws. The facility will include an innovation center to assist customers with research and development of new products to meet changing consumer tastes and demand. SnackCraft will also provide warehousing and some 3PL services for its customers.
“We’re very happy we were able to assist SnackCraft in finding the perfect environment to grow their operations here in the United States,” said Brent Case, vice president of Business Attraction for The Right Place and project lead. “With the amount of talent available and the previous successes of other food and beverage companies in the area, Kentwood has created a desirable location for global companies like SnackCraft to thrive.”
Xia Dargo participates in the Kentwood Parks and Rec waterskiing clinic this summer at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville. Funds raised at The Vibe will go toward purchasing new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs, including waterskiing. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff
Community members are invited to The Vibe, an annual celebration and fundraiser to enhance the City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs, on Thursday, Sept. 8.
This year’s event will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Kent District Library, Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. It will include food and cocktails, live music by the Moonshot Band, a silent auction, adaptive equipment displays and yard games.
Funds raised at The Vibe will go toward purchasing new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs, including golf. Troy Almli tees off at the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center this summer during Kentwood’s Adaptive Golf League. (WKTV)
The evening also will feature guest speaker Lee “Coach” Montgomery, a longtime coach and athlete of wheelchair and adaptive sports, who will share more about his experience in both roles.
Montgomery has medaled in the Paralympics, traveled the world and played a range of different sports, including sitting volleyball, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis. He won a gold medal for wheelchair basketball in 1990 and in 1993 was recognized as one of the top 10 wheelchair tennis players in the U.S.
His coaching career began in 1988 with Kentwood Parks and Recreation, where he led the junior wheelchair basketball team for several years. He was inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame in 2006 and the National Wheelchair Basketball Association Hall of Fame in 2015.
“Coach Lee has long been a champion for adaptive sports and recreation and athletes of all abilities, and we’re excited for him to join us at this year’s event,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We welcome the community to join us to learn more about his story and the value of inclusive recreational opportunities.”
Tickets for the casual-attire event are $40 per person. They can be purchased online at KentwoodVibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270.
Fundraising for adaptive rec programs
Funds raised at this year’s event will go toward purchasing new equipment for Kentwood’s many adaptive programs. These offerings include archery, cycling club, boccia league, bowling, canoeing, downhill skiing, golf league, leisure club, kayaking, rock climbing, track and field clinics, pickleball, wake boarding and waterskiing, along with dances and other social events.
Mark your calendars for The Vibe on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Kent District Library, Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The giving wall, shown here from last year’s event, presents an opportunity for people to donate towards specific adaptive equipment needed or to sponsor a specific adaptive program/event.
“We have a wide variety of adaptive recreation programs that meet the interests of all individuals – from social opportunities like leisure club to sensational activities like waterskiing,” said Ann Przybysz, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator. “These programs give individuals an opportunity to connect and experience the benefits that come with recreational activities, including a sense of camaraderie, improved confidence and new skills.”
The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming in partnership with community partners, including Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and dozens of volunteers.
Programs are open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond. To learn about current offerings, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.
Members of the Davenport University esports team, from left, Austin Mikkelsen, Coach Colin Graham, Jessie Barger, Benjamin Pringle and Abraham Hernandez. (WKTV)
By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer
Esports isn’t just exploding in high schools across the country, it also has found a foothold in many colleges as well.
Short for electronic sports, esports can offer students a sense of belonging, college scholarships, and for some, a new path in life.
Davenport University freshman Abraham Hernandez and League of Legends esports player said video games changed his life.
“Kept me off the streets”
“I didn’t grow up in the best neighborhood,” Hernandez said. “It kept me off the streets.”
On a personal level, Hernandez said playing video games with his friends as a teen was “some of the best memories I’ve ever had in my life. The relationships I’ve built off of it, the memories I have — I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
Hernandez also sees the value in long-term benefits of esports.
“I enjoy the competitiveness, the drive, the want to get better, knowing how to get better at something — that skill goes way beyond esports. Esports changed my life for the better and I don’t know where I would be without it.”
Like traditional sports, esports teaches soft skills: teamwork, accountability and communication being just a few. Character building, developing discipline, self-esteem and sportsmanship also are advantages of being on an esports team.
Organized competitions in the video game culture experienced a surge in popularity in the late 2000s, with esports becoming a significant factor in the video game industry by 2010.
Michigan experienced their own surge in esports popularity in 2019 — and has seen it gain considerable traction over the last few years in both public and private educational facilities.
Colin Graham, head coach of esports at Davenport University, told WKTV that the college esports program began in 2019 with an arena in the Student Activity Center.
“We started with eight (game) titles. I was tasked with bringing in 20 students my first year. I had five recruited and signed prior to becoming head coach.”
South Christian High School in Byron Center also is new to the esports scene, beginning in the 2020-2021 school year with nine participants. They are not yet competitive, but are willing to continue the program for grades 9-12.
South Christian High School jumped into the esports scene in the 2020-21 school year. (Courtesy)
“We strive to give kids the most opportunities we can as an athletic department within the scope of our school motto which is equipping students to live Christ-centered lives in order to serve God to their greatest potential,” said David Kool, athletic director at South Christian High School. “The main goal is to give our students another platform to have fun and do what they love to do.”
Participants in esports are considered athletes, the same as in traditional sports.
“We have practices, we have scrimmages, we have film review, we have expectations,” explained Graham, who said the inception of esports at Davenport was well-received by traditional athletes at the college, and that the other athletes seem to understand what the esports community is trying to do and accomplish.
Davenport esports athletes Benjamin Pringle and Austin Mikkelsen both enjoy the competitive aspect of esports.
Back-to-back national championships
“I’m a really competitive person,” said Pringle, Davenport sophomore and part of the Counter Strike: Global Offensive team. That competitive spirit won Pringle two back-to-back national championships, but there also is a more personal reason for Pringle’s dedication to the sport.
Davenport University Esports lab. (WKTV)
“I don’t have my parents’ support and I wanted to get away to support myself. So, I was like, I might as well do what makes me happy.”
Austin Mikkelsen, also a Davenport sophomore esports athlete, said, “I enjoyed the part of winning your lane and just beating somebody. You can see you’re better than somebody at it. It gave me a drive for it.”
Like traditional athletes, esports is not for the faint of heart.
“We are a year-round sport,” Graham said. “We compete from September through April. Summers are where they are offered down-time if they would like to take a break, but some of our teams don’t.”
Graham makes it clear that if participants decide to continue through summer, all of the obligations that come with in-season practices and scrimmages carry over to the summer.
Nationally-ranked
Those expectations have produced results. Last year, Davenport University finished in the top eight teams nationally in the game Call of Duty. Their Rainbow Six team is currently ranked on the fringe of the top 10 national teams, and their Counter Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) is currently the best in the nation.
Benjamin Pringle (left) and Jessie Barger in the Davenport University Esports Lab. (WKTV)
And esports offers more than championship rings and prizes.
Graham previously worked at schools where sports were the kids’ way of getting to the next level and out of unfavorable circumstances in life.
“My coaching mantra is: Using the esports platform to offer opportunities to students who wouldn’t have them through traditional sports.”
Jessie Barger, a junior at Davenport University and esports athlete, is one of the students who found his home in esports.
Fitting in, building relationships
“When I was younger, I felt like I didn’t fit in to most traditional sports,” Barger said. “I felt like I was more comfortable playing video games.”
Esports offers a level of social interaction some students may not otherwise achieve.
“It’s their way of having social interaction,” Graham said. “They have friends that they know online that they’ve known for years.”
Graham said Davenport’s Call of Duty team owes its success to the fact that the players have all played the game together since the age of 12.
But that’s not all.
College scholarships?
High school esports participants can take advantage of college scholarships as well.
“All students on our roster, aside from maybe one or two, are scholarshipped,” Graham said. “I am very aware of the cost of attending a university. I also believe that you shouldn’t leave college with a mountain of debt if you don’t have to.”
Kool says scholarship opportunities “definitely gives esports more credibility” in the eyes of students and parents since the concept of esports is still new to many of them.
Graham actively recruits for his esports teams, admitting that he is “old-school” in his recruiting, traveling and speaking at schools and meeting with both teachers and students.
“I think it’s really beneficial to the program to make those connections.”
He also feels it is important that each participant fits the overall personality of the group they will be joining.
“We want to make sure that they feel this is a place they can call home, and they can find their people and they have an experience here that is beneficial to them long term.”
Kool also has seen advantages to esports programs, the main benefit being opportunities it gives students to be successful and have fun.
“Their confidence can grow in themselves as a person, and it gives them a sense of belonging,” Kool explained. “Esports is a great program where kids can experience playing these games in a safe and friendly way while building confidence and morale within a school setting.”
Graham believes esports has definite longevity.
“If you look at the history of video games, there has been interest in it since they hit the market. It really caters to a specific kind of person … so it gives participants an opportunity to find people like them and socialize.”
Proof also is in the continued interest among high school and college students.
“This year, we should be pushing about 70 students across nine different titles,” Graham said. And that includes domestic and international students.
Esports “here to stay”
“I don’t think it’s going to go anywhere,” Graham continued. “I think the games that are competed in may come and go, but esports as a whole, I think, is here to stay.”
“Esports in high school isn’t the future. It’s the present,” claims the website of popular esports platform PlayVS.
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
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The 17th annual Metro Cruise gets underway today with participants able to visit two locations that bookend the 28th Street experience.
The main stage remains at Rogers Plaza, which will be a buzz of activity for both days. This year, Woodland Mall in Kentwood will be the second location, which will be packed with activities and classic cars.
Of course, the best way to check out the action, is to snag a 28th Street Metro Cruise Official Program, which is available online or purchase a hardcopy at the event. Activities at both locations start on Friday and run through 9 p.m. and then
To help you make plans, here are some highlights you won’t want to miss.
At the Rogers Plaza Main Event, there will be free shuttle service provided by The Rapid. Attendees can park at the Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW, or the KDL Wyoming Branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW, to catch a ride to the main stage.
On Friday, the Wyoming High School marching band will perform at 5:30 p.m. Of course, classic car corridor official opens as well.
On Saturday, there will be several events taking place. The final 10 contests for the Miss Metro Cruise will compete for the 2022 title at 3 p.m.
The popular DreamWheels production, produced by WKTV, will be filming at 7 p.m. at the east end of the Rogers Plaza parking lot.
Also, while in the area, make sure to head down to the GM Components Holding, LLC, 2100 Burlingame Ave. SW, where there will be a car show featuring the Futurliner, children’s activities, plant tours and a job fair.
At the Woodland Mall stage, the largest West Michigan Antique Fire Truck Display will be taking place most of Friday along with music, children’s activities and classic car corridor.
Saturday, the music and fun continues at the Woodland Mall with the official cruise time set for 4 p.m.
Near Woodland Mall, Berger Chevrolet will be hosting an all GM show from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Get ready for high school football. The season opens this week on Thursday and Friday, Aug. 25 and 26 for your home teams in Wyoming and Kentwood. (pxhere.com)
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
WKTV is bringing you another great season of high school football, starting with our season-opening truck coverage of Ionia at Kelloggsville on Thursday, Sept. 1.
Our high-tech WKTV Game of the Week truck will film one game each week, which will include two play-by-play announcers, a field announcer and various camera angles with slow motion replays to capture all those great plays for our broadcast.
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. (See schedule below) 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. Broadcasts also are available on Video on Demand at a later date.
The Wyoming Wolves travel to Forest Hills Northern on Thursday, Aug. 25. Game time is 7 p.m. For your team’s football schedule visit here
We are planning a much greater presence this year with high school football. Yes, even bigger than before if you can believe that. Every week, our sports staff will post football game stories and roundups covering each varsity high school team in our viewing area in Kentwood and Wyoming.
We plan to give you the stats and highlights of each game in our stories … explaining the details of how your team marched to victory.
Look for you school’s game story or roundup on our WKTV Journal website each week.
Support your team in every way by going to the games, cheering them on, watching the featured Game of the Week on WKTV and visiting the WKTV Journal for the exciting game stories.
WKTV Game of the Week Truck Schedule
Thursday, Sept. 1 Ionia at Kelloggsville
Friday, Sept. 9 Ottawa Hills vs. South Christian (at EK)
Friday, Sept. 16 Jenison at East Kentwood
Friday, Sept. 23 Reeths-Puffer at Wyoming
Friday, Sept. 30 TBD
Friday, Oct. 7 TBD
Friday, Oct. 14 Tri-unity at Godfrey-Lee
Friday, Oct. 21 TBD
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.
Your football team’s season schedule
For your home team’s complete football schedule click here
For more information on WKTV and what we offer, visit here
The Kentwood Farmers Market will host its second annual Charcuterie Challenge, a food assembly showdown using only farmers market ingredients, slated for Thursday, Aug. 25.
In the French tradition, charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-ku-tuh-ree”) is the art of preparing and assembling cured meats and meat products. The idea of charcuterie has evolved over the years to include an assortment of meats, cheeses, veggies and other items.
A contestant prepares her board during last year’s Kentwood Farmers Market Charcuterie Challenge. (Courtesy)
Five challengers will receive $25 and 30 minutes to shop the market and assemble a one-of-a-kind charcuterie board using only those purchased ingredients.
The friendly competition will take place during the Farmers Market from 5 to 5:30 p.m. behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, and the boards will remain on display until 7:30 p.m. Marketgoers can watch the competitors build their boards and then vote for their favorite. The winner will receive a gift courtesy of the Kentwood Farmers Market.
“We’re excited to have this fun event return to the Kentwood Farmers Market for a second year,” Market Manager Kristina Colby said. “This is a great way for local competitors to show off their talents and the wonderful food offered at the Farmers Market.
“Attendees can expect another action-packed competition full of creativity and beautiful charcuterie board displays.”
Last year’s Kentwood Farmers Market Charcuterie Challenge, a food assembly showdown using only farmers market ingredients. (Courtesy)
Bowls by Bob will be on-site selling their charcuterie boards and other handmade wood decor items. An additional 20 vendors will be at the market from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. selling staples such as fresh produce, cheese, honey, jam, bread and more. The Sanse Filipino Cuisine food truck also will be on-site.
In its eighth season, the Kentwood Farmers Market provides the community weekly opportunities each summer to buy a variety of goods from local vendors. This year’s market is offered every Thursday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. behind Kentwood City Hall.
In addition to exploring an array of items for purchase, marketgoers can enjoy free classes and other special events tied into the market’s schedule.
Here’s the lineup of activities planned for the remaining market dates:
Aug. 25: Charcuterie Challenge
Sept. 1: Kid’s Day – meet and greet with the zoo and crafts
Sept. 15: Bike Day – meet local bike vendors
Sept. 22: Fall Equinox Day
Sept. 29: Harvest Day – live music from Just Jill from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., pumpkin painting and food preserving demonstrations.
Xia Dargo participates in the Kentwood Parks and Rec Waterskiing clinic last Friday at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville. (WKTV)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributing Writer
Kentwood Parks and Recreation intern Aubrey Buckingham has experienced the benefits of the adaptive recreation program firsthand.
“I’ve been a part of facilitating relationships, encouraging participants, lending a hand, and a little bit of everything,” said Buckingham, an incoming senior at GVSU studying recreational therapy. “My favorite part of this summer is the relationships I’ve formed with the participants. There has just been a level of trust, and it’s really fun to see the participants flourish and try new things.
“It’s really special.”
Kentwood Parks and Rec intern Aubrey Buckingham shows Xia Dargo the adaptive waterski chair before they go on the water. (WKTV)
Exposed to working with individuals with disabilities later in her high school years steered Buckingham toward recreational therapy.
“From that point on, I knew that this was just the population that I wanted to work with.”
Kentwood Parks and Rec hosted an adaptive waterskiing and tubing clinic for individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities and their families last Friday at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville.
“It’s hard as an adaptive family, or a family with special needs, to sometimes find resources that are out there,” said Christy Dargo, mother of an adaptive participant.
And that is where Kentwood’s Adaptive Program comes in. Kentwood developed its adaptive program 22 years prior, adding clinics open to siblings and other family members within the last five years.
“It’s nice because we all get to be part of it,” Dargo said. “Sometimes it’s hard to find something that everyone can be a part of. You’re a family. And when you have a child with special needs, you have to find that balance between adaptive lifestyle and incorporating things that are not adaptive.
“The clinics melded both the adaptive and nonadaptive and it’s something that they can do together. I think that’s really special.”
Four clinics per year
Parks and Rec partners with other organizations to offer four clinics a year. Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan are two organizations that have stepped in to help bring these experiences and learning opportunities to those with physical and cognitive disabilities.
Waterskiing is a particularly popular clinic. Lessons are available on Thursdays over the course of six weeks. Unlike the clinics, which can have approximately 20 participants, the waterskiing lessons are limited to five participants due to the fact they get more time on the water.
Skill development
Kentwood Recreation Program Coordinator Ann Przybysz (lower left) helps with the adaptive waterskiing program at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin.
“We can work on developing the skills,” said Ann Przybysz, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator. “Getting better balance, more duration, more strength with their upper body.”
Christy Dargo admits that having the adaptive equipment, extra hands and trained staff helps make the experience “less intense of an adventure to go out and do something. Sometimes it feels almost too overwhelming to do it on our own.”
All about family
The Dargo family consists of four children, Zach, Abigail, Natalie and Xia, who was adopted from China in 2013 and the adaptive participant in the waterskiing clinic — though the rest of the family enjoyed trying out the sport as well.
“It’s so good for the kids, and so good for sibling relationships,” Dargo said. “And it may seem like a little thing, but it’s not. To give kids an opportunity, one, to do something they’ve never done — because of their ability level and making something adaptive — and two, to be able to share it with the rest of their family, for us, this is not a little thing.
“This is a big deal.”
Increased awareness in the community regarding the adaptive program is something staff, interns and parents all agree is needed and are working hard to implement.
Dargo said just the idea of exposure, and that this is even available, is huge.
“It’s a great thing; it’s a blessing for them to be able to do this together,” Dargo explained. “I don’t know if Xia would necessarily do it on his own.”
Seeing his siblings participate, Dargo said, takes away some of that nervousness for Xia.
“More people and families are better,” Xia said.
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
For many in West Michigan, a round of golf on a nice summer evening is the perfect recreational activity.
And for those with varying disabilities, taking part in the Kentwood Adaptive Golf League is an opportunity to continue playing the sport they love.
The Kentwood adaptive recreation program gives people with physical and developmental disabilities the chance to participate in a variety of sports and recreational activities including adaptive golf, which Ann Przybysz has been involved with for over six years.
As program coordinator for Kentwood Parks and Recreation, her role has only increased over the years.
“I started about six years ago with the golf program working golf carts, encouraging our participants and running the leagues,” said Przybysz. “It’s awesome to get people out on wonderful evenings like this and try to take advantage of the nice weather.”
SoloRider golf cart a game-changer
Partnering with the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center in Comstock Park allows the adaptive golf league participants to have access to the SoloRider adaptive golf cart, which allows those with limited or no use of their legs the ability to golf freely with little or no assistance.
The adaptive cart features hand controls and a swivel seat that raises golfers into a standing position. Scott Lake is one of few golf courses in Michigan to have access to the SoloRider carts.
Director of Golf Shane Riley said the cart is a game-changer for those that may have not had the ability to golf before.
“The golf cart itself is used weekly by a handful of participants, (and) without that golf cart (they) would never be able to play golf again,” said Riley, who’s worked at Scott Lake for 11 years. “It gives them full capability on the course and they can take it anywhere with limited exceptions.”
Weekly tradition during the summer
Ryan Luchies looking for a club during a weekly Kentwood Parks and Recreation Adaptive Golf League at the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center. (WKTV)
For Troy Almli (age 46), Ryan Luchies (38), and Krista Schulze (50), the adaptive golf league is just one of the many activities they take part in through the Kentwood adaptive program. The three of them are all survivors of traumatic brain injuries and make golf night weekly on Tuesdays at Scott Lake.
Almli, who got into a life-altering car accident when he was 10 years old, has been playing golf since he was seven and described why he enjoys the sport immensely.
“Enjoying the fresh air and seeing nice people,” Almli said. “I golf with the best people around.”
Meanwhile, Schulze says the adaptive program has been crucial to helping her enjoy the activities she likes to participate in that she otherwise wouldn’t be able to do. She enjoys bowling and snow skiing in addition to the golf program.
“I find it really helpful for anyone with a handicap out there,” Schulze said. “Helps them get back into doing whatever sport they love to do.”
Troy Almli tees off during Kentwood’s Adaptive Golf League held Tuesday nights at the Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center. (WKTV)
Mary Crestwell, a rehab tech for the Hope Network long term care facility where all three participants live, helps with the transportation to and from the adaptive programs and has been involved for the last five years.
“It is a great way for them to get involved with the community,” Crestwell said. “Lets them stay active and integrates them with others socially.”
Getting involved in Kentwood adaptive programs
Those in the community that want to participate or volunteer in the Kentwood Parks and Rec adaptive programs are urged to visit their website. There you can find all the sports and activities available as well as where to volunteer or donate.
While the current golf league season is underway, registration is open for the next season that runs from Sept. 6-27. No previous golf experience is required, and clubs are provided for participants who do not have their own. Trained staff help guide participants through the game.
Kentwood will host its first-ever Power Wheels Derby for children ages 1-7 on Saturday, Aug. 20.
The friendly races will begin at 11 a.m. and take place on a multi-terrain course on the grounds of the City’s Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
There will be two heats of racers, with the first one for children ages 1-4 and the second one for ages 5-7. All racers must wear a helmet and vehicles must be stock with no modifications allowed. Prizes will be given for first, second and third place in each heat.
Coffee, donut holes, frozen treats and other refreshments will be provided for all attendees to enjoy. There also will be additional activities for children, including an opportunity to explore City trucks and equipment used to maintain streets and services.
“This friendly race is sure to be fun for participants and spectators alike as children navigate their way through our multi-terrain course,” said Spencer McKellar, lead recreation program coordinator. “We’re excited to add the Power Wheels Derby to our list of summer activities this year and hope it will become a community favorite in the future.”
The schedule for the event is as follows:
10 a.m. – Check in begins
11 a.m. – Race for kids ages 1-4
11:30 a.m. – Race for kids ages 5-7
Noon – Awards
The event is open to both Kentwood residents and nonresidents. Spots are limited and pre-registration is required for the event, which costs $10 per racer. Parents should register the child who is racing. Families may register multiple racers.
