Tag Archives: City of Kentwood

Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming news you ought to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

I believe that education is all about being excited about something. Seeing passion and enthusiasm helps push an educational message. 

Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter

Take a Pass

The Kentwood Justice Center which houses the 62-B District Court (WKTV)

Have a court fine you forgot to pay? Or an outstanding ticket that you just found in the drawer? Well head straight to Kentwood’s 62-B District Court or the 63rd District Court located on the East Beltline, both of which have announced they will offer individuals a waiver on further penalties or incarceration for taking care of their debts before March 31. The courts are even willing to work with those unable to pay in full. For more information, call the 62-B Court at 616-698-9310 or the 63rd Court at 616-632-7770.

Welcome to the Neighborhood

Andronaco moves its subsidiary Conley Composite to Kentwood.

The Right Place and the City of Kentwood made big news this week when Andronaco announced it would be moving one of its subsidiaries, Conley Composite to Kentwood. Andronaco has three of its subsidiaries and its headquarters in the area. This is the second big announcement for The Right Place, which in January announced that Stone Fox Ventures would be moving its new acquired Even Cut Abrasive Company to Wyoming.

Star Gazing with Music

The next Concerts Under the Stars at the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Chaffee Planetarium is Thursday, Feb. 28. The concert, which is at 7:30 p.m., features the dark-electronic pop of Bronze Wolf. Tickets are $12 for members and $15 for non-members. For more info, visit grpm.org or click here. Or snag some tickets for tonight’s Grand Rapids Symphony concert featuring 19-year-old bass virtuoso William McGregor. The concert is at 8 p.m. at DeVos Performance Hall.

Fun fact:

750

That’s how many different species of butterflies in the world. Come March 1, you can check out about 60 of them as the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park opens its über popular “Butterflies are Blooming” exhibit. The butterflies roam free in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. Best times to see the butterflies: late afternoon or early morning when the Gardens opens early every Tuesday. So keep thinking spring!

The Right Place assists global manufacturer with Kentwood expansion

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Local Business, ,
Andronaco Industries will be relocating its subsidiary Conley Composite to Kentwood. (Supplied)

By The Right Place

Today The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Kentwood, announced that global manufacturer, Andronaco Industries, will be relocating one of its subsidiaries, Conley Composite, and expanding to a fourth Kent County location at 4544 Broadmoor Ave. in Kentwood. This expansion will result in the creation of 64 jobs and a capital investment of $3.3 million.

Andronaco Inc., founded in 1994, is a world-leading manufacturer of high performance fluoropolymer and composite products and technologies. The company, which also has locations in Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and France, currently operates three subsidiary facilities in the City of Kentwood (dba PureFlex, Inc., PolyValve, LLC, Nil-Cor, LLC and Ethylene, LLC) that employ 195 people.

Conley Composites, LLC specializes in fiberglass pipe, fittings and valve manufacturing. (Supplied)

Conley Composites, LLC which specializes in fiberglass pipe, fittings and valve manufacturing, previously operated out of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Andronaco officials made the decision, with the assistance of The Right Place and the MEDC, to relocate this facility closer to its three existing Kentwood operations.

For the expansion, Andronaco plans to purchase and rehabilitate an existing, 30,000 square foot building. The new location on Broadmoor Avenue will be located within minutes of the other Andronaco manufacturing facilities and corporate headquarters. 

“The decision to relocate Conley Composites to the same area as our other manufacturing subsidiaries made logistical sense for our company,” said Ron Andronaco, president and CEO of Andronaco Industries, “We are thankful for the guidance and support of The Right Place and the MEDC as we worked through the details of this relocation and expansion process.”

The MEDC is supporting the expansion effort with the approval of a $320,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The City of Kentwood is also considering approval of a P.A. 198 tax abatement in support of the project.

“Andronaco’s decision to establish a fourth facility in West Michigan is a testament to the strong business environment our region has developed,” said Jen Wangler, Senior business development manager and project lead, “Companies have confidence in our talent and our continued economic growth.”

“The City of Kentwood is pleased to partner with Andronaco Industries and the State of Michigan to bring this project to fruition,” said Kentwood mayor Stephen Kepley. “We are proud to see a world-leading manufacturer like Andronaco Industries continue to thrive and bring new jobs to Kentwood.”

Kentwood honors MLK, gathers food, cash to support Little Food Pantry

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Holidays
The community came out in support of the City of Kentwood’s collection of food stuffs for its Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)


By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on the national holiday in his honor, the City of Kentwood stocked the shelves of its Little Free Pantry on Monday, Jan. 21.

The city collected canned goods and other non-perishable items at three locations: the Family Fare on Kalamazoo Avenue, Celebration Cinema on 1506 Eastport Drive, and the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department — the food pantry is located at the department’s activities center.

At the end of the day, the Parks and Recreation Department’s Facebook page reported on the results: “Thank you to all who generously donated to the Little Free Pantry today! Our pantry is full again! We collected $68 and more items than could fit on the shelves. Your contributions will help a number of families in our area.”

Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley visited Founder and Senior Leader Kathy El-Ali and Outreach Director Max Johnson at The Well Church to collect an abundance of donations for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

Mayor Stephen Kepley also did a little collecting himself, as he visited The Well Church on Monday to collect donations for the pantry. The city’s Facebook page commented on the church’s effort: “We are so appreciative of your generosity. The support of community partners like you helps ensure those who need help can find it year-round.”

Mayor Kepley, in previously supplied material, commented on the community support the city receives for the pantry and other community needs.

“Kentwood is a compassionate community which supports practical acts of generosity by encouraging neighbors to help neighbors especially in times of need,” Mayor Kepley said. “Since 2017, Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry has assisted countless families to such an extent that the shelves become empty on a weekly basis.”

Located in the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, the Kentwood Little Free Pantry is similar in operation to a Little Free Library: take an item (or items) when needed and leave an item when you can. No applications necessary. No questions are asked.

More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry .

Christmas is over, so what do you do with that tree?

3-bottom, ,

Now that Christmas is over, the age old question of “What shall we do with the tree?” is on the minds of those who had a real tree.

Well, if you are are resident of the City of Wyoming, there is always the drop-off site at 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW. The drop-off site, which is open year round, will have special hours this Saturday, Jan. 5, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wyoming city residents may bring their Christmas trees and other yard waste to the site for free. Residents must register with an ID each time they use the site. Winter hours for the drop-off site Monday – Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. December through March.

For more information, visit the Wyoming City Department of Public Works website.

If you are a resident of the City of Kentwood, the city’s tree recycling site is now open through Jan. 31. Residents can drop off their trees at the city’s Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday.

Remember, before bringing tree to either site, make sure that all decorations, wires, and lights have been removed.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood weekend news you want to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Quote of the Day

"Sing, sing a song,
Make it simple to last your whole life long
Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear,
Just sing, sing a song..."
        - "Sing" by Joe Raposo, written for "Sesame Street" in 1971

 

The airport is alive with music

 

Several Wyoming and Kentwood high school choirs will be performing at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s Holiday Music Festival, which is Dec. 3 – 7. Some of the groups scheduled are Potters House, Legacy Christian, South Christian, Wyoming High School, Lee High School, and East Kentwood High School. Performances are daily  from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. andJe are free.

 

And the winner is…

 

Jennifer Lewis and Brian Jirous were declared the newest members of the Wyoming Board of Education this week. Both ran in the Nov. 6 election. Jirous was the only candidate who filed for one of the two open seats on the board. Lewis was one of two write-in candidates. It took a couple of weeks for the write-ins to be hand counted, according to school officials. The two will be sworn in at the Wyoming Board of Education meeting set for Jan. 14 at 6 p.m.

 

Santa is coming to town

 

While it is still a week yet until Kentwood hosts its annual tree lighting and parade, set for Dec. 7, and the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Santa Parade, Dec. 8, you can get your celebrating started at Byron Center’s community festivities this Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade portion has been cancelled due to the weather but  the chili dinner and holiday concert at Pathway Church, 8350 Byron Center Ave. SW, is still taking place.

 

Fun Fact:

Light It Up

Ever wonder how many lights you can fit on a Christmas tree? Well a group in Belgium did, managing to get 194,672 lights on a real tree on Dec. 10, 2010. Seven years later, Universal Studios Japan was not about to be out done, so they managed to place 570,546 lights on an artificial tree. You have to admit, that is a lot of lights. (Source)

Chamber hosts annual Santa Parade along Division Avenue Dec. 8

Citizen Journalism, , , ,

Five area high school bands will be performing at this year’s Santa Parade.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Santa is coming to town. How do we know? Because the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, along with the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, is hosting the 12th annual Santa Parade Saturday, Dec. 8, along Division Avenue.

 

The parade, which starts at 10 a.m. and lasts about 45 minutes, will feature more than 50 participants including five school bands. Participants will travel down South Division from 33rd Street to Murray Avenue. 

 

Chamber President and CEO Bob O’Callaghan said the Santa Parade provides an opportunity for many residents to attend a parade who may not get the opportunity to attend the big parade in downtown Grand Rapids. Another key element to the event is free photos with Santa, which takes place after the parade at Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 4157 S. Division Ave. Parade-goers and residents are encouraged to bring their children over to the restaurant along with cameras for free pictures with Santa.

 

Santa is scheduled to make his arrival at the annual Santa Parade hosted by the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.

“It is part of the Community Service we offer at the Chamber,” O’Callaghan said.

 

In the parade will be police vehicles and fire trucks from both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming. There also will be floats and vehicles from several of the parade sponsors such as The Rapids, Steelcase, Conumsers Energy, Diversified Protection, JX Peterbilt, Marge’s Donut Den, Supermercado Mexico, Two Men and A Truck, Liberty Tax Service, Godwin Plumbing, Celebration Cinema, and Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille. Also five local high school bands are set to perform as well.

 

This year the Chamber will be hosting a Float Judging Contest selecting the three best decorated floats with first place being a $1,500 office chair from Steelcase.

 

If you miss or can not make the parade, WKTV will be broadcasting the entire event on Comcast channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 at 12:30 p.m. and then again at 7 p.m. that day. It will re-air the program throughout the month. Check wktv.org for listings.

Kentwood Mayor Kepley, city’s ‘hot’ zip code, on WKTV Journal In Focus

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kentwood Public Schools, Recreation, WKTV Journal In Focus,

 

K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley — a staunch, vocal advocate for the livability of his city and the interests of its residents — was recently, given another point of pride about the city.

 

Kentwood’s 4 9 5 0 8 zip code was recently named the Hottest Zip Code in the nation by Realtor.com, beating out hot-spot cities such as Colorado Springs and Kansas City suburb Overland Park, Kansas.

 

In Focus, Mayor Kepley talks why he is not surprised by the national notice and other special items of note that are happening in the city.

 

“WKTV Journal: In Focus” airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times). But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

 

Amphenol Borisch Technologies investing $3.7 million to expand Kentwood headquarters

3-bottom, , ,

The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the City of Kentwood, announced that Amphenol Borisch Technologies (ABT) is investing $3.7 million to expand its operations in Kentwood. As a result, the company, based at 4511 East Paris Avenue in Kentwood, will add 82 jobs at its headquarters campus.

 

ABT builds complex electromechanical assemblies, cable harnesses, circuit cards and discrete mechanicals for the aerospace and defense industries.  The company employs more than 400 people at five North American locations. The Kentwood headquarters campus, which includes two buildings, employs nearly 200 people in manufacturing and administrative positions.

 

The company plans to renovate portions of its existing facility and purchase new machinery and equipment that will assist with its diversified growth.

 

“Amphenol is proud to be reinvesting in West Michigan with this expansion,” said Bob Brunetz, general manager, Amphenol Borisch Technologies. “With the support of The Right Place and the MEDC, we were able to make this project happen right here in Kentwood.”

 

The Right Place worked in collaboration with the company, Kentwood and the MEDC to ensure ABT continues to expand its headquarters operations in the city.  The MEDC is supporting the project with the approval of a $410,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant.

 

“The Right Place is very pleased to have partnered with Kentwood and the MEDC to ensure ABT’s growth in the region,” said Eric Icard, senior business development manager, and project lead. “This investment is another win for West Michigan’s robust aerospace and defense industries.”

 

“The City of Kentwood is delighted for ABT’s expansion and further investment in the community,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “We look forward to ABT’s continued success in the market.”

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood weekend news you want to know

Citizen Journalism, , , , , , ,

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

"Even the southeast side of Grand Rapids must bow to the beauty of a Michigan fall."*
          -Daniel Abbott, The Concrete

 

Trunks Full of Treats

 

Kentwood’s Fall Festival includes Trunk or Treat. (WKTV)

The City of Kentwood will host its annual Fall Festival this Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon.

 

Among the activities will be the annual Trunk or Treat when city and community organizations decorate their trunks and hand out candy to area children. Participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite decorated trunk. Also taking place will be face painting, hayrides, a bounce house, and games.

 

 

 

Go Hike, Get a Prize

 

Urban-thru-hiker Liz Thomas

If you head out on the trails this weekend, you might be lucky enough to score a surprise from Merrell, the shoe company. Merrell team members will be handing out swag bags and gift cards along The Ales Trail starting at Outside Coffee Co., 734 Wealthy St. SE, and making its way to several area breweries, ending at the New Holland Knickerbocker. The event is lead by urban-thru-hiker Liz Thomas who has been making her way through the local trails to help encourage residents to get out and hike.

 

 

Brewed Spirits

 

The phantom footprint preserved in the upstairs bar.

The Mitten Brewing Co. creates some of the area’s best brews and apparently those from the afterworld agree as they are still hanging around the former firehouse.  Since opening, staff and guests have reported paranormal activity in the building located at 527 Leonard St. NE. 

 

Co-owner Christ Andrus said he believes that whatever is haunting the former Engine House No. 9 is just playing pranks on people. Regardless if you believe or not, it makes for some great tall tales over some award-winning brew. (The Mitten’s West Coast Swing Amber took a Gold Medal at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival.)

 

 

Fun Fact:

5,062 Years

That is how old a bristlecone in California is, making it the oldest individual living tree. (For reference, wooly mamnoths died about 4,000 years. Want to learn more about trees? Then snatch up a copy of "The Hidden Life of Trees" by Peter Wohlleben, and then join the book discussion on Nov. 8 at the KDL Kelloggsville. The program will be lead by the City of Wyoming Tree Commission starting at 6:30 p.m..

Arcanum Alloys relocates to Kentwood, creates 25 high-tech jobs

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , ,

Arcanum Alloys is moving to Kentwood bring 25 high tech jobs to West Michigan.

The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Kentwood, announced that Arcanum Alloys will be relocating from Silicon Valley to the City of Kentwood.  This will result in the creation of 25 new high-tech jobs and a capital investment of $693,000.

 

Arcanum Alloys’ patented technology generates revolutionary function and value by utilizing the most common metallurgical elements to create alloys whose properties at the surface and bulk are spatially segregated. The company produces 20-ton coils for some of the world’s most well-known manufacturing companies.

 

Arcanum Alloys chose West Michigan over other competing locations to be closer to its production partner, suppliers and manufacturing customers. This location will function as both a new headquarters and R&D center. The company will be locating at 4460 44th St. SE, Kentwood.

 

“Arcanum Alloys is looking forward to starting the next chapter of its growth story in the City of Kentwood,” said Dan Bullard, CEO of Arcanum Alloys. “We’re grateful for the support provided by The Right Place and their partners at the MEDC and City of Kentwood as we moved through this decision process.”

 

The Right Place worked in collaboration with the company and MEDC to ensure Arcanum Alloys chose West Michigan. The Right Place also connected the company to workforce development resources at West Michigan Works! to assist with workforce recruitment and training.

 

The MEDC is supporting the relocation with the approval of a $162,500 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant.

 

“Arcanum Alloys’ decision to move their headquarters from Silicon Valley to West Michigan reflects the strength of our region’s high-tech talent pool and manufacturing supply chain,” said Eric Icard, Senior business development manager, The Right Place, Inc. “Our region’s talented workforce combined with its strong advanced manufacturing base have made it a destination for innovative companies like Arcanum Alloys.”

 

The City of Kentwood is supportive of Arcanum Alloys’ plans to locate in the city.

 

“We are delighted Arcanum Alloys has chosen the City of Kentwood for their new headquarters,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley, City of Kentwood. “We look forward to working with them as they grow and create high-tech jobs in our community.”

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood you need to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , , , ,

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

 

Quote of the Day

"Life is like riding a bicycle. In order to keep your balance, you must keep moving."- Albert Einstein

 

 

Love to Ride His Bicycle

 

Kentwood resident and avid bicyclist Ken Smith, 70, whose father was a fireman and son is a fireman, is riding from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean — Seaside, Oregon, to Boston, Massachusetts — in hopes of raising $30,000 to provide for possible care of and therapy for his grandson Jakob. He returned home last week, riding more 2,500 miles. He is set to continue the journey soon. Ken Smith has set up a Facebook page (facebook.com/rideforjake/) and a GoFundMe page (gofundme.com/ride-pacific-to-atlantic-for-jakob) to detail his journey and raise the funds.

 

 

Food for Thought

 

 

Hank Meijer

Meijer Chairman Hank Meijer, along with Richard Norton Smith, will be the featured lecturer this Friday for the Grand Valley State University’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies. The topic is “Mackinac Conference at 75,” which will be presented at 7 p.m. at L.V. Eberhard Center, Room 215, 301 W. Fulton St. The series, which continues through Dec. 5, will feature eight speakers who will encourage meaningful discussions about leadership and the search for common ground at a deep level, without the heated political rhetoric of the day.

 

 

 

And While We’re Talking Food

 

You might want to put a big food truck doodle on Sept. 15 as that is when Kentwood will be hosting its third annual End of Summer Food Truck Festival. Nearly 30 trucks are expected to participate at this year’s event. We know it will be the end-of-summer celebration you won’t want to miss because Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma is still talking about last year’s event and all the food choices. Oh, and for the beer lovers, there will be a beer tent running from noon to 10 p.m. featuring a selection of craft beers.

 

Fun Fact:

88 Years Old

And the Grand Rapids Symphony is still going strong. Started in 1930, the orchestra kicks off its 88th season on Sept. 14 and 15 with the classical concert "Beethoven, Barber, and Bernstein" - which is quite the mix of music. For more on the Symphony's season, visit grsyhphony.org.

Kentwood continues asking community to help ‘Plan Our Parks’

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Kids Activities, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, ,

As part of its Parks Master Planning events, the City of Kentwood has scheduled an ice cream social today, Aug. 1, at Northeast Park from 6 to 8 p.m.

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

As part of The City of Kentwood continuing effort to seek public input for improving its Parks and Recreation Department programming through a series of Parks Master Planning events, the city has scheduled an ice cream social today, Aug. 1, at Northeast Park from 6 to 8 p.m.

 

Hosted by the city, the event will include complimentary ice cream for participants.

 

Residents of all ages will have the opportunity to help shape the future of Kentwood’s parks by sharing their ideas which will be used as a basis for future parks and recreation development.

 

“We welcome all residents and park users to join us at these events to help plan our parks,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied information. “We want to know what improvements the community wants to see. These events offer the perfect platform to share stories and insights as we begin to transform our parks.”

 

Following the event at Northeast Park, other opportunities for input will be offered during other upcoming community events including the Celebrate Kentwood gathering on Aug. 11, and the End of Summer Food Truck Festival on Sept. 15.

 

For more information, please visit Kentwood.us/parks.

 

Kentwood’s Kalamazoo Avenue from 52nd Street to 60th Street to be closed Aug. 2

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Hard News, Local Entertainment,

Kentwood’s Kalamazoo Avenue from 52nd Street to 60th Street to be closed Aug. 2.

 

City of Kentwood

 

The City of Kentwood announced today that Kalamazoo Avenue from 52nd Street to 60th Street is slated to be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 2 while the road receives a joint repair treatment.

 

A detour route will be posted. Traffic delays should be anticipated.

 

The work is part of the City of Kentwood’s ongoing commitment to road repair and maintenance. Kentwood maintains the highest-rated major street network in Kent County according to data compiled by the Grand Valley Metro Council in its 2017 Regional Pavement Condition Survey Report.

 

For more information regarding  Kentwood summer road projects, visit www.kentwood.us.

 

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , , , , , , ,

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

 

Quote of the Day

"Don't ever question the value of volunteers. Noah's Ark was built by volunteers; the Titanic was built by professionals."  - Dave Gynn, an engineer out of the San Francisco Bay area.

 

A BIG Thanks

 

WKTV Volunteer of the Year was Charlie Kormanik

And WKTV values its volunteers, this year hosting a Brazilian-style barbecue at Johnson Park.

 

This year’s Volunteer of the Year was Charlie Kormanik who had more than 300 volunteer hours. Charlie travels almost 80 miles, one-way, from St. Joseph, Michigan, to participate in a number of WKTV programs. Thanks Charlie and to all our volunteers for another wonderful year. To see all the volunteers who were recognized at this year’s picnic, click here. To become volunteer, call 616-261-5700.

Song spinners

 

The Crane Wives performs July 26.

After making recent tour stops throughout the country, the band will be returning home to play at the Kentwood Summer Concert Series this Thursday.

 

Show time is set for 7p.m. at the lawn next to the Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Click here for more.

 

 

 

Who’s counting?

 

After reporting the busiest June ever in its history, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport has 1,406,644 more to go to hit the three million passenger mark. At the rate things are going, we expect GFIA to land that goal soon. For more on the story, click here.

 

 

 

Be Involved and be informed

 

Stealing Mayor Jack Poll’s closing line for every Wyoming City Council meeting, WKTV reminds residents that the upcoming primary is Aug. 7 and there are a number of candidates seeking their party’s spot for the general election. In the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, there are two Kent County Commission races, two Republicans for the 8th District and four Democratic in the 12th District.  For more, click here.

 

And today’s fun fact:

400

That is the number of meters of Lycra (an elastic polyurethane fiber or fabric) needed to make the costumes for the "Super Trooper" scene in the ABBA-inspired "Mamma Mia!" Don't believe us? Then check out the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre production this February and see for yourself.

Kentwood continues to ask community to help ‘Plan Our Parks’

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events,

 

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

The City of Kentwood continues to seek public input for improving its Parks and Recreation Department programming as part of a series of Parks Master Planning events. The next in the series will take place Thursday, July 19, at the City of Kentwood Summer Concert series concert featuring The Moxie Strings at Kentwood City Hall.

 

Residents of all ages will have the opportunity to help shape the future of Kentwood’s parks by sharing their ideas which will be used as a basis for future parks and recreation development.

 

“We are eager to engage the community to help guide the future of our parks and recreation for the next 50 years,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied information.

 

Other upcoming community events include an ice cream social at Northeast Park from 6 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 1, the Celebrate Kentwood gathering on Aug. 11, and the End of Summer Food Truck Festival on Sept. 15.

 

“We welcome all residents and park users to join us at these events to help plan our parks,” Romeo said. “We want to know what improvements the community wants to see. These events offer the perfect platform to share stories and insights as we begin to transform our parks.”

 

For more information, please visit Kentwood.us/parks.

 

Snapshots: Fireworks — fun for everyone

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, , , , , , ,

 

By WKTV Staff

 

The Fourth of July — also known as Independence Day or America’s Birthday — has been a recognized federal holiday since 1941. The day actually marks when the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. (The vote for independence took place on July 2.)

 

This year, most communities will be celebrating the nation’s 242nd birthday on Wednesday, July 4. For today’s Snapshots, we provided a list of Fourth of July activities and wish everyone a safe and happy celebration.

 

Click on the cute little map thumbnails below, and you will be whisked to larger maps which will guide you to where you need to go.

 

Kentwood

Activities begin with a pancake breakfast at the KDL Kentwood (Richard L. Root), 4950 Breton Rd. SE, from 7:30-9:30am and is followed by the NN Mobile Solutions 5K Race & Fun Walk and the parade which starts at Crestwood Middle School, 2674 44th St. SE. The middle school also will be the site for the evening activities that start at 6pm with fireworks at dusk. For more, click here.

 

Grandville

Grandville’s Fourth of July celebration kicks off the day with a flag raising at 8:30am at the Grandville Middle School, 3535 Wilson Ave. SW followed by a parade. In the afternoon at the Middle School, there will be a variety of activities starting at noon with fireworks at dusk. For more, click here.

 

Grand Rapids

The Amway Family Fireworks in Grand Rapids will be July 7, yes, Saturday, July 7. The activities such as games, food, vendor exhibits and music, will kick off at 5pm at Ah-Nab-Awen Park, which is right next to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, 303 Pearl St. NW. Fireworks will be at dusk (estimated time is 10:30pm) For more, click here.

 

Dorr

This community to the south has a five-day celebration that started on June 30 and wraps up on July 4. On Wednesday, there is a community breakfast at the Dorr Christian Reformed Church, 4220 18th St., Dorr, followed by a parade and activities throughout the afternoon. The fireworks will be at dusk (estimated time is 10:20pm) For more click here.

 

Other local communities: 

East Grand Rapids, Ada, Allendale and Cascade will have Fourth of July celebrations as well. These will include parades, activities, and fireworks.

 

Village of Hopkins

Just a little further south, the Village of Hopkins has teamed up with the Gun Lake Casino for its annual Fourth of July celebration. Activities start with a free breakfast. The children’s parade is at 4pm and the main parade at 5pm. The fireworks, which are being billed as the “biggest boom ever,” are scheduled for dusk. For more, click here.

 

Lakeshore

The communities of Grand Haven, Saugatuck-Douglas and Holland all have Fourth of July events taking place. Also, Nelis’ Dutch Village will be celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. A vintage car show is set for Tuesday, July 3.

 

And to the North

Muskegon will be hosting a two-day Fourth of July celebration and the annual Lakeshore Art Festival will be taking place on July 6 and 7. Also, the White Lake area has its Fourth of July parade on Wednesday along with fireworks over the north end of White Lake. Ludington hosts its annual Freedom Festival which includes a parade and fireworks.

 

And one last boom….

At tonight’s Whitecaps games (July 3) there will be fireworks. The game starts at 7:05pm. For more, click here.

 

WKTV Schedule July 4 schedule

9:00am — Senior Exercise: Summer Special

9:30am — Celebrating Life & Food: Celebrating the 4th of July

10:00am — 4th of July Special

10:30am — A Salute To Honor

11:00am — Wings of a Mighty Fortress

12:30pm — Kentwood 4th of July Parade

1:00pm — Lost Boat Ceremony

2:15pm — Lest We Forget

4:30pm — Patriotic Festival of Music

6:00pm — West Shore Symphony: Spirit of America

7:30pm — Kentwood 4th of July Parade

8:00pm — 2017 Metro Cruise

8:30pm — Wings of a Mighty Fortress

10:00pm — Veterans’ Creative Arts Festival

City of Kentwood plans full day of Fourth of July celebrations

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events,

Parades are big thing in Kentwood, so there will be one on July 4th. (WKTV)

By City of Kentwood

 

All are invited to join the City of Kentwood’s annual Fourth of July Celebration for a full day of activities, including a pancake breakfast, a 5K race and a parade, followed by an evening complete with carnival rides, games and fireworks at Crestwood Middle School.

 

“Our Fourth of July celebration offers a variety of activities for the entire family to enjoy,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “We welcome our friends and neighbors to celebrate our nation’s independence with us.”

 

The pancake breakfast will be held at the Kent District Library Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch community room, located at 4950 Breton Road SE, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The $5 breakfast will include pancakes and sausage.

 

Beginning at 7:30 a.m., racers of all ages will gather at Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Road SE, for registration for the NN Mobile Solutions 5K Race & Fun Walk. The race will begin 8:30 a.m., with the start and finish line on Walma Avenue SE near City Hall.

 

Following the race will be the annual parade at 9:30 a.m. The parade route will start at Crestwood Middle School, 2674 44th St. SE, then travel south on Walma Avenue SE to Breton Road SE, turn west on 52nd Street SE and end at Challenger Elementary School.

 

The evening celebration at Crestwood Middle School will begin at 6 p.m. and feature carnival rides, giant inflatables, food vendors and food trucks. Sweet J Band will perform blues, rock and soul music leading up to the fireworks show that will begin at dusk.

 

Kentwood Parks and Recreation is seeking volunteers for the Fourth of July Celebration. Those interested are encouraged to visit kentwood.us/parks or call 616.656.5270 to sign up.

 

More information about Independence Day activities in Kentwood can be found online at kentwood.us/parks.

 

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

3-bottom, , , , ,

WKTK Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Wyoming: Candidate forum set for Thursday, June 20, at WKTV

The Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts its Wyoming candidate forum Wednesday, June 20, at the WKTV station, 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW. For more on the story, click here.

 

Kentwood: Summer concert series continues with May Erlewine on June 21

May Erlewine (Facebook/John Hanson)

The City of Kentwood Summer Concert series continues this week with “Michigan’s Songbird”, May Erlewine, on Thursday, June 21. The concert will begin at 7 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, located at 4900 Breton Road SE. For more on the story, click here.

 

 

 

WKTV Journal

In the latest WKTV Journal newscast, we sit down with Dr. Lillian Cummings-Pulliams to talk about the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Commission and Jeremy Witt from the West Michigan Tourist Association to discuss fun, educational trips residents can take this summer. Also there is Fourth of July information along with upcoming road construction projects.

Snapshots: Fun news you need to know from Wyoming and Kentwood

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Faces, Voices, WKTV Projects, ,

 

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

Wyoming: Delilah Dewylde’s Rockabilly sounds at Lamar Park on June 12

 

Delilah DeWylde (Photo by Tyler Steimle)

Delilah DeWylde and her band the Lost Boy brings a high-octane rockabilly sound to the next Wyoming Concerts on Tuesday, June 12, starting at 7 p.m., at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. The performance is free.

For the complete story, click here.

 

Kentwood: Adams Family will kick off summer concert series June 14  

 

The Adams Family (Facebook)

The Adams Family will be the first of a summertime full of music as the City of Kentwood’s Summer Concert Series offers free concerts and family entertainment on select Thursday nights from June to August. All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, located at 4900 Breton Road SE.

For the complete story, click here.

 

WKTV Voices: You love Marge’s donuts, and you will love her and her sisters stories

The WKTV Voices trailer is at Marge’s Donut Den the second Saturday of each month. In March of this year, Marge and her sister Marilyn sat down to record their oral history. Hear what these marvelously mischievous siblings had to say about the various pranks they pulled during their childhood.

To see the video, click here.

 

City of Kentwood Police Department offers summer safety tips

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Crime Prevention, How-To's, Recreation, ,

The Kentwood Police Department wants you to keep cool this summer, and one was is to avoid crime and confrontations.

 

City of Kentwood

 

With summer soon upon us, the Kentwood Police Department is offering tips to help protect residents and their property. According to Police Chief Tom Hillen, crime incidents and arrests rise during the summer months.

 

Tom Hillen (Supplied)

“As the school year comes to an end and the temperature rises, we typically see an increase in criminal activity as more people spend time outside,” Hillen said. “We want to remind Kentwood residents of some precautionary steps they can take to deter crime and protect their families and properties.”

 

Because theft is a crime of opportunity, Kentwood police recommends residents stay alert and follow basic crime prevention measures. Unlocked doors, open windows and open garage doors all provide a temptation to steal visible valuables. By closing garage doors and windows, locking car doors and concealing valuables, residents can help eliminate opportunities for criminals.

 

The Police Department also experiences a rise in disorderly conduct calls and arrests, which are related to any behavior that creates a threat or disturbance to others, such as a loud argument or altercation. Hillen says the increase in this type of behavior could be related to how heat can affect irritability.

 

“When the temperatures spike, so can people’s tempers. Immense heat can add to people’s feelings of stress and irritability — and make them snap. A solution to this is simple: get cool,” Hillen said. “Residents can visit the mall or see a movie where they can relax in an air-conditioned space.”

 

If families seek to cool down from the summer heat in water, Kentwood police encourages them to keep water safety precautions in mind. Enclose pools, ensure pool gates are locked and do not let young children near any body of water unsupervised.

 

Other disorderly conduct incidents could be about loud noises or other nuisances.

 

While enjoying the warm weather, residents are reminded to be courteous of neighbors, and to be aware of curfew ordinances for children.

 

In the City of Kentwood, anyone under the age of 12 years old must not be in any public place after 10 p.m.; for children older than 12 and younger than 16, the curfew is 11 p.m.; and for minors ages 16 or 17, the curfew is midnight.

 

“As always, ‘If you see something, say something.’ Together we can help prevent crime, so all can have a safe and enjoyable summer,” Hillen said.

 

For more information about Kentwood Police Department, visit here.

 

City of Kentwood’s newest fire engine ready to come into service

3-bottom, City of Kentwood,

The City of Kentwood ordered the 2018 Spartan Metro Star pumper last year to replace a 2002 pumper nearing retirement. (Supplied)

City of Kentwood

 

The Kentwood Fire Department recently acquired a new fire engine that will allow firefighters to provide leading-edge fire suppression and emergency medical services.

 

The City of Kentwood ordered the 2018 Spartan Metro Star pumper last year to replace a 2002 pumper nearing retirement. Built by Charlotte-based Spartan Motors, Inc., the new fire engine will be housed in Fire Station 1, on Walma Avenue, and is slated to be in service soon.

 

“As part of our regularly scheduled replacements of emergency vehicles, this new engine is a further investment in the safety of Kentwood residents,” said Kentwood Fire Chief Brent Looman. “It will serve as the new main engine at this station.”

 

The apparatus is equipped with a 450-horsepower clean-diesel engine and a 500-gallon water tank with a foam system. The foam system is used in firefighting to deliver environmentally safe fire-retardant foam to extinguish fires or protect unburned areas.

 

Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with more than 2,000 feet of fire hose, a 1,500 gallon-per-minute pump and life-saving medical equipment. The new engine cost $491,000 and is expected to be in operation for 10 years or longer.

 

The Kentwood Fire Department was involved in every step of acquiring the new vehicle, from writing the specs to final delivery. The meticulous process began in earnest with the design. The Fire Department ensured the truck was built using the same parts as other vehicles in the fleet, which is critical for firefighter safety and streamlined maintenance.

 

After the cab was built, it was transported to Spartan’s sister facility in South Dakota, where the body of the vehicle was built. Looman himself inspected everything from the lug nuts to the lights.

 

“The inspection is a crucial step in the process that ensures the truck is built to our specifications,” Looman said. “Spartan Motors built a solid vehicle that will allow us to continue to serve our community for years to come.”

 

More information about Kentwood Fire Department is available online, visit here.

 

Memorial Day ceremonies planned for both Kentwood, Wyoming

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , , ,

The Memorial Day parade in Kentwood.

 

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Many communities will be honoring those who have given their lives to serve this Memorial Day, set for May 28, including the communities of Wyoming and Kentwood.

 

City of Wyoming

 

Veterans lay a wreath during Wyoming’s 2017 Memorial Day ceremony.

The City of Wyoming will host its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 28, at Veterans Memorial Garden, 2380 DeHoop SW. The community is welcome and encouraged to attend.

 

The ceremony will feature guest speaker retired Sergeant Brian Gravelyn who served in the Marine Corps Reserves. During his service he was activated twice and deployed once to Iraq. He is the recipient of several distinguished medals and ribbons.

 

“The City of Wyoming is honored to recognize those who have served and those who continue to serve our country in the armed forces in order to protect our freedoms,” said City of Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll. “The Memorial Day Ceremony is a tribute to that service and protection and we are grateful to continue the tradition of this ceremony in our very own Veterans Memorial Garden.”

 

The ceremony will feature the Lee High School band led by Kevin Gabrielse and the Wyoming Department of Public Safety Honor Guard who will fire a rifle volley salute. Poll will host. The program will air on WKTV Channel 25 at 8:30 p.m.

 

City of Kentwood

 

Wreaths are laid during the Kentwood Memorial Day ceremony.

In Kentwood, the Amvets Post and the American Legion D.W. Cassard Post 208 have shared the responsibilities of hosting the annual parade and service with one group hosting it one year dn the other hosting it the nest. For 2018, the Cassard Post 208 have organized the event.

 

According to the D.W. Cassard Post’s website, the parade is set for 9 a.m. Monday, May 28. It kicks off from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), near the corner of 48th Street and Eastern Avenue. From there, it will head west down 48th Street to Kentwood’s Veteran’s Memorial Park located in front of the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. At the park, there will be a ceremony including the laying of five wreaths, one for each of the branches of the military service: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The service will last about an hour. The Kentwood Memorial Day celebration will air at 12:30 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. on WKTV Channel 25.

 

WKTV Programming

 

Throughout Memorial Day, WKTV Channel 25 will be featuring a variety of Memorial Day program. The rest of the day’s schedule includes 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., A Saltue to Honor; 10 a.m., Memorial Day Tribute; 10:15 a.m. and 9 pm. ,The Lost Boat Ceremony; 1 p.m., Lest We Forget; and 6:30 p.m., Vietnam Moving Wall.

City of Kentwood details list of summer road improvement projects

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local

For the original map of street resurfacing and repairs, visit www.kentwood.us. (Supplied)

The City of Kentwood

 

Following City Commission approval, Kentwood has released its tentative road construction and maintenance schedule for the summer.

 

The City Commission approved the resurfacing and maintenance program, which includes improvements to 22 miles of major and local roads, at a cost not-to-exceed $892,000. The projects are funded through the Michigan Transportation Fund, which is supported by taxes on the sale of gasoline and diesel fuel as well as the fees collected by the Secretary of State for vehicle registrations.

 

Kentwood maintains the highest-rated major street network in Kent County according to data compiled by the Grand Valley Metro Council in its 2017 Regional Pavement Condition Survey Report.

 

“We believe quality infrastructure is critical to a safe and vibrant community,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “As we kick off several street-resurfacing projects this summer, we will work as quickly as possible to minimize impact on commuters. We appreciate the patience of residents and businesses as we work to maintain and improve our streets in Kentwood.”

 

Major streets scheduled for resurfacing and rehabilitation include:

Kalamazoo Avenue  44th Street to 52nd Street

Kalamazoo Avenue  52nd Street to 60th Street

44th Street  Bowen Boulevard to Enterprise Street

36th Street  Broadmoor Avenue (M-37) to East Paris Avenue

East Paris Avenue/Swank Drive  Broadmoor Avenue (M-37) to 36th Street

Radcliff Drive  28th Street to 29th Street

 

Additionally, Burton Street from East Paris Avenue to Patterson Avenue and 40th Street from East Paris Avenue to Soundtech Court are also slated for projects.

 

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, work on Kalamazoo Avenue will begin in July.

 

From 52nd Street to 60th Street, the road will receive a joint repair treatment. From 44th Street to 52nd Street, it will receive a chip seal treatment. Both types of work will protect the road from water and sun damage. From 52nd Street to 60th Street, the road will be closed for two days in August, during which commuters will need to take alternate routes.

 

A chip seal treatment on 44th Street between Kalamazoo Avenue and Breton Avenue will take place in July. The project will take up to three non-consecutive days to complete and will include lane closures. Traffic delays near 44th Street should be anticipated; commuters are encouraged to find alternate routes.

 

A number of neighborhood roads will receive cape seal treatments this summer, which is a multiple component treatment designed to create a smooth surface with increased durability. Cape seal projects will take two non-consecutive days on each segment of road, and no street parking will be available when the work occurs.

 

Other preventative street maintenance work, including routine street marking, crack sealing and patching is scheduled to take place during the summer months as crews have capacity. The City aims to have its resurfacing and routine maintenance completed by the end of August.

 

The reconstruction currently underway on Wing Avenue from 52nd Street to 60th Street and the rehabilitation of Breton Avenue from 32nd Street to 44th Street are on track for completion in August.

 

The City plans to display message boards on major streets to give residents advance notice of when closures will begin. Residents can also receive updates via the Citys social media channels (Facebook, Twitter) and website (www.kentwood.us).

 

For more information, including a map of street resurfacing and repairs, visit www.kentwood.us.

 

It’s good ‘vibe’-rations as Kentwood hosts third annual parks and rec gala

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, , , , , ,

Katelyn Bush

Community members and friends are invited to attend The Vibe, a Parks and Recreation gala benefiting Kentwood’s Adaptive Sports programs, which provide recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

 

Now in its third year, The Vibe will highlight the City’s adaptive water ski program – a one-of- kind program in Michigan that offers lessons and clinics for youth and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. All proceeds raised will be used to purchase a new ski boat to benefit the program.

 

Pam Buschle

The celebration will take place on Friday, May 18 from 6-10 p.m. at Stonewater Country Club, located at 7177 Kalamazoo Avenue SE in Caledonia. Featured speakers will include Katelyn Bush, Susie Kluting and Pam Buschle, who will share how Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs have impacted their lives.

 

“The Vibe Gala is the perfect opportunity to connect with friends and colleagues in an upbeat environment while supporting recreation access to all in West Michigan” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Our keynote speakers are three incredible women who have impactful stories to tell that underscore the importance of inclusive recreational opportunities. We welcome the community to join us for this remarkable event and to support our adaptive sports program.”

 

Bush is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist who has worked with Kentwood Parks and Recreation for the past three years. During a routine ultrasound in 2017, Bush and her husband discovered their daughter had a birth defect called myelomeningocele, the most severe form of spina bifida. While she has worked with children who have this diagnosis previously, Bush now navigates the maze of parenthood with a child who has a disability.

 

Susie Kluting

Kluting has played sled hockey for the Grand Rapids Sled Wings for more than 10 years, with sights on the U.S. Paralympic Team. Born with spina bifida, Kluting was introduced to sled hockey through Mary Free Bed’s Adaptive Sports program. She now uses her experience and expertise on to support, educate and empower children with disabilities and their families.

 

Buschle, a social worker at Kentwood Elementary Schools, developed a severe form of sepsis in 2013, forcing her medical team to amputate all four of her limbs to increase her chances of survival. Buschle uses prosthetics to live her life with joy, hope and purpose.

 

The evening will include dinner, dancing and a silent auction. The auction will feature items such as four passes to Action Wake Park, aVIP tour and tasting for six adults at Chateau Chantel, a one night stay and restaurant credit at Little River Casino, two adult round trip ferry tickets for Beaver Island Boat Company, and more. The auction will also feature sports memorabilia, golf packages, jewelry, and museum passes among other things.

 

Tickets for the semi-formal event are $100 per person and can be purchased online a kentwoodvibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270.

GR Bar Association honors Kentwood’s Judge Kelly

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , ,

Judge William Kelly

In recognition of his service to the legal profession and community, Judge William G. Kelly of Kentwood’s 62-B District Court has been selected by the Grand Rapids Bar Association as the recipient of the 2018 Donald R. Worsfold Award.

 

Kelly was honored with the award during Grand Rapids Bar Association’s Annual Law Day Celebration and Awards Luncheon on May 1 at the University Club in downtown Grand Rapids.

 

The Donald R. Worsfold Award is presented when the association wishes to acknowledge and honor the contributions of a member whose service stands out for its extraordinary impact on the life of the community. In addition to Kelly, the Hon. Paul Sullivan and Hon. Janet Neff will also receive this award.

 

““I’’m humbled to be receiving this recognition,”” Kelly said. ““Service to my community, the legal profession and the Bar has always been of the upmost importance to me throughout my legal career and nearly 40 years on the bench.””

 

Kelly has served the Kentwood community as the City’’s first and only district court judge since 1979. He was elected in November of 1978, following his father, Joseph Kelly, who served as Kentwood’’s municipal judge from 1971-1979. In 2014, he was re-elected for a term that expires in 2020.

 

Active professionally, Kelly serves on the Foreign Language Board of Review and is a member of the Legislative Committee of the Michigan District Judges Association. Previously, Kelly has served as president of the Michigan District Judges Association; chair of the Judicial Conference of the State Bar of Michigan; chair of the National Conference of the Special Court Judges of the American Bar Association; chair of the Judicial Division Committee on Traffic Court Program of the ABA; member of the board of trustees of the Grand Rapids Bar Association; and member of the board of directors of the National Center for State Courts from 1994 to 2000.

 

Kelly has received numerous awards throughout his career, including: Marian Hilligan Public Service Award from WMU-Cooley Law School; William R. McMahon Award from the ABA for the most significant implementation of technological advances in a court of limited or special jurisdiction; Judicial Excellence Award from the Michigan District Judges Association; Peacemaker Award from the Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan and St. Thomas More Award from the Catholic Lawyers Association of West Michigan.

5 Local Things You Need to Know: Headlines for the Week

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Wyoming/Kentwood: Transformando West Michigan

Shawn Kohlhaas, owner of Culinary Cultivations, talks to participants in the Transformando West Michigan program.

 

The West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce launched its newest intiative Transformando West Michigan, “Feeding Minds, Mouths, and Pockets.” The goal of this program is to provide Hispanic business owners currently working or with the desire to work in the food industry with the necessary financial tools and food safety knowledge to become successful. 

 

The inaugural class kicked off at Gordon Food Service. The class is six sessions over three months with those who complete the program receiving food safety certification required by the health department of any restaurant operator.

 

For more on the story, click here. 

 

Kentwood: The Vibe gala is coming up

Garrett Bazany in Kentwood’s adapted water ski clinic.

 

Got your tickets to the Kentwood Parks and Recreation’s The Vibe yet? The event is set for Friday, May 18. The third annual fundraiser benefits the Kentwood’s Adaptive Sports programs, which provide recreation opportunities for individual with disabilities.

 

Tickets for the semi-formal event are $100 per person and can be purchased online at kentwoodvibe.com or by call 616-656-5270.

 

For more on this story, click here.

 

Wyoming: Buck Matthews makes last appearance

Buck Matthews

Once known as the voice of West Michigan, Buck Matthews is on his farewell tour offering one last piece of advice: write down and share your stories.

 

Matthews will be at First & Main of Metro Health Village, 6812 Village Dr. SW, Wednesday, May 9, to talk about his latest book, “The Book in Each of Us.” The program is at 2 p.m. In the book, Matthews discuss the experience of writing and encourages others to do the same to share their stories.

 

For on this story, click here.

 

Wyoming: Concerts in the Park schedule announced

The Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission has released its 2018 Concerts in the Park line-up. The series runs from June 5 to Aug. 7. All concert are at 7 p.m. at Lamar Park.

 

To see the schedule, click here.

 

West Michigan: Local African-American music scene

A student-produced film on the history of black musicians in Grand Rapids will be shown Thursday, May 10 at Celebration Cinema North, as well as on Xfinity On Demand cable TV beginning the same day.

 

A student-produced film,  “Rhythm and Race: A History of African American Music in Grand Rapids,” on the history of black musicians in Grand Rapids will be shown Thursday, May 10, at Celebration Cinema North, as well as on Xfinity On Demand cable TV beginning the same day. The screening is at 6:30 p.m. followed by a panel discussion.

 

For more on the story, click here.

City of Kentwood to host family friendly celebration of National Public Works Week, May 16

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Recreation, Upcoming Events, ,

By City of Kentwood

 

All are invited to explore how local public works agencies make a difference in their communities during the third annual Family Open House, which will include complimentary food, family-friendly activities and giveaways, on Wednesday, May 16.

 

The Kentwood Department of Public Works is hosting the event in partnership with the Kent County Road Commission and the American Public Works Association in anticipation of National Public Works Week, which is slated for May 20-26.

 

From 4-7 p.m., families will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Kentwood Public Works Facility, located at 5068 Breton Road SE, to interact with the employees and equipment that keep the community safe, clean and functioning smoothly.

 

Prior to the open house, Kentwood Mayor Steven Kepley provided a proclamation for National Public Works Week during the regular City Commission meeting on Tuesday, May 1.

 

“Services provided by public works departments touch many aspects of residents’ day-to-day lives,” said John Gorney, Kentwood director of public works. “In West Michigan, we maintain thousands of miles of pipes underground and streets above ground. We are responsible for keeping parks maintained, and we service municipal vehicles such as police cruisers and fire trucks.

 

“The open house will be a great, family-friendly way to learn more about what we do — and provide an up-close look at the equipment we use.”

 

The open house will feature giveaways, hands-on activities for kids and a fleet of vehicles to explore. Live maintenance and repair demonstrations will allow residents to learn about road improvements as well as the safe disposal of household waste.

 

Complimentary food and refreshments will be provided.

 

“This event provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase our ongoing efforts dedicated to improving our public infrastructure,” said Steve Warren, managing director of Kent County Road Commission. “Crew members are eager to address questions and explain different aspects of our work.”

 

Additionally, winners of the Work Zone Safety Poster competition will be honored at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by Kent County Road Commission and the City of Kentwood, the poster contest invited third-grade students from across the county to design a “caution sign” focusing on safety tips for driving through a work zone. A gallery of more than 100 entries will be displayed.

 

“We look forward to this event every year as it’s a great opportunity to meet and engage with residents of all ages about the work we do in a fun, relaxed environment,” Gorney said.

 

For more information see the calendar at kentwood.us/calendar .

 

City of Kentwood to open brush drop-off site as part of community clean-up

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Recycling,

The City of Kentwood will pilot a yard debris drop-off site this spring.

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

The City of Kentwood will launch a new brush drop-off site to residents this May, coinciding with its annual community clean-up effort. The brush drop-off project is a pilot project.

 

Residents of the city will be able to dispose of sticks, branches and logs at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE, from May 7 to June 2.

 

Residents can stop by between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays. The site will be closed on Sundays.

 

“Residents expressed a desire to have this service available, and we hope it will make spring cleaning and yard care easier,” John Gorney, director of public works, said in supplied material. “A drop-off site has worked well in other communities and we are excited for its launch in Kentwood.”

 

The site will not accept grass clippings, leaves, trash, dirt, concrete, asphalt, tires, rocks, stones, construction materials, glass or metal.

 

The service is available to Kentwood residents only, and anyone wishing to drop off items must show proof of residency.

 

For more information on the brush drop-off program visit kentwood.us .

 

For more information on the community clean-up, visit kentwood.us .

 

 

Kentwood hosts Easter Egg Hunt March 31

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,

The Kentwood Easter egg hunt is March 31.

The Easter Bunny is expected to arrive a day early this year, hiding colorful eggs on the lawn around Kentwood City Hall.

 

The City’s annual hunt will take place rain or shine on March 31 at 10 a.m. at the Kentwood City Hall lawn. Children and families are invited to attend this free event, which will offer candy and prizes to all.

 

“Easter egg hunts are a time-honored tradition with many families,” said Laura Barbrick of Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department. “At the City of Kentwood, we love to be a part of these traditions. We are crossing our fingers for great spring weather at this year’s hunt.”

 

Thousands of eggs will be hidden in the grass around Kentwood City Hall. Kids are invited to collect the eggs, which can be redeemed for candy. A few special eggs will contain a certificate that is redeemed for special prizes.

 

There will also be a special appearance by the Easter Bunny, who will be available to take photos with families. Those attending are asked to bring their own bags to collect their eggs.

 

The event is free and open to the public. Information is available www.kentwood.us.

Ashley HomeStore takes over former MC Sports location in Kentwood

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, ,

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The City of Kentwood recently celebrated the area’s first Ashley HomeStore.

 

The new store, which is located on the former MC Sports location on 28th Street across from Woodland Mall, opened last week with a ribbon cutting on March 8 with the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce followed by a grand opening celebration on March 10.

 

The Wisconsin-based company is an American furniture store chain that sells Ashley Furniture products. Opened in 1997, the chain comprises of more than 450 HomeStore locations in North America and 520 locations worldwide. There are currently seven Ashley HomeStores in Michigan including the one in Kentwood. The other locations are in Lansing, Bad Axe, Escanaba, Westland, Saginaw, and Marquette.

Kentwood approves tax abatement for new industrial robotics facility

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Hard News, Local Business, Tech Trends,

Axis Company LLC has a current facility in Walker, but will be starting a facility in Kentwood. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

The City of Kentwood, after city commission action at its Feb. 6 meeting, approved an Industrial Development District and a tax abatement request that will bring an expanding industrial robotics company to the city.

 

Axis Company LLC, which has a current facility in Walker, intends to built a new 67,000 square foot facility at 4195 44th Street SE, with a total cost of the new facility of about $4 million and with the intent to hire 50 new local jobs, according to the city.

 

Axis Company is a robotic automation systems programmer, according to information supplied by the city. The company uses advanced technologies to conceptualize, design, integrate, deploy, and service custom factory automation systems.

 

“We look forward to working with Axis Company in the coming months as it expands into Kentwood,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said to WKTV. “We’re excited that another advanced manufacturing company is moving into our community. The skilled workforce and our diverse community make Kentwood a great place for any business to call home. Axis Company’s decision is another testament to Kentwood being open for business.”

 

The action by the city commission followed a public hearing on the proposed city actions. Other than city staff, Boyd Vor Broker, CEO of Axis Company, was the only person to speak at the public hearing.

 

An Industrial Development District allows local governments to allow exemption of certain taxes as an incentive to industries to build new facilities in the city. The $4 million project will have about $3,750,00 eligible for property tax abatement.

 

According to the city, the city will forgo approximately $9,005 in the first year of the abatement as a result of the project.

 

Complete information on the Axis Company action, and all actions planned and taken by the Kentwood Commission, can be read as part of the city Commission’s informational package for the Feb. 6, 2018 meeting. The Commission’s agendas, meeting information packages and meeting minutes are available on the city’s website .

 

Snowy fun at Kentwood’s Valentine’s Dash

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, ,

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

With more than 80 people attending, the  City of Kentwood hosted its first Valentine’s Dash Saturday, Feb. 10.

 

The number was more than expected, said Kentwood Recreation Program Coordinator Spencer McKellar, who helped organized the event. Staff decided to host the Valentine’s Dash after the city’s November Ugly Sweater 5K was flooded out due to rain. Looking around, staff learned that not many races were held in February so they decided to host the Valentine’s Dash and were pleasantly surprised at the turnout.

 

In fact, the turnout is enough to encourage the city to host another one next year, McKellar told participants after the race during the awards ceremony. “So all of you just need to make sure to sign up again next year,” he said.

 

This year’s overall race winners were Josue Vasquez and Val Thomasma. Age group winners were:

 

18 and Under

Male- Connor Elliott

Female- Maggie Boorsma

 

19 to 44

Male- Derek Thomasma

Female- Katie Bozek

 

45 and Over

Male- David Uitdeflesch

Female- Kristi Diekevers

 

There also were door prizes donated by several local business including DoubleTree by Hilton, Siegel Jewelers, On the Border, Sky Zone and Biggby.

 

Staff said they have plans to add on to next year’s race with heart-shaped mile markers and possibly food trucks.

Winners were Derek Thomasma, Val Thomasma, Maggie Boorsma, Katie Bozek, Kristi Diekevers, Josue Vasquez, David Uitdeflesch, and Connor Elliott

 

 

Kentwood resident helps bring the story of the Civil Rights Act to life in Civic Theatre production

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, , , , , ,

The cast in Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s “All the Way”

 

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

If you ask the average person what Lyndon B. Johnson accomplished during his presidency, few would be able to give you an answer. Ask those same people, about the Civil Rights Act and many would state it was a big accomplishment for the 35th President John F. Kennedy.

 

Truth is, it was a very big accomplishment for Johnson.

 

“I was born after the passage,” said Kentwood resident Marissa Baty. “My experience was through history. You heard about JFK and his death and then the vice president [Johnson] became president.

 

Kentwood resident Marissa Baty portrays Coretta Scott King in Civic Theatre’s production of “All the Way.”

Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. Johnson was sworn in as president and spent the next eight months working toward making the Civil Rights Act into law. The current Grand Rapids Civic Theatre production, “All The Way,” explores the trials and tribulations Johnson, commonly referred to as LBJ, experienced as he hurls himself into getting the act passed along with seeking re-election and the recognition he so desperately wants.

 

“LBJ really made a sacrifice,” said Baty who portrays Martin Luther King Jr.’s wife Coretta Scott King in the production. “The production explores what it took him emotionally and personally to get the Civil Rights Act passed.”

 

It wasn’t just Johnson who made compromises, but Martin Luther King Jr. who was forced to contend with conservative and militant leaders as Johnson used every trick in the book — cajolery, arm-twisting, and even blackmail — to get his way. The play, written by Robert Schenkkan, raises questions about the morality of power and politics and how far one can go for good intentions.

 

Baty, who has appeared in other Civic Theatre productions such as “Good People” and “Ragtime,” said she became more familiar with the story of Johnson’s work after seeing the television film “All the Way” — the title taken from Johnson’s 1964 re-election bid — starring Bryan Cranston, who reprised his Broadway role as Johnson and Anthony Mackie as King.

 

“I think now with everything that is going on, it is really important to understand how the political process works,” Baty said, adding that people need to understand how laws are created and the importance of putting people in office who are able and component to create those laws.

 

“LBJ and Martin Luther King were not perfect people,” she said. “They came together perfectly for America.”

 

The story of them coming together for a common good is one worth telling, Baty said, adding that she is thrilled to be part of telling that story and that Civic Theatre was willing to present it.

 

“All the Way” runs through Jan. 28 at the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, 30 N. Division Ave. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays; and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $16-$28. For more information, visit www.grct.org.

School News Network: Getting Real with Straight Talk

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , ,

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

To truly address diversity and culture, sometimes you have to get down to the nitty-gritty. That was shown by East Kentwood students who recently discussed issues including gender roles, bridging a disconnect between general education and English-language learner students, and building mutual respect among students and teachers.

 

Sophomore Jamirea Lacy shares thoughts on connecting with ELL students

As part of a recent Student Council-designed Culture Week, students gathered on two days for Straight Talk during lunch periods.

 

“It’s about celebrating the vast array of cultures that we have in school because we are the No. 1 diverse school in the state of Michigan,” said senior Edgar Gatsinski, head of the council’s Diversity Committee. “We have a lot of different cultures and (57) countries represented at the school and we, as student council, wanted to celebrate that.”

 

Among activities that included games to identify countries and flags, and wearing traditional clothes from students’ native lands, Straight Talk was Culture Week’s way of exploring diversity deeper than through symbols and dress.

 

“I’ve been asking that key question: How can we acknowledge diversity more at East Kentwood?” Edgar said. “We talk about it, but aren’t really doing it.”

 

Junior Medina Vila waits to share her opinion

He noted the need for better connection among different student groups. “It’s important to me, given the current cultural climate in the world. I feel like this is so necessary. We need to come together in order for progress to be made. By doing this, that is the main goal.”

 

Overcoming Barriers Starts with Conversation

 

Students explored the need to better embrace and involve newcomers and to break down stereotypes. They also talked about student-teacher relationships, gender roles and of the risks of trying to fit in at the expense of not being authentic.

 

“I feel like once some of us step out of our comfort zone, like maybe we see an ELL student in class and we go and talk to them, then maybe other people will approach them,” said sophomore Jamirea Lacy.

 

Senior Edgar Gatsinski facilitates Straight Talk

“We have to overcome those language barriers that we have,” Edgar said. “There are other ways to connect with them, like sharing common interests.”

 

Students also talked about what makes it hard to reach out to others: awkwardness, fear of rejection and fear of what other people think. It’s difficult to step out of one’s circle of friends, they said, but there are ways to do it. “If you do talk to someone who is from a different culture, food is a great topic,” said junior Medina Vila.

 

Students said they have different standards concerning gender roles based on how they grew up. For some, they don’t really exist in their families, for others, gender roles are tied to tradition and heritage.

 

“I don’t think ‘being a man’ has an exact definition,” said Junior Ana Tran. “A woman can be anything. A man can be anything too.”

“My mom always instilled in me that it’s OK that she worked and my dad chose to be the one who stayed at home, but I feel like it’s a stigma that it can’t be that way,” Jamirea said.

 

Edgar said he thinks gender roles “are going to subside and be put aside because we are so progressive, noting that he still hears the “be a man” message from the older generation.

 

Students also discussed how teachers can better understand students and their cultures, especially within a heated U.S. political environment.

 

“Regardless of whatever political affiliation they have, I feel like they should still be a little more sensitive and a little more keen to what’s happening around them,” Edgar said. “There is a lot of divisiveness currently in the United States, and it would be nice if the teachers paid attention to that and saw where their students are coming from.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

A diverse group of students have straight-forward conversation

Kentwood community celebrates MLK day with food drive, special program

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , ,

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Celebrating the words and actions of Martin Luther King Jr, Kentwood residents and city leaders recently came together to mark the day with a special program at the KDL Kentwood branch.

 

Activities included a proclamation from Mayor Stephen Kepley who was assisted by honor students from East Kentwood High School with the reading. The guest speaker was Kyle Ray, pastor of Kentwood Community Church, with music by Craig Tyson.

 

“I always want the City of Kentwood, being so diverse, to use this day to remember the things that Martin Luther King Jr. taught us,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley after yesterday’s program. Kepley said it is not just about King’s words but also his service. “This is a day of service. We wanted to actually but our words into action because, I think, words without works is dead. So we wanted to have the works –the service — and we have used this day and other previous Martin Luther King Jr. days to provide food for those in need. We wanted not only to sponsor our little free food pantry but also the food pantries of West Michigan.”

 

Last year, the city officially launched its little free food pantry, where you take an item or items when needed and leave an item or items when you can. As part of this year’s activities, the city hosted a food drive for the little free pantry at Celebration! Cinema South and the Family Fare located on Kalamazoo Avenue. According to city staff, the little free pantry has been very well received.

 

“I have heard stories of people who were in need a year ago and things got better, and now, instead of taking food that they need, actually are supporting the food pantry,” Kepley said. “They have done a 360. There was a need for them and now things are better off. They got a better job, some income coming in, and are bringing food to the little food pantry.”

 

Because the Kentwood Activities Center is being remodeled, the little free food pantry has currently been moved to the KDL Kentwood Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Staff has noted that the temporary location has been as busy as the Kentwood Activities Center one.

 

“It has been so successful we are actually looking to have a second location here at the library,” Kepley said, adding that the city then would have two little food pantries, one at the Kentwood Activities Center and one at the KDL Kentwood branch.

 

Food donations are accepted year around for the pantry. Donations are accepted at the Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, during normal business hours, currently at the KDL Kentwood Branch, and once the Kentwood Activities Center reopens in March, donations will be accepted there as well.