League golfers Sheri Toth, Stacy Potter and Amy Stiles enjoy an evening out at Maple Hill Golf.
Located at 5555 Ivanrest Ave. SW in Grandville, Maple Hill Golf has a variety of options for golfers of all experience levels. An 18-hole course, driving range, simulators, fitting center, and golf repair are all amenities to be found at this local venue.
By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org
Spring has arrived as Kaufman Golf Course of Palmer Park has opened its course and driving range today, March 30.
Rated 4 stars by “Golf Digest,” the Kaufman Golf Course features rolling fairways, perfect greens and picturesque scenery. Kaufman is the home course for the highly regarded Kent County Amateur Golf Tournament.
There are daily rates and season passes. For more information, call the new Kaufman Golf Course number, 616-632-7855, or click here.
Kaufman is long for grounds crew and staff for its clubhouse. Positions start at $15 per hour with an additional $1 per hour on weekends. For an application, click here. For additional information, visit kaufman.golfcourse@kentcountymi.gov.
By Cris Greer, WKTV Managing Editor
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.
“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.
“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.”
By Zach Fanko, WKTV Contributing Writer
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.
By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer
It’s that time of year when everything is happening.
In fact, it might be too much.
I’ll be at the West Michigan Whitecaps game on Friday as part of LMCU Night and the Whitecaps’ Copa de la Diversion series when they compete as Las Calaveras (ticket info at milb.com/west-michigan).
But on the same night I have two other events I would love to attend, and both of them are in my Top 5 list of things to do, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Here we go!
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. Kent County Amateur Golf Championship
Who loves to golf? And to compete? The beautiful Kaufman Golf Course in Wyoming will host a few tournaments this summer, including the Kent County Amateur Golf Championships July 16-17 (a few spots may still be open) and a 3-man scramble next weekend (July 23). You can register at 616golf.com. Registration is also available for the Kent County Senior Amateur (55+) at Kaufman on July 30-31. More info on West Michigan Golf Association events at golfregistrationnetwork.com.
4. Mid-Life Crisis Band, Brews at the Bridge
It’s hard to believe, but it seems like yesterday that this popular cover band was jamming at private parties, charity events and even headlining their own shows. They all had day jobs as professionals, but they loved to hang out and jam on the weekends. The Mid-Life Crisis band officially calls it quits after 20 years with one last show, which is at Brews at the Bridge from 6-9 p.m. Friday (July 15) at Leonard Field, 7490 Thornapple River Dr. SE, in Ada. They invite all those who have been a part of their lives to come out for one last show. I know I have enjoyed writing stories and becoming friends with them over the years. “In the end, it’s all about the music and friendship, and it all kind of makes sense,” said Steve Bloom, who will join the group on percussion. Indeed, it is. Have a great retirement. More details on the Facebook Event Page. Leonard Field is next to the Ada Covered Bridge.
3. Music Night
It’s a big music weekend in Grand Rapids.
Local favorite Lyle Lovett and his Large Band perform on Friday (July 15) at Meijer Gardens as part of the summer concert season. Tickets are sold out, but some tickets remain for a few shows this summer such as Rick Springfield with the Grand Rapids Symphony (July 20) and Buddy Guy + John Hiatt & The Goners (July 21). More info at meijergardens.org.
And, speaking of a local favorite, The Verve Pipe returns for a show Friday (July 15) at the Listening Lawn at Studio Park Piazza in downtown Grand Rapids. More info at listeningroomgr.com.
2. Comedy Night
And it’s a big weekend for comedy, too!
Stand up comedian Kevin Hart is on his Reality Check Tour, which makes a stop Saturday (July 16) at Van Andel Arena. Go to vanandelarena.com for ticket availability.
And the voice of Pure Michigan, Tim Allen, performs two shows at 5 and 8 p.m. Saturday (July 16) at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids. These shows were originally scheduled for 2020. Go to devosperformancehall.com for ticket availability.
1. The Music Man at Circle Theatre
The six-time, Tony Award-winning musical returns for a three-week run thanks to Circle Theatre. This family-friendly comedy is a classic! Who doesn’t love watching the drama, and comedy, unfold as fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill cons the folks of River City, Iowa into organizing a local band. Just as everything is going according to plan, life happens, and Hill falls for Marian, the local librarian. It’s a great show. Performances are July 14-16, 20-24 and 27-30 at the Performing Arts Center at Aquinas College. My lovely wife Pam and I hope to see the show because our nieces, Christina and Josie Gonzalez, are in this current production. Yes, we’re so proud of them! See you at the show. Ticket info at circletheatre.org/production/the-music-man/.
A couple more events taking place this weekend:
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
The Mr. Sid’s Wednesday Afternoon Video Series resumes this week at Marge’s Donut Den with a special program featuring the chaplain of the Ladies Professional Golf Association Cris Stevens.
Stevens will discuss her role in the LPGA and how she counsels, supports, and ministers to the world’s best professional golfers. She will present her program on Wednesday, June 16, at 2 p.m. at Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW. Stevens is in town this week for the Meijer LPGA Classic, which starts on Thursday and runs until Sunday at the Blythfield Country club.
“Not sure if Sid ever swung a golf club, but likely he would be interested in what the chaplain of the LPGA would have to say,” said Tom Sibley, one of the organizers of the Mr. Sid’s Wednesday After Video Series. The series is named after longtime Wyoming resident and World War II veteran Sid Lenger. Lenger hosted video and other programs every Wednesday at Marge’s Donut Den until he passed away 2019.
Lavoone Ritzema, Lenger’s daughter, met Stevens when she worked with the LPGA and said Stevens is looking forward to meeting the group as she has a special interest in veterans.
The program is open and free to the public.
By Anna Johns
WKTV Intern
At first, the members of the South Christian varsity golf team were not sure if they would have a season. They did and this season has been one for the record books. The team has consistently placed first and second in competitions with a team currently ranked 7th in its class.
Top players have been junior Elle Bolkema and freshmen Ashley Thomasma.
“Both bring a competitive side,” coach Ben Cook said to WKTV. “They push each other and the entire team. They also play a lot of tournament golf in the summer which prepares them well for the season.”
Cook has been coaching golf at South Christian for six seasons. This year there have been many changes, mostly a result of COVID, which almost cancelled the season. Cook said through it all, he tried to keep things fun.
Recently the team placed first in regionals with 336 points and advanced to the State Championships. For the past six seasons they have made it to state and last year they placed 15th.
On Saturday, Oct. 17, the girls attended the Division 3 State Championships hosted at Michigan State University. The team placed third with 330 points and Thomasma was fourth overall on the leaderboard with 75 points.
“I’m very happy with how we played,” Cook said. “It’s our best team score ever.”
Cook noted the team’s goal was to place at least fifth at the championships and they are pleased with their outcome, with him adding “We had great timing and three kids had their personal best.”
Though the season is now over the team says they are not disappointed with their outcome. They look forward to 2021 season and hope to come back stronger than ever before.
By WKTV Volunteer
Registration is now available for the 5th-annual Multi Chamber Golf Outing, set for June 16 and co-sponsored by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. Adjustments will be made this year to keep participants safe while still creating a fun and competitive day-long golfing experience.
The event will take place at Sunnybrook Country Club in Grandville. In-person morning registration begins at 7 a.m., with an 8 a.m. tee-time, while afternoon registration begins at 11:30 a.m., with a 1 p.m. tee-time. Individually packaged lunches will be served at 11:30 a.m.
Proceeds from the event provide about one-third of the funding for scholarships for graduating seniors from five high schools in the Wyoming-Kentwood area.
“We know how expensive college and trade schools can be,” said Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. “We hope to defer some of that cost for the students. It’s a small way to give back to the community.”
Attendees are asked to bring their own masks, with gloves and hand sanitizer provided as needed. For further details, registration, and sponsorship opportunities visit here.
By Alan Headbloom, Feel Like You Belong
How do we change the notion that certain sports are just for white athletes or male participants? By mentoring females and youth of color in those sports. PGA professional Andre Pillow talks about his work with The First Tee of West Michigan and creating access to golf for all young people.
When 2017 rolls in in a few months, The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe will have new owners but beyond that customers will see little else change at the popular public golf course located at 7211 48th St. SE.
Earlier this week, Watermark Properties announced it has formed a new legal entity to operate Thornapple Pointe and will take over on Jan. 1.
“It really is going to be business as usual,” said Chris Sobieck, who is the current general manager and PGA professional at Thornapple Pointe. Sobieck has been with Thornapple Pointe for 16 years and will continue to serve as its general manager along with overseeing Watermark’s golf and sports operations.
“Other than the ownership changing, everything is going to keep going like it has been,” Sobieck said. Thornapple Pointe will remain a public course and banquet facility under the new ownership, and will operate separately from Watermark’s private course model.
Owners of Watermark Properties or The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe knew each other, according to Sobieck. Neither were looking to sell or buy but as things fell into place, it became a positive situation and made sense for everyone, he said.
The Golf Course at Thornapple Pointe is the first public golf course in the Watemark Properties portfolio. The company owns four private golf courses, Cascade’s Watermark Country Club, Caledonia’s StoneWater Country Club, Jenison’s Sunnybrook Country Club, and Grand Rapids’ Thousand Oaks, along with seven restaurants including the stand-alone Gravity Taphouse Grille.
According to a statement from Watermark Properties, “Thornapple Pointe is regarded as one of the best public golf courses in West Michigan and has been very successful providing a championship caliber, daily fee course in great condition. It has continually improved its offering over the years and provided outstanding service and professionalism with a commitment to excellence. Because of its success, Watermark has no intention of making any changes to its operations.”
“Our owners have a deep commitment to seeing golf continue to grow and thrive in West Michigan,” said Watermark Properties CEO Craig Smith, who added that nationally the sport of golf has had some struggles in terms of growth. In West Michigan, golf has continued its popularity with a number of options throughout West Michigan available, Smith said.
“With the addition of Thornapple Pointe, it strengthens our commitment to the golf community in West Michigan.”
Smith said the company hopes it is sending the message that Watermark Properties not only wants to provide a variety of options to the golfing community but that they are enjoyable, affordable, and offer great conditions for all levels.
Designed by Ann Arbor-based William Newcombe & Associates, The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe was built in 1997 and overlooks the Thornapple River. The course has received positive reviews on Golf Advisor with “Golf Magazine” stating that it is a “unique 18-hole championship track incorporates Star Wars technology into every round and has literally taken golf in this area to another level.”
