The Chapman family of Freeport were the first to welcome in a baby for 2023 at Wyoming’s University of Michigan Health-West.
Jordyn Angeline Chapman was born at 3:05 a.m. She weighted 8 pounds, 15 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length. Other area hospitals reported births on Jan. 1 as well, but Jordyn’s arrival was the earliest.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org
In a finish that is frequently seen in the movies, Wyoming senior Aaliyah Ratliff hit a three-pointer in the last 18 seconds of overtime to give the Wolves a 54-51 win over host Potter’s House Christian in the championship of the ‘Battle of Wyoming.’
“It was back and forth, but we never gave up,” said Wyoming Coach Jesse Vasquez. “We didn’t play our best basketball, but the girls never gave up. We fought defensively. We fought on the glass. Aaliyah Ratliff didn’t have her best game, but she came up when it mattered.
“It was just the fight in the girls. We were down 10 with like five to go and they never gave up. They kept going and this is just who we are. You’re going to knock us down and we are going to keep getting back up and keep going after you. I am very, very proud of this team.”
It was a slow start to the championship game with the Potter’s House Pumas getting on the board at the 5:26 mark. With 2:45 left in the first quarter, Wyoming followed with a bucket. The first quarter ended 5-3 in favor of the Wolves.
In the second quarter, Wyoming turned on the heat, but Potter’s House matched suit and took the edge 18-16.
In the third, it was Potter’s House junior Anyieth Nhial that kept the Pumas on the winning edge with a 35-28 lead.
But Wyoming was not going down without a fight and when the dust settled at the end of the fourth, it was tied 46-46 with fans on both sides going wild and the teams heading into overtime.
Turnovers, fouls and finally Ratliff making the three-pointer would secure Wyoming’s win.
“Man, what a fun atmosphere,” said Potter’s House Coach Jake Hoogstrate. “When we dreamed of this tournament 10 months ago, we never thought it would end like this: A great game.
“Both teams had a lot of chances to win and they made a shot and we didn’t get ours to fall. Props to them. Props to (Ratliff) for knocking them down. (Potter’s House) did everything they could to try and take her out of the game and she made the biggest shot of the game.”
Hoogstrate gave credit to the team’s two seniors, Isabelle Baez, whose calmness helped to stabilize the team and keep them focused, and Joy McClendon, who made several rebounds during the game.
“After that, it was a team effort,” he said. “A steal here, a steal there. A rebound here.”
For Wyoming, Vasquez said it was junior La’Anna Griffin and sophomore Shakya Anderson that kept the team going along with the bench, who were “phenomenal. When things weren’t going our way, they kept positive.”
Potter’s House Athletic Director Kara Haskill said the reason the school decided to host the event was because their girls basketball team’s schedule was bumped up from 20 games to 22 for the 2022-23 season.
“We thought that a fun way to add in those two games was to have a holiday tournament,” Haskill said. “We wanted to include the teams in our area because they are teams we normally don’t play.”
Potter’s House is in the Alliance League. Godwin Heights and Kelloggsville, which are both in the OK Silver Conference, and Wyoming, the OK Green, signed up to participate.
Teams played an elimination round on Wednesday. From there, Wyoming and Potter’s House advanced to Thursday’s final.
“I never thought a team like Wyoming would come to play here,” Hoogstrate said. “It was a great atmosphere tonight. A big shout out to Kelloggsville, Godwin and Wyoming for helping to make this happen.”
“For me, it has been a lot of fun to be able to play against some of our local teams,” Vasquez said, adding, the turnout was “awesome.”
In the varsity consolation game, Godwin defeated Kelloggsville 55-28. The tournament all-star team was Godwin senior KaShari Babb, Kelloggsville sophomore Zariah Hatchet, Potter’s House senior Isabelle Baez and Wyoming junior La’Anna Griffin. Tournament MVP was Wyoming sophomore Shakya Anderson.
The tournament also hosted a JV round that included JV teams from Wyoming, Potter’s House, Godwin Heights and Ottawa Hills, which substituted for Kelloggsville as the school did not have a JV girls basketball team. The winner of the JV tournament was Wyoming, which beat Ottawa Hills 59-29.
By ArtRat Gallery
ArtRat Gallery is enjoying a long winter’s nap until Jan. 5, but our Heartside neighborhood is staying lit to welcome 2023 this Saturday night.
Whether you’re looking for a formal dinner, a costume party, a basement punk concert or a good old-fashioned bar crawl, check out a dozen New Year’s Eve events within a 5-minute walk of ArtRat Gallery (46 Division Ave. South).
Apartment Lounge (33 Sheldon Ave. SW)
The Apartment Lounge’s first party of 2023 “is going to be a big deal,” manager Jason Martin told ArtRat. “My favorite part is seeing how much fun everyone is enjoying the performances.” For $10 cover, you can be a part of the festivities at Grand Rapids’ oldest LGBTQ-friendly bar. The event will be hosted by drag doyenne Jasinya Maria Sanchez, and the cover includes party favors and a champagne toast. Jason tells us there’s only one more booth available (which includes charcuterie and a bottle of bubbles), so reserve your front-row seats before it’s too late.
Beacon Corner Bar (38 Fulton St. W)
Grand Rapids’ new home for Long Island-inspired “sea and land fare” has two reasons to party: It’s celebrating both the new year and its own one-year anniversary with a three-course coastal dining experience that features live music by Mark Levengood. ($65)
Canopy by Hilton (131 Ionia Ave. SW)
Want to ring in 2023 from a rooftop? The Hilton invites you to head up to Knoop Rooftop Beer Garden, “Grand Rapids’ only rooftop lounge NYE experience.” There will be charcuterie and New York Sours, not to mention an amazing view. Tickets are available here. ($100)
Divani (15 Ionia SW)
“This year has gone by so fast, and we are looking forward to celebrating the beginning of 2023 with you!” The chefs at Divani have created a $75, three-course menu (with gluten-free options) to ring in the new year. Reserve your table here.
Dublin Hall (100 Ionia Ave. SW)
Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh! (That’s “Happy New Year!” in Irish Gaelic.) Raise a pint at Dublin Hall’s Glitter and Gold Party, with music by DJ Tony Banks. The event will include party favors, a late-night buffet and a champagne toast. Doors open at 9 p.m.; tickets are $40 pre-sale or $50 at the door.
GRNoir Wine and Jazz (35 Division Ave. S)
Co-owner and sommelier Shatawn Brigham told ArtRat that GRNoir will offer “six to eight” varieties of bubbly for your New Year’s delectation, as well as live jazz from saxophonist Alain Sullivan and his quartet.
House Of Wine (53 Monroe Center St. NW)
Do you get a kick from champagne? House of Wine invites you to “treat yourself” by making a NYE reservation for drinks and small plates. They’ll be hosting an exclusive champagne tasting to help kickstart your New Year’s Eve celebration. (Book online here.)
Lilith’s Lair (25 Division Ave. S)
Heartside’s new queer-owned salon is proud of its creative and inclusive environment. On NYE, you can explore the space with an evening of glitter, local art vendors and pole performances. Stylists will be offering discounts on glitter-y makeup and hair applications from 6-8 p.m. so you can leave “ready for the countdown at your local gathering place!” Pole performances will run from 8:30-9:30 p.m. (Get your $10 tickets here!)
Rockwell Republic (45 Division Ave. S)
ArtRat’s neighbors at Rockwell Republic are looking back to the 1980s this New Year’s Eve: Sport your biggest hair and brightest windbreaker, and enter to win a $200 cash prize at the gastropub’s ‘80s-themed costume party. Book ahead for a complimentary champagne toast; the festivities begin at 8:30 p.m.
Rumors Night Club (69 Division Ave. S)
Head on down to South Division’s venerable LGBTQ+ nightclub, and celebrate the 2023 New Year with a snack buffet, party favors and a house diva performance, as well as a champagne toast at midnight. Legendary Rumors DJ Monica Parker will be spinning tracks alongside DJ Timmy T. Doors open at 8 p.m., admission $25.
Skelletones (133 Division Ave. S)
If you’re more the party-crashing type, there’s still a place for you (that isn’t your parents’ garage) this Saturday night. The all-ages, alcohol-free music venue is hosting its New Year’s Eve Trash Bash: a “big family reunion” featuring Chain Ripper, The Mollusks, The Sissy Boys, Dregs, American Cheese and Fetus Deletus! Come check out these Michigan punk/metal/hardcore bands from 7 p.m. till midnight. (The gnarliest NYE celebration in town costs just $10 a ticket!)
And if you prefer a lower-key start to 2023, stock up at Grand Vin (15 Ionia Ave. SW). Owner Kimberly Grimm told ArtRat, “We won’t have an event at the shop on NYE, but we do have more than 60 different types of sparkling wine available at every price point to help customers celebrate at home!” Stop in from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. on Saturday so house sommelier Thom Grimm can help you put the right fizz on your New Year’s Eve.
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Wyoming used its size and physicality to overpower Godwin Heights in the opening game of the first ‘Battle of Wyoming’ girls basketball tournament on Wednesday night at Potter’s House High School.
The Wolves secured a 65-45 victory as forward LaAnna Griffin recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Aaliyah Ratliff added 12 points.
The frontcourt duo of Griffin and Shakya Anderson were able to establish their presence in the post and provided key baskets according to Wyoming coach Jesse Vasquez.
“Everytime Godwin would make a run we threw the ball into them and they made some good shots,” Vasquez said. “Which allowed us to get into our defensive sets after a make.
“I thought our defensive pressure causing problems and the way we rebounded really turned the game for us.”
The importance of this win could not be understated for the Wolves (4-3), who have already matched last year’s win total and have the look of a much improved team.
“To come out against Godwin, a school right down the road from us. A lot of the girls know each other.
“And to win a basketball game because of our effort and energy it’s huge for us.”
Wyoming faces host Potter’s House in the ‘Battle of Wyoming’ championship on Thursday at 7 p.m. The Pumas beat Kelloggsville in the other semifinal game, 58-31.
WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org
On Friday, Dec.23, as the U.S. House of Representatives wrapped up its 117th Congress, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) spoke on the House floor about the deep honor of serving Michigan’s Second Congressional District.
Starting Jan. 3, 2023, Huizenga will be serving Michigan’s 4th Congress District when he is official seated for the 118th Congress. His new district covers the lakeshore from southern Ottawa County to Benton Harbor and St. Joseph and extending east to include Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. The district also includes the entirety of Allegan and Van Buren counties and portions of Berrien, Calhoun, Kalamazoo and Ottawa counties.
Due to redistricting from the 2020 U.S. Census, both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming fall under U.S. House of Representatives District 3, which will be served by newly elected representative Hilary Scholten.
In his address, Huizenga stated:
“As the 117th Congress comes to a close, I rise today to say it has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve Michiganders across Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Lake, Mason, and Allegan counties in the current 2nd District.
“West Michigan is blessed to have beautiful beaches, world class manufacturing, and an incredible variety of top-notch agricultural produce. But what makes places like Muskegon, Grand Haven, Ludington, Pentwater, Fremont, Baldwin, and Grandville so special are the people that call these communities home.
“It’s embracing servant leadership, it’s emphasizing the value of hard work, and it’s fostering the drive to go the extra mile that makes West Michigan such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.
“As I say goodbye to the current Second District, I will never forget the residents who have called the Second Congressional District home over the past 10 years or the memories we have shared.
“Please know I will continue to be a champion for you and for Michigan.
“It has been an honor and a blessing to be your voice in Washington.”
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org
If you are a high school graduate interested in pursuing welding as a career, there is a scholarship for that. Perhaps you are interested in nursing or education or maybe you are interested in a post-graduate degree in business or law. There are scholarships for that.
The Grand Rapids Community Foundation is currently accepting applications for more than $1 million in scholarships to support students pursuing post-secondary education and training. By completing one application, students will be considered for hundreds of scholarship opportunities from more than 80 scholarship funds. Students pursuing bachelor and graduate degrees or technical training certificates are eligible to apply.
Some of the scholarships are specific to studies, high schools or colleges. For example, the Pullen/Lambers Memorial Scholarship is available to graduating seniors from Wyoming High School who attend a credited U.S. college/university with a preference given to education or entrepreneurial studies.
If you are senior or graduate from Godfrey Lee, Godwin Heights, Wyoming, Kelloggsville, Kentwood, Grandville or Grand Rapids, you could apply for the Hackett Family Scholarship. Students at Grand Rapids University Prep Academy can apply for the Founders’ Scholarship and South Christian students planing to major in healthcare, education or business may apply for the Roger and Jacquelyn Vander Laan Family Scholarship.
There is also scholarships like the Llewellyn L. Cayvan String Instrument Scholarship for undergraduate or graduate students studying violin, viola, violoncello, or the bass viol. There is not financial or residency requirements.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation noted in a press release that it is committed to providing opportunities for first generation students with financial need to further their education. Scholarships are available for students with a wide variety of backgrounds, GPA’s and levels of education from public and private institutions. Last year, the Community Foundation awarded $1.45 million in scholarships to 630 students.
Contributions from community members make the scholarship funds possible. Many donors have chosen to set up a fund to honor a family member or to provide opportunities for students to attend college or pursue a specific profession. Award decisions are made by more than 100 volunteer community members with applicable experience who serve on scholarship advisory committees.
The general scholarship application for the 2023-2024 academic year opened Dec. 1 and will remain open until March 1, 2023. Interested students can find more information and apply at GRFoundation.org/Scholarships.
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood is offering tree and string light recycling services to residents this holiday season at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
From Dec. 27 through Jan. 31, residents may bring trees between 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The drop-off site is closed Dec. 30 and Jan. 2 for the New Year’s holiday and Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, when City offices will be closed.
All decorations, lights, wires and other non-natural materials must be removed from the trees in advance. A drop-off box for recycling string lights is located near the front doors of the Public Works building now through Jan. 31.
The tree recycle site is available to Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required. The string light and tree recycling services provide residents with a convenient, environmentally friendly way to clean up holiday decor.
“This is a special time of year for many, and cleanup is not often top of mind until the flurry of gatherings and parties passes,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director. “We’re glad to offer these services to give residents a convenient and environmentally friendly way to dispose of trees and string lights after the holiday season has come to an end.”
For more information about the Department of Public Works and its other seasonal services, visit kentwood.us/DPW.
Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org
As the blizzard of 2022 makes it way across the midwest, both the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood are making preparations and gearing up to plow the roads.
Both the cities have issued blizzard alerts on their respective Facebook pages. Residents are encouraged to prep their vehicles with emergency items in case they get stranded.
In the case of a power outage, contact Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050 or visit ConsumersEnergy.com for outage updates. For emergencies, such as a downed power line or tree blocking a roadway, call 911.
Snowplow vehicles will be out over the weekend. During a storm in both cities, crews work around-the-clock with trucks on the road 24-hours a day. Crews from both cities try to make sure that all roads are cleared within 24 hours after the snow event has ended. Both the City of Kentwood and the City of Wyoming prioritize plowing from highest-volume streets to lowest-volume streets.
Major streets, such as 44th Street, 52nd Street, Kalamazoo Avenue and Eastern Avenue are plowed first.
Collector streets, which are many of the main streets of the subdivisions, are plowed next. Some examples of collector streets are Baileys Grove Drive, Stauffer Avenue and Gentian Avenue.
Once the collection streets are clear and safe, local streets, which are streets within subdivisions, are plowed next.
Cul-de-sacs/stub streets are plowed last with smaller trucks. For the cul-de-sacs, the snow is placed in areas that are suitable for snow storage, so it is recommended that all items in the a cul-de-sac, such as soccer goals and portable basketball hoops, be removed.
If a resident needs to report a snow removal issue, visit kentwood.us/psr. For more information on winter maintenance and resources, including snow removal efforts, street parking rules and tips for avoiding frozen water pipes and meters, visit kentwood.us/WinterMaintenance.
The City of Wyoming has about 250 miles or 600 lane-miles of streets.
The city’s first priority are the major streets, such as 28th Street, 44th Street, Burlingame Avenue, Byron Center Avenue and Clyde Park Avenue, which carry the most traffic and have the highest speed limits.
Second is the collector streets, which disperse throughout the residential neighbors. The goal is that residents are within a reasonable distance from either a first or secondary priority street that is plowed.
The last to be plowed is the culs-de-sac and the remaining residential streets. The streets are plowed when the snow depth reaches four inches, either from a storm event or snow accumulation.
For snow removal concerns and other related issues, visit the All About Snow section on the Public Works page at wyomingmi.gov.
In the City of Kentwood, it is the property owners responsible for clearing two or more inches of snow, ice and other obstructions from sidewalks in front of their homes and businesses. The City of Kentwood does plow some of its sidewalks. For a map of those sidewalks, click here.
In the City of Wyoming, sidewalks are plowed by a third party contractor at night when there is two or more inches of new snow accumulation. Residents are asked to keep the sidewalks free of obstructions such as garbage cans and parked vehicles.
In both cities, it is the resident’s responsibility to keep the fire hydrant clear if it is located on your property. Residents should clear a path from the street to the fire hydrant and three feet around the hydrant.
Both cities have winter parking rules.
In the City of Wyoming, it is odd-even parking. If the day is an even number, 2, 4, 6, 8, then residents may park on the side of the street with even number addresses. If it is an odd number day, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, then park on the side with odd number addresses.
Wyoming residents are encouraged to move their vehicles between 7 p.m. and midnight (12 a.m.) to assure that plows can get down and clean both sides of the street.
In the City of Kentwood, parking is not allowed on any public street between 1 and 8 a.m. and when street parking could make it difficult or prevent snow removal.
By Jessica Jones
Communications Director, Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan
Raise your hand if you’re comfortable navigating a conversation about mental health. Now raise your hand if you’re not sure where to start.
At the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, we believe it starts with knowledge, which creates confidence. We empower individuals through our be nice. action plan and programs for schools,
businesses, teams and faith organizations.
“This plan works because it’s simple,” said Christy Buck, Founder of be nice. and Executive Director of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan. “It’s four steps that give you the knowledge to recognize depression, guide you through tough conversations, and empower you with the information and resources you need to start navigating appropriate treatment options. be nice. is simple, powerful and life-saving.”
On a macro level, the logo itself is a call to kindness, civility and inclusion. It’s recognizing that how we treat one another has an effect on how a person thinks, acts and feels – their mental health. On a micro level, be nice. is an action plan to equip individuals with the knowledge to recognize, understand,
accept and take action when it comes to mental health through four simple steps – to notice, invite, challenge and empower.
Begin by noticing what’s good and right about the people around you so you can notice when something is different. The plan starts with the knowledge to recognize, or notice, the signs and symptoms of a mental health concern or illness.
When you notice changes lasting two weeks or longer, it’s time to invite yourself to reach out. Many times we notice something is different about the way someone is thinking, acting or feeling, but we don’t address it. Oftentimes, we stay quiet because we don’t want to hurt a person’s feelings, get a negative reaction, or be wrong – with be nice., we keep it simple.
“I’ve noticed ________ and I’m worried about you. Is everything okay? Is there anything I can do to help?” This conversation starter shows that you care and you’re asking from a place of concern. You’re not attacking their actions or character, you’re simply checking in.
The No. 1 reason someone doesn’t speak up when they’re struggling is because of the stigma or shame they feel. They’re worried about how others will perceive them. You can be someone who challenges the stigma surrounding mental health, illness and treatment. You can challenge stigma with your words and empathy! The third step is also about challenging an individual to seek help and utilize resources. Here in West Michigan, we are fortunate to have many local options for help and treatment. We live in a digital age, and there’s a variety of mental health supports available for a wide range of needs.
Nationwide, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline [988] is available 24/7 for anyone struggling with their mental or emotional health who needs a listening ear, immediate coping exercises, or assistance navigating further help.
Ultimately, the be nice. action plan is meant to empower individuals with knowledge and resources. The MHF is an organization that educates individuals of all ages and demographics in this life-saving action plan. Having the correct knowledge surrounding mental health gives us the confidence to take action when we notice changes and the empathy to decrease stigma.
Being aware of our protective factors and positive coping mechanisms are great ways to help keep our mental health in check, and further, knowing what resources are available in our schools, teams, workplaces and communities empowers us to be resilient.
If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to, call 988 to speak with a professional who can help.
To learn more about each step of the be nice. action plan, visit benice.org.
By Tessa Schulz
WKTV Contributor
‘Tis the season to watch out for holiday scammers. With the holidays fast approaching beware of any deals that appear too good to be true. Scams create the illusion of being trustworthy on the outside yet are a façade fooling consumers into sharing personal information and sending money.
Scams can come in many shapes and sizes, yet they aren’t the gift you’d like this holiday season. Scams can appear blatantly obvious or they can be concealed from what seem to be reputable sources.
Some of the biggest online shops have had scammers impersonating the organization. Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, and your local department stores all have scammers lurking around impersonating trustworthy transactions and tricking consumers.
Federal Trade Commission data reports that in 2021 online shopping scams contained $3.92 million in total reported losses with the median loss for consumers was $500 dollars.
Shoppers that have fallen victim to questionable purchases are not always compensated for their financial losses. According to the FTC, 25% of 2021 consumers reported a loss to fraud.
Some of the most common scams are internet auction fraud, phishing, order confirmation scams, and technical support scams.
Internet auction fraud occurs when a seller misrepresents merchandise online. In many cases, items are left undelivered, with the buyer at a loss for their money. Scammers may advertise items with outrageous deals and discounts swindling shoppers into franticly buying nonexistent listings. Eventually, shoppers are met with remorse when their item never arrives on their doorstep.
Phishing is a scam where fake emails, text messages, and websites are used to commit identity theft or steal personal information. The criminal may ask personal questions fishing around and urging you to share your bank account numbers, debit card pin, or other personal information. Typically a scammer’s contact information mimics the names of larger brands hustling shoppers into trusting and handing out their personal information.
Order confirmation scams provide unwarranted emails, texts, and phone calls claiming that you need to confirm or deny unauthorized purchases. Amazon recently published a memo warning customers of scammers mimicking counterfeit transactions and seeking personal information. Panic-stricken shoppers may rush in order to cancel fake purchases when in reality they are being conned.
A technical support scam is a type of fraud where a scammer insists that you need to buy tech support for your devices.
Data breaches can occur to those who download software on their devices. Sensitive information can be stolen, hacked into, and leaked.
Malware is online software containing viruses and spyware. Malware is often undetectable and is a large threat to your online security.
Always use direct websites when seeking customer service and tech support.
Do not react to scams based on the principle of urgency. Many scammers want you to feel the need to “act now.”
In no case should you provide payment, or bank account information, install software, or purchase gift cards when prompted to respond in an urgent nature.
Be cautious when providing any personal information including account numbers and passwords when completing purchases online or on the telephone. Contacting customer service with any questions regarding transactions may ensure safe shopping.
Santa and his reindeer want you to steer clear of holiday scams this year, be sure to travel with ease online to protect your wallet this season.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org
It looks like a scene out of a Hallmark movie: colorful holiday lights with Santa and his elf helper sitting on a wooden bench waiting to greet the children.
But it is not a Hallmark movie, it is right here in the City of Wyoming, 3717 Illinois Ave. SW. This is the home of Mark and Barb Nitzel, longtime Wyoming residents who have been spreading a little Christmas magic for the past several years.
“I do this, getting out there, to make people feel good,” said Mark Nitzel, who will be out again this Friday as Santa from 6:30-8:30 p.m. “Snowstorm or not, I’ll be out there. I was out there during the last snowstorm.”
Nitzel has always enjoyed the magic of Christmas and the holidays, especially the lights.
“The lights started with me putting up a few and then adding to it,” Nitzel said. The display gradually evolved to take over his front yard and his neighbor’s fence. Dubbed “Clark Griswold,” Nitzel’s passion soon spread, making it a neighborhood affair.
“Next door, he started adding lights,” Nitzel said. “We found a sleigh and put it on his roof. The people across the street moved in a few years ago and they too have been adding lights.
“It was really kind of cool to see it grow.”
The light display even snagged Nitzel an award “The Christmas Light Pajama Run Award” in 2018.
“I just heard someone on the porch and went out to see who it was,” Nitzel said. “I asked what they were up to and they shouted ‘Merry Christmas,’ pointed to the porch and ran to their car and jumped in. They were all wearing those old-fashioned pajamas with the buttons on the back.”
Of course with his warm and welcoming personality and love for the season, it was only a matter of time before Nitzel would be asked to play Santa. That person was his daughter, Samatha Roman who own’s Old Souls Studio, 1111 Godfrey Ave. SW.
“She asked if I could be Santa at her studio for photos,” Nitzel said, adding with a laugh, “the next thing I know, I am outside greeting people as they drive by (my home).”
Nitzel is not one for recognition. It has been his “elf helper” Barb who has been promoting the light display and visits with Santa.
“I can’t be Mrs. Claus, she is too sweet,” Barb Nitzel said with a laugh. “(Mark) retired in 2020 and he does it because he loves it. There is nothing like seeing the kids’ faces. The joy and the happiness just brings tears to your eyes.”
Nitzel, who also volunteers at Family Food Network of Wyoming, said he just enjoys seeing people get a little cheer from the lights and visiting with Santa.
“Last weekend, there was a lady who drove by a couple of times and then finally stopped to ask how much it would be for a picture with Santa,” Nitzel said. “I told her it was free.
“She got out of her car and we took the picture and she sat and talked with us for a little bit, telling us that she thought she was going to lose her job. By the time she left, she had captured a little bit of that Christmas cheer back. That’s what it’s all about.”
Nitzel said he recognizes that not everyone can afford to go to the mall to see Santa and for some children, the mall can be overwhelming. But at 3717 Illinois Ave. SW, everyone is welcome to visit with Santa and enjoy the holiday lights.
“It’s about giving back to the community,” Nitzel said. “It becomes a social event for everybody, talking and wishing each other ‘Merry Christmas,’ which makes it kind of nice to see.”
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org
With the addition of the freshman class to the high school, this year’s fall Alpha Wolf program was expanded to eight students.
In fact, “Welcome” was part of the theme of the fall 2022 program as the school welcomed 652 students as freshmen and sophomores. Before the 2022-2023 school year, the Wyoming High School was 10th-12th grade but a building renovation allowed the district to move its ninth grade students into the high school this school year.
Along with the addition of the freshman and sophomore classes, the school welcomed 170 students from other schools, of which 47 students were from different countries, and 28 new staff members.
To represent the high school body, 1,300 paper chains were strung together across the gym’s ceiling.
“Every paper chain represents you. It represents our staff,” said teacher John Doyle, who helps to organize the Alpha Wolf program. “There are over 1,300 chains and they are all connected because that is what we are about.”
Guess speaker Mark Kuiper, from the Wyoming High School staff, focused on the second part of the Alpha Wolf theme, “What is your A11 Moment Ahead?”
“An Alpha Wolf Moment Ahead is when you chose not to judge someone based on the color of their skin or that they talk different than you and they may share a different view of the world.” Kuiper said. “Instead you get to know them, know their story…An AW Moment Ahead of kindness, compassion, and graciousness usually appear in the usual, in the mundane, ordinary day-to-day, hour-by-hour routine of our lives. We need to look past our own face. We need to look up.
“Because the moment you look up, you begin to see the signs and when you decide to chose kindness over indifference, when you decide to chose compassion over apathy, when you chose grace over holding a grudge…you are seeing AW 11 Moments ahead become a lifetime and it will change a life.”
According to many, the best word that encompasses freshman Zander Creamer is leader.
“This young man is getting it done at Wyoming High School,” according to staff. “Whether in the classroom, in the hallway, in the cafeteria or participating in extra-curricular activities he radiates Alpha Wolf 11 to all who cross his path.”
It did not take long for Creamer to settle in at the high school and as he did, he helped others make the transition to their new chapter in life.
“He is really a sweet kid who constantly has a smile on his face to try and to make people feel welcome and to lift them up when they are feeling down,” students and staff said.
No matter the setting, Creamer makes the effort to get to know the people around him and let them know they feel valued and appreciated through his contagious smile and kind words.
He figures out math problems on his own time. He enjoys robotics, riding his bike, and eating Mexican food as well as spicy, sweet and sour. He has a love for soccer and enjoys watching the Olympics, especially baseball.
From that description, it did not take long for students to recognize that freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra was the next Alpha Wolf.
“I have never heard him say an unkind word or be remotely critical about anyone,” said one of his teachers. “He has never said anything out of frustration or irritation. In fact, he has challenged himself to be a better version of a kind and gracious person that he already is.”
During parent teacher conferences, Resendiz-Parra helped his father understand by translating everything. He does everything with a kind heart, according to another staff member, and he is willing to help anyone on a daily basis.
Students and staff all agreed that Resendiz-Parra leads by example.
Unusually the first thing sophomore Tarren Calvert will ask someone when he sees them is how his/her day is going.
Calvert simply does good deeds whether anyone is looking or not and people are looking. They have noticed how he goes out of his way to help others, especially helping classmates with homework and other tasks.
“It does not take long for everyone who meets this Alpha Wolf to feel the positive energy he gives with everyone he meets,” according to students and staff, adding that this junior varsity basketball star is positive, respectful and selfless.
All it took was the statement “She is a flute player and participates in the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Mosaic Scholarship program” for many to quickly guess that sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo was the next sophomore Alpha Wolf.
“Those who have interacted with this student have said this Alpha Wolf 11 left them with a lasting impression,” according to staff. “She is hardworking, strives for excellence and is the embodiment of joy.”
According to her peers, Pablo-Pablo is “a great friend with a sweet and tender heart, a kind shoulder with a big smile, constantly friendly, and never rude to anyone, and she is supportive and ready and able to cheer up a person and make them laugh.”
A member of the variety football and basketball, junior Gage Behrenbrinker is definitely a servant leader.
Just some of the words/sayings staff and students said about Behrenbrinker were:
Very cool
Always happy
Likes helping classmates and is always helping at school
Works to improves everyone they are around
Always a positive attitude
Makes everyone’s day better
Polite
Respectful
Inspiring
A great role model
A great leader
Someone we all look up to
Because of these many attributes, Behrenbrinker, according to many, is the perfect example of an Alpha Wolf.
Always there for his friends and family, junior Dominik (Buster) Cross uses his voice to encourage the absolute best out of everyone.
According to staff, Cross is bold, honest, and optimistic and there is never a day that he does not put his best foot forward.
He leads by example, has a smile that lights up the room, and always shows grace especially in the face of challenges, which is why the students and staff chose him to as an Alpha Wolf.
“I have never had the opportunity to have this scholar in class at the junior or high school, but every time I have had conversations with him it has been super respectful, polite, and mature and sometimes sports related,” said teacher Shawn Veenstra who was one of several Alpha Wolf presenters.
For Bryce Bosovich, it was noted it was difficult to compact all the Alpha Wolf characteristics that he has in a short narrative, but the presenters were certainly willing to try.
Comments from students included:
“He is my best friend and has always helped me when I am going through something.”
“He never fails to put a smile on my face.”
“He is always super nice to everyone in class and is always kind to people he sees. He has just an awesome personality and if I say so myself this guy has a bright future on his shoulders as well.”
According to staff, Bosovich’s laugh is instantly familiar. He is thoughtful, respectful, selfless, and always positive.
Jesus Valadez Cano moved to the United States from Mexico a few years ago and in that short time has established himself as a person of integrity, humility and someone who cares about others and their successes.
“When others in class may not understand something or have different ideas Jesus (Valadez Cano) is considerate and works with them in a positive way,” according to staff. “There is no pretense and no arrogance from this student. He simply lifts others up. He has only one mode: positive.”
Known for working with Spanish students to make sure they understand their school, about every student in the school loves working with Valadez Cano because he is such a great listener, values the opinions of others and openly shares his own ideas.
By Wayne Thomas
Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters
In March of 1966, the Air Force dismissed a wave of UFO sightings in southern Michigan as nothing more than “swamp gas.”
At the time, a then Michigan Representative and future U.S. President Gerald R. Ford called these reports and the people making them “flippant.” Ford had the foresight to call for a “congressional inquiry” into the growing number of reported unidentified flying objects and asked for government transparency. Ford proposed that either the Science and Astronautics Committee or the Armed Services Committee of the House should schedule UFO hearings and invite testimony from both the executive branch of government and some of the UFO witnesses.
Unfortunately, there was never a formal congressional hearing and the Air Force dismissed and discredited these reports by 40-60 extremely credible witnesses, including as many as a dozen police officers.
The U.S. Air Force had been investigating unidentified flying objects since 1947 under Project Blue Book out of Wright-Patterson Air Force base in Ohio but the project was terminated in 1969. Of the 12,618 sightings reported, 701 remain “unidentified.”
Project Blue Book concluded that no UFO reported presented a threat to national security or indicated technologies beyond our own scientific knowledge, nor was there evidence to categorize these sightings as extraterrestrial. Other sources suggested that the best cases were never part of Blue Book, especially those of national security over military installations and power plants.
According to the National UFO Reporting Center, Michigan ranks in the “Top 10” of states with the most UFO sightings since the 1950s with more than 2,400.
On March 8, 1994, more than 300 witnesses, including police and a National Weather Service radar operator at Muskegon County Airport, reported multiple UFO sightings in at least 42 counties across Michigan.
Jack Bushong, Jr. was the “radar guy” on duty when Ottawa County emergency dispatch called the National Weather Service office after receiving multiple reports with more than 100 people reporting “strange lights in the sky.”
“I either saw them hovering or they were jumping at a high rate of speed over to the next spot,”he said. The lights would jump 20 miles at a time at an estimated speed of 72,000 MPH. The fastest any human has traveled is 24,816 MPH on the Apollo command module. The police officer was seeing the same thing with the same object. This historic radar and ground verified UFO sighting has been labeled the “Lakeshore Event.”
Bushong said he had “never seen anything like it,” it was as if they “wanted to be seen,” and they were “putting on an air show.”
UFOs have demonstrated “unusual flight characteristics” remaining stationary in winds, moving against the wind, maneuvering abruptly at very high speeds without a source of propulsion, no air intake, no sound, and no exhaust.
Bushong quickly ruled out “ground clutter,” weather balloons, commercial drones, “swamp gas,” or any type of hoax. Bushong received ridicule at the time and through the years but since the U.S. Department of Defense released videos confirming “unidentified aerial phenomena” (UAP) he’s felt more comfortable talking about it. Because of the stigma attached to reporting sightings, commercial and military pilots were reluctant to come forward fearing they might be putting their careers at risk and called a “kook.” As the Pentagon releases more UFO/UAP videos, more pilots, intelligent officers, and radar operators are reporting events.
The big question that remains is transparency or secrecy. Can the government and military maintain the U.S. national security and be up front with the public at the same time? According to a massive database of U.S. reports, encounters with UFO/UAPs have left people with radiation burns, brain and nervous system damage, and even “unaccounted for pregnancy.” The truth is out there and we have had our fill of “flippant” reports and reporters. Keep your eye to the sky.
Check out Jack Bushong, Jr. and Bill Konkolesky, Michigan Mutual UFO Network director and author of two books “Experiencer” 1 and 2 on Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters Podcast episode # 72.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
East Kentwood 56, Caledonia 41
Muskegon 84, Wyoming 52
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 16 points, 4 rebounds; Maxi Morales, 10 points, 6 rebounds)
Lee 74, Zion Christian 41
Godwin Heights 66, Hopkins 58
Kelloggsville 60, Belding 42
South Christian 81, Wayland 54
(SC: Jake Vermaas, 27 points; Carson Vis, 19)
Grand Rapids Covenant Christian 46, Tri-unity 35
Grand River Prep 69, Muskegon Catholic Central 57
East Kentwood 65, Caledonia 43
Zion Christian 46, Lee 10
(ZC: Josie Doezema, Jayda Steenbergen, Sam Deutschmann, Brie Alsum, 8 points apiece; LEE: Autumn Johnson, Imonie Davis, 3 points apiece)
Hopkins 68, Godwin Heights 49
(GH: Mikasia Kayter Witherspoon, season-high 19 points; Kashari Babb, 11; Imani Taylor, 10 points. HOPKINS: Matty Weber, 24 points)
Grand River Prep 52, Muskegon Catholic Central 48
(Kennedie Crawford, 25 points, including four 3-pointers; Abby Rivera-Sosa, 19 points)
Belding 52, Kelloggsville 17
Muskegon 70, Wyoming 61
South Christian 54, Wayland 48
Wyoming 72, Holland 54
(WY: Quinton Williams, 27 points, 4 steals)
South Christian 64, Kenowa Hills 34
(SC: Jake DeHaan, 16 points, Jake Vermaas, 15; Carson Vis, 14)
Tri-unity Christian 64, Muskegon Catholic Central 29
(TU: Owen Rosendall, 17 points, 5 steals; Akais Giplaye, 8 rebounds)
West Michigan Aviation 69, Muskegon Heights 64
(WMAA: Ethan Dyksterhouse, 23 points, 13 rebounds, 4 blocks; Luke Riebel, 13 points, 3 rebounds; Joseph May, 12 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, 6 turnovers)
Lee at Grand River Prep
Grand Haven at East Kentwood
Godwin Heights at Belding
Hopkins at Kelloggsville
Wyoming 48, Holland 33
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 18 points; Michaela Moore, 10 points off the bench)
Kenowa Hills 54, South Christian 47
(SC: Ashley Raredon, 22. KH: M. Holman, 26 points)
Grand River Prep 50, Lee 27
(Kennedie Crawford, 19 points)
Belding at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Hopkins
Potter’s House Christian 49, Muskegon Oakridge 35
South Christian 61, Ottawa Hills 20
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 16 points, Ashley Thomasma, 15; Ottawa Hills: Semaj Robertson, 8; South Christian Coach Kim Legge, “It was good to have my whole team back and healthy.”)
Mona Shores 58, Wyoming 49 (see story)
Rockford 40, East Kentwood 28
NorthPointe Christian 60, Godwin Heights 48
Comstock Park 77, Kelloggsville 31
Potter’s House Christian 48, Saugatuck 37
Morley Stanwood at West Michigan Aviation
Zion Christian 50, Wyoming Homeschoolers 21
West Michigan Aviation 69, Morley Stanwood 30
(WMAA: Luke Riebel, 14 points, 4 rebounds, 6 steals; Joseph May, 13 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists; Ian Brown, 11 points; Braeden Mowry, 8 points)
East Kentwood 51, Rockford Boys 49 (see story)
Wyoming 66, Mona Shores 62
(Alyjah Chandler, 30 points, 5 assists; Quinton Williams, 17 points, 6 rebounds)
South Christian 55, Ottawa Hills 51
(Jake DeHaan, 18 points)
Tri-unity 78, Western Michigan Christian 50 (see story)
(TU: Roy Fogg, 15 points; Jordan Vanklompenberg, 12 points, 5 assists; Akais Giplaye, 12 points, 10 rebounds; Keaton Blanker, 11 points, 6 assists)
Comstock Park 65, Kelloggsville 44
(Kelloggsville: Brendon Tuinstra, 21 points, 8 rebounds; Nae Shawn Ealey, 8 points)
Godwin Heights 84, NorthPointe Christian 72
Potter’s House Christian 59, Saugatuck 34
Zion Christian 57, Wellspring Prep 40
(Zion: Silas Moes, 15 points; Andrew Leep, 12)
Byron Center 64, South Christian 32
Grand Rapids Covenant Christian 52, Kelloggsville 18
Zion Christian 55, Grand Rapids Sacred Heart 27
South Christian 71, Byron Center 56
Zion Christian 46, Grand Rapids Sacred Heart 21
Potter’s House Christian Battle of Wyoming Tournament Championship
Wyoming 54, Potter’s House 51 (OT)
Wyoming 65, Godwin Heights 45
(Wyoming: LaAnna Griffin, a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds; Aaliyah Ratliff, 12 points)
Potter’s House Christian 58, Kelloggsville 31
East Kentwood 70, Parchment 37
South Christian 64, Kalamazoo Christian 38
(Ashley Raredon, 18 points; Lizzie Wolthuis, 10 points)
Wyoming 70, Kelloggsville 31
Potter’s House Christian 56, Cedar Springs 47
Saugatuck 42, Zion Christian 32
West Michigan Aviation 77, Kalamazoo Christian 61
(WMA: Luke Riebel, 25 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 1 steal; Joseph May, 14 points, 12 assists, 2 rebounds, 1 block; Ethan Dyksterhouse, 13 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block)
Wyoming 70, Kelloggsville 57
(Wyoming: Alyjah Chandler, 18 points, 4 rebounds; Donavyn Edwards, 17 points, 8 rebounds)
Saugatuck 54, Zion Christian 48
(Zion Christian: Silas Moes led all scorers with 17 points)
South Christian 58, Hudsonville Unity Christian 32
(South Christian: Ashley Raredon, Lizzie Wolthuis, 17 points apiece)
Muskegon Western Michigan Christian 61, West Michigan Aviation 14
Potter’s House Christian 42, NorthPointe Christian 41
Jenison 55, Wyoming 28
Zion Christian 66, Kentwood Grand River Prep 23
Zion Christian 56, Belding 35
(ZC: Silas Moes, 23 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, 5 steals; Andrew Leep, 16 points, 8 rebounds)
Tri-Unity Christian 59, Kelloggsville 21
(TU: Roy Fog and Keaton Blanker, 10 points apiece, Kelloggsville: Brandon Tuinstra, 8 points)
Jenison 67, Wyoming 52
(Wyoming: Quinton Williams 13 points; Avonte Wiggins, 9 points)
South Christian 58, Hudsonville Unity Christian 50
(South Christian: Carson Vis, 26 points)
NorthPointe Christian 64, Potter’s House Christian 53
By Maggie Carey
WKTV Contributor
Health officials are warning residents with the potential of a holiday tripledemic. Cases of the flu, COVID-19, and RSV are rising to an extent of overwhelming hospital emergency departments, creating a ‘tripledemic’ for the community.
The flu, COVID-19, and RSV are all respiratory viruses but they differ in how they spread. The flu can be spread by respiratory droplets (coughing/sneezing) and on surfaces. COVID-19 can also spread by respiratory droplets and aerosols but does not spread on surfaces. RSV spreads heavily through contaminated surfaces, so washing your hands and surface cleaning is very important to mitigate the spread of RSV.
While symptoms may indicate what you have, it is hard to make an official diagnosis without being tested for RSV, flu, or COVID.
RSV is one of the more unknown viruses that can spread during the holidays. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported high levels of RSV related emergency room visits in Michigan. This has prompted the Michigan Health & Hospital Association and the Kent County Health Department to advise residents to take action to prevent the spread and protect your loved ones as we approach the holiday season.
RSV is a Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection with mild or no symptoms for adults and older children, but can be very harmful to small children and the elderly who do not have a built up or strong immune system. There is also no vaccine for RSV at this time. Early symptoms of RSV can include runny nose, decrease in appetite, and cough that can progress into wheezing or difficulty breathing.
Influenza or the flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lung. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 8% on average of the United States population get sick from the flu. The CDC reports that children are most likely to get sick from the flu with those over the age of 65, less likely.
COVID-19 is a new strain of the coronavirus that was identified in 2019. It causes a respiratory illness. Adults 65 years and older and people of any age with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe illness.
The spread of the flu, COVID-19, and RSV could get worse as people begin to travel more for the holidays to see family, especially if they are seeing very young children or elderly family members. One of the simplest tricks to protect very young children from RSV is to not kiss them or be in close contact with their faces. According to the Kent County Health Department, hand washing is the number one way to prevent the spread of infection.
Other strategies to mitigate the spread include:
While there is no vaccine for RSV, there are flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available. There are no costs for most vaccines. To learn more about vaccines, check with your local pharmacy or doctor’s office about what vaccines you may need this winter.
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Less than a month after winning a D-4 state championship in football, South Christian sophomore Carson Vis is doing his part to lead the Sailors on the hardwood.
Vis poured in 28 points to lead South Christian (2-2) to a 78-60 non-conference victory over Wyoming on Tuesday.
“Hit some tough threes early and he has great skill around the basket,” Sailors coach Taylor Johnson said. “He does a great job of getting to the rim.”
The Sailors led by just two points after a quarter, but a 26-10 run in the second quarter extended their lead to 43-25 at the break.
The Wolves fought back, getting to within eight points in the fourth quarter, but South Christian was able to break the Wyoming press for some easy buckets to push its lead back to double-digits.
“I think the difference in the game was that they were just more physical than us,” Wyoming Coach Thom VanderKlay said. “It was an up and down game and they were able to finish their buckets.”
Seniors Alyjah Chandler and Quinton Williams led the way for the Wolves with 16 and 15 points, respectively. Sophomore Avonte’ Wiggins added 15 points.
Other high-scorers for the Sailors were Sam Weiss with 15 points and 6-foot-6 Sam Mendendorp with 12 points, who had two alley-oop dunks during South Christian’s run in the fourth quarter.
“They kept pressing us and we just kept trying to get the ball to the middle,” Johnson said. “Proud of the guys fight and we did what we needed to get the win tonight.”
The Sailors are on the road again this Friday for a rivalry game against Hudsonville Unity-Christian, while Wyoming (0-2) travels to Jenison.
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
West Michigan Aviation got off to a hot start in Kelloggsville and cruised to a 48-27 victory over the Rockets on Tuesday.
The dynamic duo of forward Ava Bazuin and guard Audrey Mileski led the way for the Aviators (2-3), as Bazuin led all scorers with 18 points and eight boards.
“She (Bazuin) was a rebounding machine tonight,” WMAA coach Tim Evans said. “It seemed like she was grabbing every board close to the rim and she really did a good job of rim-running.”
Mileski stuffed the stat sheet and recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds, as well as four assists and five steals. The do-it-all point guard did most of her damage from the free throw line, going 10 for 13 from the charity stripe.
“I thought Audrey did a great job in spreading the ball around,” Evans said. “Tonight was really the most complete game we’ve played and she executed our offense well.”
With it being the opening game for a young Kelloggsville (0-1) team featuring a lot of first-year varsity players, Rockets coach Bilal Muhammad thought his team came out a bit slow.
“We had some first game jitters,” Muhammad said. “Just of a matter of adjusting to the speed of the varsity game for some of our players.”
WMAA will carry some momentum, after winning two straight games, into its next game at Muskegon Western Michigan Christian on Friday.
Kelloggsville looks to its next matchup with Wyoming on Dec. 20.
By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org
Santa’s reindeer will be making a quick visit to the KDL Wyoming branch on Tuesday, Dec. 20.
From 2-3 p.m., the reindeer will be at the library, located at 3350 Michael Ave. SW.
Those stopping by are reminded to dress warmly and not to forget their cameras.
If you can’t make it on Tuesday, the reindeer will be at the KDL Byron Township Branch, 8191 Byron Center Ave. SW, from 4- 5 p.m. the day before, Monday, Dec. 19.
For more KDL events, visit KDL.org.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org
Kent Vanderwood admitted that the most challenging thing over the past four months has been reminding people that he was the mayor elect — not the mayor.
That all changed at the Dec. 5 Wyoming City Council meeting when Vanderwood took the oath office, officially becoming the city’s mayor.
“It is with thankfulness and humility that I accept this gavel tonight and with it the privilege of serving this community and leading the council for the next four years,” Vanderwood said in a prepared statement he read. “It was not something that I anticipated happening but when the circumstances made it abundantly clear that I should run, I accepted the challenge and have not looked back.”
Dignities, such as Kentwood City Commissioner Betsy Artz and Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce Keith Morgan, along with friends, family, residents and city staff watched as Vanderwood along with Renne Hill and Sheldon DeKryger took the oath of office to serving on the city council.
Hill was one of two candidates elected to the councilor-at-large seats. Rob Annoys, the other candidate, was not able to attend Monday night due to a work conflict and will be sworn in later, according Vanderwood. Both Hill and Arnoys are new to the council.
DeKryger was elected to his second term to the first ward council seat. He ran unopposed in the November election.
Vanderwood’s first action as mayor was to recognize the contributions of former Mayor Jack Poll and Mayor Pro Tem Sam Bolt for their years of service to the city. Both Poll and Bolt retired from the council. Vanderwood then lead the council through the process of electing Third Ward Council member Rob Postema as mayor pro tem.
Another of the council’s first actions will be to appoint a resident to fill John Fitzgerald’s councilor-at-large seat, Vanderwood said. Fitzgerald will be serving the City of Wyoming as one of the newest member of the state’s House of Representatives.
The appointment will be until 2024 when the seat is up for election. Applicants for Fitzgerald’s council seat must have lived in the city for two years. Those interested in applying to fill the seat may pick up an application from the clerk’s office, which is located at city hall, 1155 28th St. SW. Applications for filling the seat will be accepted through Dec. 21. Council will review all applications and interview candidates before making an appointment in January.
In his speech, Vanderwood stated when he campaigned he promised to focus on three main areas: maintaining the city’s financial stability which means maintaining a healthy fund balance and preserving the city’s high bond ratings while keeping citizens’ taxes as low as possible. He also would make public safety a top priority by funding the police, fire and first responders, and continue to support the economic growth of the city.
“I intend to follow through on these goals starting tonight but I will need the support of the council, the city staff, and all of our great citizens,” he said. “My promise to you tonight is that I will serve honorably and my very, very best to both fulfill the oath I took early tonight and work with you to meet these goals.”
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org
Wandering through the City of Wyoming and what should we see? The snowman sign that is part of the Wyoming Department of Parks and Recreation’s Holiday Scavenger Hunt. We can’t tell you where it is but we can share the clue:
Around the curve,
We protect and serve.
Be sure to drive slow
For the man made of snow.
To participate in the scavenger hunt, pick up a game sheet from the Wyoming Department of Parks and Recreation, located in City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW, and then write down where you found each of the nine items. Clues to the items’ locations are revealed on the Parks and Recreation’s Facebook page. If you collect all nine, return the completed form to the Parks and Recreation by Dec. 29 to be entered to win a prize.
Happy Hunting!
By Kelly Taylor
WKTV Program Manager
On Sunday, Dec. 11, WKTV 26 Government Channel and AT&T U-verse 99 Government Channel 99 will be featuring live coverage of the Orion spacecraft’s entry back to earth and the splashdown in the Pacific Ocean to complete the Artemis 1 Mission.
Live coverage starts at 11 a.m. with the splashdown scheduled at 12:40pm. Live coverage will continue through Orion’s handover from Mission Control in Houston to the Exploration Ground Systems recovery teams in the Pacific.
Afterwards, there will be an Artemis 1 Orion post-splashdown news conference at approximately 2:45 p.m.
Artemis 1 is the first integrated flight test of NASA’s Space Launch System rocket, an un-crewed Orion spacecraft, and the ground systems at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida that is paving the way for a crewed test flight and future human lunar exploration.
For more information on NASA TV or the Artemis 1 Mission, log on to www.nasa.gov.
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Despite a sluggish start offensively, Tri-unity Christian found its rhythm in the second half to pull away from Muskegon Orchard View 52-22 in its season opener Tuesday.
Without two returning key starters from a 2021-22 D-4 state championship, as well as last season’s leading scorer and Division 4 player of the year Brady Titus, the Defenders spread the scoring load out as Owen Rosendall led the way with 11 points.
“I really liked how we shared the ball tonight,” Tri-unity coach Mark Keeler said. “We have some really good players, but no dominant scorers yet like we had in Brady.”
Returning guard Jordan Vanklompenberg missed tonight’s game with a hamstring injury, as well as returning center Hanif James. The 6-foot-5 big man could miss up to six weeks with an injury sustained during football season.
Tri-unity (1-0) leaned on its defense in a low-scoring first half and led the Cardinals (0-1) 17-11 at the half.
With some adjustments made in the second half, the offense began to flow according to Keeler.
“We kind of forgot what we were doing on offense in that first half,” Keeler said. “We came out a bit more patient offensively in the second and I think once our kids settled in we were able to run our sets.”
Filling in for James, Trey Rillema added 10 rebounds and three blocks, one of which came on a chased-down rejection that Keeler described as “amazing effort.”
Sophomore guard Katon Blanker had an efficient night as well with nine points.
“Our trademark is defense and I think we were able to get them pressing a bit which led to some easy buckets,” Keeler said. “It’s always an adjustment when you have guys out and guys playing in new roles.”
The Defenders host Northpointe Christian on Friday at 7 p.m. in WKTV’s Game of the Week presentation.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Coming off a 4-17 season, the Wyoming girls basketball team is ready to turn the page, jumping out to a 2-1 record with a 45-28 road win over Comstock Park Tuesday.
First-year coach Jesse Vasquez said though they’re taking it one game at a time, the team has its sights set on competing for an OK Green championship.
“You have to have high goals and high standards to achieve big things,” said Vasquez, whose Wolves finished 1-13 in the conference last year. “I believe they’re buying into the things our coaching staff is preaching every day. The more success you have along the way the more you keep buying in and wanting to work.
“Last year was a rough year. This year, we’re getting there every day.”
Sophomore Shakya Anderson led Wyoming with 20 point and nine rebounds, including 16 points in the first half alone.
“She’s been pretty good the last two games,” Vasquez said. “She had 15 boards the second game of the year. She’s big in the post.”
Senior leader Aaliyah Ratliff, high scorer the first two games, added eight points against Comstock Park.
Sophomore Meneliza McGee led with four steals against CP and five against Coopersville earlier.
“McGee is a defensive catalyst,” Vasquez said. “She sets the tone for our defense.”
Freshman Myah Nabors added nine points and five assists.
“We have a lot of skill and it’s now just getting them to play together,” Vesquez said. “If we can believe in each other all the time, we’re going to be dangerous.”
