Kentwood Museum Redevelopment Committee Tours the Amite Genealogy Library and Archives

Ronald Harrell looking at photographs with
Bill Dorman
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Genealogist Antoinette Harrell arranged a tour of the genealogy division and the archival room at the Amite Branch Library for the committee. Several members of the committee attended the tour. Bill Dorman, the department staff gave us a very informative tour. He explained the process of accessing historical records and the importance of the library's digital resources. The committee members were particularly impressed by the extensive collection of maps and photographs available for research. There were some very useful tips offered during the tour.

Researchers and family historians will find photographs, booklets, and other papers in the old museum that Ronald Harrell, Christian Mounger, and Antoinette Harrell discovered while packing the artifacts, documents, and other research materials. The materials can provide valuable insights into the lives and experiences of Kentwood natives, offering a glimpse into the cultural, social, and economic conditions of the time. Photographs can reveal details about Kentwood, the town, and community events. The booklets and papers can contain firsthand accounts, genealogical information, and historical records that enrich our understanding of Kentwood's history. Together, they serve as primary sources that help us piece together the narratives of Kentwood and the people who call Kentwood home.

It was interesting to see the photographs of Kentwood. One of the old ice houses and some from the logging company. The logging company played a crucial role in the development and growth of Kentwood, providing employment opportunities and driving the local economy. 

Bill Dorman
Amite Genealogy Department
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Selecting the right materials for storage and display is important to the committee. The choice of materials can significantly impact the longevity and condition of stored items. Acidic or unstable materials may lead to deterioration, discoloration, or damage over time. Using appropriate, archival-quality materials ensures that artifacts and documents are preserved in their original state for future generations. One of the things we notice was the growing need of space. This is one of major concerns for all museums and libraries. The committee is carefully taking space and storage into consideration for the new museum. During their meeting, the committee discussed the need to form a standing committee to handle incoming donations in the future. By establishing a dedicated standing committee, the organization can assure that future donation management is handled consistently and efficiently. 

The Town of Kentwood Historical Museum Redevelopment Committee tour West Baton Rouge Museum

Kentwood Museum Historical Redevelopment Museum
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Kentwood Historical Museum Redevelopment recently visited West Baton Museum in Port Allen. The tour was attended by several members, including Irma T. Gordon, the Town of Kentwood, and others.  Our sincere thanks to Amanda Moak, Curator of Collections, and her staff for providing us with the tour and all the information about museum preservation. We were particularly impressed by the extensive collection of artifacts that showcased the rich region's history. The interactive exhibits provided an engaging experience, allowing us to explore West Baton's cultural heritage.

West Baton Parish was built on the sugarcane industry. The West Baton Rouge Museum is the only museum to preserve the history of sugar in Louisiana from the colonial period to the present day. We proceed to the plantation store and Juke Joint after watching a ten-minute documentary.  The site includes eight historic buildings. Although we didn't visit each building.

Monthly postcards containing all the monthly programs and events were equally impressive to me. You can find out more about the exhibitions during the Historical Happy Hour. The Historical Happy Hour is a monthly event that combines education with entertainment, offering visitors a chance to enjoy themed talks, live music, and refreshments while exploring the museum's exhibits. It's an excellent opportunity for history enthusiasts to engage with experts and learn more about specific topics related to the region's past. Attendees can socialize and network in a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular gathering for both locals and tourists.

Ronald Harrell-President
Antoinette Harrell-Vice President
Kentwood Historical Museum Redevelopment Committee
Photo Credit: Connor Lacoste

A child's heart is filled with art

Kentwood Summer Campers Art Exhibit
Jordan Wilkerson
Photo Credit: ANTOINETTE HARRELL

The benefits of art for children are numerous. We should encourage each child's creativity in the same way we encourage their other academic abilities. Art education has declined in schools across the country over the past few decades. This decline has had significant consequences for students, including reduced opportunities for creative expression and critical thinking. We must find creative ways to inspire our youth in the arts

One solution is to integrate art projects into other subjects, such as using drawings to visualize scientific concepts or historical events. Schools could also partner with local artists and art organizations to provide workshops and special programs. It was years ago that a group of students and instructors from the Bellarmine College Preparatory School in San Jose, California volunteered to assist Gathering of Hearts in bringing art to the little campers here in Kentwood. The camper's artwork was proudly displayed at Kentwood City Hall followed by a reception. 

It is possible for young artists to earn an income as artists.  Aeltia, for example, began experimenting with paint before she was able to walk. At the age of twenty-two months, she exhibited her first piece of art in an Australian gallery. At the age of four, she held her first solo exhibition at the Agora Gallery in the Chelsa neighborhood of New York City. In total, she sold three paintings for $27,000. 

Yes, children's art sells.  Consider activity books, coloring books, and picture books for children. It is common for authors to seek illustrators for children's books. Parents can  nurture their children's artistic talents by providing an encouraging and supportive environment. This will include supplying art materials, creating a dedicated space for creativity, and praising their efforts and creations. Museum visits, art classes, and celebrations of their artistic accomplishments are all important ways for parents to expose their children to various forms of art.

Artist Mia Marshall Art Instructor
Photo Credit: ANTOINETTE HARRELL

Make sure they have the tools they need and let their imaginations run wild. Their images are brought to 

life by the bold and beautiful colors.  They interpret the art in a way that you will enjoy listening to. Their interpretation adds layers of meaning and emotion, making the artwork resonate deeper on a deeper level. I have observed that it enhances their communication skills and self-confidence. I have transformed my children's and grandchildren's artwork into greeting cards, coasters, and more. These creations are shared with friends and family on special occasions, spreading joy and a personal touch. They are often given as gifts, making each a treasured keepsake.

Displaying their artwork at Kentwood City Hall and our local library will be a great place to display their artwork.  When I travel to other towns and cities, I look for local coffee shops. It is not uncommon to find artwork by local artists. The atmosphere in these coffee shops is often cozy and inviting, with a unique charm that reflects the local culture. Soft music plays in the background, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. The walls are adorned with vibrant paintings and photographs, creating a warm and creative environment. This is an idea that I know Mayor Gordon would embrace. 

Kudzu: The plant that ate the South

The infamous Kudzu
Kentwood, Louisiana 

Sometimes you will see vines covering trees and other vegetation in the South like a blanket. The vines are called kudzu. In the late 19th century, it was introduced from Asia. It soon became a real nuisance to the southern states. It will claim whatever is in its path, whether it's a tree, a telephone pole or bushes. Some researchers claim that kudzu covered millions of acres in the south. The southern landscape is under threat from these invasive vines. Kudzu grows rapidly and can smother native plants by blocking sunlight, which is essential for their survival. This leads to a significant reduction in biodiversity as native species are outcompeted and die off.  The dense mats of kudzu can alter soil composition and disrupt local ecosystems. Many people may not be aware of this. 

Yes, kudzu is here in Kentwood. Residents can help manage kudzu growth by regularly cutting back the vines to prevent them from spreading. They can also use herbicides specifically designed to target kudzu, although they should do so with caution to avoid harming other plants. Additionally, organizing community efforts to remove kudzu and restore native vegetation can be an effective long-term solution.

It is said that kudzu roots have 10 amazing health benefits. It has several additional names, including Japanese arrowroot,Chinese arrowroot, kudzu vine, kudzu roots, and kudzu herb. One of my friends from New York taught me how to make tea from kudzu leaves. To make kudzu tea, you start by harvesting fresh kudzu leaves, ensuring they are clean and free from pesticides. Next, wash the leaves thoroughly and steep them in boiling water for about 10-15 minutes. Finally, strain the leaves out and enjoy your tea either hot or chilled, adding a bit of honey or lemon for extra flavor if desired. You can also use the flowers to make tea. 

Link to learn more about Kudzu: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/kudzu-root

Sweet Home Baptist Church History

Old Sweet Home Baptist Church
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

In a humble way, the Sweet Home Baptist Church members began to shape their destiny by adhering to the great Biblical guidelines. "In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:6.

They believed in God and with this belief the first Church was organized in the late 1880s. The name Sweet Home could have been chosen because the first meetings took place in a home located northeast of town, on the east side of Cook Creek. Mrs. Hazel Kinzy recalls here step-father, Mr. Willis Bates, talking about the church being held in Buck Town in a field.  The Church existed for years in this location. Some of the pioneer families are buried there. Although a majority of those pioneers could neither read or write, they were possessed with and innate intelligence by which they were able to carry on successfully. It was such a faith and devotion that brought them through those trying years of the reconstruction era.

The building also served as a school consisting of primary through fourth grade. Mrs. Ruby Hookfin and Mrs. Inez Hookfin recall having to cross Cool Creek to attend School in the frame building. Mrs. Emma Buckhalter was the only teachers.

Some of the casualties from the terrible train wreck of November 1903 were buried in the Sweet Home Baptist Church area. In 1904 Hon. William H. Scanlon came to Kentwood as head bookkeeper for the Brooks-Scalon Mill. He arranged a building to be erected, with the debt to be satisfied by deducting $1. 00 from each church members employed at the mill. After sometime, the mill owner decided this would take too long and declared the bill paid in full for the building only. 

Sweet Home Baptist Church Cemetery

As time moved on the church, as we know it today, was organized by Reverend Mose Barnard in June
1910. Reverend S. Howard served as pastor from 1911-1916. His deacons were Benjamin Hook and J. B. Williams. In the mid 1920s the building was m moved west across Cool Creek. Older members remember the men using six or eight horses to skid it across the creek which took approximately six to eight weeks. During the time the church was in transit regular services were still held. After the building was moved to the west side, it continued to serve a dual purpose-church and school. With grades five and six added.  The Church ceased to be used as a school in 1940. 

Other pastors who have served are: Bradley (1916-1921), Bolivar (1921-1926), B. Robertson (1926-1935), Tobias (1935-1951), John Thompson (1951) to present. Second and fourth Sundays were service days, with Sunday School  being conducted every Sunday.

Thanks to Ms. Della Mae Wilson, a cash deed int eh amount of thirty-five dollars was paid to the Estate of J. H. Ellis for one acres of land. Witnesses were: Aquila Sibley, T.G. Womack, James H. Brumfield, Mrs. Emily. E. Owens, Mrs. M.K. Ellis, and Herbert Broyles, Notary Public.

The original frame building was first improved with concrete blocks, then bricked under the leadership of Reverend John Thompson. Interior improvements have also been made. We have come from torches to the comfort of electricity, air conditioning, drinking water fountains, carpets and comfortable pews. The pastor and choir have been robed, new collection plates and communion set have been purchased.

Deaconess who served are: Hazel Kinzy,  Grace Andrews, Vetra Brumfield, Emily Ware, Emma Taylor, Katie Brumfield, Beatrice Brumfield, and Annie Mae Strickland. 

Deacons have been: V.O. Brumfield, I.V. Kinzy, Willie Joe Ferdinand, Paul Robertson, Leo Andrews, Conrad Wyre, Wallace Brumfield, Ike Strickland and Henry Mercelous. Founding Father and Board of Trustees: Betty Perkins, Della Roman and Willis Bates.  The Willing Workers Club composed of women who raised the money to move the church. The Women's Amite River Baptist Association had its birth at our church in the year 1948. Two members, the late Lois Marcellus and Fochia V. Wilson has served as president of this organization. Elmira Wilkerson was one the first musicians in later years. Others who have followed are: Fannie Ard, Amos Addison, Yvonne Brumfield, Jerry Marcellus, Rev. Crosan, Rev. Michael Williams, Fannie and Emma McClendon. 

Sweet Home Baptist Church Cornerstone
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Source: Reprint from an article written and submitted by Mrs. Fochia V. Wilson

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church
Photo Courtesy: Randy Konzelman

St. Elizabeth Church is no longer in Kentwood. I remember when they were moving the old beautiful structure. It was said that they took it to Amite, Louisiana. I'm not sure, that was said. It use to be located at 404 Avenue C, Kentwood, LA. According to churcheslist.com, it was the only Catholic Church in Kentwood. 

The Home of Mary Kent Ellis

Piccolo, the Kentwood home of Mary Kent Ellis, who 100th birthday
was observed on January 1, 1969, and who is the same age as our parish.
Reprint from The Water Gardeners of Kentwood
Appendix B.
Historic Precedents

 

Orange Grove Church of God In Christ Church History

 

Orange Grove Church of God In Christ
Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Ellice Womack

In the years of Nineteen Hundred and Nineteen (1919), the first Church of God In Christ  in Kentwood was founded under he direction of the Holy Spirit by Evangelist and Sister Joshua Coleman and Elder Herbert Atkins. They conducted a revival and the Lord Move on the hearts of Sister Emma Carter, a past church mother and Emma Buckhalter, who once served as secretary, Emma Warren and Julia Fason who accepted Holiness at that time. 

Former pastors were Elder Soloman Baker, Seniors Lazard, who built and dedicated the fist Holy church here. Fred Cage and Dan Barnes. Others who served faithfully, Sister Malinda Bruce, Mattie Cook, Lula Carter, and Lela Hookfin, who served as deaconess and also church mother.  The oldest serving saints who served down through the years, Sisters Ellice Mae Buckhalter Womack, and Susie Marie Hookfin Gordon. Again, under the direction of the Holy Ghost, Elder Alonzo Richardson, Jr., and Sister Josephine Richardson were sent to be the humble servants here. 

The church has flourished under the dynamic leadership of Elder Richardson, and the leading of the Holy Ghost. In October 1970 this beautiful edifice was erected, and furnished with a piano and organ. This church at one time was called a she church. Since that time the membership has grown enormously. Five deacons were installed, Brother Charlie Womack, Brother Cain Wall, Brother Robert Ross, Brother Johnny McCray, Sr., and  Brother Sampson Dumans. Later Brother Theodore Dunn and Brother Jessie Brumfield were added to the board of deacons.

Three young men were called the ministry: Minister John Armstrong delivered his first sermon on March 12, 1978, Minister Jimmy Richardson, December 10, 1978, and Minister Robert Allen, January 14, 1979, and a missionary, Sister Barbara Jean Hookfin.

Two district meetings were held here, several auxiliary functions and vacation bible schools have been conducted. The first cornerstone in the history of the church was laid on April 26, 1981.  A bus was purchased September 21, 1981, which is used to transport person to Sunday School and church locally and to various meetings out of town.

An addition was made to the church on March of 1983. Other first time events were: purchasing and dedicating chores robes.  A back home worship service, recalling past services and records under the supervision of the Hookfin family. Last recording of this history, but by no means the least, a sacrificial feast for the saints, given by the pastor and his wife, Elder and Sister Richardson, with his family and friends assisting in the services.

Written and Submitted by Mrs. Ellice Womack

The History of Schilling Drug Company in Kentwood, LA

Schilling Drugs
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

In the small town of Osyka, Mississippi, three brothers were born and raised: Clyde Leroy, Frank Charles, and Henry Leonard Schilling.  It was in 1891 that Frank was born. In 1893, Clyde was born, and Leonard, affectionately called Eaph, in 1901.

Clyde worked in the Osyka Drug Store in 1908 as a soda clerk and a clean-up boy. He studied pharmacy at the Atlanta College of Pharmacy in Georgia for six grueling months and graduated in 1914. Frank, his brother, took the course and failed twice. Afterwards, he earned a degree in business administration. After attending college in Atlanta, Leonard received a degree from the college.

Clyde decided to expand his business into Kentwood. The two became business partners while Leonard served as their druggist.  There is no exact date, but many people recalled the early 1940s. In 1946, Leonard, Natalie, Bettye, and Fran moved to Kentwood and settled on Avenue H., a short distance from Main Street, where the drugstore is located.

The store was filled with beautiful cases which were originally built in the 1930s for a model drugstore. The wall shelving had inlaid wood carving with lots of glass. The high ceiling of the room was adorned with fans and lighting fixtures. Ice cream and cokes were served at marble top tables and wooden chairs. In the early days, Schilling Drug Co. had a soda fountain that the local shopper enjoyed.

Leonard carefully measured and weighed compounds and powder behind the prescription counter using an old manual typewriter and scales. He then mixed them in large mortar with a pestle. (You can still see the mortar and pestle at Schilling Drug today). After a family dispute, Clyde gave the store to Leonard in 1959. Leonard brought Natalie, Fran, and Bettye into the business.

Natalie sold the store in 1970 to her son-in-law and daughter, Harold and Betty Fussell. Schilling Drug Co. had operated on Main Street until 1977, when it moved to its new location on Avenue G. In an ironic twist of fate, all three brothers died within nine months of one another. Leonard passed away in June 1969.Frank died in March of 1970 and Clyde in January of 1970. In May of 1988, another member of their small family became a pharmacist.

Reprint from the "Schilling Drug Co." Kentwood Historical Cultural Museum

Kentwood's Main Street activities draw crowds on Saturday

Kid Vegetable Growers
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Kentwood Main Street was live with activities on a pleasant morning in March.  A large number of people out and about taking advantage of the pleasant weather and local activities. People attended Kentwood  Main Street Market to shop and listen to live music. At the close of the market , the  Kentwood Rotary Club's 1st Annual Pet Parade started at 2:00 p.m.  The events was well attended with a large number of participants. 

Angus Cattle Community Farmers Association, Inc., hosted their first annual "Remembering the Dairy Days" in Kentwood. During the event they provided a number of activities for the youth. LeBlanc Dairy Farm  provided two calves for the children see and feed.  There was a lot of excitement among the children when they fed the calves. The kids were taught how to plant a bean by Tri-Parish Vegetable Growers after they fed the calves.  Inside the library a photography exhibition digitally displayed featuring Eric Gordon, Jr., a third grader at O.W. Dillon Elementary School in Kentwood.  The ACCFA, Inc., invited Nicholas Muse, Assistant Area Agent for St. Helena and Tangipahoa Parish to talk about the services they offer after the exhibition. 

Dog Parade Participant
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Local vendors provided shoppers with a variety of good like plants, vegetables and fruit,  fried green tomatoes, and other items. Nutrition 51 store,   located across the street from the library, had  shoppers in search of healthy drinks and treats. It was a beautiful Saturday, and the streets and sidewalks were full of people enjoying themselves on a lovely day.  Pets and  their owners lined the streets.  Dogs dressed in costumes made friends with one another. Some of the pet won award for the best costume and for being a cutie.  

Both events were attended by Mayor Irma T. Gordon and Councilwoman Wilkerson. Everyone was pleased to see local activities taking place in the town. When I was a member of Moving Kentwood Forward, we discussed many activities that could be started right here in Kentwood.  A possible example would be dressing up bicycles with lights and riding them around town.  Food vendors could be invited out, and live music could be performed at the conclusion of the ride. Small town can be revitalized in an infinite number of ways. To revitalize their communities, many small towns in America organized art shows, open art galleries, coffee shops, wine tastings, and White Linen nights.

Kids feeding the calves
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Kentwood Youth Photographer's First Photography Exhibition

Eric Gordon, Jr.
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Antoinette Harrell mentored Eric Gordon, Jr., as they share a love for nature and photography.  Around the world, Harrell's work has caught the attention of major photographers. Kris Davidson is one of those photographers. Her photographs have been featured in National Geographic, Lonely Planet Travels, and many others.

Justin Fornal a SATWF Lowell Thomas Award-winning writer. He has written extensively for National Geographic, VICE, and the Explorers Journal, Part Unknown, and Roads & Kingdom. He traveled to Kentwood, Louisiana and documented images here.Eric has been taking photographs since the moment he received a camera from Harrell. Harrell invited Eric to accompany her on a photo trip to document the local syrup makers in St. Helena Parish on Womack Place.  He took photos of the syrup making process and the people making it. His grandmother Irma T. Gordon, mayor of Kentwood looked on and was amazed at how he was moving around and taking photographs. 

A second trip was made to  LeBlanc Dairy Farm in Tangiphaoa, Louisiana. Eric was asked by Harrell to take photographs of the cattle from the side of the road in preparation for his upcoming exhibition. For his first exhibition, he was eager and excited to take photographs. The event was well attended, and 30 of his images were digitally displayed at the Kentwood Branch Library as part of the Remembering Dairy Day celebration.

Eric could be come the next Gordon Parks who became a photographer in 1937 after seeing examples of Farm Security Administration photographs reproduced in a magazine. Although he was twenty-eight years old. Gordon purchased his first camera, a Voigtländer Brillant, for $15.50 at a Seattle, Washington pawnshop and taught himself how to take photos. Eric can do anything he can dream of. One of the many things Harrell stress to Eric is how the camera in his hand can take him all over the world if he isn't afraid to explore, create, and work toward the dream.  This will not be last of Eric's photographs being on this display. 

The Town of Kentwood embracing technology

Mayor Irma T. Gordon announced at the March monthly council meeting that the town would use technology, virtual clouds, and computers for presentations. My experience with council meetings in various cities and townships has allowed me to observe how they embrace technology.

Each month, invited speakers speak at Kentwood Town Council meetings without presenting anything for the public to see.  Computer technology makes it very easy for presenters to engage their audiences. Presentations, agendas, minutes, and videos can be displayed on the smart monitors. 

It has been my request in the past that the CPA present in a way everyone can see and follow. I urge the mayor and town council to request that Harrell's CPA Firm present documents that anyone can see since we now have the smart monitor. As we move forward, I hope the town council and mayor inform the speakers that we do have the technology to show presentations.  In most cases, the general public has no idea what they are talking about. It is more important for us to avoid having our council vote on things they do not fully comprehend. 

Years ago, I donated a projector to the Town Council, but I was the only one using it.  Our technological advances are twenty-three years behind those of the 21st Century. I am delighted to see that this administration is making the necessary changes. The mayor and council purchased a smart monitor for the upcoming meetings. 

At the 80th Annual State Livestock & Poultry Show, Adison Washington broke barriers for the hearing impaired

Adison Washington
Photo Courtesy: Glenna Gauthier

The best way to describe Adison Washington is as a 9-year-old 3rd grader with a lot of confidence and courage. She attended the Louisiana School for the Deaf in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  It is obvious that Adison is a very smart and quick learner. A dream came true for her when she exhibit two cows at Southern University 80th Annual State Livestock & Poultry Show for this year at the Maurice A. Edmond Livestock Arena, Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Baton Rouge, 

Since 1943, Southern University has provided an opportunity for youth throughout the State of Louisiana to gain valuable knowledge and skills at the Annual State Livestock and Poultry Show. As part of the youth livestock program, students develop responsibility, dedication, decision-making skills, leadership skills, trustworthiness, sportsmanship, and citizenship through the care and handling of live animals.

Adison walked Blade and June with pride and confidence It was the first time a hearing impaired child exhibit an animal at the Livestock and Poultry Show, according to Ricky Brumfield, Blade's owner. When Brumfield learned Adison was deaf over the phone, that didn't bother him. He offered to sponsor her if she wanted to participate in the event. Brumfield made Adison's dream come true.

Glenna Gauthier, Adison's mother was the sign language interpreter,  she was more nervous and afraid
than Adison was.  Adison was interviewed by the local news that morning.  She wanted and was determine  to break down barriers for others with disablities. "I want to show others young people like myself with a disability that they can do anything they choose," Adison said doing her news interview.  She was supported by many of her teachers and classmates with signs.

Adison broke down those barriers for youth with disabilities during the 80th Annual State Livestock & Poultry Show. Her goal was to be the change, and she championed that change with pride and confidence. Adison told her mother that the other children made her feel welcome. In addition she taught Ricky Brumfield, Jr., who assists her, how to communicate with her using sign language.  We will see Adison take on bigger and greater causes to break down barriers for the disabled in the future.

Adison Washington and Blade
with Ricky Brumfield
Photo Courtesy of Ricky Brumfield
Dressed in their costumes

Town of Kentwood 2023 Inaugural Ceremony

Left to Right: Councilman Gary Callihan, Councilman Paul Stewart, 
Mayor Irma T. Gordon, Councilwoman Jakoiya Wilkerson, Councilman Xavier Diamond,
Councilman Micheal Hall
The Town of Kentwood
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

On December 31, 2022, the newly elected officials were sworn in. Irma T. Gordon has been elected mayor. In addition to her role as mayor, she served on the town council. Incumbent Rochell D. Bates pulled 49.4% of the votes, while she led by 50.6%. There was no doubt that the election was tight. 

Jakoiya Wikerson, Paul Stewart, and Michael Hall, newly elected town council members, were sworn in. Before the previous administration, both Michael Hall and Paul Stewart served on the town council. As members of the board, their experience of local government will be an asset. Council members Xavier Diamond and Gary Callihan were re-elected to serve another term. Michael Kazerooni, the current Chief of Police for the town, was unopposed in the election. 

Mayor Gordon seized the moment to speak about some of the issues she would address as mayor. She pointed out that she would be at City Hall on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 to start working. In addition, she stated that she would be available for all matters pertaining to town business affairs. She acknowledged her family, friends, and supporters.

The evening was moderated by former police chief James Rimes, followed by several local ministers and pastors. All elected officials pledged to uphold the laws, policies, and status that govern the town. Thursday, January 5, 2023 will be the first monthly meeting for this year and the new administration. 

As part of  her campaign promise, she promised to be very transparent and that city hall would be open to everyone. She said, "Yes, we should hold each other accountable." She promised to work with residents, businesses, and attract new businesses too Kentwood.