GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.--   Grand Rapids Catholic Central is searching for a new varsity football coach.

Current coach Trip Gallery has announced he will not return for the 2014 season.  Gallery has served as head coach the past two seasons, leading the Cougars to a combined 16-5 record.  He also teaches social studies at Northview High School.

“First, I want to thank Trip for all that he has done for our school and our student athletes.  He’s a first class individual who cares about helping young people succeed,” Hinshaw said.  “I wish him the best, but ultimately we felt it was critical to have our head football coach employed as a full-time staff member.  For reasons I certainly understand, Trip is unfortunately unable to make a career move at this time.” 

PLAINFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich.---The Plainfield Township assessor is leaving her post.

Judy LaFave recently sent a message to Township Superintendent Cameron Van Wyngarden, announcing her plans to retire.  LaFave has served Plainfield Township for more than 30 years.   Van Wyngarden publicly thanked LaFave for her service during the regular board meeting Feb. 3.

LaFave’s retirement will take effect April 1. 

CANNON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – John A. Decker, retired auto dealership owner, announced his candidacy in the Aug. 5, 2014 Republican primary for Michigan’s 73rd House District.

The seat is currently held by Peter MacGregor, who has chosen not to seek re-election and is instead vying for a seat in the Michigan Senate.

“I plan to take the knowledge I gained as a responsible businessman to Lansing and represent the 73rd District with the utmost integrity,” said Decker, who has nearly 25 years experience owning General Motors dealerships. “I am fortunate enough to be retired, but I have the desire to give back to the communities that supported me both as a businessman and personally.”

Decker resides in Kent County’s Cannon Township. He has been married for 30 years to his wife, Connie.