Investigation underway
On Friday, January 12th deputies were dispatched to the 1000 block of S. Walnut Avenue in Everett Township for a shots fired complaint. When deputies arrived, they located a victim on the ground with a gunshot wound to the leg. A preliminary investigation revealed that two males at the residence got into an altercation which led to the shooting. The gunshot victim was a 30-year-old male from Newaygo. He was transported to Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids for treatment. A 38-year-old male from White Cloud was taken into custody at the scene and was charged with Felonious Assault and Felony Firearms. He was lodged in the Newaygo County Jail pending an arraignment.
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Newaygo County Prosecuting Attorney, Worth Stay, announced that Luke Isaac Terpstra, of Grant, was arraigned in the 78th District Court on one count of Explosives – Possession of Bombs with Unlawful Intent, a felony punishable by 15 years and/or $10,000. The charges arose out of an investigation and search of a residence in Grant where bomb and bomb making materials were found. A probable cause conference is set for January 18, 2024, at 9:30 am. A preliminary examination is set for January 25, 2024, at 1:30 pm. Both hearings are scheduled to be held at the 78th District Court in White Cloud, Michigan. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Anyone with information regarding this ongoing investigation is asked to please contact the Grant Police Department at 231-834-7212. Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund Awards Grants
The Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund at Fremont Area Community Foundation recently awarded grants to projects dedicated to improving the health of the Muskegon River and its watershed. This year marks the twenty-first consecutive year the IMESF has supported watershed improvement organizations. Five projects received funding in the 2023 grant cycle, with a total of $59,800 awarded. The IMESF was established at Fremont Area Community Foundation in 2002 through the generosity of BlueTriton Brands and is an endowed fund of the Community Foundation, which means it is a permanent, ever-growing resource. More than $800,000 has been awarded to 25 organizations since the inception of the Fund. “We are grateful for the generosity of BlueTriton Brands and are proud to partner in support of so many outstanding organizations and projects working to conserve and protect the Muskegon River watershed,” said Shelly Kasprzycki, President and CEO of Fremont Area Community Foundation. “We are excited to see the great things that will be accomplished by this year’s grant recipients.” Organizations receiving funding in 2023 include the County of Newaygo, Grant Public Schools, Mecosta Conservation District, and Muskegon Conservation District. A grant to the County of Newaygo will support trail and bridge construction costs on Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam. Remaining grant funds will be used for trail feature work and maintenance. The Dragon will be a 47-mile adventure trail for world-class biking, hiking, running, and outdoor recreation. Twenty-nine miles have been completed so far. Said Nick Smith, Newaygo County Parks and Recreation Director, "Newaygo County is excited to continue our Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund partnership. The county has leveraged these funds over the past years to continue developing and improving the Dragon Trail. This project has drawn over 68,000 trail users to the region in the past 15 months, which generated over $2 million in economic impact for our local businesses and residents. The trail is sustainably designed for visitors to experience the beautiful bluffs, wetlands, ravines, wildlife, trees, and parks around Hardy Pond. By providing a destination trail system highlighting our impressive natural resources, we hope to give visitors and residents a deeper connection and appreciation for the natural environment around them.” Grant Public Schools received a grant for students to plant a rain garden at Ed Henning County Park, which is located just outside of the city of Newaygo and is a popular recreation spot. Through the project, students will increase habitat for pollinators, decrease the amount of stormwater runoff entering the river, and be exposed to environmental careers. Students will also research ways to create eco-protective buffer zones along waterways. This is the second year Grant Public Schools was selected for project funding to help with an ongoing restoration and enhancement project. Said Brett Zuver, Superintendent of Grant Public Schools, “Environmental projects, like the Henning Park Rain Garden, present unique opportunities for young students to learn ways to protect waterways, prevent erosion and pollution from impacting them, and take an active role in the work. The IMESF support is greatly appreciated and necessary for Grant Public Schools to enable students to have this valuable experience.” A grant beneficiary since 2020, Mecosta Conservation District received funding this year to continue its program of hazardous waste collection free of charge for residents of Lake, Osceola, and Mecosta counties; it is the sole hazardous waste disposal option for the area. Residents can safely dispose of pesticides, fertilizers, and other materials that can be toxic to waterways. More than 39,000 pounds of hazardous waste from Mecosta, Osceola, and Lake county residents were collected this year. "Offering a household hazardous waste collection to our residents at no charge has been an important staple in our program to encourage proper disposal that protects the health of our community members and environment, “said Brook Baumann, District Administrator for Mecosta Conservation District. “Properly disposing of household hazardous waste requires licensed contractors and significant financial resources as disposal prices continue to escalate. The Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund support contributes significantly to offsetting these costs and is a key factor in why this program has been successful for many years." Muskegon Conservation District was awarded grants for two projects. One will fund tree planting for bank stabilization along a stretch of the Muskegon River in the Muskegon Creek Game Area adjacent to Mosquito Creek. The project is being undertaken in concert with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The second grant will fund an ecology study of wood turtles, with a goal of identifying nesting areas and habitat. Wood turtles are considered a threatened species in Michigan and their presence is a key bioindicator of a healthy watershed. The project is being conducted in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Sources Wildlife Division, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, John Ball Zoo, and Grand Valley State University. Said Arlene Anderson-Vincent, Natural Resources Manager for Ice Mountain® 100% Natural Spring Water, and member of the Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund Advisory Committee, “This year’s Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund investments represent the diversity of the Muskegon River and the organizations throughout the watershed that work tirelessly to protect, enhance, and improve it. From conservation and preservation to education, this year’s projects will make a difference not only to the watershed’s vitality but also to build a foundation of environmental stewardship in our younger generations.” Grant applications for the Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund are accepted online each year from June 1 until July 15. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the health of the watershed are also invited to contribute to the Fund at any time. More information on the Fund, how to donate, and how to apply for a grant can be found at facommunityfoundation.org/icemountain. Lori Schultz receives Art Wunsch Award
Art Wunsch was a dedicated Board Member at Newaygo County Mental Health from 1986-2007. During that time, he was a strong advocate for serving the client, reducing stigma and developing programs that met their individualized needs. As a recognition of Art’s dedicated service, in 2010 Newaygo CMH created the Art Wunsch award. The Annual award recognizes people in the community who exemplify endless passion and dedication in the promotion of client involvement, empowerment, and the reduction of stigma for those who have developmental disabilities, mental illness and/or substance use disorder. Previous recipients of the award include Art Wunsch, Dr. Robert Gunnell, Gabrielle Blackwell, Ada Linderman, Senator Geoff Hansen, Tyler Slaughter, Gerard Deschaine, Cheryl Parker, Michael Geoghan, Adele Hansen, Kathe Scott and Colleen Quick. The 2023 recipient of the Art Wunsch award is Lori Schultz, former Newaygo County DHHS director. Ms. Schultz retired in February, 2023 after 35 years of service to the County. Newaygo CMH Execituve Director Carol Mills: “Lori has always been a tremendous advocate for children and meeting their needs. She worked tirelessly to improve their lives through counseling, food, shelter and safe parents. Lori never hesitated to implement programs that helped families in Newaygo County. We at Newaygo CMH hope she enjoys a fulfilling well-earned retirement.” During a brief ceremony on December 16th, 2023, Dr. Erich Schafer, of Fremont, was sworn-in as a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy Reserve by Captain Henry Vegter (Retired) of Newaygo. Dr. Schafer is currently employed at Corewell Health Gerber Hospital as a General Surgeon where he serves as the Department Chair of Surgery. He has been assigned to Red Rover Medical Headquarters and will be attending drill at NRC Battle Creek. During the ceremony at the Fremont Area District Library Community Room, friends and family were in attendance. The event was led by close friend and advisor, Scott Swinehart, who served 18 years in the Army and Marine Corps. Pastor Nate Kooistra of Reeman Christian Reformed Church provided the invocation and benediction. A special thank you goes to Newaygo VFW Airman Knowles who presented the colors for the Ceremony. Promise Zone to receive $125,000 over 5 years
At the recent quarterly board meeting on November 21, the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone Board of Directors celebrated a significant milestone with the reception of a generous $25,000 donation from Nestle Gerber Products Company. This marks the beginning of a commendable five-year commitment from Nestle Gerber Products Company, culminating in a substantial $125,000 pledge. Earlier this year, the Promise Zone announced a vital change to its eligibility criteria effective for the Class of 2024. Newaygo County high school graduates with a 2.5 unweighted GPA or higher will now qualify for the Promise Scholarship. This adjustment expands the scope of opportunities for determined students, facilitating their access to post-secondary goals and opportunities. The modification of the GPA criteria underscores the Promise Zone's commitment to ensuring that an even larger number of aspiring students can benefit from its invaluable support and resources. Teaming up with Nestle Gerber Products Company enables the Promise Zone to extend its impact, offering more opportunities for economic growth and contributing to the development of a robust workforce in Newaygo County. “For almost 100 years, the Gerber Product Company has been an integral partner with the City of Fremont and Newaygo County community,” shared Paul Dudek, Senior Site Controller at Nestle Gerber Products Company. “We believe strongly in the value of supporting local young people in their pursuit of higher education. Gerber Products is excited to continue partnering with our local community in the investments of our next generation.” The Newaygo County Area Promise Zone remains dedicated to its mission of empowering students to pursue their post-secondary aspirations without the burden of financial constraints. By easing the financial barriers that frequently impede educational pursuits, the Promise Zone is actively helping to change the cultural perception that college is too expensive and out of reach. Through the availability of the Promise Scholarship, many students are now embracing the belief that higher education is attainable and are proactively preparing for their future. A current Promise Scholar shared, “The Promise Scholarship gives me an opportunity to start my career path without setting me back in college debt. It will help me complete my associate degree for free so that I can transfer and continue my college journey.” Since its inception in 2017, the Promise Zone has disbursed more than $2.5 million in tuition support, benefiting over 300 motivated Newaygo County students who have chosen to pursue their post-secondary aspirations. The Promise Zone is a forward-looking initiative committed to breaking down financial barriers for local students. By providing tuition assistance and fostering educational opportunities, the Promise Zone empowers students to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities. For more information about the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone visit www.promise.zone, email apply@promise.zone or call 231-924-8888. Proceed with caution says AG
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel wants Michigan residents to be aware of home air duct cleaning companies that are perpetuating scams in Michigan. Michigan residents should be aware of fraudsters waiting to take advantage of them using deceptive practices. Some fraudulent companies will launch pop-up ads on social media groups and neighborhood platforms suggesting someone in their neighborhood has used its services. But this is sometimes a lie to hook unsuspecting homeowners. Deceitful air duct cleaning companies, referred to as “blow-and-go” establishments, lure consumers in with rock bottom prices, then add on unnecessary services like costly repairs or mold-removal that cost a great deal more than the initially quoted price. Some of these companies, if they complete the work, do an inferior job or leave the consumer worse off than before, with dirt and contaminants blown from their HVAC systems onto drapes, carpets and furniture. “Everyone wants to ensure that their home is healthy and safe for their family,” Nessel said. “However, it’s important to verify that you are dealing with an honest, reputable company in all home maintenance matters. Beware of predatory business practices and research potential service providers before paying or signing a contract.” Amplifying the tips provided by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), Nessel says red flags you should watch out for are social media posts that:
For information about other home improvement scams, you can review the Department’s Building and Remodeling Advice for Homeowners alert. Michigan consumers who suspect they are the victims of illegal or predatory business practices are encouraged to contact the Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team: Consumer Protection Team P.O. Box 30213 Lansing, MI 48909 517-335-7599 Fax: 517-241-3771 Toll-free: 877-765-8388 Online complaint form Collaborative effort bringing 8 new houses to the city
Story and photos by Charles Chandler Smiles, handshakes, coffee and donuts, dignitaries and big yellow dirt diggers. My goodness what was going on at the corners of South Lester and Pine Hill streets in White Cloud? Progress for sure and soon maybe new White Cloud residents. Around 10:00 AM on Wednesday, December 6th at 17 South Lester Avenue a bunch of folks gathered in White Cloud to celebrate a ribbon cutting and ground breaking for eight new single-family homes. A celebration indeed. White Cloud, like many rural cities and villages in Michigan, has limited and dated housing inventories. This lack of housing is a concrete limitation for attracting new business, as well as professional and skilled workers to our area. These eight houses are special because they fall in that “Workforce Housing" category. The generally accepted definition of workforce housing is housing that is affordable for those earning between 80% and 120% of area median income, or AMI. Households in workforce housing typically earn too much to qualify for programs under HUD. This means these eight new homes will be available for lease to those professional and skilled workers that we need to attract new or grow existing area businesses. The local officials, important participants, and community members that attended the ribbon cutting event included White Cloud Municipal government, City Manager, April Storms, Clerk Kelli Arnold, and White Cloud Fellow Andrew Stafford. Also on hand were City Council members including Amy Barnhard, Lori Shears, Herm Becker, Damon Aunci and Current Mayor Brian Miller. Representing the Fremont Area Community Foundation were CEO and President Shelly Kasprzycki and Community Investment Officer Greg Pocher. Mr. Brian Farkas represented Allen Edwin Homes. Among the other participants and coffee drinkers were local contractor Tim Looy, members from the River Country Chamber of Commerce and a couple of guys from the local press. These new homes were made possible by Michigan’s Workforce Housing Laws enacted last year and a generous grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation. Allen Edwin Homes from Portage, MI will build these eight homes. They will be of modern design, energies efficient, featuring 4 bedroom, 2.5-to-3- baths and 2 or 3 car attached garages. They are expected to be move-in ready by late summer of 2024. After the celebration and back in her City Hall office Manager April Storms provided some additional details about the project. Manager Storms is calm, soft spoken and not given to a lot of hyperbole or melodrama. This demeanor can often shade her quite competent ability to get things done in the messy world of City Governance. The backstory for this successful event begins early in 2022. Manager Storms saw an opportunity for the City and began working as an advocate for and participating in the discussions about Senate Bill 432 governing Workforce Housing. This Senate Bill would facilitate pilot agreements that would allow municipalities to work directly with housing developers. A representative from Allen Edwin Homes, also an advocate of the Bill had also signed in on the discussion. Later the representative contacted April and they began pre project discussions. In the interim the White Cloud City Council enacted a WorkForce Housing Pilot Ordinance that would support the project, the first city in the State of Michigan to do so. Once Senate Bill 432 passed, the City and Allen Edwin Homes developers had a project to build three homes ready to go. Next, the Fremont Area Community Foundation came forward and made a $150,000 contribution to offset infrastructure costs. This generous assistance helped the City and Developer grow the scope of the project from three homes to eight. Community collaboration at its best. This is a great two-million-dollar local development project with an aggressive timeline. You too can follow the progress with a build site drive by or on-line in almost real time. City Manager April Storms mentioned they would post time lapse project photos on the following site. https://www.cityofwhitecloud.org/ A big shout out to the City of White Cloud, The Fremont Area Community Foundation and Allen Edwin Homes for a job well done in meeting the housing needs of our community. North Country National Scenic Trail Granted Unit Status by National Park Service
December 7, 2023 (Lowell, Mich.) The North Country National Scenic Trail is now an official unit of the National Park Service. Unit status provides the North Country National Scenic Trail with official recognition within the National Park Service, and access to additional resources and funding opportunities. It also provides equal legal standing with the other trails and parks that the National Park Service administers. The North Country Trail is the longest of the 11 National Scenic Trails in the United States, stretching 4,800 miles from North Dakota to Vermont. Six of these 11 trails are administered by the National Park Service but at the time of their official National Scenic Trail designation, only three were identified as units: the Appalachian Trail, Natchez Trace Trail, and Potomac Heritage Trail. Unit status was missing, for no clear reason, from wording in the law for the remaining three: the North Country Trail, Ice Age Trail, and New England Trail. This means they were not recognized as units of the National Park Service, and thus, not promoted to the American public. “Now, when the National Park Service tells the story of the amazing scenic and recreational opportunities provided by the National Park System, it will tell our stories too - the stories of all the National Scenic Trails it administers in cooperation with other units of government, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and private landowners,” reflected Tom Gilbert, former National Park Service Superintendent of the North Country National Scenic Trail. “The stewards of these three trails have called for equality for 30 years, so we’re thrilled by Director Sams’ decision,” said Andrea Ketchmark, Executive Director of the North Country Trail Association. “This is such a win for us, our partners, and our volunteers, who work so hard to build, maintain, and protect the trail.” The North Country Trail Association deeply thanks the U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, National Park Service Director Chuck Sams, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), and most importantly, the leadership, volunteers, and supporters of the North Country Trail Association, Ice Age Trail Alliance, Appalachian Mountain Club, and Connecticut Forest and Park Association, who have championed this issue for three decades. Without your voices, we would not be here today. Public Notice: The Family Health Care White Cloud Child and Adolescent Health Center (CAHC) Advisory Council will meet on Monday, December 11, 2023, from noon to 1 p.m. in the CAHC conference room at 555 E. Wilcox Ave. The meeting is open to the public and lunch will be provided. For more information, please call (231) 689-3268. Press conference with Upcycle Prez. reveals issues with EGLE
By Ken De Laat In a press conference held virtually Generate Upcycle President Bill Caesar spoke to the recent decision to shut down operations at the Fremont Regional Digester citing regulatory changes that have made by the Water Division of the Michigan Dept of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) “The liquid fertilizer we apply on fields known as digesting has been consistent since we began operating the site and there is no record that any digesting we have applied has ever contaminated groundwater,” said Caesar. “In Michigan we worked effectively with the solid waste division of EGLE for the first 5 years we operated the Digester. In 2021 however, we received a letter from the Water Resource Division of EGLE informing us they were taking over for the solid waste division. We actively engaged with the team from the Water Resource Division and provided them with an extraordinary amount of data on the composition of our digestate, where we apply it and the conditions under which we apply it. The biggest change in the approach taken by the water resource unit is that they have asserted that the liquid fertilizer we produce and apply on agricultural fields must be regulated like an industrial pollutant, not a nutrient rich fertilizer. Their assertion runs contrary to the approach taken by every other state, province and country where we operate.” Caesar stated that the new approach would require extensive changes in how, where and when digestate is applied. “Farmers who choose to use our liquid fertilizer on their fields would lose the ability to make their own agronomic decisions about when they plant what they plant and how they apply other fertilizers to their farms. The farmers who use our digestrate, a sustainable, organic fertilizer instead of synthetic chemical fertilizer will essentially be penalized by the state of Michigan. Not only are the proposed changes to our permit prohibitively expensive, because huge portions of the fields we currently use would be off limits, but these regulations are also operationally impossible for us to comply with. The Water Resource Division seems to be trying to fix something that isn’t broken. After months of discussion with EGLE we made the very difficult decision to cease operations at the end of December unless and until we can operate under a rational regulatory approach. “We do however think there’s a fix to this problem,” The company is asking the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) to replace the Water Resource Division of EGLE as the primary regulator for the digestate, ‘just as they are for all other fertilizers applied to farms in Michigan.’ “We would like to see MDARD EGLE and the Governor’s Office work together to build a durable regulatory structure for food waste based digesters that would not only enable us to make the incremental investments we currently have on hold.” Facility Manager Leon Scott gave some information about the Digester and spoke about its importance to the community, including the ability to power 3500 homes. He also referenced the workers at the digester including his wife ,daughter and son-in-law and described them as passionate about the work being done at the facility. Fremont City Manager Todd Blake also spoke to the benefits the FRD has provided to the community and the positive working relationship they have had with the city. Then came the questions for Caesar.. What has EGLE specifically said is their primary concern? “Primary concern is about groundwater contamination. They’re concerned about something getting into MI’s groundwater making it undrinkable. “There has been no issue with over application. We have worked under a framework that limits the amount we can put on any field at any given time. I don’t believe there has been any question about what we’ve done in the past. What EGLE is trying to do with the new regulations is to limit to an even greater extent the amount of digestate we can apply. We apply on about 5000 acres of land and we do it in two periods a year: the spring and fall.” Have any meetings been held with EGLE and/or MDARD as yet? “We have not had any formal meetings with MDARD. We have expressed our interest directly to EGLE in a letter that I wrote to EGLE Director Phil Rouse. We understand that EGLE and MDARD have had at least one conversation about this but we do not know what came out of that conversation.” EGLE says the digestate is primarily liquid waste not solid waste. “The Digestate we produce is and has been and always will be primarily a liquid product. It has not changed its composition. Regulation of it as an industrial pollutant as opposed to a nutrient rich fertilizer, to me, has nothing to do whether it is liquid or not. We have heard assertions from some people at EGLE that the material we take in today is different from the material we took in when we first opened the digester, that the digestate we produce today is fundamentally different than than the digestate we were producing originally. That is false. Absolutely patented false. We submit a report to EGLE with exactly what materials we brought into the facility and where we applied it. It’s no mystery to them what we've been doing.” Why was the decision made to close in December when EGLE has allowed the facility to continue operations until spring? “We received the letter in December of 2021 saying the Water Resource Division was taking over for the solid resource division. We are 23 months into this process. In July of this year fully 20 months after we started this process we received the first draft permit from EGLE. We responded in detail about why it would not work for us. “The EGLE team first arrived in Fremont to look at the site and to see the process of digesting application in September of this year. I cannot continue to run this site with the risk of the regulatory structure that they have proposed for us. We have been working on an extension since January of our original agricultural use authorization. They extended it once through June and again through December and offered to extend it again through March 21st. “ Let me tell you why March 21st is a very interesting date. We are allowed to land apply our digestate at certain times of year. For the next 3 months I would be building up digestate for application in the spring without any clarity of what regulatory regime I would be required to match that digestate in. To me that’s unacceptable. I don’t think we’re going to find a solution with the approach EGLE has propositioned us with. The fact that they want to treat this as an industrial pollutant doesn’t work at all for the material we’re producing. I could continue to take extensions but it won’t solve the problem and I would have an unbounded financial risk by doing that.” What explanation were you given as to why the regulation was moved to the Water Resource Group in the first place? I’m going to fight the urge to be a little flippant here. EGLE determined that our digestate, which has always been a liquid, was a liquid. And would be better managed by the Water Resource group than the Solid Waste group. I don’t have another explanation.” Asked about violations, Caesar stated they haven’t had any the last two years He stated in the 5 years previous they had a couple related to odors that were addressed by investing about a million dollars in creating covered lagoons to eliminate that problem. It seems the ball has landed in the State’s court on this issue. Whether EGLE and/or MDARD step forward and respond to the concerns laid out by the Upcycle folks or not will go a long way in determining the future of the FRD. Public Notice: The Family Health Care Grant Child & Adolescent Health Center Advisory Council will meet on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Peer Coach Room at Grant Middle School. The public is invited, and lunch will be provided. Please sign in at the school office when you arrive at the middle school. To RSVP, call (231) 834-1350. If you are unable to attend in person, you may access the meeting virtually at meet.google.com/VXG-OCBA-BQH or by calling (929) 251-5532 and using the PIN 560340384#. EGLE shift may spell closure for facility
In an email sent to their customers Generate Upcycle who operate the Fremont Regional Digester stated they will cease to accept materials at the Fremont facility as of December 29th. The action taken is due to a change in the interpretation of regulations by the Water Resource Division of Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). The digestate produced at the facility and distributed for years as fertilizer has been recently classified as a pollutant by the agency. The closure of the Digester would mean the loss of 17 jobs but the larger picture points to a significant economic effect to our region particularly with regard to the Gerber plant, a primary user of the facility and the local farms that have benefitted from the easy access to the fertilizer the Digester produces. From the email: “Although this situation is unfortunate, we believe there is still an opportunity for Michigan to lead in this industry. Our primary goal is to partner with state policymakers to adopt a long-term regulatory framework that recognizes anaerobic digestion as a safe, sustainable, and beneficial technology vital to achieving the State of Michigan’s waste, energy, and climate goals. A new regulatory framework is critical to developing common sense, data-driven standards that reflect the process and outputs of recycling food waste, generating organic fertilizer for local farms, and producing clean, renewable energy to support Michigan’s economy.” Supporters of keeping the Digester open might consider reaching out to our people in Lansing, State Senator Rick Outman and State Rep. Joe Fox. Even though the legislature is closed until January, a truly lengthy Holiday Break, perhaps they might be willing to look into this. Facility will add 40 jobs to the region
NEWAYGO, MICH (NOVEMBER 13, 2023): Today, Mercury Broadband, a Kansas-based high speed internet and digital phone service provider, Midwest Industrial Development (MID), a full-service design-build industrial and commercial general contractor, the City of Newaygo, and The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership (NCEDP), powered by The Right Place announced Mercury Broadband’s plans to build a regional service center in Newaygo County. Mercury Broadband has chosen to expand their footprint in Michigan, after winning rural market contracts in the area. To facilitate this expansion, they have contracted with MID to identify exact locations and manage the construction process. Once Newaygo County was identified, MID representative Perry Pelton worked with Julie Burrell, Newaygo County’s Economic Development Director, to locate an exact site and obtain additional resources and incentives to support the project. "Working with Julie at Newaygo County’s EDC has been seamless and professional. We cover the entire Midwest and have yet to run across a more business friendly and supportive city and county,” commented Perry Pelton, MID. The $2.3M project includes the new construction of a 12,000 sq ft facility, and adding up to 40 jobs to the region. Construction is estimated to be complete in Q1 2024. “We are very excited to build our Newaygo-based Service Center as we expand our broadband services into rural communities in Michigan,” said CEO of Mercury Broadband, Garrett Wiseman. “There are many areas in the state of Michigan that are in desperate need of better options for High-Speed Internet, and we are delighted to bring reliable broadband into these communities.” “We were thrilled to aid the MID team in securing a location and incentive package for Mercury Broadband,” shared Julie Burrell, Newaygo County’s Economic Development Director and Regional Partner Lead for The Right Place. “These high-skill positions are a perfect addition to Newaygo County’s economy.” Michigan Works! West Central supported this project with a $115,679 workforce development package. The City of Newaygo supported this addition to its industrial park through a tax abatement, as approved by City Council on November 13, 2023. “We are excited to see further development in our city and welcome the additional jobs it will bring. The work of Mercury Broadband will help to provide a needed service for rural Michigan,” said Jon Schneider, Newaygo City Manager. Front Row: Newaygo Police Chief Georgia Andres, Newaygo Fire Chief David Otteren, Undersheriff Chad Palmiter, Grant Police Chief Brad Wade, WC Police Chief Dan Evans, NC Board of Commissioners Chair Bryan Kolk, Emergency Services Director Abby Watkins; Back Row- Fremont Fire Chief Brian Hettinger, NC Sheriff Bob Mendham, Central Dispatch Director Phil Smalligan and Fremont Police Chief Tim Rodwell Our Public Safety Departments achieve 100% rating
At their regular meeting on Wednesday October 25th the Newaygo County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution recognizing the County’s Public Safety Departments for achieving 100% compliance with the National Incident Management System (NIMS). “The concept of National Incident Management Training (NIMS) was a product of FEMA and provides a structure for all Emergency Response units to follow to provide the most effective approach to major emergencies and situations,” said Board Chair Bryan Kolk. “We recognized the exceptional extra work that Emergency Response teams have trained on to be able to provide an organized and unified response to Newaygo County emergencies. Our citizens regularly see the police, fire and ambulance services going about their daily duties without realizing the behind the scene preparedness going on anticipating the next major call for service. The Board of Commissioners is happy to recognize these efforts.” Emergency Services Director Abby Watkins: “NIMS compliancy achievement is important for two key reasons. First, it keeps the agency/department eligible for approximately 98 different federal preparedness assistance in the form of grants, cooperative agreements, and direct contracts. “Second, NIMS provides the groundwork for enhanced cooperation and interoperability among emergency responders. NIMS incorporates incident management best practices developed and proven by thousands of responders and authorities across America. These practices, coupled with consistency and national standardization, allow us to protect lives, stabilize the emergency, and preserve property more efficiently. “Newaygo County Emergency Services is charged with promoting, tracking, and reporting NIMS compliancy on an annual basis to the State of Michigan and Federal Emergency Management Agency. While the target benchmark to maintain eligibility is 75%, the nine departments recognized were able to achieve 100% compliance with all personnel completing required training. These departments pride themselves in being committed to providing the needed resources to equip and train their emergency personnel in order to enhance efficiencies within the department and effectively respond to high consequence disasters and emergencies within the community.” The Departments recognized: Newaygo County Jail Station 12 Newaygo Fire Department Newaygo County Central Dispatch Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Fremont Police Department Fremont Fire Department Newaygo Police Department Grant Police Department White Cloud Police Department WHITE CLOUD, MICH (NOV, 3, 2023): Today, The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership (NCEDP), powered by The Right Place, Inc., announced a new leadership program launching in January 2024. This program is aimed at advancing the growth and development of future leaders in Newaygo County. Designed to be applicable across a multitude of industries and age groups, the intent of this new program is to encourage local employers to recognize and empower their teams and provide resources to grow future leaders. NCEDP leadership hopes to equip participants with the knowledge, skills and connections necessary to address the region’s challenges and opportunities, making a positive impact on Newaygo County. Participants will meet once per month for three hours between January and June 2024, and will learn about self-awareness, developing internal entrepreneurial characteristics, civility, time & stress management, conflict resolution, project management and more. The sessions will be facilitated by various industry professionals, and participants will receive complimentary materials throughout the program. The inaugural cohort of this program will consist of 12 individuals from diverse backgrounds and geographies within Newaygo County. Individuals who wish to nurture their leadership potential and aspire to make a positive impact can visit bit.ly/leadershipnewaygocounty to apply. The application deadline is December 1, 2023. For more information, contact Julie Burrell at burrellj@rightplace.org. About The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership. The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, powered by The Right Place, is an advisory board under the Newaygo County Board of Commissioners and is responsible for oversight and leadership of economic development in Newaygo County. Opening Day at McDuffie Creek Nature Preserve Story and photos by Charles Chandler Sometimes very good things happen along the margins of our beautiful and diverse Newaygo County. On Saturday October 21st about 30 folks gathered way up in northern Newaygo County to celebrate the opening of the 300-acre McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan (LCWM) was our host and the brilliant maples and burbling Little South Branch of the Pere Marquette River was the perfect venue for this important event. “LCWM is a non-profit land conservancy that works with private landowners and governmental bodies to permanently protect and care for the land. These often-include West Michigan’s best examples of diverse forests, grassy fields, flowering meadows, marshy wetlands, and rolling sand dunes. These significant habitats and ecosystems are home to a rich variety of plants and wildlife, some of which are now threatened or endangered species.” For today’s event there was a talented guitarist, a delicious spread of fruit, cheeses, meats, and an excellent selection of beverages and desserts. The LCWM staff had abundant seating, a shelter from a possible rain shower and a small Dais for the celebratory event speakers. The speakers were LCWM staff members Conservation Director, Justin Heslinga, Executive Director Kim Karns, Board Member John Scholtz, and 101 District Representative Joe Fox. All spoke about the unique value the McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve provides to the community and West Michigan. Justin emphasized that the 300-acre McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve is a perfect example of that natural beauty and rich diversity. The Preserve encompasses wetlands, uplands and both the Little South Branch of the Pere Marquette River and McDuffee Creek. The speakers thanked the donors, countless volunteers, LCWM staff and many partners that made the acquisition and today’s event possible. The attending fishermen pointed out that the Little South Branch of the Pere Marquette is also a state designated Wild and Scenic River. It is one of Michigan’s premier natal streams providing protected spawning habitat for salmon, steelhead and trout. This was evident by the many King Salmon that were busily completing their spawning cycle in the nearby stream and totally ignoring the curious observers and event festivities. It was interesting to note that most participants stood in small groups rather than sitting. After the short speeches by the Land Conservancy staff, it was obvious as to why. They were anxiously awaiting the guided tour and the opportunity to hit the trails and explore this unique new Preserve. In parking lot interviews with Justin and Executive Director Kim Karns some additional information was gathered. Justin mentioned that the Preserves streams and wetlands were invaluable but the uplands were also. One of the LCWM aspirational projects is to return some areas of the Preserve uplands to natural oak savannas. These important savannas are the preferred habitat of the indigenous and federally endangered Blue Karner Butterfly. Director Karns restated that one of the goals of LCWM was to keep nature nearby. The LCWM focuses on an eight-county area and was really happy to have the opportunity to work in Newaygo County to help preserve the natural and rural character of the community. She wanted to thank all the private donors, government agencies and the Foundations for their contributions. The Community Foundation for Muskegon County and The Fremont Area Community Foundation supported this project. Director Karns noted that LCWM needs to raise an additional $140.000 for infrastructure projects and to continue restoring the preserve to its natural habitat.
As our competent and colorful Drain Commission Mr. Dale Twing often reminds me all politics and successful watershed conservation happens at the local level and through collaboration. After months of negotiations, fundraising and hard work the 300-acre McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve, located at 11510 N. Walnut Avenue, Bitely, MI 49309 is now open to the public. It will be protected in perpetuity and this legacy will be enjoyed by future generations and that is a very good thing. I strongly recommend you gather the brood and head up north and gently explore this great example of Newaygo County’s diverse woods and waters. For additional information about the Land Conservancy and to make those so very important donations please click on the following link. https://naturenearby.org/ Gerber FCU Employees Give Generously to United Way Campaign!
FREMONT, Mich. (10/27/2023) Gerber FCU employees presented a check in the amount of $14,993.06 to the United Way of the Lakeshore. Pictured (L to R) are James Rynberg, United Way of the Lakeshore Newaygo County Director and Mayor of Fremont; John Buckley, Gerber FCU President/CEO; Jason Finch, United Way of the Lakeshore Newaygo County; Ellen Davis, Gerber FCU Vice President - Human Resources; and J.J. Lewis, United Way of the Lakeshore Newaygo County. “Once again, United Way of the Lakeshore – Newaygo County is very pleased to have the employees of Gerber Federal Credit Union help lead our annual campaign. The employees and leadership understand that the ‘giving back’ part of life continues to assist our supported agencies and help lift people out of negative circumstances. Members of the Newaygo County Community Committee could not be prouder of this wonderful organization; we appreciate the collaboration and on-going association with this valued community partner,’ said James Rynberg. Gerber Federal Credit Union was founded here, and we’re focused on growing here. We have two branches located in Fremont and one in Newaygo. Stop in or visit www.GerberFCU.com to learn why Newaygo County trusts Gerber FCU as their financial partner. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fremont Area Community Foundation 4424 W 48th Street Fremont, MI 49412 231.924.5350 Contact: Patti Wheater Senior Communications Officer Friday, October 20, 2023 Community Foundation Holds Fall Donors Luncheon More than 70 people gathered for Fremont Area Community Foundation’s annual Fall Donors Luncheon on October 18. The luncheon was held at the Black Box at the Dogwood Center for Performing Arts. Shelly Kasprzycki, the Community Foundation’s president and CEO, provided an update on some of the organization’s recent work. She spoke about the recent launch of the Housing Partnership Fund, which has awarded its first three grants to support local housing creation. She also highlighted the work of the Youth Advisory Committee and the Community Foundation’s continuing priority of increasing educational attainment. “Philanthropy is always changing,” said Kasprzycki, “But our most important constant is all of you.” Kasprzycki then introduced the first of three brief presentations from longtime partners of the Community Foundation. Dick and Carol Dunning spoke about the inspiration for the agriculture scholarship they created. Dick Dunning talked about being the fourth generation on his family’s farm and shared that “agriculture ran deep in my blood.” Carol Dunning also talked about the influence of family. “I grew up in a family where giving was the norm,” she said. “My parents established a scholarship at the Community Foundation, and I was so excited to tell my dad that we started a scholarship too, and that it was all because of him.” Following the Dunnings, Todd DeKryger—a current trustee of the Community Foundation—spoke about the legacy of his parents, Dr. Maynard and Lavina DeKryger. After his father received a scholarship, “he was floored that people here would give their money to help him go to college,” said DeKryger. “He wanted to come back here and to give back to the community that helped him so much.” Maynard and Lavina DeKryger went on to create scholarships at the Community Foundation that help students pursuing careers in healthcare. They also mentored others in the community, including Dr. Jerry and Suzanne Van Wieren, who spoke at the conclusion of the luncheon. The Van Wierens originally moved to the area as part of a commitment to work in an underserved area for two years after their medical training. However, they stayed on, opening their own practice when the Grant hospital closed. “Our 41 years in Grant have been a blessing to us,” said Suzanne Van Wieren, a family nurse practitioner. In the early days of their practice, other local doctors including Maynard DeKryger would cover for them when they took family vacations. When they offered to pay Dr. DeKryger for his time, he would tell them to consider donating to the scholarship fund instead. The Van Wierens have since included the DeKryger scholarship in their will to honor their mentors and to help the next generation of healthcare professionals. “One of my favorite meditations is a prayer of Saint Francis: ‘For it is in giving that we receive,’” said Jerry Van Wieren. “We have received much from this community, and it is only natural we would want to give some back.” For Immediate Release For Further Information: Marianne Boerigter, Executive Director Dogwood Center for the Performing Arts Phone 231.924.8885 e-mail marianneboerigter@gmail.com Kristina Koller at Dogwood on November 3 Eclectic jazz vocalist Kristina Koller will perform in the Dogwood Center's Black Box on Friday, November 3 at 7:30 p.m. She will be presenting music from her latest project “No One is Alone” which features songs from classic musicals West Side Story, Into the Woods, Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar, as well as others. Selecting songs she embraced over the years performing musical theater, Koller re-arranges them with flair weaving funk, jazz and neo-soul into the mix creating a captivating twist on familiar show tunes. Always innovative and pushing the limit, Kristina Koller is making her mark in the music world. As an evolving jazz-centric artist, Kristina has developed into a highly individual songwriter, arranger and vocalist. Koller creates music that crosses generations, while still embracing the history and mood of traditional jazz. She arranges tunes in unique ways, pushing the boundaries of vocal jazz. Kristina revamps classic material while retaining their essence, putting her own winning personality and fresh ideas into the music and lyrics that she interprets Growing up just outside of New York City, Kristina was exposed to a wide array of music and dance which markedly influenced her at an early age. She performed in youth musical theater and eventually branched out artistically, embracing solo performance as a teen singer-songwriter and vocalist in alt-rock bands. Her artistic thirst reached into classical art songs, opera and vocal jazz. On scholarship she studied at The Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz and completed her formal music education at The City College of New York. Kristina developed her musical voice in the NYC jazz scene, performing at venerable haunts such as Smalls, Smoke, Minton's, Mezzrow, as well as The Apollo Theater. Tickets are $15.00 and are available online at www.dogwoodcenter.com, at the Dogwood Box Office, or at NCCA-Artsplace in downtown Fremont or click here! The Dogwood Center Box Office is open Tuesday - Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. For information, phone 231.924.8885. The Dogwood Center is located one mile east of downtown Fremont. Dogwood Center for the Performing Arts, 4734 S. Campus Court, Fremont, MI 49412 Newaygo County Awarded for Excellence
Newaygo County, MI. – The Michigan National Guard has presented an Award for Excellence to the Newaygo County Local Emergency Planning Team for leadership, effort, and support which positively impacted the Michigan National Guard’s emergency preparedness during the Northern Exposure 2023 disaster exercise. Annually, Newaygo County participates in a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) required emergency preparedness drill testing emergency notification and public warning systems for the Rogers, Hardy, and Croton hydroelectric generating plants on the Muskegon River. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requires hydroelectric facilities to be able to quickly notify residents and visitors of any developing emergency at the plants. During this test, local emergency plans for emergency evacuation of the Muskegon River are also tested. Over the past year, Newaygo County Local Emergency Planning Team partnered with Consumers Energy, the State of Michigan Emergency Operations Center, the United States Coast Guard, and the Michigan National Guard to further develop emergency procedures, resources, and relationships needed to respond to a failure situation at the Hardy hydroelectric generating plant. Each month a focused, discussion-based exercise was held testing various components of dam failure response plans. This process generated awareness of the expected impacts, response challenges, and resources needed to effectively respond to and recover from a catastrophic failure. “If our community ever experiences another situation like 1986, we will need all the help we can get from our state and federal partners,” said Newaygo County Emergency Services Director Abby Watkins. “Building those relationships now helps us to be better prepared for any disaster our community may experience.” This effort led up to the annual required drill named “Operation Swift Response”, which took place on August 15, 2023. This year, the drill had a much different feel as the local, regional, and State Emergency Operations Centers were fully activated during this test. Operation Swift Response was co sponsored by the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP-EMHSD) and Newaygo County. Over 52 agencies and 140 participants were involved in this exercise. “This exercise was a great success for all partners involved which included participants from local, state, federal, and private sector agencies,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney state deputy director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “The realistic exercise allowed us to test our state capabilities. There are many lessons learned to improve our state’s emergency response plans.” “We are grateful to Newaygo County for their continued partnership and the opportunity to train alongside local, state, and federal partners. Training events like Northern Exposure-Operation Swift Response allow the Michigan National Guard Staff to safely refine procedures and develop relationships while operating in a simulated environment requiring coordinated support to civil authorities,” said Brigadier General Jeffery Terrill the Director of Joint Staff, Michigan National Guard. Senior Manager of Dam Safety from Consumers Energy, Mr. Scott Knight also commented, “Through Director Watkins’ leadership, her amazing team has not only been excellent to work with throughout the many years of our partnership, but they exceed normal expectations regularly and are one of the most forward-thinking teams that we work with across the state.” Since Operation Swift Response, local and state agencies have been working to identify lessons learned and corrective measures for improvement. “One of the benefits of participating in preparedness exercises is we learn what works and what needs to be adjusted before a life- threatening situation occurs,” stated Director Watkins. “This drill allowed us an opportunity to test new technology, equipment, and resources before a disaster. We learned a lot about some of our systems that we never would have otherwise.” Newaygo County would like to thank all the jurisdictions and agencies who have worked together and taken the time to host training, develop response procedures, and coordinate capabilities over the past year. By working together, we will help to ensure the safety and security of Newaygo County and all those in which we serve. |
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