 Two from the Cloud QB squad
White Cloud Splashes Victories at Swim N Win! by Coach Stephen Smith Splish splashing into quiz bowl action over the weekend, the White Cloud Varsity Quiz Bowl team competed at the Swim N’ Win Tournament held at Kalamazoo Christian High School on December 7, 2024. The invitational featured 24 teams hailing from Michigan and Indiana. The White Cloud Indians posted a record of 5-3 against high caliber teams with experience at both the state and national level. While the team finished in 7th place overall, the Indians were 2nd place amongst Class C-D squads, qualifying for NAQT Nationals yet again in the process. In morning pool play, the quintessential quartet vanquished DeWitt A 230-65, triumphed over White Pigeon D 180-20, and dismantled Roscommon 205-120. The courageous contingent faltered against St Joseph A (IN) (135-220), but bounced back, trouncing Kalamazoo Christian B (155-90). Pool time in the afternoon matches started with a victory against St. Joseph B (235-125). The energetic ensemble unfortunately fell to a dominant Traverse City Central A squad and to a resurgent Holland A lineup to conclude the tournament. Nonetheless, the terrific team amassed an impressive 1,340 points for the competition and is continuing to build into a force to be reckoned with in the future. In a whirlpool of scoring, Senior Captain Wyatt Karnes soaked the competition with an impressive 205 points, which led the team. Jarrett Warlick unleashed a tidal surge of 195 points, drenching the competition in yet another standout performance. Liam Povey provided a steady current of points with 90, keeping the team afloat during crucial rounds. Mason D’Lamater splashed in with 70 points, providing an amazingly well-balanced team effort for the outing. Look to see the formidable foursome back in action next year at the Mitten Cup II held in Mt. Pleasant and the CSAA League starting on January 15, 2025. The team would like to thank Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie and Assistant Coach Arnie Baker, parents, staff, donors, and all the good people in the community for their support as well. Cloud Battles at Spartan Harvest Throwdown by Coach Stephen Smith Continuing to ferociously attack any level of quiz bowl opposition, the White Cloud Varsity combatants ventured to yet another autumnal clash on Saturday, November 23, 2024. The Spartan Harvest Throwdown, held under the auspices of Michigan State University’s Academic Competition, featured 28 top-tier programs and 118 exceptional players, hailing from across the state of Michigan. With enthusiasm unknown to mankind, the Indians (6-4) battled all day and night in preparation for conference, state, and national contests. In the morning rounds, the “quizessential” quintet experienced considerable success against tremendously talented teams. Snapping off three consecutive victories, the fearsome foursome dispatched DeWitt C (280-210), dominated Brethren (325-75), and triumphed over Kalamazoo Christian B in a tightly contested battle (190-180). Okemos C outlasted the Indians in a close game (240-250) to round out the morning matches. Maneuvering into the afternoon session, White Cloud’s contingent faltered against John Adams B and Grosse Pointe South, who finished second overall in the tournament. In a thrilling comeback, the incredible Indians defeated Detroit Catholic Central D on the final question with a result of 195-185. As the academic throwdown moved into the evening, the exuberant ensemble picked up a victory against Ludington A. The valiant victors showcased their stamina and endurance in the late stages of the tournament by avenging their early morning loss to Okemos C with a win (185-65). The sole defeat for the mighty Cloud warriors was against Williamston B (90-190). The hardship of defeat will undoubtedly lead to more success in the future at state and national competitions. Nevertheless, White Cloud remained the highest rated Class C-D team in the invitational with a 14th place finish. Looking at the exploits of individual players, the sensational squad was led by senior Jarrett Warlick, who unloaded in a scoring barrage of 330 points, earning himself accolades as the 18th overall scorer. Exhibiting yet another quality outing for himself, Captain Wyatt Karnes blasted out 205 points, placing 41st out of 118 performers. Contributing a healthy portion, Liam Povey popped off 110 points. Mason D’Lamater fired up 50 points, and Brian Loveless capped off 15, as the pair platooned in the fourth spot on the gallant group. Coach Stephen Smith and the team would like to specifically thank Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie, assistant coaches Arnie Baker, Kiranna Reynolds, and Cameron Karnes and Dallas Dowling. In addition, the team would like to extend their gratitude to all the parents, teachers, staff, administrators, donors, and community members who support the team. Without you, none of the team’s success would be possible. The White Cloud Varsity players will be back in action Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Kalamazoo Christian for the Swim N’ Win Tournament.
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 L to R: GADL Staff Stephanie Inglehart, Jessica Hunt, Great Start Staff Sara Loss, Christina Yuhasz, Karen Clark  VanFossen Family: Savannah, Tristan & Oliander “We think that the Story Walk is a great idea to help active kids focus on reading. They can walk and read the story at the same time. We plan to come back as a family to see the new stories when they come.” On Monday, November 25th, the Newaygo County Great Start Collaborative (GSC) dedicated its first permanent Story Walk at the Grant Area District Library. Despite the cold and rainy weather, several families, staff and Great Start Collaborative partners gathered to celebrate the first of many stories to be featured at this location. “A Story Walk is a way to combine physical activity with literacy. It is an innovative way to get people of all ages out walking while reading children’s books. Pages of a book are transformed into signs that are then displayed out on a walking path guiding children and families through an interactive and engaging reading experience set against a natural backdrop. The goal of the project is to help build children’s interest in reading while encouraging healthy outdoor activity for both adults and children,” states Great Start Coordinator, Karen Clark The Story Walk project is one of the strategies of the Great Start Collaborative’s work plan and commitment to promoting literacy, family engagement, and physical activity for local families with children birth to age eight. Members of the GSC’s early literacy committee, including former GADL children’s librarian Shelly Patterson, were integral in the planning of this project. There were 18 viewing displays purchased to showcase stories throughout the year. They are made of recycled rubber, weather resistant, and made to last many years. All the displays are angled and placed low to the ground for easy viewing for children of all ages. GADL’s new children’s librarian, as of November, Stephanie Inglehart, is excited about her role at the library and the addition of the Story Walk. “We at GADL are all very excited for this opportunity to bring a Story Walk installation to our community. Families are encouraged to stop by and explore the installation while reading a story together. Stories will be changed periodically so stop in and see what’s new. Families are reminded to regularly check the GADL website, www.grantlibrary.net, for updated information regarding both the Story Walk and programming and events at the library.” Jessica Hunt, GADL Director - “We would like to thank the Great Start Collaborative for purchasing these quality displays that will last many years, and to Artisan Building and Design for volunteering their time to install the displays free of charge.” Monday’s event featured the book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen. Attendees walked the property grounds of the Grant Area District Library and were visited by a friendly bear along the way. They also received free copies of the book, as well as enjoyed cookies and hot cocoa. The GSC also has several temporary Story Walk books that can be set up for a day or two at locations, such as preschools, childcare centers, libraries, parks, and/or events. They are installed using metal yard sign frames. Recently, the GSC provided Story Walks to NCRESA’s Building Bridges preschools for family literacy nights and the Great Start Halloween Walk. “This project will have a big impact on the community. It is promoting literacy, physical activity, and family engagement.” Phil Green, Senior Program Officer, TrueNorth Community Services. “If our GSC continues to receive literacy funds through the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP), our plan is to purchase at least one permanent Story Walk per year to be placed in great walking locations throughout the county,” states Clark. “We are currently looking into new locations and enthusiastic partners in this project.” If you are that enthusiastic partner or are interested in learning more about other early literacy initiatives, such as Talking is Teaching and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, please reach out to Karen Clark at 231-652-3604 or [email protected]. If you are interested in learning about more family friendly literacy activities and events, follow the Newaygo County Great Start Family Coalition Facebook page. The Story Walk is a project of the Newaygo County Great Start Collaborative, overseen by NCRESA. Funding was provided by a grant through the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential. Additional Info. The Benefits of a Story Walk Story Walk provides early literacy opportunities to young children. Sharing the reading of a Story Walk book stimulates and fosters the development of strong listening and speaking skills. Story Walk also helps to build a child’s vocabulary which is important to thinking and learning. Developing early literacy skills leads to better preparation for school. Story Walk provides a teaching moment for a child’s first teacher – their family. Children and their families can read the book together then discuss the text, illustrations and meaning of a great book. Many Story Walk books have a theme: kindness, anyone can make a difference in someone’s life, a love for nature, accepting differences, and more. Story Walk provides a wonderful avenue for outreach and collaboration. Story Walk is a tool to bring the library out to the community with the goal of increasing visibility of the library. Some people may experience Story Walk at a school or park and never walk into the library. Story Walk may be the gateway for people to come to the library.  Families enjoyed snacks, crafts, and storytime before heading outside to the Story Walk.
 Children reading their personal copies of the story as they walk along the Story Walk.  By Coach Stephen Smith In the heart of the fall season, the spirited White Cloud Quiz Bowl teams showcased their competitive fire at the 18th Annual Holland Invitational over the past weekend. Focusing specifically on White Cloud Varsity A, the valiant vanguard secured victories against Saugatuck (155-60), Hopkins (140-110), Traverse City B (175-75), and White Cloud B (270-0). However, the team faltered in hard-fought battles against John Adams B, Kalamazoo Christian A in a bitter overtime match, and a rematch with Saugatuck. Individually, Junior Liam Povey led the charge with an impressive 225 points. Senior Captain Wyatt Karnes followed closely with 195, while Brian Loveless contributed 105 points—his best performance as a varsity player. Mason D’Lamater rounded out the team effort with 40 points, exemplifying White Cloud’s depth and ability. Meanwhile, Varsity B gained valuable experience and tallied 305 points as a team. Landon Edwards led this determined squad with 105 points, while Junior Captain Charlotte Karnes added 50. Andi Gordon and Annabelle Bird each contributed 30 points, showcasing their outstanding potential. Building on their momentum, White Cloud’s junior varsity teams continued to impress. JV A claimed victories over John Adams JV A (220-120), White Cloud C (180-40), and Saugatuck (175-135). Sophomore Trysten Tancock was a standout performer, leading the team with 290 points. Sophomore Captain Arysn Balke added 90 points, while Zeke Hensley achieved a career-best 85 points. Kacie Kailing chipped in with 10 points, and Rhoen Wade provided crucial morale support and assistance on bonus questions. In additional junior varsity action, JV B triumphed in a friendly match against White Cloud JV C (130-100). Freshman Captain Brayden Perdue continued his exceptional season, leading his team with 300 points. Kate McHaney followed with a superb 250 points, while Kristy Irwin and Jay Fessenden contributed 40 and 20 points, respectively. Adriana Alvarez-Smith made her debut, assisting with bonus questions. JV C delivered a thrilling performance, eking out a narrow victory against Saugatuck (130-125). Lilly Ulmen led her team with 100 points, while Captain Leah Vining added 70. Lukas Huff marked his first points as a player with a solid 80, and Quin Rose rounded out the scoring with 55. Coach Stephen Smith and the entire White Cloud Quiz Bowl team extend their gratitude to Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie and assistant coaches Arnie Baker, Allison Fetterly, Adam Fitzmaurice, and Jarrett Warlick for their steadfast support. The team also thanks parents for their invaluable assistance with transportation and meals. Their collective efforts make White Cloud’s success possible. Next up, the Varsity squad will compete at the inaugural Spartan Harvest Throwdown, hosted by Michigan State University on Saturday, November 23, 2024.  Attention! Newaygo County Non-Profits:
Grant High School is looking for community service opportunities for our HS students. If you have any activities that our high school students could participate in to earn their community service hours, please contact Principal Josh Delamater at [email protected]t.  A bird's eye view of the event- Photo by Marianne Boerigter The 13th Annual River Country Chamber Charity Auction was held at the Black Box at the Dogwood Center on Thursday, November 7th. We reached out to River Country Chamber Event Director Rachael Porter for a little info on the annual extravaganza. “This was a tremendous success thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, "stated Ms. Porter. " We are thrilled to have partnered with Love INC of Newaygo County to raise funds for their Rooms of Refuge program, which provides shelter and support to displaced families right here in our own backyard. “Each year, our event committee carefully considers nominations from our chamber’s 501c-3 members. It's always a difficult decision, given the number of outstanding causes our members represent. However, this year we were especially eager to highlight the Rooms of Refuge program and raise awareness for the vital work Love INC does in our community.” “We were very honored to have been selected for the River Country Chamber Charity Auction this year!” said Love INC Executive Director Traci Slager. “The support we received will literally make the difference for our program guests between being stuck in their circumstances or being able to get into their own apartment. "The funds will allow us to provide Rooms of Refuge guests who have completed program goals the financial assistance they need to transition into permanent housing—security deposits, furniture/household items, utilities, or whatever they need to get them to that next step of self-sufficiency." "We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to connect our community in such a meaningful way," said Porter. "Love INC offers a range of life-changing programs and resources that make a real difference in the lives of Newaygo County residents, and it was inspiring to see so many come together to support this important cause. Love INC's ED Slager added, “Since launching the Rooms of Refuge program in Newaygo County, Love INC has been blown away by the positive response of the community. People know housing is an issue and want to help. We are so grateful for the opportunity the Chamber gave us to highlight this much-needed program!” For more info on Love INC and the Roms of Refuge program visit their website at https://loveincnewaygo.com/  Native Asters and seed heads Wild Ones Newaygo Region & Newaygo County Environmental Coalition (NCEC) are hosting a Native Prairie Seed Collecting foray on Saturday, November 16 at 10 a.m. It will take place outside at the Fremont Area Community Foundation Native Prairie, 4424 W. 48th St, Fremont, 49412. Registration via Eventbrite is recommended. “Collecting native plant seeds is a great way to increase native plants in your yard and garden,” states Sarah Pregitzer who will lead this event. “You will learn about the ethical ways to collect native plant seeds; how to identify native vs non-native plants and seeds; and how to keep them viable until you plant them.” “In fact, if you come out and collect seeds on November 16, you can join us in January for the Winter Seed Sowing Class,” adds Katie Clark of NCEC. “Why pay for native plants and seeds when you can collect and grow them for free!” Sarah Pregitzer is a founder of the Newaygo Invasive Plants Project and a Board Member of NCEC. “Dress for the weather!” urges Sarah. “Wear long pants & long sleeves, and closed toed shoes. Bring large manila envelopes (purchase at a budget store) or paper sandwich bags (at least 10 each), and permanent markers for labeling. Bring scissors or pruners – and bring your water bottle too!” A Rain Date will be scheduled if it has rained too much right before or during the seed collecting. Everyone who registers on Eventbrite will be notified in case of a rain date. Information will also be posted on the NCEC Facebook page. To register, go to the NCEC Facebook Seed Collecting Page, or click on this Eventbrite Link: Seed Collecting Registration. Or you can email [email protected]. View the calendar post at www.nc-ec.org.  The prairie at the Fremont Area Community Foundation  Local students exploring options at the annual event More than 40 colleges, job training programs, military organizations, and community resources were represented at College and Career Night Out on October 3 at Fremont High School. The annual event drew hundreds of students and families from across Newaygo County to learn more about post-secondary education and job training, financial aid, and more. WE CAN! Newaygo County—the local career and college access network—and Fremont Area Community Foundation partnered on the event. Melissa Miller, Director of Career, Technical & Post-Secondary Education for the Newaygo County Regional Educational Service Agency, said that the event was designed to spark curiosity and connection regarding college and career opportunities for local students. "Given the many factors that can impact a student's decision to pursue education or training after high school, this event remains invaluable for families by gathering a wide range of career and college resources and representatives in one place," Miller said. "It helps families make connections, get their questions answered, and discover the numerous resources available to support them throughout this decision-making process." As the event started, attendees could choose between informational sessions on financial aid, choosing a college, the Promise Zone, and career training through apprenticeships. The sessions were followed by a college and career fair in the gym which allowed students to speak with representatives from a wide variety of public and private colleges and universities, military branches, trade schools, and career training programs. Representatives from Early College Newaygo County, Gerber Foundation, Michigan Works! West Central, Michigan Student Aid, Newaygo County Area Promise Zone, Newaygo County Career-Tech Center, and the Community Foundation were also available to share more about the resources their organizations offer to students and families. Event organizers extend their gratitude to their hosts at Fremont High School, the community members and students who volunteered during the event, and session presenters.  Fremont High School hosted the well attended College and Career Night Out  White Cloud wins the first ever Tony McHattie Bowl – Tier D – Varsity Division Championship Trophy. From left to right: Coach Stephen Smith, Captain Wyatt Karnes, Mason D’Lamater, Brian Loveless, and Liam Povey  The White Cloud Quiz Bowl Team The Jan Rademacher Memorial Quiz Bowl Invitational by Coach Stephen Smith Wow! It’s here! The highly anticipated quiz bowl season kicked off with White Cloud’s Jan Rademacher Memorial Quiz Bowl Invitational held on Saturday, October 12, 2024. The academic showcase featured a field of competition from 15 different schools, hailing from both Michigan and Indiana, and included 30 teams in total. Of the 15 schools that entered the tournament, almost all were state finalists or national qualifiers. The following powerhouse teams engaged in quiz bowl action: Class A John Adams (IN), Grand Ledge, Holland, Mt. Pleasant, Okemos, and Traverse City Central; Class B Alma, Interlochen, Ionia, Mercy Farmington Hills, South Haven, and Williamston; Class C Kalamazoo Christian, Roscommon, and White Cloud. In all tiers of competitive play, the contests were thrillingly close and certainly entertaining with an absolutely incredible finish in the grand championship. Competing in their first tournament of the season, the White Cloud Varsity A Quiz Bowl contingent (8-1) was an unconquerable force, battling for victories all morning and afternoon. In the first match of the day, the “quizessential” quartet held onto their lead, in an agonizingly close match, triumphing over Mercy Farmington Hills (210-200). Next, the sensational squad defeated White Cloud B (300-35) in a friendly bout. The ferocious foursome dispatched Roscommon B (300-40) and Roscommon A (225-135), respectively, to round out the morning contests in fantastic fashion. In afternoon action, the courageous combatants routed Kalamazoo Christian B (275-165) and South Haven (360-70). Dramatically, the vanquishing vanguard overcame adversity to come back to tie in the last seconds of regulation against Alma. With the fortuitous exploits of Liam Povey’s overtime performance, the terrific team prevailed (215-195 OT). Vying for a trophy in the final match, the gallant group dominated Kalamazoo Christian A (220-155), seizing the Tony McHattie Bowl – Tier D Varsity Division Championship Trophy. The Indians only faltered once against Williamston (150-280), which finished 13th nationally and was an eventual finalist in our grand championship match. Even still, the efforts over the course of the day paid off brilliantly, and the team qualified for the State Competition for the 36th time, an all-time Class C-D record in Michigan. Perhaps even more astounding and extraordinary, the team also qualified to Nationals for the 28th time in the school’s history. Now examining individual efforts, the Varsity A ensemble was led in scoring by two-time All-Conference, senior Captain Wyatt Karnes, the recipient of the prestigious Brian Derks Award for most points scored by a White Cloud player. He amassed an astronomical 450 total points on the day. Next up, Liam Povey erupted for an additional healthy portion of 210 points. Mason D’Lamater heaped on another impressive 165 points, and Brian Loveless grabbed 75 points. Exhibiting a tremendous all-around incredible effort, the team garnered 2,245 total points in the tournament with an astonishing average of 249.44 points per game. Now focusing on the White Cloud Varsity B, the contingent picked up a quality win against Kalamazoo Christian B (140-95). Leading the scintillating squad in scoring with an outstanding number of points was junior Captain Tyler Higgins with 215. Landon Edwards added in a substantial point total of 85. Annabelle Bird and Charlotte Karnes contributed 45 and 40 points, respectively. The dedication and commitment from these exceptional players will undoubtedly pay dividends in future outings. In JV divisional action, White Cloud’s Junior Varsity A competed valiantly earning two victories over Roscommon JV (130-35) and South Haven JV B (135-40). Captain Arsyn Balke led the team in scoring with a remarkable 210 points, followed by Trysten Tancock’s solid 75 points. Rhoen Wade added 45 more still. Zeke Hensley captured 20 and Kacie Kailing posted 5 points. Junior Varsity B acquired an enormous amount of gameplay knowledge picking up three wins against Roscommon JV (100-65), White Cloud JV A, (110-40) and White Cloud JV C (90-10). Brayden Perdue led the peerless pack with 235 points, the best outing of his career. In their first tournament experience, Kate McHaney scored 100 points and Kristy Irwin notched 90, quite an extraordinary feat. Captain Jay Fessenden posted 15 points in his initial effort as a leader. The Junior Varsity C team demonstrated their academic prowess by winning a contest against White Cloud JV A (100-50). In a scoring barrage, Lily Ulmen marked up an astounding 120 points, which led the team. Quin Rose revealed his depth of knowledge by gaining 60 points. Captain Leah Vining tallied up 40 points. Lukas Huff was a morale booster and assisted on bonus questions. Moving on to the grand championship finale, juggernauts John Adams B and Williamston faced off in an epic showdown that pitted the large and small school tier champions against each other. The contest featured at least nine lead changes, and the heavyweight challenge ended in a razor-tight win for John Adams B with a score of 275-260. Tier champions were as follows: Okemos, Tier-A, John Adams B, Tier-B, Williamston, Tier-C, and White Cloud, Tier-D. Hail to all the victors on the momentous day! While the White Cloud Quiz Bowl Team enjoyed an overabundance of success on Saturday, it is important to recognize, remember, and honor those who have contributed to the team’s accomplishments. First and foremost, it is imperative to remember Jan Rademacher, longtime volunteer assistant coach and namesake of our tournament who passed away August 23, 2003, and to honor Brian Derks, leading scorer, and state and national qualifier for White Cloud. He died tragically in Iraq on August 13, 2005, as he was serving his country and his God. Starting a new tradition, our trophies are now named in reverence to the legendary and foundational leader of our storied program, Tony McHattie.  Wyatt Karnes won the coveted Brian Derks Award for most points by a White Cloud player. From left to right: Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie, Captain Wyatt Karnes, Peggy Derks, Keith Derks, Sally Thomas, and Coach Stephen Smith Additionally, Coach Stephen Smith and assistant coaches Arnie Baker, Allison Fetterley, Annie Feldpausch, Anna Mohr, and Jarrett Warlick wish to thank the following people for making the Jan Rademacher Memorial Quiz Bowl Invitational the major success that it was: Coach Emeritus:Tony McHattie Registrar/Greeters: Pat Ebenstein Peggy Derks, Keith Derks Media: David Hewitt and Inside Newsletter, Ken De Laat and Near North Now, Rich Wheater and Times Indicator, Joyce Pearson,Leanne Krystiniak, Debby Reinhold School Announcements: Jolene Alger, Tracey Foster, Rebecca Nichols Moderators: Chad Fetterley, Carl Van Faasen,Tony McHattie, Mike Feldpausch, Karen D’Lamater, Dave Feldpausch, Denise Alleman, Ron Phillips, Tracy Trimm, Zane Keith, Stephanie Karnes, Anthony Solis-Victoria, Sam Viher, Dan Dipple, Chelsea Webb Judges: Steve Fetterley, Adam Fitzmaurice-Perdue, Mark Robinson, Lance Willson, Cordell Talbott, Mel Morris,Andria Knapp, Gabrielle Fessenden, Brian Vining Scorekeepers: Bonnie Fetterley, Bree Fitzmaurice-Perdue, Vicki Burke, Laurie Clary, Sally Thomas (Derks), Connie Edwards, Jessica Higgins, Riki Edwards, Jamie Fletcher Malachi Graves, Amber VanBoxel, Sara Gorman, Amber Viher, Megan Cruzan, Jordan Shephard Tournament Scoring Headquarters: Brent Foondle, Director of Tournament Scorekeeping Becki Kukal, Lead Tournament Statistician Samantha Kukal, Assistant Tournament Statistician NAQT Statistician: Andrea Atwood Signage / Technology: Ralph Herwig Awards / Banners: Brian Scarbrough, Lakeshore Signs LLC Pam Christoffersen Business Management Team: Brent Foondle Ed Canning Erin Canning Photographer: Sara Gorman Art & Design: Isabel Karnes, IK Photos Award Presenters: Keith Derks Peggy Derks Sally (Derks) Thomas WMJ Custodial Staff: Chastidy Huron Jessica Magnan White Cloud High School Student Council: Courtney Dolan, Adviser Brooklyn Foondle, President Wyatt Karnes, Vice President Emily Hedlund, Treasurer Landon Edwards, Secretary Arsyn Balke, Payten Bird, Amayah Canavan, Nina Capallia-Bird, Natalie Compeau, Addyson Cook, Treyton Davison, Molly Francis, Andaleene Gordan, Tyler Higgins, Dominique Horton, Charlotte Karnes, Keira Maike, Damian Mayle, Kaylee Nichols, Emma Plake, Isabella Shockley, Kaleb Thorn, Loretta Venditti Lunch Personnel: Monica Traynor and the White Cloud Food Service Ashley Robinson, Subway John D’Lamater Pat Ebenstein Peggy Derks Keith Derks Diamond Room Sponsors: Northern Towing & Recovery LLC, donation by Shannon & Gabrielle Fessenden White Cloud Quiz Bowl Alumni In Memory of Allen L Smith, donation by Stephen L Smith Message to the Team: 1 Timothy 4:12-16, donation by Anonymous Platinum Room Sponsors: Paul & Charlotte Johnson White River Management Inc., donation by Bill & Teressa Hamilton Gold Room Sponsors: Isabel Karnes, IK Photo Silver Room Sponsors: American Storage USA, donation by Gary & Leanne Wendt Bill Mills Fitzmaurice-Perdue Family Anonymous Bronze Room Sponsors: Mast Family Alumni John & Marie Green In Memory of Benjamin Vining, donation by Paul Vining In Memory of Carolyn Gibson, donation by Kevin & Becki Gibson Donors Choose Sponsors: William Schmidt, Tracy Trimm, Paula Vining, Kristine Wise, Sean and Julie Chambers Daria W. Devantier, Andrea Atwood, Alicia Nichols, Michael Boerman, Anonymous  Wonderful volunteers! Officials of the Jan Rademacher Memorial Quiz Bowl Inv. 
Walkers know how to do Halloween.
It was the fall of 2020 when COVID restrictions continued to limit activities. Bob Walker of Newaygo looked around and didn’t like what he was seeing. Or maybe not seeing. “It was awful what kids had to go through with all the restrictions. There was nothing for them to do. They couldn’t go anywhere or do anything fun.They even had police tape around the skate park.” So Walker decided to do something about it. That fall he began creating what is surely one of the most wonderfully eerie and spooky yards to be found anywhere as a Halloween haven for trick or treaters. And it continues to grow as anyone who drives past their Barton Street home can attest to. With Bob’s wife Cathy on board with it all from the beginning, he has created an array of bone related beings, each telling their own fascinating story. A winding and weaving path takes you through the yard, but go slow because there is a lot to take in. And hey, don’t forget the big guy on the roof. He’s hard to miss. “The first year we had just over 700 come through. We ran out of candy so we ended up grabbing granola bars and lunch snacks to finish the night. Last year was just over 1500 but we had about a foot of snow the night before, so that slowed it down a little." "Cathy said I forgot to get dog treats.” he added with a laugh. “We get quite a few of the four-legged visitors as well.” Kudos to the Walkers who go the extra mile to make their community just a little bit friendlier. And while it may sound strange to think of this veritable melange of macabre an act of kindness? It fits perfectly with what Bob and Cathy Walker have accomplished.  Submissions Close October 6, 2024
District Health Department #10 (DHD#10), a MiThrive partner, is reminding residents to participate in the 2024 MiThrive Community Health Survey. The 2024 MiThrive Community Health Survey closes October 6, 2024. MiThrive covers 31 counties throughout Northern Michigan and is comprised of Hospitals, Health Departments, and a number of Community Partners. The responses collected from the Community Health Survey helps influence decision making to improve the health of the community. If you reside within DHD#10’s jurisdiction, you’re eligible to participate! Community Health Survey Details:
To find out more about MiThrive and this unique opportunity to share your voice, visit their website: https://northernmichiganchir.org/mithrive/. |
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