 Recent County Marriage License Applicants
“It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages.” Frederick Nietzsche I think old Fred was onto something there. Friendship in a marriage certainly gets you through those inevitable times when the frustrations of day to day life seem to have a decided edge on good times enjoyed together. After all, what better way to experience a friendship than to have the opportunity to spend your life together? To create countless memories that can be revisited over and over. To be in a relationship that has the opportunity to grow even closer as time goes by. And to know that no matter what comes down, the other person has your back. Here are the latest couples who have made their way to the County Clerk’s office and signed on for the adventure of marriage. Kohlby Hasselman, Fremont & Lydia Anderson, Fremont Kameron Wilson, Hart & Timothy Bowman, Hart Jason Himebaugh, Charlevoix & Stacey Himebaugh, Grant
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 Pre registration recommended, certification offered
Lilley Township will host a program called Stop the Bleed, an opportunity for citizens to learn the techniques to help save a person’s life before they bleed out. We caught up with Scott DeBruyne, chief of the Lilley Township Fire Department, to pose a few questions about the event. How did this come about? Helen Berghoef who is Region 6 Trauma Coordinator happens to have a cottage in Lilley township had heard about the need for first responders and contacted the township supervisor with an idea of hosting a “Stop the bleed” class in an effort to educate the community and use it as a way to get people talking about and hopefully joining our department. What is the goal? As with the rest of the county, our department is a paid on call department which means the station is not staffed. Any skill that could be gained to provide care while emergency services are responding may play a huge role in the preservation of a life. Also, we want to use this as a way to generate interest in joining our department. Who should attend? The class is open to anyone 17 yrs of age and older. Why should people attend? What will they learn? As mentioned earlier, our area is very rural with many of our members having to leave the area to work. This class is designed to teach the skills of how to “stop the bleed” while waiting for emergency response to arrive. Anything to add? Pizza and refreshments will be provided and we are as long that people register by contacting Hellen Berghoef at [email protected] Deputy Chief Randy Price Jr stated “We have a unique opportunity coming up! We have used community contacts to get this class to our area and would love to see everyone there. We hope to fill the building, get the community educated, and help you understand what to expect from a phone call to 9-1-1. Everyone is welcome and there will be food and drinks. Please follow the instructions to pre-register so we can have enough instructors and food for everyone.”  Big Jackson students clutching their seedlings It is a great time to think about what we can do for trees and the earth, recognizing their importance to community health and well-being. Newaygo Conservation District along with Newaygo County 4-H marked the 152nd Celebration of Arbor Day this week by providing white pine seedlings to 2nd grade students in participating school districts throughout Newaygo County. Nearly 600 seedlings, which were grown at the Newaygo Conservation Nursery in Newaygo, were given out along with planting instructions to youth to take home and plant with their families.  Brandon Nowak looks at a signed proclamation surrounded by his parents James Nowak and Marki Brown, and Foreway Transportation Operations Manager Matt Gemmen. Michigan Works! West Central selects Brandon Nowak for award after earning his GED, CDL
LANSING – Success for Brandon Nowak came later in life than expected. In his mid-30s, Brandon Nowak came to the very hard realization his life was not where he wanted it to be. He never completed his high school education, had limited skills and was incarcerated for 18 months. “Everything that’s happened to me, I’ve done to myself. I always remember that,” Brandon said. “I’m doing what I’m supposed to do, I just did it later on in life. … I’m here because I made my bed, but places like Michigan Works! West Central, they give you a second chance.” After exiting incarceration, Brandon’s parole officer referred him to Michigan Works! West Central. Working with a Talent Specialist, he was able to set short-term and realistic goals. Earning his GED was the first on the list. Through adult-education provider Quest High School, which co-located in three of Michigan Works! West Central’s six service centers, he was able to finish his high school education. “I studied every night; I really wanted to get it done as quickly as possible,” Brandon said. “The program fit with my schedule. They would give me packets to study, which made it a lot easier. … After learning I passed, I was excited, but still focused on what I had to do next. So, I couldn’t get too excited because I wasn’t at my end goal.” Michigan Work! West Central enrolled Brandon into WIOA Adult and MiLEAP programs, which were able to pay for training at FCG Truck Driver Training in Byron Center. Within six weeks, he earned his Class-A commercial driver’s license (CDL), achieving his next goal. “Brandon, being a hard worker and fast learner, was an excellent candidate for the CDL truck driver training program. It was obvious that he wanted success,” said Bill Baareman, owner of FCG Truck Driver Training. “Partnering with Michigan Works! West Central is the perfect match for a new and challenging career path in a field that’s in high demand. This partnership is opening new doors and opportunities for anyone with a desire to obtain a Michigan CDL.” It didn’t take long for Brandon to reach his final goal of obtaining a job as a full-time over-the-road driver. He was hired at Coopersville-based Foreway Transportation in July 2023, and began driving across the U.S. His personal outlook is miles away from where he was just over a year ago. “My life has changed quite a bit. I’ve got a new outlook on everything. I’m healthier and I’ve got a new set of goals. (My life) is nothing like it was five years ago,” Brandon said. “I never thought I’d go to prison, but I did, and that’s what needed to happen in my life to get me on the right path. … The only reason I was able to do all of this is because I was realistic about little goals. Michigan Works! makes it really easy. I was surprised at how involved they were, and I never felt like I was judged while I was there. I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today and as happy as I am, without Michigan Works! I’m very grateful for this place.” Michigan Works! West Central is proud of Brandon’s accomplishments, so far. “We see participants from all walks of life come into our service centers. Brandon came into our Newaygo service center after 18 months of incarceration with the motivation to turn his life around. He set several short-term goals to get where he wanted to be, and he got to work,” said Michigan Works! West Central Executive Director Shelly Keene. “We are so proud of Brandon’s accomplishments and perseverance in earning his GED and commercial driver’s license. We can’t wait to see where his career takes him next!”  Nicole Looy 4-H leader for Little Critters 4-H Club, helping with the Discover 4-H! SPIN Club National Volunteer Week, April 21—27, is an opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to build stronger communities and the force that transforms lives. With over 15,000 4-H volunteers across the state contributing to the success and expansion of the 4-H Youth Development program, volunteers are very much an intricate part of Michigan 4-H. They are, undeniably, the “heart and soul” of the program. Through their efforts young people experience new projects, leadership experiences, and engage in their communities.
Leadership in 4-H doesn't depend on the amount of knowledge you have about a project. It relies on your willingness to help youth learn. While a young member's project might be photography, horses or sewing, the leader's project is always the YOUTH. Leadership is the ability to get along with people; to tackle a job and see it through. 4-H volunteers are valued partners and the key to the success of a member's learning, experience, and continuing interest in 4-H.
A 4-H volunteer is many things - mentor, advisor, friend, teacher, referee, role model, pacesetter, and much more. Most importantly, a 4-H leader genuinely cares about young people and wants to help them learn and grow. 4-H volunteers volunteer for many reasons. Some want to work with youth, or pass along skills, and others just want to help out. Whatever the reason, 4-H leaders right here in Newaygo County play a vital role in the ongoing growth and development of youth within our county.
When 4-H youth and adults work together, young people become more educated, independent, and responsible. This prepares young people to take their rightful place as caring, competent citizens and leaders in their community and the world. A special thank you to all of our 4-H volunteers and to all of the past volunteers that have built the Newaygo County 4-H program! To become part of the Newaygo County 4-H program, contact Laurie Platte Breza, 4-H program coordinator, at 231-928-1056 or email at [email protected].  Newaygo County 4-H Dog Club leaders L-R Fawn Muraske and Ruth Bromley with club members  4-H leaders Tammy Theiste and Liz Letter, heading the Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club with Camp Henry  From left to right: Coach Stephen Smith, Jarrett Warlick, Samuel Viher, Captain Brian Schaefer, Wyatt Karnes, and Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie by Stephen Smith Springtime is finally here, and once again, the highly-touted, vaunted White Cloud Varsity Quiz Bowl Team (8-2) traversed to the campus of Michigan State University for the 2024 Class C/D Michigan High School State Championship. The competition featured 22 brilliant contingents from both peninsulas of the great state of Michigan. The venerable vanguard triumphed over many in the field of play, earning a 3rd-place finish overall and has now impressively qualified to national tournaments for the 7th time this season. In an absolutely blistering pace during the preliminary rounds, White Cloud decisively overwhelmed Napoleon (410-60), obliterated New Buffalo (390-45), routed Jonesville (290-70), thrashed Pewamo-Westphalia (315-165), and annihilated Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart (440-55). For all their success, White Cloud was awarded the top seed for the championship bracket. Entering the fray of the championship rounds, the formidable foursome prevailed 285-215 over Gwinn, an impressive squad hailing from the Upper Peninsula. The Indians faltered in their next match against the eventual champion, Hillsdale Academy, (165-335). Displaying incredible resiliency, the team bounced back with a victory over Roscommon (295-100). In a heartbreaker, the squad fell to the runner-up, Saugatuck, in an unbelievably tight contest (215-225). Fighting through adversity, exhibiting unrelenting determination, this excellent ensemble finished the day with a victory over Manchester (260-185). With their academic prowess on full display, the players notched a staggering 3,060 points in total, and averaged 306 ppg as a team. The top 22 teams in their finishes were as follows: Hillsdale Academy (1st), Saugatuck (2nd), White Cloud (3rd), Gwinn (4th), Roscommon (5th), Manchester (6th), Kalamazoo Christian (7th tie), Holton (7th tie), New Buffalo (9th tie), Sandusky (9th tie), Mount Pleasant Sacred Heart (9th), Springport (12th), White Pigeon (13th tie), Charlevoix (14th), Deckerville (15th), Napoleon (16th), Carsonville-Port Sanilac (17th), Pewamo-Westphalia (18th tie), Jonesville (18th tie), Nouvel Catholic (20th), Perry (21st) and Clintondale (22nd). Focusing on individual efforts, White Cloud’s intelligentsia was led in scoring by senior captain Brian Schaefer, who bombarded his adversaries with an astronomical 600 total points. As the sensational squad’s fearless leader, Brain provided consistent, positive leadership, earning 1st-Team All-State honors in the process. He now holds the distinguishable achievement of being the only three-time All-State player in the storied program of White Cloud Quiz Bowl. Following his illustrious leader into battle, All-Conference Samuel Viher barraged the team’s foes with 250 points. All-Conference Jarrett Warlick blasted the competition with an additional 195 points. Finally, All-Conference Wyatt Karnes blitzed the challengers with 185 points, which effectively demonstrated a well-rounded, complete team effort. Furthermore, on an individual basis, White Cloud competitors ranked in the top third of the 119 players who participated in the preliminary rounds, exhibiting, yet again, the extraordinary talent of the team. With this remarkable finish in the state tournament, White Cloud has qualified to national tournaments for the 27th time in school history. In addition, this is the 35th occasion that White Cloud has qualified for the state competition, an all-time Class C/D record, cementing the legacy and tradition of the quiz bowl program. Coach Stephen Smith and the team would like to specifically thank coach emeritus Tony McHattie and assistant coaches Allison McPhall, Arnie Baker, and Dallas Dowling. In addition, the team would like to extend their gratitude to all the parents, teachers, administrators, donors, and community members for their continued support of the quiz bowl team. Without you, none of the team’s success would be possible. The NAQT Small School National Championship Tournament will be held in Chicago on April 26-28, 2024. Stay tuned for more updates! Individual Scoring Statistics Name: Preliminary Rounds Playoffs Rounds: Brian Schaefer: 360 Pts 72 PPG 240 Pts 48 PPG Samuel Viher 180 Pts 36 PPG 70 Pts 14 PPG Wyatt Karnes: 120 Pts 24 PPG 65 Pts 13 PPG Jarrett Warlick: 95 Pts 19 PPG 100 Pts 20 PPG
Annual Household Hazardous Waste Day on the horizon All year you’ve been saving those dead batteries, sorting through unwanted or outdated solvents and chemicals and wondered what to do with all that old paint. Light bulbs, auto fluids, pesticides and lawn chemicals are cluttering up the garage and you have yet to find a graveyard for that old home theater in the basement. Never fear. The annual HHW day is arriving Saturday MAY 18th!!! It will be held at the Newaygo County Road Commission 935 E 1 Mile Rd in White Cloud. Hours are 8am-2pm and being its an election year my guess is there will be a slew of elected officials, and some who aspire to be, filling up the volunteer spots. We’ll drop another reminder before the big day, but start getting your dumpables ready and don’t forget about the electronics taking up space in your crib. 
State Agencies Collaborate to Help Protect Children from Unintentional Firearm Injuries
LANSING, MICH. – The Michigan State Police (MSP) and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced today they are partnering together to protect children from unsecured firearms. Using $500,000 in state funding appropriated in the FY24 MSP budget, the MSP facilitated the purchase of 75,000 cable-style gun locks from Project ChildSafe that will be available for free at MDHHS county offices starting today and some local health departments while supplies last. All MDHHS offices should have gun locks available no later than June. In 2020, firearms injuries became the number one cause of death for children in the United States and Michigan, surpassing motor vehicle deaths and those caused by other injuries. “We are partnering with Michigan State Police, local MDHHS offices and our local health departments, to help prevent these tragedies and keep Michigan children and families safe from firearm violence,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “Our department is devoted to improving the safety and well-being of Michigan children, as outlined in our Keep Kids Safe Action Agenda, and actions such as implementing gun locks are going to make a difference when it comes to prevention efforts around firearm safety.” Public Act 17 of 2023, which took effect Feb. 13, 2024, generally requires individuals to keep stored or unattended firearms unloaded and locked with a locking device or stored in a locked box or container if it is known or reasonably should be known that a minor is, or is likely to be, present on the premises. Michigan residents can visit their local MDHHS office to request one of the free gun locks while supplies last, and they can also check with their local health department, some of which will have gun locks available. MDHHS staff who make home visits will also be able to access gun locks if a client has a need or wants to request one. Free gun locks can also be obtained through Project ChildSafe police partners across the state. Gun lock installation instructions are included within the product’s packaging and available on the Project ChildSafe website.  Latest County Marriage License Seekers
“You make me want to be a better man”- Melvin (Jack Nicholson) to Carol (Helen Hunt) in “As Good As It Gets” If you’ve seen the movie and recall the character played by Nicholson this seemingly romantic quote has plenty of context. Melvin has a long way to go to be even somewhat tolerable as a human being much less a person to be in a relationship with. His statement is touching though, and maybe a bit telling about what it means to be in love. The self improvement quest he describes seems far different than wanting to excel at a sport or develop a talent that draws admiration or even just being well thought of by others. It’s not about him. It’s about her. Perhaps the desire to be a better person isn't even aimed at wanting our lover, significant other, lifetime spousal companion, etc. to like us more since, hopefully, we’re already pretty assured they love us. Maybe it’s because when we love someone we feel like they merit the best we can deliver to the person who most deserves it. Robert Heinlein once said “Love is the condition in which the happiness of the other person is essential to your own." Well said Mr. H. (And by the way, I loved “Stranger in a Strange Land”). Here are the couples who have recently signed on to bring out the best in each other. Kenneth Charles Stroven, Fremont & Jean Burre Vallespin, Muntinlupa, Philippines Todd R Nagel, Newaygo & Shayna S. Sabin, Morley Nicholas Barrett, Newaygo & Turea Gardner, Newaygo “A good marriage is where both people feel like they're getting the better end of the deal.”- Anne Lamott, Joe Jones |
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