 “To keep your marriage brimming, with love in the wedding cup, whenever you're wrong, admit it; whenever you're right, shut up.”-Ogden Nash In a former career that included facilitating couple counseling sessions I was occasionally asked “So what makes you some kind of expert on marriage, anyway?” And while familiar with the dynamics of relationships and possessing some knowledge of techniques that could at times provide a bit of a boost for faltering marriages, I always admitted that my part in assisting them had more to do with objectivity than expertise. And that I was certainly no expert on marriage. No one is. Each committed relationship is as unique as the individuals who create the coupleship. And successful unions tend to be couples who have a lot in common. As well as those who are nearly polar opposites. That’s right, a meat loving carnivore and her staunch vegetarian husband likely face some challenges at mealtime while their neighbors, a pair of sushi lovers revel in their raw fish feast. Or maybe he loves U of M and she went to State but their friends met at halftime of a Notre Dame game in the season ticket section. It’s all in how the twosome experiences their journey because, above all, marriage is indeed a journey. Ideally a lengthy and fascinating adventure voyage accompanied by your best friend. Not always easy, not always even close to easy, but part of the package is getting through some perilous times and weathering the changes each person experiences over the passage of time. And despite 50 years of experience I’m still no expert. But man, it has been one great ride. Here are those who recently signed on for their own journey: Laurie McDaniel, White Cloud & Robert Magnan II, White Cloud Alicia Brown, Fremont & Micah Berens, Fremont Michael Richardson, Grant & Carmen Rodriguez, Grant
0 Comments
 Tall grass can be a haven for the little monsters DHD#10 SHARES TICK PREPAREDNESS TIPS
Areas across Michigan, including Northern Michigan, are seeing an explosion of tick activity this year. As the weather becomes nicer and people head outdoors to enjoy nature, District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) reminds everyone to exercise proper precautions to prevent human-tick interactions. “There are multiple tick species found in Michigan, each having the potential to carry and transmit different diseases. The Blacklegged tick is a known vector for Lyme disease, which is the most common tick-borne disease in Michigan,” said DHD#10 Environmental Health Coordinator, Meghan Stih. “MDHHS has a great tool to help identify the five common ticks and learn about the risk associated with them (https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/emergingdiseases/Folder2/5commonticks.pdf).” Please take the proper precautions, which include:
Residents with questions about ticks and other insects can contact DHD#10’s Environmental Health Division at 888-217-3904. Additional information regarding ticks and Lyme disease can be found here:  Pictured (l. to r.): Michael Vallie-Perry, pharmacy supervisor; Lisa Dysard, Chief Pharmacist; Sen. Outman; Julie Tatko, CEO; Pam Hawley, site facility manager; and Alan Neushwander, director of external and internal relations. State Senator Rick Outman (R-33rd District) recently toured the Family Health Care clinic at 1035 E. Wilcox in White Cloud. Sen. Outman has been an advocate for integrated health care during his time in Lansing. Family Health Care provides integrated and comprehensive health care services, including medical, dental, behavioral health, vision, lab, radiology, and pharmacy services.
 N3-The White Cloud Library has been churning out some innovative and impressive programming for the folks in and around out county seat. Here are some of the summer offerings including a few ‘pop-up libraries visiting several nearby townships (think bookmobile). White Cloud Community Library Expands Summer Reading to Cover Over 260 Square Miles This summer, the White Cloud Community Library is taking a big step to reach out even further into the community, covering a service area of more than 260 square miles. The library's Summer Reading Program is designed not just for those in White Cloud, but also for residents of Merrill, Big Prairie, Everett, Lincoln, Goodwell, Monroe, and Wilcox Townships. This program aims to connect the library with communities far and wide, bringing people together through reading. A Summer of Reading and Discovery At the core of the library's summer offerings is the Summer Reading Program, themed "Adventure Begins at Your Library." This program is about getting people of all ages excited about reading. It mixes fun reading activities with educational content to help keep everyone’s reading skills sharp over the summer. The library hopes to inspire lifelong readers and keep everyone’s minds active during the summer break. Interactive Book Clubs This year, the library is also starting three new book clubs, each one focusing on a different graphic novel. These aren't just regular book clubs; they’re about making the stories come alive. Working together with local groups like the Stage Door Players Theater, Harmonized Healing Counseling Services and AX Arcade and Gaming Youth Center, these book clubs will have participants not just reading but actively bringing the stories to life through performance. Whether it’s going on an adventure with "The Hobbit", traveling with the dragonets in "Wings of Fire", or surviving an alien invasion in "War of the Worlds," these clubs promise to be both fun and engaging. Pop-Up Libraries: Bringing the Library to You One of the most exciting parts of this summer’s program is the series of Pop-Up Libraries which have been generously sponsored by Houseman’s Foods. Understanding that not everyone can get to the main library easily, these pop-ups are set up across several townships. Each one is designed to fit the community it’s in, offering books and activities that reflect the local culture and interests. These events are more than just a chance to check out books—they're a place to meet up with friends and neighbors and celebrate what makes each community unique. “As we bring our library services to different parts of the massive service area, we’re really focusing on making sure everyone has access to our resources,” says Chadwick Walenga, the library Youth Services Director. “It’s about more than just books; it’s about building a strong community and sharing experiences.” The White Cloud Community Library is committed to making this summer a memorable one filled with reading, learning, and community building. Through diverse reading challenges, interactive book clubs, and the innovative Pop-Up's, the library aims to support a vibrant, informed community connected by the love of books. 
Children have a natural sense of curiosity about living things in the world around them. Building on this curiosity, students from both Pathfinder and Daisy Brook Elementary Schools of Fremont and along with community members of the Holton Library (Branch of Muskegon Area District Library) participated in the Michigan 4-H Embryology program learning about embryonic development and life cycle during the 21-day incubation process of chicken eggs. 4-H volunteer, Kathy Alford worked with Kristen Christoffersen, 1rst grade teacher from Pathfinder Elementary, Christina Mazeikis, Library Administrator from Daisy Brook Elementary, and new this year, Julie Vanderboegh, Library Assistant of Holton Library to bring the Michigan 4-H Embryology Program to the schools. As a result, nearly 700 students from both schools and 75 people from the Holton Library learned about the developmental stages of chickens, observed the eggs, and witnessed the hatching process. The 4-H Embryology program was made possible by a grant from the Michigan 4-H Foundation.  Photo by Glen Cazier with editing by Lynne Bowlby Hiking enthusiasts once again take to the trail “When all else fails, go hiking.”-T.J Burr Last year we ran an article about this rather amazing event that got its roots from a group of women who years ago joined together for hiking as well as other outdoor activities such as kayaking or snowshoeing. Last year's inaugural Sally Forth drew hiking enthusiasts and novices who put in the miles and came out with smiles. https://www.nearnorthnow.com/the-pulse/local-hikers-meet-the-challenge This year I was again privileged to be at the culmination of the hike. To witness both the camaraderie of those who participated and their collective pride in what they had accomplished. Watching these remarkable women reach the final hill and seeing them express that intriguing combination of exhaustion and exhilaration was truly inspiring. If you participated in this year's version of Sally Forth, kudos to you all. If you decide to join in next year, chances are real, real good you will never regret it. On Friday May 3rd the second annual Sally Forth, a hiking challenge on the North Country Scenic Trail, saw dozens of women take to the woods in an inspiring event that culminated in a finish line celebration at John Graves Lodge. The celebration that ensued was a lively one as the group shared food and stories of this hike as well as some of their other adventures on trails. Among the hikers were those who had long enjoyed the health benefits such activities bring and novices who have recently discovered the pure joy of hiking. Particularly when the hike is completed. Somewhat exhausted but nonetheless exuberant with their accomplishment, the group followed up their meal with a group photo or two, a great deal of hugs, and finally a stirring anthem this impressive ensemble performed to perfection. We caught up with Peg Mercer one of the original Wander Women and part of the committee who put the event together Can you give us a few words about this years hike. We had a great turnout for this year’s Second Annual Sally Forth Hike Challenge. Women participated from Newaygo County and as far away as Lansing and Ludington. We started in a light rain but ended in glorious sunshine. The women were excited to stretch their boundaries to hike longer distances, which is what this event is all about. Women discover a great deal of camaraderie spending time together trekking through the woods. How many hikers and what distances? The Sally Forth Committee designs the event to suit many types of hikers. We were excited to have 50 women hiking their choice of 23, 15, 8 and 5 miles. The 23-milers started at 7 am to reach the finish line in time for the celebration which was held at the John Graves Lodge of the Newaygo County Welcome Center. Speaking of the Finish Line Celebration, we are so proud to have not only the support of many spouses, but the men totally created the party. They grilled, put out all the food & drinks, set the picnic tables, made a bonfire, provided a guitar singalong, greeted all the hikers, and did clean-up. Apart from all this, the men handled all the check-points, making sure all hikers were accounted for. Next year? anything different? Still planning on Sally Forth III? We’ve had lots of feedback to have the event in 2025. Our dedicated committee is onboard with continuing this annual event. We have seen a great deal of satisfaction, exhilaration and accomplishment. What better way to utilize our own portion of the North Country Trail?  Engaging youth from Oceana and Newaygo County at Camp Tall Turf Tall Turf Ministries has been in business since 1968 and has operated Camp Tall Turf since 1969. This camp located in Walkerville sits on the shores of Campbell Lake and owns 245 acres. Our overnight camp has a mission to equip youth and families for lives of reconciliation in God’s world. In efforts to achieve our goals, campers build positive relationships with people from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, and economic backgrounds in a safe, Christian environment. Throughout their time together, youth engage in a variety of activities that seek to break down barriers and foster a sense of unity and reconciliation. These experiences and relationships help to equip youth with communication skills and an appreciation for diversity that is vital in our increasingly global society. Additionally, participants learn new skills and try new things, which leads to developing an enhanced sense of self-esteem. Furthermore, team-building activities and small group times allow campers opportunities to develop leadership and cooperation skills, as well as creating space for individual and group reflection thereby strengthening self-esteem and unity among program participants. Through traditional camp activities such as swimming, kayaking, arts and crafts, archery, basketball, hiking, and outdoor education, staff and campers are preparing to be the next generation of Christian leaders. Through a generation donation from a local foundation, scholarships (some at 100%) are available for local families. Sessions are almost full so please register as soon as possible at tallturf.org. For more information, please call 616.452.7906.  L-R Gerber Federal Credit Union President/CEO John Buckley and Carson Foondle  John Buckley and Katie Ackerman  L-R Victoria Ekkel and GFCU Marketing Officer Heather Wiersema Gerber Federal Credit Union’s Annual Essay Scholarships
FREMONT, Mich. Gerber Federal Credit Union awarded a total of $4,500 as a result of its Annual Essay Scholarship program. This is an increase of $1,750 over the prior year. Entrants were asked to explain their “decision-making process for deciding on a career choice” in 300-500 words. Entries were accepted from Gerber Federal Credit Union members currently attending their senior year of high school and planning to attend an accredited technical school, community college, trade school, four-year accredited college or university, or an apprentice program. Carson Foondle from White Cloud High School is the First Place winner. He was awarded $2,000 and publication of his essay at www.gerberfcu.com. Katie Ackerman from Fremont High School is the Second Place winner and was awarded $1,500. Victoria Ekkel from Fremont High School is the Third Place Winner and was awarded $1,000. Gerber Federal Credit Union President/CEO John Buckley and Marketing Officer Heather Wiersema awarded students in the attached photos. Essays were submitted by email and mail. Our panel of judges included 4 educators from various school districts in Newaygo County. Judges evaluated the essays on Topical Relevance and Quality of Writing after all identifying information was removed. The First Place Essay: Growing up, an abundance of adults have given me advice on which career paths to get into and which ones to avoid. I’ve heard scenarios of people who hate their job with a burning passion, but nevertheless work through a grueling eight-hour shift to pay the bills and support their family. On the opposite side of the spectrum, I’ve heard of situations where a person absolutely loves their job. Their work is galvanizing to them and they adore being on the clock. For me, I would like to be placed in the latter category. I want to enjoy what I do on a daily basis. Finding a career path that interests me would be the next task. I’ve been lucky enough to see a lot of different landscapes throughout my childhood. During my late elementary school years, my family lived in Orlando, Florida. In Florida, space science was quite a talking topic. Thus, I thought that I would become an astronomer as that job involved mathematics, science, and computers, three things I was fascinated with. However, my family moved back to West Michigan as I entered sixth grade and as time went on, my perspective on space slowly declined. Over the course of my teenage years, my hobbies and interests shifted drastically. I began to develop a passion for distance running. Also, finance particularly piqued my interest. Yet, I couldn’t quite place my finger on the occupation I wanted. The first set of people I’d look to would be my parents, who were both teachers. We’ve had numerous discussions about how working in education isn’t a bad gig. I remember them telling me about how you can be a key role model for several kids of the next generation. Not to mention, the time I would get to spend with my own kids in the future. So, entering high school I believed that I was going to follow in my parents footsteps and become a teacher. Still, something just didn’t quite click. I felt that teaching was just a bit off for me. To describe it best, the job felt like getting a “B” on an exam. You’ll take the grade, but it’s not exactly what you were looking for. At the time I realized this, my dad had just become a school business manager. We’ve had conversations about his job and I feel this occupation would be something that I would enjoy. This job would tie my interest in finance and distance running. I could work as a school’s business manager and simultaneously coach both Cross Country and Track & Field! As of today, this is the job I envision myself doing over the next few decades. My plan is to attend Muskegon Community College next fall to continue my athletic career and pursue a degree in finance. In the future, I hope to stay in West Michigan and become a school business manager. Carson Foondle - White Cloud High School  Pictured from left to right: Coach Stephen Smith, Captain Brian Schaefer, Samuel Viher, Jarrett Warlick, and Wyatt Karnes Story By Coach Stephen Smith In an existential quest to earn their rightful place among the hallowed ranks of our program's lore, the White Cloud Quiz Bowl team ventured to Chicago to face off against the nation's fiercest competition. The NAQT Small School National Championship Tournament comprised three divisions, boasting 826 players from 143 teams, representing 127 schools across 35 states. More specifically, the White Cloud Indians competed against teams hailing from Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania Tennessee, and Wisconsin. Smashing into the competition during the preliminary rounds, White Cloud (8-4 overall) demonstrated their academic excellence by shattering Happy Valley, TN (325-180), crushing Homer Center, PA (330-60), pounding Evansville B, WI (370-70), thumping Casey County, KY (290-205), and ended the morning matches with a drubbing of Salem, OH (270-130). With the commencement of the afternoon session, the sensational squad clinched a playoff berth with an impressive victory over Butler, MO (285-165). In an excruciatingly tight match with the closest of margins possible, the exquisite ensemble faltered against New Berlin, IL (230-235). The Indians were bested by Weston, MA (155-380), who finished 5th-place in the nation. With grit and tenacity unknown to mankind, the persistent players bounced back against Riverside, IA in a thrilling match that ended 275-275 in regulation. In overtime, Samuel Viher immediately provided a 15-point power and Captain Brian Schaefer followed with a 10-point grab to conclude the match, brilliantly winning 300-285. Remaining resolute and determined to win, no matter the obstacles, the terrific team gutted out a victory in walk off fashion by answering the last three tossups to go ahead of Skyline, MO (280-270). Heading into the playoff rounds with one of the best preliminary records in program history, the terrific team valiantly battled against in-state rival Roscommon, MI, coming up short 210-280. In their final contention of the tournament, the fearless foursome combated Weaubleau, MO, faltering 160-290. The team finished the national competition in 33rd place overall, posting a laudable 3,205 points while averaging 246.54 points per game. Leading the team in scoring was First-Team All-State, Senior Captain Brian Schaefer with an impressive 505 points, averaging 38.85 ppg. Samuel Viher, All-Conference recipient, compiled an additional 395 points and averaged 30.38 ppg. All-Conference Jarrett Warlick contributed 220 points with 16.92 ppg. Wyatt Karnes, who received All-Conference honors as well, totaled 205 points, averaging 15.77 ppg. The well-rounded team effort and camaraderie exhibited during adversity is a hallmark of this group, which gained invaluable knowledge for next year. Throughout the entire 2024 season, the White Cloud Quiz Bowl team experienced a tremendous amount of success, most notably winning the CSAA Conference Championship. In the television circuit, White Cloud finished as a WCMU Quiz Central Division Champion. Moreover, the Indians were the highest rated Class C-D school at Holland’s Quiz Bowl Invitational, Kalamazoo’s Swim & Win Tournament, and the inaugural LIQBA Mitten Cup in Mount Pleasant. Of significance, this team continued the winning tradition and legacy of White Cloud Quiz Bowl by qualifying for the NAQT Small School National Championship Tournament for the 27th-time in school history and qualified for state competition for the 35th-occasion, an all-time Class C/D record in Michigan. Coach Stephen Smith and the team would like to specifically thank Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie, Assistant Coach Allison McPhall, Assistant Coach Arnie Baker, Assistant Coach Dallas Dowling, Ms. Stephanie Karnes, and Ms. Amber Viher for their unwavering support. Special thanks and gratitude from the coaches is extended to seniors, Brian Schaefer, Samuel Viher, Andrea Feldpausch, Anna Mohr, and Samantha Kukal, who are departing the team with many awards and accolades during their respective tenures with the program. In addition, the team would like to thank all the parents, teachers, administrators, board members, staff, alumni, financial donors, and community members who have supported the team throughout the entire year. None of the team’s success would be possible without assistance from the entire community. Next season, White Cloud returns 21 of 26 veteran quiz bowl players as follows: Wyatt Karnes, Jarrett Warlick, Andi Gordon, Tyler Higgins, Charlotte Karnes, Liam Povey, Arysn Balke, Landon Edwards, Jay Fessenden, Zeke Hensley, Kacie Kailing, Trysten Tancock, Rhoen Wade, Annabelle Bird, Mason D’Lamater, Brian Loveless, Brayden Perdue, Cora Sharp, Lily Ulmen, Leah Vining, and Quin Rose. Stay tuned for the future!  |
Archives
October 2024
Categories |
RSS Feed