 Event to support NC Autism Community
The Newaygo County Autism Community’s Annual Walk for Autism will be held on Saturday, May 3 at Fremont High School’s Pine Street Athletic Field. This year’s theme is Toy Story’s “You’ve Got A Friend in Me”. Registration is scheduled to start at 9:30 a.m. with opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. with the presentation of the Ken Schipper Autism Acceptance Award. The public is invited to join the walk and share in the celebration. Free snacks will be provided and the morning events will include yard games, a bounce house, free face painting and the Bubble Guy. Tee shirts will be available on the day of the walk for $20. Registration and the mandatory release form are available online at newaygocountyautismcommunity.org. Pledge forms are also available online for walkers who want to help raise money. People who cannot join the walk but want to donate can choose the “Donate” tab online or mail a check to Newaygo County Autism Community, P.O. Box 56, Fremont, MI 49412. All monies raised will be kept in Newaygo County and help fund local autism programs and services.
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 Members of the Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club riding the trails around Camp Henry. 4-H Spin Club concludes with a trail ride The Newaygo County 4-H in collaboration with Camp Henry, successfully completed the third season of the Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club. Open to youth, ages 11 – 19, Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club remains popular among 4-H youth; many of which come back season after season to ride. The club focuses on equestrian care and introduces youth to the joy of riding. Being around horses offers kids numerous benefits including physical fitness, boosting confidence and self-esteem, improving social skills, and strengthening coordination while also providing a fun and engaging activity that fosters a connection between the rider and horse. After four weeks of instruction, the Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club concluded with a trail ride around Camp Henry.  4-H youth enjoying a riding lesson with 4-H volunteers and Camp Henry staff. The success of any 4-H club hinges on the dedication and commitment of its 4-H leaders and the Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club is no different. 4-H leaders, Virginia Howes, Tammy Theiste, and Elizabeth Letter, all experienced riders themselves, provide guidance and support to the 4-H youth alongside Aubrey Woodwyk and Charity kays, staff of Camp Henry. The Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club is made possible through a grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation. For more information about the Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club, contact Laurie Platte Breza, 4-H Program Coordinator at 231-928-1056.  4-H youth members and leaders of the Newaygo County 4-H Horse SPIN Club.  According to the Michigan Department of Education more than half of Michigan’s 2024 high school graduates enrolled in either a 2 year or 4 year college. The top college choice was Michigan State followed by the University of Michigan, Grand Valley State, and Wayne State. But what were the top choices for area graduates? At Fremont HS 64% of their graduates (88 of 138) chose to continue their education with Muskegon CC being the top choice of Packer grads with 41 enrollees. Then second choice was Ferris with 10 then MSU-6, Michigan Tech-4 Northern Michigan, Grand Valley and Eastern Michigan -3 U-M and Spring Arbor-2 and 14 other schools with 1 each. Quest sent 5 of 27 with 3 choosing Ferris and 2 attending MCC. In Grant 42% of Tiger seniors (46 of 110) continued schooling with MCC the choice of 13, while 9 went to Ferris. Grand Rapids CC drew 3 while GVSU,MSU, West Shore CC, Cornerstone and Baker and Grace each matriculated 2 and 9 schools 1 each. 67% of Newaygo grads (65 of 97) decided to continue beyond 12th grade with 25 Lions selecting MCC. Then came Ferris-17, MSU-5, GVSU-4, Saginaw Valley State-3 and Davenport and GRCC 2 apiece. 7 schools drew one student each. 45% (27 of 60) of White Cloud grads enrolled with Ferris being the top choice drawing 11 former WC students. 3 moved on to MCC while Montcalm CC, Central Michigan and GRCC gained 2 each. 7 different schools enrolled 1 each. Hesperia saw 41% of Panther graduates (23 of 56) continued their schooling with 12 choosing MCC while Ferris and GVSU were the choices of 2 apiece. 7 schools drew 1 Hesperia grad apiece.
Gerber Federal Credit Union (Gerber FCU) awarded a total of $4,500 as a result of its Annual Essay Scholarship program. Entrants were asked to explain “How will Artificial Intelligence change the future? What impact will this have on your educational and financial goals? How will you adapt to the new AI world?” 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. Aubrey Hummel from Fremont High School is the First-Place winner. She was awarded $2,000 and publication of her essay at www.gerberfcu.com. Sophia Morse from Fremont High School is the Second-Place winner and was awarded $1,500. Morgan Pope from Newaygo High School is the Third-Place Winner and was awarded $1,000. Essays were submitted by email and mail. Our panel of judges included 3 educators from various school districts in Newaygo County as well as a County of Newaygo retiree. Judges evaluated the essays on Topical Relevance and Quality of Writing after all identifying information was removed.
Newaygo County Environmental Coalition hosts presentation on dam removal at NCHM
Join us on March 29th at the Newaygo County Heritage Museum as Paul Haan speaks to the transformative power of dam removal. The presentation starts at 10 am. Mr. Haan is the Executive Director of the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly. Home to 230 natural lakes and over 350 miles of rivers and streams, Newaygo County has 2 major dams and numerous smaller dams. We will learn about various types of dams, the process involved in the removal of dams and the functions of freely flowing rivers as they impact the ecosystem and human lives. This presentation is free and open to the public. Parking is available around the building and in the city parking lot. The Heritage Museum is located at 12 Quarterline Rd, in Newaygo. Registration is requested to help us plan for seating. To register, go to: bit.ly/riverdamremoval, or scan the QR Code. You may also contact: [email protected]; 231-519-3419. Please join us to learn how dams and rivers impact our natural neighborhood. The Newaygo County Environmental Coalition is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the beauty and sustainability of the Newaygo County environment through information, education and advocacy. For more information visit the website at www.nc-ec.org. Follow and like our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/NCEC2.  Pictured from left to right (back): Brian Loveless, Liam Povey, Coach Stephen Smith, Captain Wyatt Karnes and Mason D’Lamater Pictured from left to right (front): Jarrett Warlick and Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie by Stephen Smith Amidst a clash of storms and ferocious winds, White Cloud Quiz Bowl entered an academic fray hosted by Grand Ledge High School on March 15, 2025. The Capital City Quiz Bowl Clash featured 20 teams, hailing from schools all over Michigan. Waging a determined, prolonged campaign, the Indians bravely battled for victories, seeking experience and momentum for upcoming state and national contests. Launching their morning assault on the opposition, the courageous contingent combated Roscommon A, winning in outstanding fashion (360-5). The valiant vanguard’s onslaught continued, prevailing over Brethren (275-55). In an encounter with a formidable Ann Arbor Pioneer team, the gallant group’s counterattack faltered as they posted 55 points against the Class A powerhouse. Undaunted, undeterred, and unbent, the sensational squad vanquished Williamston A (335-195) in the following contest. The preliminary melee ended in a showdown with nationally ranked Grosse Pointe South, where the Cloud posted a laudable 190 points in the hard-fought confrontation. Maneuvering into the afternoon, the brilliant brigade advanced forward, commencing their attack against Alma and secured a victory (230-110). The terrific team experienced a setback against Grosse Pointe North in which the players scored 185 points. Facing even stiffer competition from Detroit Country Day B, the Indians were bested on bonus questions and yielded to the opposition. Exchanging back and forth blows, the inquisitive intellects fell to Williamston B (220-290) in an exciting match that featured 9 lead changes. With unrelenting tenacity, the vaunted varsity players redeployed their blitz, pommeling and bombarding Coldwater for a (290-155) triumph. The unstoppable barrage of the exuberant ensemble was spearheaded by senior Jarrett Warlick, who charged ahead of his teammates by unleashing an explosion of 515 points. Assailing his adversaries and mounting a fierce offensive for himself was Liam Povey, contributing 210 points. Senior Captain Wyatt Karnes decimated the competition, adding 80 more points. In precision strikes, Brian Loveless fired out 55 points and Mason D’Lamater executed strategically, supplying 45 points. Collectively, the fearless force amassed 2,365 points on the day, showcasing a well-rounded team effort. The fantastic five are now fully tested, battle-hardened, and well-prepared for state and national tournaments. Finally, Coach Stephen Smith and the team would like to extend their gratitude to Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie and assistant coaches Arnie Baker, Kiranna Reynolds, Cameron Karnes, and Dallas Dowling. The team is also deeply appreciative of the parents, teachers, staff, administrators, donors, and community members who continue to support their success. Without your unwavering commitment, none of this would be possible.  Eric’s House provides supportfor those who have lost loved ones to suicide or substance use.
By Jackie Cole “Every person is a miracle.” -Bo Sanchez The loss of a loved one to suicide or substance overdose creates unimaginable grief, shock and confusion for those left behind. Family and friends often find themselves struggling with not only the heart-wrenching loss of someone dear to them, but also find themselves navigating the isolation and stigma brought on by the societal judgements that surround deaths of despair. Three and a half years ago, our family lost our beautiful 23-year-old son and brother to suicide. In addition to the sadness that overwhelmed us, we each struggled with varying degrees of guilt, blame and anger. Many wonderful friends and family members came alongside us and continue to support us in this journey. But others either faded away or told us directly that they could no longer remain part of our lives. I understood early on that I needed to find additional support and resources specific to loss of a child to suicide. A web search led me to Eric’s House - an non-profit organization founded with the purpose of providing specific support and resources who have lost loved ones to suicide or substance use. After years of rebuilding, my healing journey continues. As anyone who lives with loss knows, grief never ends. Instead, we learn to live alongside it…carry it with us, if you will. And in doing so, we move forward with our loved ones in a relationship that continues to guide our decision to live with meaning and purpose. As a mom who has lost a child, it has become my mission to bring awareness to post-vention support that is available to people who grieve the losses that are specific to suicide or substance use. Groups specifically for those who have lost loved ones to suicide, such as ericshouse.org, offer a unique community of support. In these spaces, there is no need to explain the pain because everyone present understands it . Tragically, deaths of despair affect rural communities at higher per capita rates than urban areas. Unfortunately, rural residents may not have easy access to resources that are specific to these types of losses. Eric’s House, however, offers virtual support to families across North America, making it convenient for people whose lives have already been so disrupted. If you or someone you know is struggling after the loss of a loved one to suicide or drug overdose, please reach out to resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) or support groups such as ericshouse.org for help.  By Rev. Luke Schmalz 2025 is the 150th Anniversary of First Congregational Church of Fremont, making it among the oldest churches in the city and showing its deep roots in the Fremont community. FCC is intertwined with the history of the community. But more important is its long history in building the kingdom of God. Throughout its history, FCC has been dedicated to sharing the gospel, building disciples, and serving the community. Looking back at what God has done gives inspiration for what God will do. FCC seeks to be a Deeply Rooted- Future-focused church. A church deeply rooted in Fremont, the Bible, and Christ. And a Church looking forward to another 150 years of Loving our Community. 1875, Ulysses S Grant is in his second term as president. The country is in the era of Reconstruction, endeavoring to recover and mend from the Civil War. It is a turbulent time in the history of the US. The country is in the midst of what is called the Long Depression, among the worst depressions in US history, and rising tension in the West between the US Government and the Native peoples. Michigan was a young state that joined the Union in 1837. Newaygo County was formed in 1840. Michigan In 1875 was dominated by Republicans with John J. Bagley as Governor. Fremont is a small but bustling town known then as Fremont Center. Fremont Township was formed in 1855 and named after John Fremont. Newaygo County is dominated by the lumbering industry, taking advantage of the abundant trees and waterways. Fremont had a quickly diversifying economy that sustained when the lumber industry declined. Fremont was a frontier town with a corresponding rowdy atmosphere. But there was a hope to build something bigger and better. One of the needs of the community was for another church. There were two (maybe three churches) the Methodist Church and Dutch Reformed. A movement began to found a Congregational church. In 1873 a minister was brought in every third Sunday with up to 50 people gathering. In July 1875, a planning meeting was held and the church was launched on August 9th, 1875. Six people meeting in Eureka Hall signed a document stating “We the undersigned, sympathizers with First Congregational church in Fremont Center, agree to cooperate with said church in providing for and maintaining the worship of Almighty God in with an order thereof.” The signees were Cornelius and Christine Addison, Daniel A Wicks, Rev. Gerrit and Henrietta Dangremond, and William Finlayson. Another founding person was Joseph Gerber, a trustee who later joined the church as a member. Rev. Gerrit Dangremond was an Englishman who stayed on as pastor till 1878. He set the pattern for the pastors who followed, often English and rather short tenures. The small congregation held services in the Union School until 1880 when it was finally able to purchase a storefront after going through several pastors and much struggle. This building was located on the southeast corner of North Division and Dayton St. There was much conflict over this location as the minister at the time felt that a church in the downtown business district wasn't proper due to all the saloons. From this small seed, a Church grew slowly. God built a Church that has a long history of preaching the gospel and working to fulfill the Mission of God in Fremont. It is amazing what God can do through 6 people if they allow Him to work through them.  From left to right: Coach Stephen Smith, Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie. Captain Wyatt Karnes, Jarrett Warlick, Liam Povey, and Brian Loveless by Stephen Smith Finally! The sun is shining! And here comes White Cloud Quiz Bowl (6-4), beaming brightly at the First Annual Harris Bunker Memorial Quiz Bowl Invitational. The namesake of the tournament honors the memory of Harris Bunker, a former captain of the Michigan State Quiz Bowl squad. The commemorative tribute was held under the aegis of Michigan State’s Academic Club. On March 1, 2025, the event featured a competitive field of 14 teams, near and far, looking to continue their growth and development. Glistening with success in the preliminary matches, White Cloud’s illustrious intellects marvelously dazzled against Lansing Waverly B (455-85) and mercilessly illuminated in opposition to Constantine (435-125). With overwhelming scoring outbursts, the Indians outshined DeWitt (320-215). The valiant vanguard flickered slightly, while engaging Detroit Country Day in razor-tight contest (250-290) and were outlasted in a power battle with Grand Ledge A (255-315). With their early morning performance, the varsity players earned a spot in the championship bracket. Incandescently entering the fray of the winner’s bracket, the fearless foursome faced ferocious competition in their opening match with Utica Academy for International Studies, falling short 290-360. Undaunted, the exuberant ensemble flashed back against Grand Ledge A (375-210), avenging their morning misstep. Radiating from their previous success, the gallant group flourished with an even higher point total by prevailing over Okemos (395-115). The fantastic four flared up and over Holt with a scintillating score of 405-180. Vying for a tournament championship, the team squared off in an epic clash with Detroit Country Day that featured multiple lead changes, power barrages, and a blistering finish. At the match’s conclusion, the Yellowjackets outlasted the Indians, winning on the final tossup (335-345) in a completely incredible title fight bout. Nevertheless, the Cloud earned runner-up honors, posting an astonishing 3,530 total points, averaging 353 points per game, with the highest points per bonus of any team with 21.27. Now it is time to shine a light on the individual acuity of the players. In a starburst of points, senior Jarrett Warlick led his fellow precocious polymaths in scoring with 740, showcasing his illumination in all subject matters. Even more impressively, Warlick ranked third overall in the entire invitational out of 52 players. Liam Povey, emitting his academic brilliance with 220 points, delivered one of his finest performances to date Senior Captain Wyatt Karnes shimmered luminously as he combated his enemies, earning 145 points. Glowing vividly, Brian Loveless gleamed with 60 points, demonstrating a well-rounded team display. Finally, Coach Stephen Smith and the team would like to extend their gratitude to Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie. Additional thanks go to assistant coaches Arnie Baker, Kiranna Reynolds, Cameron Karnes, and Dallas Dowling. The team is also deeply appreciative of the parents, teachers, staff, administrators, donors, and community members who continue to support their success. Without your continued commitment, none of this would be possible. Look to see more radiant achievements from the White Cloud Quiz Bowl team on March 15, 2025, as the courageous contingent continues to battle at the Capital City Quiz Bowl Clash in Grand Ledge, MI. |
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