 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.
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 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.  Pictured from left to right: Jaaron Steffes, Brian Loveless, Captain Jarrett Warlick, Wyatt Karnes, Reece Johnson, Coach Stephen Smith, and Coach Dan Dipple by Coach Stephen Smith In an extraordinary display of strategic brilliance, the White Cloud Chess Club (5-0) checkmated all the competition, capturing the CSAA Chess Championship (2025) in their inaugural entry into the league. The top tier varsity teams and their finishes within the CSAA were as follows: White Cloud (1st), Grant (2nd), Kent City (3rd), Newaygo (4th), Reed City (5th), and Big Rapids (6th). Delivering a sensational season from start to finish, the Indians’ chess masterminds set a firm foundation for years to come, establishing White Cloud as a powerhouse within their conference. Bursting onto the chess scene, the Cloud quickly overwhelmed Big Rapids with a dominant 23-2 victory in their first triumph of the season. In the ensuing contest, the checkmate crew outwitted their adversaries in another successful outing against Newaygo, prevailing 18-7. The endgame ensemble gutted out an impressive win (15.5-9.5) against a Grant squad that had reigned supreme in the CSAA for the past two seasons. Squaring up against Kent City, the valiant vanguard seized the CSAA Chess Championship outright, winning in a deafening silence unknown to mankind. The tactical team brilliantly vanquished the Eagles in a 16-9 showing. With lightning speed and searing accuracy, the courageous contingent outmatched Reed City, with a scintillating performance that ended 24-1 victory for the Cloud. In their season finale, the sensational strategists executed their individual skills at the CSAA Chess Tournament hosted by Big Rapids. Achieving flawless perfection was Captain Jarrett Warlick with a 5-0 record, receiving all-conference honors in the process. Brian Loveless seized all-conference accolades for himself as well, posting a laudable 4-1 tournament record. Triumphing over his opposition, Jaaron Steffes grabbed 3 wins and all-conference honorable mention, ending his chess campaign with admirable success. Wyatt Karnes garnered 2 victories and Reece Johnson snatched away 2 conquests to complete the event. In their inaugural entry into the CSAA, the Indians concluded their efforts with a mind shattering 111.5-37.5 overall team record and an astronomical .743 winning percentage. With a calculated examination of individual performances, Captain Jarrett Warlick magnificently outmaneuvered his opponents, posting a 28-2 overall performance in the conference. With chilling precision, freshman standout, Brian Loveless orchestrated a stellar 24.5-5.5 win total against his foes. Wyatt Karnes dispatched his challengers and engineered an 18-7 finish. Dominating his combatants, Reece Johnson maneuvered to a 20-11 conclusion. Jaaron Steffes demonstrated his intellectual acuity, achieving a commendable 19-1 posting. At a critical time for the group, Reece Hewitt dictated the pace in his matches, capturing 2 wins in the process. Caxton Knight rounded out an all-around team performance with a victory as well. Stephen Smith and Coach Dan Dipple would like to extend gratitude to all parents, staff, administration, and community members who were part of this group’s success. A special thanks goes to White Cloud’s Student Council under the direction of Courtney Dolan, who provided financial support to the club. Specifically, the chess squad would like to thank Bill Schmidt, Jamie Fletcher, Paula Vining, Kristine Wise, The Gates Foundation, and anonymous donors, whose sponsorship allowed for the purchase of chess boards and timers for competition. The team is also grateful for the practice opportunities offered by the White Cloud Community Library, where Chadwick Walenga served as a wonderful host. Finally, the team deeply appreciates the Steffes family's generosity in treating the players to a celebratory meal at The Rock. Without the support of so many outstanding individuals, this remarkable season would not have been possible.   District Forester Rod Denning Winter tree identification hike, March 15 If you've hiked the woods in the winter you know how different the landscape is when the leaves are gone. There is beauty in those bare limbs and trunks - simplicity without the chatter of the foliage. There's also a lot of information available in the bark and buds that are more visible during the winter months. If you would like to greet those trees by name, join us for a hike with Rod Denning, the District Forester serving Muskegon, Newaygo, & Oceana Counties. On March 15th, from 10 to 11:30 am Rod Denning will teach us how to identify trees without their greenery. We will learn to recognize patterns in the bark and bud placement of various trees in our native woods. We will gather at Henning County Park, 500 Croton Drive, Newaygo, 49337. The first parking lot on the way in is part of the free day use area, and we will start the hike from there. Registration is required, and the number of guests are limited. Children are welcome with adult supervision, but be aware that the hike will last about 90 minutes. Come dressed for the weather and probable muddy paths. Click here to register: Tree ID Registration. Or contact: [email protected]; 231-519-3419. 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: NCEC FB.   Seated from left to right: Landon Edwards, Andi Gorgon, Captain Charlotte Karnes, Brian Loveless, Mason D’Lamater, Captain Wyatt Karnes, Jarrett Warlick, and Liam Povey Standing from left to right: Assistant Coach Arnie Baker, Coach Stephen Smith, Rhoen Wade, Kacie Kailing, Adriana Alvarez-Smith, Captain Arsyn Balke, Brayden Perdue, Trysten Tancock, Alice Hyde, Lukas Huff, Captain Annabelle Bird, Kate McHaney, Captain Leah Vining, Lily, Ulmen, Ayla Faulkner, Quin Rose, Assistant Coach Cameron Karnes, and Assistant Coach Kiranna Reynolds by Coach Stephen Smith Launching into another era of CSAA Quiz Bowl dominance in the year 2025, White Cloud’s Quiz Bowl Program ascended to new heights once again. All teams ignited for liftoff in early January, blazing through the competition before safely landing in late February – with new hardware in hand and more titles secured. Defying gravity and soaring to flawless perfection, White Cloud Varsity A (9-0) captured the CSAA Quiz Bowl Championship in commanding fashion. In the opening evening of match play, the sensational squad completely dismantled the opposition with impressive triumphs over Newaygo 215-105, Grant 425-65, and Reed City 310-95. Throttling their adversaries in the second round, the courageous contingent rocketed past Chippewa Hills 245-145, Big Rapids 210-130, and Morley-Stanwood A 365-115. Reigning supreme over their rivals in the finale, the valiant victors crushed Lakeview 355-0, Kent City 345-75, and Central Montcalm A 240-60. The “quizessential” quartet totaled 2,710 points as a team, averaging an astounding 301.1 ppg in an incredible display of all-around team performance. The Indians’ meteoric rise was championed by Senior Jarrett Warlick, whose absolutely incredible out-of-this-world 605 points led his team and the conference. Breaking the stratosphere, Mason D’Lamater followed with an astronomical 170 points. Liam Povey catapulted 130 points as an unstoppable force. With commanding leadership, Captain Wyatt Karnes demonstrated poise and excellence, skyrocketing with an additional 90 points. For their sky-high performances, each player received All-Conference accolades and additional hardware in a line-up that featured two seniors, a junior, and two freshmen. Vaulting over the competition with ease, White Cloud’s Varsity B (6-1) transcended space and time, winning their division within the CSAA. Establishing their authority early in the first outing, the energetic ensemble dispatched Morley-Stanwood B 200-40 and Reed City B 205-90. Continuing with explosive victories in the ensuing night of competition, the varsity players eclipsed Central Montcalm B 215-20 and supercharged Big Rapids B 220-100. In the final evening, the terrific team triumphed over Newaygo B 235-30 and notched another win against Big Rapids B. The courageous contingent faltered (135-155) against Morley-Stanwood B on the final question of the match. Nevertheless, the fearless four garnered 1,210 as a team with a 201.66 ppg average. Leading the charge on the Varsity B squad was Brian Loveless, who broke through the atmospheric barrier with an astonishing 405 points. For his outstanding efforts, he received All-Conference Honors as well. Landon Edwards elevated his game into a higher orbit with 140 points. With brilliant poise, Captain Charlotte Karnes ascended to 40 points, and Andi Gordon propelled forward with 30 points. The latter three players each earned All-Conference Honorable Mention for their performances. Ascending to the top of the White Division and claiming their Junior Varsity Championship, the JV A (4-2) demonstrated their academic excellence by gaining a win against Kent City JV, defeating Lakeview (175-60), and winning in a friendly match versus White Cloud JV C (205-90). In a thrilling contest with Grant JV, the squad held on to a razor-thin lead, earning a triumph 135-120. The Indians faltered against Newaygo JV in an incredibly close match 135-175 and later to Big Rapids JV (75-175). Nonetheless, the team scored 725 points in the league while averaging 120.83 points per game. Breaking through with the highest point total on JV was Captain Arsyn Balke with an extraterrestrial 180 points. Accelerating at full speed with 115 points, Trysten Tancock followed closely behind his fearless leader. Kacie Kailing surged forward with 40 points while Adriana Alvarez-Smith navigated to 30 more points. Rhoen Wade rounded out the scoring barrage of the team with 20 points. Gaining traction and lifting off with a 4-3 overall record, the Junior Varsity B group excelled against Morley Stanwood Varsity B in a come-from-behind victory on the last question, winning 140-130. The exuberant ensemble unleashed their mental prowess against Kent City (265-40), Newaygo JV (205-40), and had a close call against Big Rapids JV (140-130). The team experienced setbacks with Big Rapids JV (175-185), Big Rapids Varsity B (50-290), and White Cloud’s JV C (95-160). Climbing the highest with points on his team was Brayden Perdue with 185 points. Kate “the Great” McHaney boosted her point total higher than ever, ending with 170. Captain Annabelle Bird orbited into a new ring of greatness by obtaining 120 points. Kristy Irwin and Alice Hyde both pierced into the league with 10 points apiece. As a JV crew, the players amassed 930 total points with a 132.85 ppg. Beaming into action, the Junior Varsity C competitors showcased their intellectual prowess by trouncing Grant JV 130-60. Picking off both White Cloud’s JV A (120-90) and JV B (160-95) in friendly bouts was a highlight for the youthful group. Leaping onto the quiz bowl stage with a brilliant point display was Ayla Faulkner, who amassed a team-high 125 points in her first outing in the league. Enlightening everyone around her, Lily Ulmen continued to impress, adding 90 points. Lukas Huff unleashed 70 points on his foes. Captain Leah Vining escalated her game by tallying 55 points. Quin Rose rounded out the all-around team effort with 10 points. Overall, it was an amazing season for White Cloud Quiz Bowl! Coach Stephen Smith and the players would like to thank all the drivers, parents, teachers, staff, donors, and community supporters of our program. Gratitude and appreciation are also extended to Coach Emeritus Tony McHattie as well as to the assistant coaches Arnie Baker, Kiranna Reynolds, Cameron Karnes and Dallas Dowling. On April 12, Varsity A will look to bring home a state title from Michigan State University at the NAQT Class C-D State Tournament.  Free showing coming in March
GRANT, Mich., – A special free screening of the award-winning documentary “Suicide: The Ripple Effect” will be presented at the Grant Fine Arts Center on Wednesday, March 12 at 6:00 pm. Light refreshments will begin at 5 pm. The documentary chronicles the story of Kevin Hines, who at age 19, attempted to take his life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Since then, Hines has been on a mission to use his story to help others find recovery and stay alive and has become a prominent suicide prevention speaker and advocate. The film features some of the world’s leading suicide prevention experts and shines a light on people who are using personal experiences with suicide to help others find the hope they need. Jena Zeerip, regional community health manager at Corewell Health™ Gerber Hospital believes this film is important for everyone to see, especially those who have been in or have known someone in a mental health crisis. “We see a continued need for awareness and education about mental and behavioral health and wellbeing,” said Zeerip. “Kevin’s story is one we want to share with our community, as it highlights the power of the human spirit and how you can join the movement to save lives.” Across the globe, nearly a million people die annually by suicide. In the United States alone, there are one million suicide attempts in a given year and over 48,000 deaths by suicide, with our military being hit particularly hard. Research has shown that for every one death by suicide, over 115 people are directly affected and impacted. Call Corewell Health Gerber Hospital community health team at 231.924.3073 to RSVP for this free event.  “Deep grief sometimes is almost like a specific location, a coordinate on a map of time. When you are standing in that forest of sorrow, you cannot imagine that you could ever find your way to a better place. But if someone can assure you that they themselves have stood in that same place, and now have moved on, sometimes this will bring hope”-Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat, Pray, Love Few things are as painful to the human experience as grief over the loss of a loved one. It engulfs our lives and colors our world. Because grief is a personal path there is no timetable for its process nor is it possible to totally avoid the emotional pain attached to it. In 2011 a group from First CRC of Fremont started a GriefShare ministry for the community, a 13 week course involving a video series titled ““Your Journey from Mourning to Joy”, providing a Christ-centered perspective on grieving. Since then the twice yearly series of meetings have provided much needed support to community members who are navigating the stormy waters of the grief process. One participant said: “Thank you for being the host church for the GriefShare program. This program has helped me so much. It has been 5 months since my husband’s death and with these classes and great facilitators, I feel God is leading me on a path of understanding and maybe even a little joy.” Another said: “After my husband passed in August, I did not have a hopeful future. I did not know how to move forward without him. Then I participated in your GriefShare class. It renewed my hope and deepened my faith in Christ. My life focus has shifted. I will forever be grateful for the help I got through GriefShare!” On March 4th a new series begins. For more information on GriefShare please follow this link https://www.griefshare.org/  Photo courtesy of GRPM The Grand Rapids Public Museum Announces Sensory Friendly Days in 2025
Grand Rapids, MI - The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is proud to introduce Sensory Sundays, an initiative designed to support visitors with sensory processing needs. Starting January 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and continuing on the second Sunday of each month, the Museum will offer a tailored experience to ensure an inclusive and accessible environment for all. Sensory Sundays at the GRPM feature adjusted sound and lighting within current exhibits to create a comfortable, low-sensory experience. For example, the iconic City Hall Clock, which typically chimes on the hour, will be turned off to reduce noise. Similarly, the Steam Engine on the second floor will pause operations for the day. These adaptations aim to minimize anxiety and provide a more enjoyable visit for individuals with sensory sensitivities. “For the better part of 15 years the GRPM has dedicated significant efforts towards creating an inclusive and accessible space for all learners,” said Rob Schuitema, Director of Public Programs. “Sensory Sundays represents the culmination of that ongoing work and our collaborations with community partners. We hope to connect with even more local organizations that share this vision, as well as individuals and families who could benefit from a low-sensory environment.” Visitors can also experience a low-sensory planetarium show in the Chaffee Planetarium, and explore the Museum’s current exhibits, including the traveling exhibit The Nature of Color, and the GRPM original exhibit Fashion + Nature. All are welcome to attend these inclusive Museum events, regardless of whether they benefit from reduced sensory input. In partnership with KultureCity, the Museum offers a limited number of sensory bags available for checkout at the Museum’s front desk. These bags, equipped with fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones, and other resources, are designed to improve the Museum experience for guests with diverse sensory needs. Guests can also find additional quiet spaces reserved throughout the Museum where they can find refuge should they need it. For the first Sensory Sunday of the year, in addition to extra quiet spaces where guests can find refuge from sensory input and adjusted light and sound, the GRPM will bring out sensory bins and tactile activities for guests to enjoy. This initiative reflects the Museum's dedication to continuous improvement and engagement with the community. Visitors are invited to follow the Museum on social media or join the GRPM mailing list for updates on future inclusive activities. To plan your trip, please visit grpm.org/accessibility for more information. For a full list of Sensory Sunday dates in 2025, visit grpm.org/sensory-sundays  Gerber FCU Commits to Title Sponsorship of Educational Program at Heritage Museum
FREMONT, Mich. Gerber FCU has committed to title sponsorship of the ‘Journeys Through History’ program at the Heritage Museum of Newaygo County for five (5) consecutive years. Shown here, Gerber Federal Credit Union President/CEO John P. Buckley, Jr (pictured right) presented a check in the amount of $20,000 to the Heritage Museum of Newaygo County Executive Director Steven Radtke (pictured left) for the first year of sponsorship. The museum provides a rich and immersive educational experience for students. Hands-on activities and field trips help bring history to life, engaging students and giving them a deeper connection to the community's past. Each grade-level has an area of focus as follows: Pioneer Life (2nd), Native Americans (3rd), Logging (4th) and Michigan History (5th). This program currently serves around 2,000 students per year. "We are pleased to support the museum through our annual donation, which will help fund its education programs,” said John Buckley. “These programs play a crucial role in enriching the lives of local residents and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared history and culture. We believe this partnership will enhance the museum’s educational mission and provide valuable learning opportunities for the community." |
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