 The application for grants from the Amazing X Charitable Trust is now open. Completed applications are due July 15. The Amazing X Charitable Trust is a supporting organization of Fremont Area Community Foundation. It was established in 1978 by members of the Gerber family to support community members with disabilities and to address general charitable needs. Past grants have supported accessibility projects, rehabilitation services, adult day programs, and more. A 2019 grant to Family Health Care supported the organization’s in-home respite care program, while another recent grant supported a wheelchair-accessible pontoon to allow more disabled veterans the opportunity to enjoy local waterways. For more information or to begin an online grant application, visit facommunityfoundation.org/grants.
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 The application for grants from the Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund is now open. Completed applications are due July 15.
The Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund was established at Fremont Area Community Foundation in 2002 by what is now Nestlé Waters North America. Grants are made from the fund to sustain the waters and water-dependent natural resources of the Muskegon River Watershed by supporting conservation, enhancement, and restoration projects. The fund provides up to $50,000 annually and typical grants are from $5,000 to $20,000. Grant requests are accepted for projects or programs that conserve, enhance, or restore the watershed and demonstrate collaboration among organizations. Past grants have supported erosion control projects, restoration of habitats and natural areas, cleanups, river bank stabilization, research, and more. One 2019 grant supported a three-year temperature study designed to allow for a better understanding of the river’s cold water resources and to inform possible measures to protect cold water species in the river. Another recently funded project will give students in Newaygo and Muskegon counties the opportunity to research, plan, design, and implement stewardship action projects along the river. For more information or to begin an online grant application, visit facommunityfoundation.org/icemountain.  Bottle Return Facilities to Resume Operations on June 15
LANSING- Today, Treasury issued a Notice Regarding Phased Reestablishment of Michigan’s Bottle Deposit Return Program. Beginning June 15, 2020, some retailers must reopen their bottle return facilities and resume the collection of returnable beverage containers and refund of customer bottle deposits. This applies to retailers with bottle return facilities located at the front of the store or housed in a separate area and serviced exclusively by reverse vending machines requiring minimal or no person-to-person contact. Retailers reopening their bottle return facilities must ensure those facilities comply with all state-mandated safety protocols and restrictions, including the most recent state-mandated safeguards to protect workers. In addition, retailers may take any or all of the following steps:
During this initial phase, retailers must limit the volume of weekly returned beverage containers to no more than 140 percent of their average weekly collection volume for the period April and May 2019. Consumers have the option of recycling their returnable beverage containers if they choose not to return them to a bottle deposit redemption facility. Treasury will issue further guidance regarding additional phases of the reestablishment of the bottle deposit program in the near future. The collection of returnable beverage containers was temporarily suspended via Executive Order No. 2020-21, issued by Governor Whitmer on March 23, 2020. The temporary suspension supported Michigan’s fight against the coronavirus by permitting grocery stores and other retailers to immediately shift employees from container collection and deposit redemption duties to other areas where they were more urgently needed, and to protect the health and safety of retailers, their employees, and all Michigan citizens. Questions regarding the phase-in of the reestablished bottle return program can be directed to Treas_MiscTaxesFees@michigan.gov.  Guv announces changes
At her news conference today Governor Whitmer rescinded the stay at home order and moved the entire state into phase 4 of the plan to re-engage the economy. What does this mean? Effective immediately: Office work that is not capable of being performed remotely can resume. In-home services, including house cleaning services, can begin operations. Fitness classes can be held outside. Drive -in movies can reopen. Groups of 100 or less can now congregate outdoors so long as safety measures are in place. On Thursday, June 4th, retail establishments can move beyond appointments and welcome in customers with reduced capacity numbers. On Monday, June 8th, restaurants can open with both indoor and outdoor dining if tables are 6 feet apart and capacity remains at 50% or less. Day camps and swimming pools can resume operations the same day. Not yet open? Hair salons, gyms, indoor theaters, casinos, and tattoo parlors. The governor indicated these restrictions could be lifted within 2 weeks if the downward trend of cases continues. “This is a big step forward,” said Governor Whitmer. “We’ve come a long way, made sacrifices and it’s been tough.” “I want to thank those who have done their part and especially the brave men and women on the front lines.”  Richard Atwood The preliminary hearing to determine if Roy Snell Jr. will be tried for the murder of Richard Atwood will resume Wednesday June 3rd from 8:30 am to 4:30pm. The proceedings can be viewed via Youtube by going to the Newaygo County website: http://www.countyofnewaygo.com Once there you can click on ‘Departments’ and then ‘Courts’ which will display Circuit, District and Probate courts. The hearing is being held in District Court with Judge Melissa Dykman presiding. Atwood, 25 years old at the time, went missing nearly 37 years ago. His brown 1975 Pontiac Trans-Am was recovered in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area two months later and Snell was reported as the last person to be seen with Atwood. His body has never been found.  From our friends at DHD#10:
SPIKE IN COVID-19 CASES DUE TO INDIVIDUALS NOT FOLLOWING GUIDANCE TO PREVENT SPREAD May 30, 2020 – Over the past several weeks, COVID-19 cases have spiked in two counties within District Health Department #10’s (DHD#10) jurisdiction, Newaygo and Oceana. While there are several reasons for the increase in cases, an area that the public can help play a big part in reducing the spread is to commit to follow the recommendations of staying home and practicing social distancing and wearing a face covering when in public. As essential businesses continued to operate during the Governor’s Stay Home Stay Safe Executive Order, many business owners went above and beyond following the appropriate protocol for screening their employees, cleaning and disinfecting their facilities, implementing social distancing plans to keep employees separated and educating their employee on COVID-19 and its prevention strategies. Unfortunately, many individuals have chosen not to adhere to the Executive Order to stay home or to social distance and mask while in public, which has resulted in increases in COVID-19 infections. Because not everyone who is infected shows symptoms even though they are contagious, they head back to work or into community settings and unknowingly infect others. “We understand the frustration that business owners express as they are doing everything right to keep their facilities disinfected and their employees safe,” said Kevin Hughes, Health Officer for DHD#10. “We can’t say enough just how important it is for everyone to please do your part to not only protect you and your family, but to protect others.” In Newaygo and Oceana Counties, the increase in cases is not coming from any one location. Many of these cases are due to families getting together where asymptomatic individuals unknowingly spread the virus to multiple family members and then to coworkers. Other cases involve individuals contracting the virus while working in neighboring counties outside of DHD#10’s ten-county jurisdiction which have higher numbers of cases and then unknowingly bringing it home to their families, and in some cases spreading it among three to four generations. In addition, more testing is being done in these communities by hospitals and the opening of the drive through testing clinic in Shelby through a joint effort of Northwest Michigan Health Services and DHD#10. More testing will identify additional cases otherwise unknown. DHD#10 continues to work closely with our partners, local employers and community officials to provide guidance and assistance to slow the spread. It is known that COVID-19 can spread rapidly at mass gatherings and in enclosed spaces. Please do your part to prevent getting or spreading COVID-19, including:
For more information on COVID-19, go to www.dhd10.org/coronavirus. You can also send questions to info@dhd10.org.  Last year's top three (L-R) Cammie Hollinger, Deanna Dickinson, and Tara Kelley Entrepreneurial pitch competition pivots to virtual platform FREMONT- Newaygo County’s first-ever entrepreneurial pitching competition, Pitch North, will be pivoting to a virtual platform on June 24, 2020. Entrepreneurs living in Newaygo, Oceana or Lake Counties will once again have the opportunity to compete for more than $7,000 in cash prizes to cultivate their business or idea. Entrepreneurship is critical to the success of rural communities. When people start and grow businesses, they contribute to the economic diversity of their area. These unique local businesses become differentiators for their communities. Unfortunately, individuals living in rural areas often have less access to funding and resources to pursue these endeavors. Pitch North was launched by The Right Place, Inc. in 2019 to change that. Pitch submissions for Pitch North 2020 are being accepted at pitchnorth.com now through June 12, 2020 at 11:59 pm. A hand-picked committee will review and score all submissions and select five finalists to present their pitches live at the June 24th virtual event, where cash prizes will be awarded to the top three finalists. The public will have an opportunity to view the event and can register to attend at pitchnorth.com. Pitch North is hosted by The Right Place, Inc. and made possible through support from Consumers Energy, The Fremont Area Community Foundation, Northern Initiatives, Gerber Federal Credit Union, Shelby State Bank, River Country Chamber of Commerce and West Shore Community College.   Updated renewal mailers will provide additional information on easiest means of conducting transactions
LANSING-Secretary of State branch offices will reopen June 1 by appointment only for essential transactions not available online in order to continue to balance the need to provide critical services and protect public health. “While the offices were closed to the public we conducted more than 3,000 emergency appointments for essential workers and planned and implemented protocols so that we could reopen in a way that ensures the safety of employees and all Michiganders,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “Customers can be confident they’ll be able to conduct their business with us safely and efficiently.” Beginning the week of June 1, all 131 branch offices in Michigan will be open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for appointment only services for transactions including:
Anyone scheduling an appointment or receiving an appointment reminder will also be instructed on how to safely attend their appointment by:
A sample of the updated renewal forms can be found here. To schedule an appointment visit Michigan.gov/SOS or call 888-SOS-MICH. Advance appointments can be made up to 180 days ahead of time. Same-day appointments become available 24 hours prior to the appointment time.  NHS employees stand socially distanced, ready to direct the graduates  NHS Class of 2020’s Unique Graduation Photos and story by Alexis Mercer Even as late as March of this year, a drive through graduation to culminate their years of hard work was not on the radar for the Class of 2020. But as Covid-19 escalated into a more grave situation as days and weeks went by, having any sort of acknowledgement that the class was officially done with their high school years was looking less and less likely. With the prospect of a formal graduation ceremony on the football field completely out of the question, Newaygo Public School administrators and senior class advisers began to brainstorm how to make the would-have-been night something that the seniors would at least remember for years to come, even if it wasn’t what they’d always thought it would be. What ended up taking place was a joyous, special evening for all graduates. Their senior photos were made into posters, which lined Barton Street and began the “Graduate Parade”. While the seniors were not allowed to get out of their cars, they filed into four lines in their vehicles to turn in their books and computers and to pick up documents and a care package from the staff. Jennifer Grugett, Senior Class Adviser, Brad Reyburn, Principal, Craig Thompson, Assistant Principal, Peggy Mathis, Superintendent, and others spent hours planning, organizing, then re-planning and re-organizing as the requirements for what the night could entail changed with orders from the State. Tabatha Lathrop was the staff member who organized the signs made that were lining the street, which were printed by Special Tees and Graphics and paid for by parents and also through the MSU college advising corps. Taylor Hills, Theresa Westcott, and Lyn Shoemaker all helped put the packets together for the students. The Harkness family donated wristbands for every student. Leilani San Nicholas Foster made and donated a car decal for every senior. Myles Cronk came to take photos and use a drone to catch the view from above. The police department and fire department donned the parking lot with lights and cheers. Senior Adviser Jen Grugett said of the night “I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all their smiling faces for the first time in months. It went by so fast!” Some students decorated their cars with words, balloons, signs, and streamers. A group of students had come to decorate the parking lot with chalk art earlier in the day (socially distanced drawings) making the view even more special. “Although I’m sad that we didn’t get to experience walking across the stage, it was uplifting to see the overwhelming support of the community. And I enjoyed seeing teachers and classmates that I haven’t seen in months,” said Sophia Frisbie. While the Class of 2020 did not get to walk across the stage (yet…though they are hoping for a formal graduation ceremony July 30) on May 21st to officially recognize their achievements, the staff and administration of Newaygo Public Schools worked hard to make sure they had a memory to add to their list of firsts in this unprecedented time.   Medical, dental, veterinary opens up; Retailers, auto dealers resume with restrictions
On Friday Governor Gretchan Whitmer extended the Emergency declaration and the Safer at Home order another 2 weeks lengthening the temporary closure of certain places of public accommodation such as theaters, gyms, hair and nail salons and casinos. The extension came on the heels of two decisions rendered in the Michigan Court of Claims. Court of Claims Judge Micael J. Kelly denied the request from Michigan United for Liberty to declare the emergency laws and executive orders unconstitutional on Tuesday then Thursday afternoon Michigan Court of Claims Judge Cynthia Diane Stephens ruled in Whitmer’s favor in a lawsuit brought by legislative Republicans calling their argument that the Gov hasn’t the authority to extend a state of emergency without their approval ‘meritless’. The next steps in a return to some sense of normalcy came out of the Guv’s office Thursday when she signed an executive order to loosen some of the restrictions on gatherings, retail business, medical dental and veterinary services, and (Michigan being an car and truck building state and all) auto dealerships. Allowing gatherings of 10 people or less so long as social distancing is attended to means folks itching to expand their social network beyond their immediate in house circle and the occasional viral get together can actually interact in a group setting once again. Retailers and car lots must be by appointment and, of course, also attend to social distancing. This begins Tuesday May 26. The non essential medical dental and veterinary services can begin on Friday May 29. Newaygo County cases have risen over 700% in about a month. From having an even dozen on April 22 the county now stands at 89 according to the state stats.  Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive for the State of Michigan addressing the media Guv opens up regions to the North
In her Monday news conference Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that Friday would see the reopening of retail businesses, office work that cannot be done remotely, and restaurants and bars with limited seating in 2 regions of the state. Those two are the Upper Peninsula and the Traverse City area.The TC region includes the following counties: Manistee, Wexford, Missaukee, Roscommon, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Crawford, Leelanau, Antrim, Otsego, Montmorency, Alpena, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, and Emmet. Citing encouraging trends in these areas for cases, deaths and testing as the reason for the loosening of restrictions the announcement came with a focus on workplace safety. Employers must provide COVID-19 training to workers that covers, at a minimum, workplace infection-control practices, the proper use of PPE, steps workers must take to notify the business or operation of any symptoms of COVID-19 or a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, and how to report unsafe working conditions. Restaurants and bars would be limited to 50% capacity. ”This is a big step,” said the Governor. “We want to keep moving forward but we want to proceed with caution.” She also indicated there may be more engagements announced before the weekend.  By N3 News
The preliminary hearing to determine if Roy Snell Jr. will be tried for the murder of Richard Atwood will be adjourned to a date yet to be scheduled in order to better accomodate witnesses, some of whom are appearing remotely. Atwood, 25 years old at the time, went missing nearly 37 years ago. His brown 1975 Pontiac Trans-Am was recovered in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area two months later and Snell was reported as the last person to be seen with Atwood. His body has never been found. The COVID-19 pandemic creates a series of unique problems for the courts in such matters and court officials are continuing to be innovative as they maneuver through the changes the virus has brought to the courtroom.The public hearing was streamed on Youtube during the first 3 days of the hearing with only court personnel, attorneys and Snell in attendance and witnesses not testifying remotely being brought in from a sequestered room in the courthouse. Thursday's proceedings were cut short after Snell persisted that he was feeling ill and eventually drew admonitions from Judge Melissa Dykman for continuing to interrupt her responses. This led to his return to a holding cell and adjournment for the day. Near North Now will strive to keep readers informed as to when the hearing is scheduled to resume.  Roy Snell Jr. Accused claims ill health, proceedings to continue tomorrow
Detective Scott Rios took the stand Thursday afternoon as the preliminary hearing in the Richard Atwood murder case began it’s third day of testimony. Det. Rios pointed out discrepancies between interviews the accused, Roy Snell Jr., gave in 1983 and statements made when a search warrant was conducted for Snell’s DNA more recently. During the latest interview Snell claimed he did not know Richard Atwood and had not been with him which Rios testified was inconsistent with what he told Detective Richard Miller in 1983 and inconsistent with evidence found in the car. Early on in the proceedings Snell began to complain about not feeling well. During interactions with Judge Dykman he interrupted her several times despite admonitions from her and his attorney Rick Prysock to listen to what she was saying. Snell repeated that he wanted to leave and go lay down. Finally Judge Dykman ordered Snell taken back to holding to speak to his attorney and proceedings were halted. The hearing will resume tomorrow (Friday). N3 will post the time the proceedings will begin as soon as we receive it. The hearing can be viewed via Youtube by going to the county website http://www.countyofnewaygo.com Once there you can click on ‘Departments’ and then ‘Courts’ which will display Circuit, District and Probate courts. The hearing is being held in District Court.  On Wednesday Judge Melissa Dykman heard further arguments in the preliminary hearing to determine if Roy Snell Jr. will be standing trial for the murder of Rick Atwood.
The proceedings continue today (Thursday) beginning at 1:30pm and can be viewed via Youtube by going to the county website http://www.countyofnewaygo.com Once there you can click on ‘Departments’ and then ‘Courts’ which will display Circuit, District and Probate courts. The hearing is being held in District Court.  Holly Moon to retire after 16 years as NC Treasurer Newaygo County Treasurer Holly Moon Announces Retirement
Newaygo County Treasurer Holly Moon announced her retirement at a recent Board of Commissioners meeting. She will retire at the end of her 4-year term on December 31, 2020. Holly has served the County as Treasurer for 16 years. She began her career in government service in Dayton Township in 1984 serving in a variety of roles during her 20 years of service and in the elected positions of Township Supervisor and Treasurer. Holly’s first taste of local government was working with Monroe Shigley, who drafted the original Dayton Township Zoning Ordinance, and continued with being appointed as a Planning Commission member and as Deputy Clerk before assuming elected positions. Holly stated, “it has been my privilege to be a public servant for the past 36 years, and I hope to continue as a servant leader in our community for many years to come!” Holly took office as County Treasurer in 2005 and has served four consecutive terms for Newaygo County. During her tenure Holly saved thousands of dollars by combining contracts for tax reversion, tripled the County’s investment earnings in her first two years in office, and recovered over $727,000 for the County in unbilled property tax chargebacks incurred prior to her service. She also takes pride in instituting on-line banking and fraud prevention tools for all County bank accounts, as well as initiating the acceptance of credit and debit cards to pay delinquent taxes and dog licenses on-line. Holly has worked tirelessly to assist taxpayers with payment plans and extensions, and to connect them with agencies and resources in our community to help prevent foreclosure. Holly has been active in the MI Assn of County Treasurers, serving as its President and on the Board of Directors for six years. During this time she was a strong advocate for legislation; such as saving taxpayers’ dollars by updating publication requirements for properties in jeopardy of foreclosure. She also worked again with Jon Bumstead to provide a partnership with the State and other local governments to receive properties in Merrill Township and to combine them with those owned by the County Treasurer to create larger more marketable parcels. This is an ongoing project today, which has helped to curb the repeated tax reversion of the 25’ X 100’ lots in Woodland Park, Merrill Township. Holly is an active community member serving as the MI House of the Representatives’ appointee to the Newaygo Area Promise Board of Trustees, Chairperson of the Great Start Collaborative, President of White Cloud Rotary, and as a Trustee on the Executive Board for the state-wide MI CLASS Investment Pool. She has also enjoyed volunteering for United Way Newaygo County, as a work-based mentor for School-to-Work programs, for the All Saints Feeding America Program, and serves on the County’s Election Commission, Tax Allocation Board, Brownfield Authority Board, and Wellness & Safety Committee. Jason O’Connell has been employed in the County Treasurer’s Office for over 10 years and has worked diligently to succeed Holly as Newaygo County Treasurer. Treasurer Moon shared that she “has worked with Jason as her succession plan for 2-3 years, and is confident he has the education, integrity, and experience to be a successful Treasurer!”  2016 ceremony at Marshall Park The Newaygo City Council passed a resolution declaring the week of May 10-16 Police Week Newaygo, honoring the women and men who are tasked with the safety and security of our communities. “Members of law enforcement deserve the appreciation and respect of the people of the City of Newaygo for the merit, dignity, bravery, and reliability they exhibit every day as they work to protect us,” read the resolution. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week. National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. There are currently 118 law enforcement officers proudly representing the Fremont, Grant, Hesperia, Newaygo City and White Cloud Police Departments, the Newaygo County Sheriff Department and Michigan State Police serving and protecting the citizens in Newaygo County under a countywide Mutual Aid Agreement. Since 1791, there have been 23,717 known line of duty deaths in the United State of America, including 595 in Michigan and 4 in Newaygo County. In 2018 alone, 163 law enforcement officers were killed and many more assaulted in the line of duty across the country. The names of these dedicated public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice are engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. In 2004 the City of Newaygo established Marshall Memorial Park to memorize Trooper Kevin Marshall. In 2019 Headstones were placed in Marshall Memorial Park honoring and memorizing all fallen Police Officers from Newaygo County including Village Marshal Benjamin Carpenter, Deputy Gerald Kandler, Trooper Kevin Marshall, Trooper Paul Butterfield. From the resolution: “Michigan's and specifically Newaygo County's fallen officers will never be forgotten, nor will their service to their respective communities. By choosing to commit themselves to law enforcement, these brave individuals answered the call for service and willingly put their lives in jeopardy. We commend them for recognizing law enforcement as a noble career, and protecting the public safety, and also, all of those who are serving without incident to date. “Our communities rely on these courageous individuals when it is difficult to stand on our own, and we are indebted to the unwavering public service of our city, county and state police. We publicly salute the service of law enforcement officers in our Newaygo County community as well as those of our State and Nation and honor police who place their lives on the line for the safety and security of their communities.”  Richard Atwood disappeared in August, 1983 By N3 News
Judge Melissa Dykman heard arguments Tuesday in the first day of a preliminary hearing to determine if Roy Snell will stand trial for the murder of Richard Atwood who disappeared in August of 1983. Snell was arrested in March, the culmination of a years-long investigation by the cold case team of Scott Rios (NCSO, MSP retired), Adam Mercer (NCSO), Robert Watson (MSP), Ryan Maki (MSP) and Richard Miller ( MSP ret.). Karen Atwood, mother of the victim was first on the stand followed by Debra Cain, Atwood’s fiancee who lived with him at the time of his disappearance. Walter Sanders an acquaintance who was with Atwood the last day he was seen took the stand as did Walter Felos Jr. who also had contact with Atwood on the day he disappeared. The courtroom was sparsely populated with all wearing masks due to the COVID -19 virus. And witnesses were brought into the courtroom individually. Testimony focused on getting information on events and actions the day Atwood disappeared. The hearing continues Wednesday beginning at 8:30am and can be viewed via Youtube by going to the county website http://www.countyofnewaygo.com Once there you can click on ‘Departments’ and then ‘Courts’ which will display Circuit, District and Probate courts. The hearing is being held in District Court.  Governor Whitmer responding to questions at Monday's press conference Bumstead, VanSingel respond
At her press briefing Monday Governor Gretchen Whitmer was asked about death threats she has been receiving. She expressed concern over the violent nature of comments being made on social media and the violent and racist comments that were part of last week’s demonstration. She then stated that this violent behavior could be avoided if Republican legislators would step up to denounce these actions We asked our local legislators for their response State Senator Jon Bumstead: “People in Michigan are suffering. Some have lost a family member or friend to COVID-19; or may be battling the virus themselves. Others have had to close their businesses or lost their jobs and haven’t received unemployment benefits to help them provide for their families. Their frustration and sadness are real and I truly feel for everyone during this difficult time. “Many people have decided to exercise their first amendment rights and protest actions they don’t agree with. I support their right to express their displeasure with the government, just as I do with every group that protests at our state’s Capitol. “All elected officials, from the local level up to the president of the United States have individuals who do not support their actions. This is the nature of public service — and I believe the citizens of this country should hold their elected representatives accountable. They do this by directly expressing their opinions, either written or verbal, organizing with like minded individuals to speak with a collective voice, and especially when they vote on election day. “While I understand the frustration and desperation that people are currently feeling, I am troubled by and do not support anyone who would threaten harm against any elected official, including Gov. Whitmer. This behavior has no place in civil discourse and cannot be tolerated.” State Representative Scott VanSingel: "Free speech is an important part of our political process and our culture. Peaceful protests fall under the category of free speech and are often helpful in letting elected officials know our views. “The actions of some of the protesters in recent weeks are appalling, even though I may agree with some of the things they want to accomplish. Bigoted, hate-filled speech, and threats of violence have no place in civil discourse. I firmly denounce this behavior and have been joined by colleagues on both sides of the aisle in rejecting these actions.”   AG cites safety concerns
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has sent a letter to the Michigan State Capitol Commission confirming that the Commission has the legal authority to prohibit the presence of firearms in the state Capitol, if it chooses to do so. That authority is consistent with the current state of the law regarding firearms in public buildings and an informational letter sent to Speaker of the House Lee Chatfield in 2018. The Capitol is a place for free expression of thought and debate. But the freedom of civil discourse does not imply the right to threaten others with harm or violence,” Nessel said. “In our current environment and as the chief law enforcement officer in this state, I am gravely concerned for the safety of both our legislative members and the public at large. “With exceptions to those tasked with protecting our Capitol, the only way to assure that a violent episode does not occur is to act in concert with the many other state legislatures around the nation that have banned firearms in their capital facilities. The employees at our Capitol and members of the public who visit are entitled to all the same protections as one would have at a courthouse and many other public venues. Public safety demands no less, and a lawmaker’s desire to speak freely without fear of violence requires action be taken.” The Commission, which manages the Capitol grounds and building, is made up of the Secretary of the Senate, the Clerk of the House of Representatives, two individuals jointly appointed by the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House, and two individuals appointed by the Governor. Nessel wrote in her letter to commissioners that the Commission has the legal authority to ensure the “safety of the visiting public, as well as those who carry out the People’s work by prohibiting firearms within the Capitol building.” The Attorney General notes that the regulation of firearms generally stems from state statute, but the prohibition of firearms from public spaces does not need to originate from the Legislature. The Michigan Supreme Court, for example, adopted an administrative order that bars firearms from any courtroom, office or other space used for official court business or by judicial employees without prior approval. That order applies to open carry of firearms as well, Nessel notes, as it was cited in a Court of Appeals decision in an open carry challenge to a school district prohibition of weapons on school grounds. “The concept of ‘open carry’ in Michigan law does not provide the unfettered right to bring firearms into any public space,” Nessel wrote in her letter. The Supreme Court also ruled that state law, which preempts regulations by local units of government, does not apply to school districts. Therefore, a non-local unit of government – such as a school district, the Supreme Court or the Michigan State Capitol Commission – may lawfully impose regulations that impact firearms. Nessel notes in her letter that residents are currently permitted to enter the Capitol while clad in body armor and armed with high-capacity loaded semi-automatic assault weapons. “This is permitted during active legislative sessions and during moments of controversial debate where emotions and passions are known to run hot,” she wrote. “At the risk of stating the obvious, this is an absurdly dangerous combination that would cause the heart of any security expert to skip a beat.”  Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Chief Medical Officer Joneigh Khaldun By N3 News
While expressing cautious optimism about the progress made in flattening the curve of the COVID-19 virus and expressing concern over the possibility of a second wave, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-77 to extend Michigan’s Stay Home, Stay Safe order to May 28. The order includes allowing manufacturing workers to resume work on Monday, May 11 as part of her MI Safe Start Plan. The Big 3 auto manufacturers will begin production May 18th with 25% of their workers returning initially and phasing in more gradually. “This is good news for our state, our businesses, and our working families,” said Governor Whitmer. “We’re not out of the woods yet, but this is an important step forward on our MI Safe Start plan to re-engage our economy safely and responsibly.” 19% of the state’s economy comes from manufacturing. Whitmer outlined these phases of the safe start initiative: 1) UNCONTROLLED GROWTH: The increasing number of new cases every day, overwhelming our health systems. At this point schools closed, bars and restaurants closed and the stay at home orders were implemented. 2) PERSISTENT SPREAD: High case levels with concern about health system capacity. 3) FLATTENING: The epidemic is no longer increasing and the health-system's capacity is sufficient for current needs. The Governor stated that the state was entering this phase which has allowed for some loosening on restrictions including outdoor work, construction and now manufacturing. The hopes are to move into the next phases listed as: 4) IMPROVING: Cases, hospitalizations and deaths are clearly declining. 5) CONTAINING: Continued case and death rate improvements, with outbreaks quickly contained. 6) POST-PANDEMIC: Community spread not expected to return. Both the Governor and Chief Medical Director Joniegh Khaldun repeatedly encouraged citizens to continue to practice the safety measures by not gathering in frous, wearing masks, staying at least 6 feet apart from others and washing hands frequently. Michigan I’m asking you to mask up”,” said the Governor. “It’s a way of saying thank you to our front line workers.” Dr Khaldun expressed concern that despite the flattening of cases in and around the Detroit area they have seen increases in other parts of the state and reminded people to be cautious. Asked about state parks being opened for Memorial Day Whitmer reminded that the parks remain open but tht camping would not be available as yet per the DNR. Questioned about the Owosso barber who openly defied the order by opening his shop she spoke of recognizing the hardships of small businesses but once again reiterated the need to follow safe practices to deter any second wave of the virus that would cause a major setback in the progress. She also pointed out Shiawassee County (where Owosso is located) has had 198 cases and 13 deaths from the COVID virus. Governor Whitmer shared some good news about Pfizer conducting clinical trials on a possible vaccine and spoke of over 2700 state businesses benefiting from $10 million in grants that ended up saving 11,000 jobs. Dr. Khaldun spoke to a marked increase in volunteers to help with contact tracing a vital tool in containment of the virus. To view executive order 2020-77, click the link below: EO 2020-77.pdf  You can't sit in the courtroom but you can still take in the action Court sessions on YouTube
By N3 News With the arrival of the COVID-19 virus and the subsequent restrictions required of services, businesses and government entities, the courtrooms, once a place open for citizens to witness the machinations of the justice system, have been closed to the public since March 18th. Depite this, the courts have, of course, remained open for business with the capacity to handle all hearings remotely. “Work for essential services on all types of court cases has been ongoing since that time,” said Wendy Jarvis, Trial Court Director/FOC. “We are currently prevented from having a jury trial however, until June 22nd and are working with reduced staffing as well to ensure social distancing. “Circuit, District and Probate are utilizing the county’s conferencing center for hearings by phone and also utilizing Zoom for appearances by video/audio,” she added. “ Social distancing is also adhered to in the courtroom. Additionally, we are accepting new cases and filings via email, fax, and mail.” And the latest change? The public can now attend court sessions...albeit virtually. Each of the courts are now being live streamed on YouTube via the county’s web page and the court dockets are available there as well. The county website is http://www.countyofnewaygo.com Once there you can click on ‘Departments’ and then ‘Courts’ which will display Circuit, District and Probate courts. Now those who wish to observe the doings of the court because of a vested interest or out of mere curiosity have once again been given access to do so. Without leaving home.  The Brooks Township site, now fenced in with set hours, T-Th-Sat 9a-3p By N3 News
Since the close of the Grand Rapids facility to upgrade their process and the subsequent shuttering of local venues the material has been building up in garages everywhere as residents long on board with the benefits of recycling have awaited the day it would reopen. Monday was that day. The Fremont site saw hundreds of vehicles making their way through with huge loads of plastic, paper, glass and cardboard finding their way out of the county without ending up in a landfill. On Tuesday the Brooks Township site saw a steady stream of cars driving up to the new fenced in area that will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9am-3pm. Cart-Right Recycling, responsible for hauling the material to the Grand Rapids facility reported bins filled in many locations a sign that recycling was not only missed but continues to be a vital cog in efforts to maintain a healthy environment in Newaygo County. “We are seeing incredible volume and did two routes yesterday finishing at 7:00pm to ensure the containers were ready for more recyclables today,” said Cart-Rights Lola Harmon Ramsey. Here’s the skinny on a location near you. Fremont: 5510 56th Street, at the Fremont Mini Storage site. Hours: M-W-SAT, 9-12pm. Garfield Township Hall: 7180 S Bingham, Newaygo, open 24/7. Brooks Township: 490 Quarterline St, Newaygo. This site is now fenced with open hours. Hours: TUE-THU-SAT, 9-3pm. Grant: 160 East State Street, Open 24/7. White Cloud: Behind City Hall, off Pine Hill Rd, Hours Mon-Sat 8am-4pm. Croton: 5600 East Elm Street (transfer station). Open when the transfer station is open. Any questions? Visit the Newaygo County Recycling fb page  With Governor Whitmer looking on Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson addressing questions on Tuesdays election process Guv cites progress, emphasizes caution
In her press conference Monday Governor Whitmer began by recognizing this week as Nurses Week. Teachers Week and Correction Officers Week, thanking each profession for their dedication to keeping the public healthy, educated and safe. She announced the formation of the COVID-19 Office of Accountability to provide oversight on all spending associated with the pandemic. “Michiganders have the right to expect that state government will be responsible stewards of their resources, especially in a time of crisis. I will continue to work around the clock to ensure these resources are spent wisely, in compliance with the law, and in a transparent and accountable manner.” The Department of Technology, Management and Budget will designate a Chief COVID-19 Accountability Officer to lead the Accountability Office. While citing a downward trend in total numbers of cases the Governor sounded a cautionary note.“We’re not out of the woods yet,” she said, noting an increase in cases in the western and northern parts of the state. She reiterated the need to continue social distancing and wearing masks when necessary.She also quoted the recent press release by former President George W. Bush who called for ‘empathy and simple kindness’ during these troubled times. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson spoke of Tuesday’s election stating that while mail in and absentee ballots were encouraged in person voting would be available in each area Dr. Khaldun spoke of increased testing noting that 11, 300 tests were given last Friday but once again emphasized “This is not a time to be complacent.” Dr. Khaldoun also spoke to the discretion given physicians as to what they deem as necessary and urgent procedures emphasizing that any decisions about health care should be made by patients and their physicians. She also talked about outreach efforts to families who may be having difficulty and encouraged anyone who knows of a child being abused or neglected to report it by calling the Children’s Advocacy Center at 855.444.3911. The Governor was asked about the easing of restrictions on workplaces and she indicated more information would be coming later in the week but seemed to indicate a 2 week timetable for sectors of the job market returning allowing time to evaluate how each opening affects any rise in cases. Asked about crowds at Grand Haven and Belle Isle over the weekend she expressed concern and said the state parks would also be addressed later this week. As for a question about the legislature’s concern over separation of powers and the system of checks and balances the Governor made it clear that while she is happy to work with the legislature she would not negotiate on decisions made in response to the COVID-19 virus. “This is not a political issue it’s a public health issue.”  Collecting undesirables at the NCRC during Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day With the original day cancelled due to concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic the Board of Public Works worked with the company that provides the service to come up with an alternate date. With a limited number of available Saturdays on the schedule the popular Day of Disposal finally landed on an autumn date that should be easy to remember. October 31. Yes, Halloween will be this year’s collection date once again coming to the Newaygo County Road Commission Building. “Like an early day reverse trunk or treat,” said NC Drain Commissioner Dale Twing. The annual event draws hundreds of vehicles to the NCRC to rid our homes and our county of undesirable materials. More details will be forthcoming as the day draws near. |
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June 2020
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