 DHD#10 Lifts Water Contact Advisory At Mill Pond (Lake White Cloud)
On Saturday, July 27, 2024, District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) was notified by Ferris State University that follow-up bacterial samples at Lake White Cloud – City of White Cloud Rotary Park, Newaygo County no longer contain elevated levels of E. coli, lifting the water contact advisory. For up-to-date information about beach closures and advisories, please visit EGLE’s BeachGuard: https://www.egle.state.mi.us/beach/.
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 DHD#10 urges public to avoid water contact at Lake White Cloud
On Friday, July 26, 2024, District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) was notified by Ferris State University that they collected bacterial samples from Lake White Cloud – City of White Cloud Rotary Park, Newaygo County on Thursday, July 25, 2024. Ferris State University reported that two samples showed elevated E. coli levels and will continue to sample until the levels are reduced. Residents and visitors should be advised of unusually high levels of E. coli bacteria in Lake White Cloud – City of White Cloud Rotary Park, Newaygo County. When swimming or conducting other water activities during periods of high bacterial levels, the risk of becoming ill from contamination increases. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are the most at risk. Flu-like symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration can occur from exposure to contaminated water. Upper respiratory illnesses, such as ear, nose, and throat infections, may also occur, in addition to skin infections if an open wound is not properly protected. Ferris State University is continuing to collect samples and results will be reported by Ferris State University and DHD#10 when available. DHD#10 urges residents and visitors to avoid water contact at Lake White Cloud – City of White Cloud Rotary Park, Newaygo County until the samples indicate the E. coli levels have been reduced. For up-to-date results, please visit EGLE’s BeachGuard site: https://www.egle.state.mi.us/beach/.
At their June meeting, the Fremont Area Community Foundation Board of Trustees elected new trustees Julie Burrell and Dorothy Paris. Burrell is a Hesperia High School graduate and is the senior economic development director for Newaygo County with The Right Place. She holds a degree from Grand Valley State University and serves on our Impact Investment Committee as well as several other local boards and committees. Burrell is looking forward to becoming more involved with the work of the Community Foundation. “I look forward to seeing the strategic process of how the Community Foundation makes the biggest impact possible,” said Burrell. “Being a part of those conversations is exciting. I feel that the Community Foundation is an organization where board service is truly making a difference.” Paris is a retired CPA and partner at H&S Companies with experience in nonprofit accounting. She has served on local boards and committees, including the board of Newaygo County Compassion Home. She also chairs our Audit and Risk Management Committee. “I was interested in serving on the board because I’m retired and wanted to stay involved in the community,” said Paris. As a longtime area resident, “I love that people are caring here,” she said. “I love all the nature we have around us and that everybody knows your name.” Burrell and Paris were elected to fill vacancies left by the retirements of Dr. Lori Tubbergen Clark and Micheal Anderson, who had both served the maximum of three terms. Tubbergen Clark was elected to the board in 2015 and most recently served as board chair. She will remain chair of the Trusteeship Committee. Anderson was also elected to the board in 2015, has served on the Distribution Committee, and will remain on the Audit Committee. New officers were elected at the June meeting as well. Bill Alsover was named board chair and Ken DeLaat was named vice chair. Mikhail Salacina will serve as treasurer, and Dr. Susan Wente will be secretary. Rounding out the board’s Executive Committee is Peggy Rossler as trustee at large. The board meeting also included the approval of committee assignments, financial statements, multiple fund agreements, and spring community grant recommendations.  The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) of Fremont Area Community Foundation recently awarded $59,410 in grants to several programs serving Newaygo County youth. Grants were awarded to programs provided social, recreational, and educational opportunities for local youth as well as those supporting Newaygo County young people facing challenges with vaping and drug use, mental health, and other issues. TrueNorth Community Services received a $12,500 grant to support Parks in Focus. The program connects students to nature through photography and environmental recreation. Students experience camping, kayaking, hiking, and more while also learning about photography and building positive connections with peers and adult mentors. Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes, Inc. received a $3,500 grant from YAC for their middle and high school programming in the 2024-2025 school year. A donor also contributed $500 from their donor advised fund. Junior Achievement will bring local volunteers into classrooms to talk about their careers, backgrounds, and the training and skills needed to succeed in their fields. Other YAC grants will support mentoring programs in Newaygo and White Cloud, robotics programs, job training, library programs, and more. Grant applications were reviewed by YAC members who come from each Newaygo County public high school and the local homeschool community. Throughout the school year, YAC members also meet to build leadership skills and learn more about philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. YAC grants are awarded each spring, with applications due on March 1. For more information, visit facommunityfoundation.org/YACgrants.  District Health Department #10 (DHD#10), in cooperation with Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), is lifting the harmful algae bloom (HAB) advisory for Hess Lake in Newaygo County. The reported HAB advisory for Hess Lake from Monday, July 8, 2024, is being lifted. DHD#10 still advises residents, visitors, and their pets avoid areas where algal blooms are present. Signs will be posted near the boat launch of the lake to regarding Algae Awareness. “Our recent test results show reduced levels of toxicity, enabling us to lift the HAB advisory for Hess Lake in Newaygo County,” stated Meghan Stih, Environmental Health Supervisor for DHD#10. “While this bloom’s toxicity levels have reduced, it’s still important to be cautious around other areas where there are visible algae blooms.”  Road work starts Monday 7-22 and ends Froday 7-26
From our friends at MDOT: Daytime (7 a.m. to 8 p.m.) lane closures for road work are scheduled for this Monday through next Friday on M-37 between 3 Mile Road and 7 Mile Road. Both directions of traffic will share one lane and alternate via traffic regulators. For up-to-date information on this project and others, go to the list of statewide lane closures at: www.michigan.gov/drive.  City of White Cloud scores major funding award
The City of White Cloud was recently awarded $867,600 of grant funding through the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) / Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Spark Grant Program partnership to upgrade Smith Park with the addition of new amenities and improvements to existing facilities. $24.2 million dollars has been awarded to date to the 29 opportunity communities through the CMF/DNR Spark Program. “We are excited to receive this funding and use it to create our community's vision to enhance residents' recreational experience,” said April Storms, City Manager for the City of White Cloud. “I am grateful for everyone's ideas, input and effort that got us to this point, and I am confident that these developments will pay huge dividends for our community for generations to come.” The CMF/DNR Spark Grant program was established to equitably guide resources to communities and expand access to healthy indoor and outdoor recreation projects for many of Michigan’s historically under-resourced and underrepresented communities. Ensuring that community voice was prioritized in all elements of the planning process, and applying an equity lens during project decisions, were key elements to the program. “We are grateful for the efforts of the City of White Cloud and the leadership of the Fremont Area Community Foundation in centering resident voices in this project that will create healthy recreational opportunities for all to enjoy for years to come,” said Kyle Caldwell, CMF President and CEO. “It’s an honor for the DNR to help dozens of Michigan communities achieve their vision of healthier, more active lifestyles for residents and visitors, especially through a new grantmaking model that ensures a more direct pathway to places where critical dollars are most needed,” said DNR Director Scott Bowen. The grant funds will be used to renovate existing amenities and add new ones. This project is phase 1 of a 2-phase project re-design for Smith Park/Mill Pond. The city will continue to seek grant opportunities to complete phase 2 of this project. Enhancements in phase 1 include adding a shaded pavilion, bike parking loops, as well as adding ADA-accessible pathways connecting various new park elements. There will also be upgrades to parking areas on E. James St and added new parking locations on S. State St and E. Newell St. totaling 64 parking spaces in the vicinity of the parks. The project aims to enhance recreational opportunities while ensuring accessibility for all residents and visitors. The city intends on breaking ground for the project in 2025 and the project will be completed by Fall of 2026. The City of White Cloud seeks to provide accessible and enjoyable recreational opportunities that will benefit all area residents and visitors for generations to come.  Hon. David M. Glancy  Seth Wenger BALDWIN, Michigan – The Family Health Care Board of Directors recently approved the nominations of two new members. Hon. David M. Glancy and Seth Wenger will fill five-year terms on the health center’s board. “We are pleased to welcome Judge Glancy and Seth to our board,” said Pam Panetta, board chairperson. “Their experience and knowledge will benefit Family Health Care as we continue to work toward our mission of providing quality, integrated, and comprehensive health care services that are accessible to everyone.” Judge Glancy is a graduate of Fremont High School and received his bachelor's degree from Hope College in Holland, with a major in political science and a minor in biochemistry. He received his law degree from Michigan State College of Law. He lives in Lake County and serves as the Lake County Probate Judge and president of the Baldwin Rotary Club. Wenger earned his bachelor’s degree from Lee University and Master of Business Administration from Central Michigan University. He is president of The Wenger Agency, Inc. An active member of the community, Wenger serves on the Lake-Osceola State Bank Board of Directors, as trustee on the Village of Baldwin Downtown Development Authority, as treasurer of the Baldwin Rotary Club, as member of the Lake County Community Foundation, and as vice president of Baldwin Troutarama. “As a resident of Lake County and working in Baldwin over the past three years in the court system, I understand the need for and importance of Family Health Care to the community,” Glancy said. “It’s important to ensure that individuals and families in our area continue to have access to quality health care services.” “I have been a patient or vendor of Family Health Care in one form or another for most of my life,” said Wenger. “I’m honored to serve on the board for one of the premier non-profit organizations in our community.” As a Federally Qualified Health Center, Family Health Care is governed by a board of directors composed of community members and patients. By law, Family Health Care is required to fill 51 percent of its board seats with current patients. Family Health Care provides outpatient medical, dental, behavioral health, lab, radiology, vision, and pharmacy services at locations in Lake, Newaygo, Osceola, Mecosta, Missaukee, and Wexford counties.  Photo credit- Lauren Sherman Photography. Inaugural Newaygo County Leadership Empowerment and Advancement Program completes first cohort Photos by: Lauren Sherman Photography Newaygo County, MI [July 9, 2024] – The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership (NCEDP), powered by The Right Place, is proud to announce the culmination of the Leadership Empowerment & Advancement Program (L.E.A.P.) 2024 cohort. This milestone marks a significant step in empowering local leaders and fostering community growth through dedicated education and leadership training, as prioritized in NCEDP’s strategic plan. The inaugural cohort, launched earlier this year, brought together a diverse group of emerging leaders from seven sectors, including manufacturing, government, healthcare, and non-profit, reflecting the rich economy of Newaygo County. Participants engaged in a robust curriculum covering a multitude of essential skills in leadership, civility, conflict resolution, communication, and more. The six-month program consisted of engaging workshops and networking opportunities led by local and regional experts. Not only did this program prioritize enhancing each individual’s leadership skills, it also provided an opportunity to enhance their networks, enabling participants to build strong professional relationships and partnerships that will benefit the community for years to come. One L.E.A.P. participant shared, “This was something that filled my cup for my professional desire to continue to grow. I thoroughly enjoyed networking with other like-minded people within Newaygo County. These connections are what will help me in my future career.” "We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our inaugural cohort," said Julie Burrell, Senior Economic Development Director. "This group of dedicated individuals has demonstrated exceptional commitment to their personal growth and the betterment of our community. We are confident that they will continue to drive positive change, inspiring others to lead." The next Newaygo County L.E.A.P. cohort will launch in January 2025 and will begin accepting applications this fall. For more information, please contact Julie Burrell at [email protected].
   Big Prairie Township Parks Director Brian Spicer NEWAYGO, MI – Big Prairie Township Parks welcomes Brian Spicer as Park Director. Formerly the Chief Operating Officer of Surplus Coatings and Co-Founder of Innovakote, Brian brings over 15 years of business management experience to the parks, starting on June 23, 2024. “I am very excited to announce Brian Spicer has agreed to accept the role of Big Prairie Township Parks Director,” said Reuben Tucker, Chairman of Big Prairie Township Parks (BPTP). “The BPTP Commission was pleased to see his level of experience with management, customer service and his love for the outdoors matched with the Parks’ needs. He has a successful history in founding a startup company which will allow him to utilize entrepreneurial skills with staff professional development and expanding park services. There are many projects that will keep Brian busy throughout the camping season, the most important one being making sure each of our customers have a great camping experience.” While serving as the Chief Operating Officer at Surplus Coatings, Brian pioneered the design and execution of integral operational framework, championed continuous improvement initiatives, and managed the team that operated the core functions of the business. He has been recognized for exceptional strategic vision, market potential, and environmental impact, securing notable industry acknowledgement. I am very excited about the opportunity to lead a team of dedicated folks that keep campers relaxed while they enjoy the summer vibes of the parks,” said Spicer. “I grew up camping in Michigan and now take my wife and daughters on an annual trip with friends and family around the state. There is a feeling of relaxation that I get when I am in a campground, and now I get the chance to experience it on a daily basis.” As Park Director, Brian will be responsible for managing all aspects of the campgrounds, including coordinating the day to day operations such as maintenance, administration, and staff supervision, as well as planning and executing the long term goals and projects of the parks. Brian will work closely alongside park staff to continue serving Big Prairie Township Parks’ patrons and community.  Classified as ‘harmful’
District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) in cooperation with Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) have confirmed that the reported algae bloom on Hess Lake in Newaygo County is a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The reported bloom on Hess Lake from Thursday, June 26, 2024 has been confirmed through testing to be a harmful algae bloom (HAB). DHD#10 has collected additional samples and submitted them for testing to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). As noted previously, algae blooms can form when there are high nutrient levels within bodies of water along with warm temperatures. Signs will be posted near the boat launch of the lake to notify individuals to avoid contact with the water in that area as a precautionary measure. “Not all algal blooms are harmful, but the results from this particular bloom have classified it as harmful,” stated Meghan Stih, Environmental Health Supervisor for DHD#10. “Harmful algae bloom toxins can be hazardous to aquatic life, pets, and humans, so it is very important to avoid areas where these blooms have been identified.” Below are some steps to take when near waterways:
People and pets can experience the following symptoms after exposure to algae blooms:
 Shelly Kasprzycki and Alex Gorsky during the presentation at the luncheon. Fremont Area Community Foundation’s annual Spring Donors Luncheon featured Alex Gorsky, former chairman and CEO of Johnson and Johnson, as its guest speaker. More than 110 donors attended the June 20 luncheon, held at the Pavilion at Waters Edge. Gorsky is a graduate of Fremont High School and the United States Military Academy at West Point. After serving in the Army, Gorsky began his career with Johnson and Johnson in 1988 as a sales representative. He became chair and CEO in 2012. Under his leadership, the company grew from approximately $60 billion to $100 billion in total sales. The luncheon featured Gorsky in conversation with Shelly Kasprzycki, the Community Foundation’s president and CEO. They talked about Gorsky’s experiences growing up in Fremont, serving in the Army, and leading Johnson and Johnson during a pandemic. Gorsky’s parents, Al and Loretta Gorsky, moved their family to Fremont in the early 1970s for Al’s job with Gerber. While leaving relatives and moving to a small rural community was a big change, Gorsky remembers that the community here quickly embraced them. “Our family, we just love this community,” said Gorsky. “I wouldn’t be where I am without the community of Fremont.” Gorsky also talked about fielding calls in his kitchen from world leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic as his company worked to develop a vaccine. “It was an incredibly emotional time,” he said. “We were on a mission.” Reflecting on challenges and opportunities in healthcare, Gorsky shared, “We’ve never seen a time of so much technology and innovation as we’re seeing now.” In recent years, the Gorsky family has been instrumental in the revival of the Waters Edge property, including the golf course, restaurant, the Pavilion event space, and The Bunker. “This is a special place for Newaygo County, and we want it to be here for the long term,” he said. He also recognized his wife, Pat Gorsky, for her work managing many of the project details. In addition to their work at Waters Edge, the Gorsky family are active philanthropists and have created a fund at the Community Foundation as part of their ongoing commitment to this area. “This community has been such an important part of our lives,” said Gorsky. “We have always had a warm place in our hearts for this community. We feel it’s our responsibility to give back.”  Pat and Alex Gorsky.
Pre Holiday reports urge caution
From our friends at DHD#10: White River On Friday, June 28, 2024, District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) was notified by Ferris State University that they collected bacterial samples from the backwaters of White River, in White Cloud, Newaygo County. Ferris State University reported that two samples showed elevated E. coli levels and will continue to sample until the levels are reduced. Residents and visitors should be advised of unusually high levels of E. coli bacteria in the backwaters of White River in White Cloud, Newaygo County. When swimming or conducting other water activities during periods of high bacterial levels, the risk of becoming ill from contamination increases. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are the most at risk. Flu-like symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration can occur from exposure to contaminated water. Upper respiratory illnesses, such as ear, nose, and throat infections, may also occur, in addition to skin infections if an open wound is not properly protected. Ferris State University is continuing to collect samples and results will be reported by Ferris State University and DHD#10 when available. DHD#10 urges residents and visitors to avoid the backwaters of White River in White Cloud, Newaygo County until the samples indicate the E. coli levels have been reduced. For up-to-date results, please visit EGLE’s BeachGuard site: https://www.egle.state.mi.us/beach/. Hess Lake District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) in cooperation with Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) are reporting that algae blooms were detected on Hess Lake in Newaygo County. A resident reported a bloom on Hess Lake Thursday, June 26, 2024. The DHD#10 then collected samples and submitted them for testing to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Algae blooms can form when there are high nutrient levels within bodies of water along with warm temperatures. Signs will be posted near the boat launch of the lake to notify individuals to avoid contact with the water in that area as a precautionary measure. “Not all algal blooms have cyanotoxins, so it is difficult to tell if it is harmful by looking at it. Harmful algae blooms can be a variety of colors and look like scum in the water with small flecks, like globs and mats, or like spilled paint with a green sheen on the surface,” stated Meghan Stih, Environmental Health Supervisor for DHD#10. “The algal toxins that are released can be harmful to aquatic life, pets, and humans, so it is very important to avoid these areas.” Below are some steps to take when near waterways:
Contact with algae blooms can cause minor illness in humans but can be fatal to pets. Therefore, it is also recommended that people keep their pets out of the water that shows any signs of algae blooms. People and pets can experience the following symptoms after exposure to algae blooms:
If you think that you or your pet have been exposed to algae blooms, take the following precautions:
 Dee Dee Chaunte'- MC Extraordinaire  The sun came out just in time
 Little Mitten booth provided a slew of giveaways- Photo by Liz Zitka Pride made a triumphant return to Newaygo as this second annual festival of fun and frolic drew large numbers of folks to Brooks Park to celebrate Pride Month. The entertainers provided many highlights throughout the 4 hour gathering and vendors lined the park to put their goods on display while community organizations handed out information as well as a bit of swag. MC Dee Dee Chaunte’ kept the crowd engaged as she introduced acts and added some personal showmanship as well. The park was filled with smiles and laughter as festival goers seemed to bask in the aura of acceptance the event provided.   By Ken DeLaat “For I was hungry…” Feeding America is a truly righteous group of folks who are in the front lines of tackling hunger in our country and our county. They provide a vital service to communities in need, constantly fighting rising food costs and juggling grant money from a number of sources to bring food to those struggling to make ends meet. A true example of compassion in action. Now we understand one of our local sites near White Cloud (a church) has cut off ties with the organization. Lack of volunteers? Need the parking lot that day? No. Apparently the church’s pastor has decided that since the Feeding America organization recognized Pride month he has decided to pull the church's support, leaving them scrambling to find a new locale for the White Cloud area. N3 reached out to the pastor of the White Cloud church for a comment and received this message from the church’s fb site. “Our church has no further comment on this.” adding “We have decided to take the funding that we were spending on FA and invest in another food distribution in Newaygo county that distributes weekly.” We will keep you updated if and when we find out more. And by the way, Nascar and NFL fans should be aware that these organizations also support Pride Month. As do Visa, Nestle, etc. etc. Speaking of Pride… The second annual Pride Festival will be held Saturday at Brooks Park starting at 3pm. There are a smattering of folks hereabouts who seem to be taking exception to an event that helps promote equal treatment for people regardless of who they choose to love. I’m old enough to recall similar resistance toward expanding rights for women and people of color. Those who were the loudest also used their faith as reference for their discriminatory stances. Some things, it appears, never really change. The faces might be different but it always seems to be the same people. “Saying it's hard being straight is like complaining to the poor that it's difficult being wealthy.”-DaShanne Stokes  From our friends at the Newaygo County BPW: On Saturday, June 15th the annual Scrap Tire Collection occurred. The event was held at the Newaygo County Road Commission from 8:00 am until noon. The purpose of this event is to collect unwanted scrap tires, clean up the county and dispose of tires in an appropriate manner. The event was sponsored by The County of Newaygo. This event is on behalf of the Newaygo County Board of Public Works and coordinated by Drain Commissioner, Dale Twing, and his staff. An EGLE grant for funding is applied for and managed by the Drain Office. The grant funding is applied for in the fall for the next year. We want to recognize the following participants: The County of Newaygo, Newaygo County Road Commission and their staff, American Classic, and the individual volunteers at the event. Without collaboration this event would not have occurred. There were over 225 participants that brought tires during the four-hour event. The 16 volunteers unloaded and stacked thousands of tires. The 2023 event filled seven semi-trailers with tires. The 2024 event is anticipated to exceed last year’s total. Thank you to everyone that participated.  A 'tired' group of volunteers  “This project will energize a tired building to a renewed use, add desperately needed housing to Hesperia’s downtown and is providing an opportunity for the Slate family to invest in the place they’ve done business for generations,” -Julie Burrell, Senior Economic Development Director of NCEDP- Photo by Aaron Slate Hesperia pharmacy to add three housing units to second floor
HESPERIA, MICH (June 21, 2024): Today, the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership (NCEDP), powered by The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), announced that the Slate Building in Hesperia will be adding three housing units to the second floor. The MEDC plans to support the project with a Build MI Community (BMC) Initiative grant. The renovation of the Slate Building in Hesperia marks a significant milestone for the village, being the first major community development in over 40 years. This project, initiated by Slate Property Co, aims to revitalize the historic building by adding three housing units to the second floor. This development is set to provide much-needed housing and invigorate the local economy, reflecting the company's commitment to fostering progress and enhancing community life in Hesperia. The Slate Building has a rich history dating back to the mid to late 1800s when it was originally constructed at Aetna Corners.The building was moved to downtown Hesperia, and has since served various purposes, including a village mercantile, pool hall, and mortuary. In 1956, Robert and Elaine Slate transformed it into Bob's Drugs pharmacy, unofficially naming it the Slate Building. The second floor was their family home. It has seen minimal upgrades over the years. For more information on the history of the Slate Building and the upcoming project, visit the Slate Property Co website. “The Slate Building project began as an idea to preserve our family legacy and quickly turned into a community project to help create momentum for future growth in Hesperia,” said Aaron Slate of Slate Property Co. “From our project’s beginning, I was overwhelmed with the amount of support and encouragement we received from our community.” “This project will truly change the look and feel of our small downtown,” said Mike Farber, Hesperia Village President. “As the project begins, we are hopeful it will encourage other businesses to apply for help through the programs that are available.” The NCEDP worked closely with the MEDC and Slate Property Co. to coordinate state and local resources, including helping obtain an award under the Build MI Community Initiative (BMC) in the form of a grant, in the amount of up to $227,705, or approximately 32% of eligible investment for the project. Additionally, Slate Property Co was awarded $90,000 to support the new housing units from the Newaygo County Housing Partnership Fund, a collaboration between the Fremont Area Community Foundation and the County of Newaygo. Slate Property Co also received a $125,000 Program Related Investment loan from the Fremont Area Community Foundation. “This project will energize a tired building to a renewed use, add desperately needed housing to Hesperia’s downtown and is providing an opportunity for the Slate family to invest in the place they’ve done business for generations,” said Julie Burrell, Senior Economic Development Director of NCEDP and project lead. “This project is creating something for the entire community to get excited about for the first time in a long time.”  Photo courtesy of Pedal Across Lowwr Michigan “This will be my 30th year. I started riding with a couple of friends. When they stopped , I continued as I had made many friends over the years. I also met my partner. We have been together for almost 26 years. He and I are both on staff. I have made many friends on the ride and we have become lifelong friends, doing things together all year long”.- Tina Brander If you are out and about this weekend and you see a few hundred bikers cruising down the road like a pedal driven parade you’ve just encountered the PALM Bike Tour. This Sunday, June 23, the tour (approx 400 people) will pedal from Norton Shores to Newago schools and stay in tents for the night. Bicyclists of all ages and support staff will eat breakfast and supper at the school to support and benefit local groups. Pedal Across Lower Michigan (PALM) has been putting on this celebration of cycling aimed at extolling the beauty of our state since 1982. That year the idea born by Thomas Pendelton, Peter Lagerway, and Sally Janacek became a reality as a dedicated group set out from Berrien Springs enroute to Detroit. Since then PALM has continued their lake-to-lake trek, never traveling the same route twice. Some cities have been sites repeatedly but they are always on a different route.The routes are North of I-96 during even years and South of I-94 during odd years. The last time the group stayed in Newaygo was in 2003, though they have more recent stops in White Cloud, Fremont, Grant and Hesperia. We posed a few questions to Robin DeNousse who had reached out to us about the event. What’s a typical day for the riders? Get up around 6a to 7a, pack up tent, sleeping bag, and other bags and put them on the truck. Eat breakfast. Fill water bottle, check tires, meet up with friends and family and start riding bike. There are SAGS along the route that offer water, air pumps, and assistance every 5-10 miles. Half way along the route is a stop with restrooms and all-you-can-eat-watermelon. There are many farms, small towns, attractions, and shops along the way to stop, take pictures, and eat. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the heat. The route is marked on the road and there is a map app to follow. Sometimes there is a river or lake to stop and swim to cool off. The trucks with all the gear will be at the next school site. Find gear, set up tent, roll out sleeping bag. Charge phone at the enormous, portable, PALM charging station. Shower and eat dinner at the school. Possibly ride into town to walk, listen to music, have an ice cream. Brush teeth in the school, play basketball or cards. Back at the tent, go to sleep. Wake up and repeat! Are there programs or activities on your stopovers? Yes, a great children's program, basketball courts, tables for card games, sometimes the school has a pool! Every night there is a bicycle education class given that covers safety, bike repair, and self-supporting cross-country biking. In addition, PALM has a brief meeting to review these items for the next day = route (safety, attractions, possible lunch stops), food to be served at the next school site, and weather. Have you participated? I think this will be my 16th year. My Mom, Aunt, and several neighborhood couples that were friends rode PALM for years. I finally joined them when my kids were 11 and 13. They rode with me for several years and the year he graduated high school, my son rode his bike across the US on the TransAmerica Bike route with his cousin in 6 weeks. I rode with a neighbor friend for about 10 years. I had a cousin join us with her family for a year. Last year a couple high school classmates joined me. They are both returning this year and my niece will also join us. There are many groups of families and friends that return every year and use their PALM time to keep in touch. What kind of bike do you ride? I rode an old 1970's Schwinn Le Tour for 15 years. It was heavy and had only 10 racing gears so this year I bought a used Specialized Roubaix. The majority of bicycles are road bikes. There are also tandems, recumbents, mountain bikes, hybrids, tagalongs, and E-bikes. For more information on Palm visit their website at https://palmbiketour.org/ “I love that no one laughs at me for wearing regular shoes and t-shirts to ride in, or for taking 8-10 hours to ride 50 miles. I love seeing riders on a different ride and they recognize me from PALM. I love the lifetime friends I have now.”- PALM participant  This year's route  Photo courtesy of Pedal Across Lowwr Michigan  L-R Patty Corkery President/CEO of the Michigan Credit Union League presenting the award to John Buckley President/CEO of GFCU Gerber FCU President/CEO receives Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Credit Union League at Annual Convention
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (6/7/2024) The 2024 MCUL & MCUF Award winners were recognized during the 2024 Annual Convention & Exposition's awards gala ceremony. These winners are continually seeking out new ideas and innovations that make Michigan a better place for all. Gerber Federal Credit Union’s President/CEO, John Buckley was awarded the Distinguished Service Award. This award celebrates a lifetime of achievement for those demonstrating exceptional dedication to the credit union industry over the course of their careers. “The entire team and Board of Directors of the Michigan Credit Union League are incredibly proud to be awarding John Buckley the Distinguished Service Award at our annual meeting this year. This award is the highest honor in our Michigan industry and John is very deserving. John has been actively involved in the credit union movement both in Michigan and nationally. He is a fierce advocate for not only his credit union but also the entire credit union system. John is well-regarded by our entire MCUL family as well as the lawmakers in Michigan. We are very happy to acknowledge his contributions to our industry,” said Patty Corkery President/CEO of the Michigan Credit Union League.  County Election Update
In the August 6th Republican Primary 6 of the 7 current commissioners have no opposition but voters in the 5th District that includes Brooks (south of the river) and Garfield townships and the city of Newaygo will see three names on the ballot. Lori Tubbergen Clark, Thomas Smith and Lavern Willett each seek to succeed current Commish Ken DeLaat who will leave office after serving 3 terms. The Drain Commissioner race is also a 3 way with incumbent Dale Twing facing challenges from Adam Campbell of Grant and current Croton Township Supervisor Morgan Heinzman. Sheriff Bob Mendham has competition from former deputy Adam Mercer for the top badge in the county while Register of the Deeds Stewart Sanders faces opposition from Grant realtor Kelly Pangburn and County Clerk Jason VanderStelt will be contested by April Pickard who is currently employed at the Clerk's office. There are no candidates for county offices on the Democratic side. We plan on sending out a few questions to the candidates in the contested races over the next couple of weeks so stay tuned. Got a question you would like to pose to our candidates? Send it to us at [email protected] and we will give it a look.  Karner Blue Butterfly & Native Habitat Program Saturday 6/22 Come join the Newaygo County Environmental Coalition at the Croton Township Library for an event dedicated to preserving the beauty of the Karner Blue Butterfly! A deep dive into the Newaygo County endangered Karner Blue Butterfly will be presented on Saturday, June 22 from 2pm – 3:15pm at the Croton Township Library, 8260 S Croton Hardy Drive, Newaygo, 49337. Following the indoor program there will be a field tour of the nearby Karner Blue Nature Sanctuary from 3:30 – 4:30pm. Due to sensitive plants at the Nature Sanctuary, there will be a limit of 30 people for the field tour. Free tickets are required via Eventbrite. To register, go to the Newaygo County Environmental Coalition Facebook page Events: NCEC FB Events Karner Blue Program. You may also email [email protected]. The Karner Blue Butterfly, one of Michigan’s rarest species, is facing the threat of extinction. It was listed as endangered in 1992, but by then the number of Karner Blues throughout its once immense Eastern geographic range had declined by 99%. Michigan and Wisconsin now have the largest remaining numbers of this butterfly. With its survival closely tied to the presence of wild lupine, a native wildflower, the Karner Blue requires specific habitats like the unique dry-sand prairies and oak-barren ecosystems found in Newaygo County. Unfortunately much of the lupine’s habitat has been destroyed by human development and degraded by the invasion of trees, shrubs, and invasive plants that occur when sites are not managed. Thanks to the recent efforts by local conservation groups and concerned citizens, habitats that support the Karner Blue remain in Newaygo County. However the butterfly’s survival is still at stake, and they need our protection. “This program will explain the importance of much needed conservation efforts in our prairie-oak open habitats and how you can help protect this endangered species,” explained Katie Clark of NCEC. “You will also connect with fellow nature enthusiasts and discover the wonders of our unique local ecosystem. I urge you - don't miss this opportunity to make a difference in Newaygo County's natural heritage!” Attendees will have the privilege of hearing from 5 esteemed guest experts on the Karner Blue Butterfly and their habitats. Presenters will include:
“The restoration of habitats for the Karner Blue Butterfly requires collaboration and partnerships among lots of stakeholders such as the County, our Townships, Foundations, and all levels of government,” adds Katie. “But it is our community citizens who are the backbone to saving the Karner Blue. Volunteers don’t need PhD’s to lead the campaign – they just need to join us on our “Tender Loving Care” workdays at the Sanctuaries to remove invasive species, re-seed native plants, and write to our legislators about the importance of preserving and restoring our habitats. This is not only for the Karner Blue, but for all of our butterfly and insect pollinators that are so essential to keeping our environment healthy and diverse.” The Newaygo County Environmental Coalition is a 501c3 non-profit organization whose mission is to support the beauty and sustainability of the Newaygo County region environment. NCEC has a fourfold focus: Youth and the Environment; 3R Reduce-Reuse-Recycle; LOBO – “Love Our Beautiful Outdoors” recreation opportunities; and Healthy Habitats on public and private lands. A newly organized “Newaygo Area Local Growers” network has formed under NCEC’s umbrella to support and promote local sustainably produced agriculture. Volunteers are welcomed to enrich and support any of the four above focus areas. For more information, and to sign up for E-news, visit: www.nc-ec.org. Follow and like on Facebook @NCEC2. Contact information via email: [email protected].  Karner Blue Butterfly Program Presenters from left to right: Chuck Vannette, Jim Dunn, husband & wife team Randy Butters and Sarah Pregitzer, and Rod Kroll. Photos courtesy of the presenters.  From our friends at MDOT: Lane closures for road work are scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on southbound M-37 (Mason Drive) at Cooperative Center Drive. MiDrive- https://mdotjboss.state.mi.us/MiDrive/map?constZone=true&lat=43.40496500544091&lon=-85.80151346384045&zoom=13 |
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