 City of White Cloud Completes Airport Runway Rehab WHITE CLOUD, MI – The City of White Cloud recently completed a $1,075,578 project, rehabilitating Runway 18-36. This project was part of an annual planning process that assesses infrastructure needs under the Airport Improvement Program. Through these programs, costs are shared between the Federal Aviation Administration, the State of Michigan and local entities, similar to highway projects. Without important collaborations such as this, The City of White Cloud would not be able to complete such large projects. Through the City’s airport fund, $7,664 was contributed to the total project cost. After a competitive bidding process, Rieth-Riley Construction Company was awarded the project. Throughout the month of July, the 2,917 ft Runway 18-36 was re-graded and repaved. This project eliminated years of weathering and surface distress, allowing the White Cloud Airport to continue providing safe operations for aircraft choosing to utilize this Newaygo County asset.  “The city has maximized the useful life of its existing runway,” Yvonne Ridge, White Cloud City Manager said. “The runway was in need of rehabilitation to ensure the infrastructure is maintained in excellent condition to best serve the base and visiting aircraft customers.” Originally built in the 1930's, the White Cloud Airport encompasses a 45 acre property on the northern end of the city limits. Categorized as a basic general aviation facility by the FAA, this publicly owned airport is available for private and commercial use. In 2019, a new terminal building and self-service fuel terminal were constructed. The airport is located within walking distance to downtown White Cloud, and is located less than ½ mile from the White Cloud Industrial Park. 
0 Comments
 From our friends at CE
JACKSON, Mich., Aug. 11, 2021 -- Consumers Energy crews are starting to restore power this morning to over 200,000 homes and businesses after a fast-moving storm brought high winds and caused major damage across Michigan late Tuesday night. “Mother Nature delivered a powerful punch to Michigan. Now, Consumers Energy’s crews will be working to repair damage and restore power to customers who count on us,” said Guy Packard, Consumers Energy’s vice president for electric operations. “Our crews will be working around the clock this week to turn the lights back on for everyone who was affected by this devastating storm.” Severe weather started hitting West and Northern Michigan after 9 p.m. Tuesday. Winds reportedly as high as 70 mph knocked down trees, limbs and power lines. Crews started assessing damage and restoring power overnight, and their work likely will continue through the week. Customers can report an outage and check the status of outage by visiting www.ConsumersEnergy.com/OutageCenter. Customers can also sign up to get outage alerts and restoration times sent to a phone, email or text message, Text ‘REG' to 232273 or visit www.ConsumersEnergy.com/alerts. “We appreciate our customers’ patience as we work to restore power as quickly and safely as we can,” Packard said. “We also are watching for the prospect of more storms later tonight and we encourage people to take steps to stay safe and be ready for the possibility of additional power outages.” Packard urged people to stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines, keep children or pets away, and report the issue by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050. Consumers Energy asks the public to keep a safe distance from crews due to health precautions and to allow them to do their work. Consumers Energy also asks the public to keep important safety tips in mind:
 Downtown Hesperia- Photo by Jennifer Sherburn  Hesperia Community Assessment Planned for August 18
Pentwater, MI –The Community Foundation of Oceana County is thrilled to partner with the Village of Hesperia and Chamber of Commerce, the Right Place, and the Oceana County Economic Alliance to begin a community assessment on August 18 of Hesperia and its surrounding communities. The initiative is an exciting opportunity to support Hesperia’s economic development, while listening to area residents’ ideas and feedback. The Hesperia Area Community Assessment will provide local officials, organizations, and residents with a shared vision for the future. Together, they can brainstorm a starting point towards reaching their vision, and a roadmap of how to approach community investment. The assessment includes a series of small group meetings with key stakeholders during the day, and an evening Town Hall meeting. The small groups will function as focus groups in five specific areas: businesses; nonprofits, churches, and schools; Village staff and officials; youth; and seasonal and generational residents. The Town Hall meeting will be from 6:30-8:30pm at the High School cafeteria and is open to the public. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback regarding their community’s vision, and to identify aspects of Hesperia they wish to preserve and change. The Rural Partners of Michigan began offering communities the opportunity to engage in community assessments back in 2012. Julie Hales-Smith, a consultant from North Coast Community Consultants leading the Hesperia Area Assessment, has facilitated over 30 rural community assessments across the state. Each assessment results in a comprehensive report and a follow-up resident session to share top priorities, issues and to identify next steps. CMF (Council of Michigan Foundations) selected the Foundation to participate in their Rural Economic Development Cohort Initiative, nearly four years ago. Since then, the Foundation has funded and helped to lead assessments in Shelby and Pentwater. “It is critical for us to keep a pulse on community needs. These assessments help us to better understand how we can support each community’s unique needs and build relationships. Community leaders have done an amazing job of gathering residents’ feelings and aspirations and then fostering positive change. We are looking forward to learning more about Hesperia and are planning an assessment in Walkerville in 2022,” said CEO Tammy Carey.  Child advocacy center to hold golf fundraiser, invites community to support abuse prevention efforts
BIG RAPIDS, Mich.– Open Arms Child Advocacy Center is inviting golfers to tee up for a good cause. The nonprofit, which serves families and children in Mecosta, Osceola, Lake and Newaygo counties, is holding a golf fundraiser with a twist: The virtual fundraiser is being held over the course of 30 days and three area golf courses. As part of the fundraiser, 4-member teams of golfers can tee up anytime between Sept. 1 to Oct. 2 at a golf course of their choice. Participating golf courses are:
Team registration is $200. Green fees, which include 18 holes and a cart, are $35. Sponsorships are still available, at $5,000 for a title sponsor, $2,500 for a major sponsor, $1,500 for a birdie sponsor, and $100 for a hole sponsor. In addition to golfing at a time and course that’s convenient, teams can also post their scores on a live leaderboard. Interested golfers can sign up by going to www.golfstatus.com and clicking on “Find an event.” A new window listing all golf events will appear, and in the search bar, type in “Open Arms Child Advocacy Center.” From the OACAC events page, golfers can sign up, be a sponsor, check the leaderboard and donate to OACAC. Golfers can call the golf course of their choice to schedule their teams’ tee times. Open Arms Child Advocacy Center is a community based and child friendly facility designated to coordinate child forensic interviews and services to victims of child sexual abuse in Mecosta, Osceola, Newaygo and Lake counties. Through its work, OACAC aims to minimize further trauma to child victims and their non-offending family members by supporting successful child abuse investigations, promoting healing, and empowering families through education. “Open Arms Child Advocacy Center is excited to host our golf fundraiser and we invite folks in our community to golf for a good cause, at a time and location that works for them,” said Wendy Samuels, OACAC board chair. “Open Arms is grateful to businesses, individuals and our partners in law enforcement, health care and other organizations who have helped us support children and hold those who commit abuses accountable for their crimes. Our golf fundraiser in September and October is a great way to ensure Open Arms can continue to do the work we do, with the resources we need to serve our community and protect children.”  One of DHD#10's pop-up clinics will be at the Newaygo Farmer's Market August 13th Pop Up Clinics Abound in August-No Appointment Necessary
August 5, 2021 –District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) is bringing the COVID-19 vaccine to our community through multiple pop-up vaccine clinics all summer long. Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is important because:
Help us continue to move forward by getting your COVID-19 vaccine at one of our upcoming pop-up clinics in August.
For the clinics listed above, you do not need an appointment – just walk in to receive your vaccine. All clinics will have Pfizer for 12 and older, and Moderna and Johnson & Johnson for 18 and older. For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, go to www.dhd10.org/covid-19-vaccine. To stay up to date on the latest information, sign up for Public Health Alerts at www.dhd10.org/schedule.  Shelly Hendrick Kasprzycki Named President and CEO of Fremont Area Community Foundation
Fremont Area Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees has selected Shelly Hendrick Kasprzycki as the organization’s new president and CEO, effective September 27, 2021. Hendrick Kasprzycki will succeed Carla Roberts, who is retiring at the end of September after 10 years with the Community Foundation. Hendrick Kasprzycki, a lifelong Michigan resident, comes to the Community Foundation after most recently serving as president and CEO of Michigan Humanities. Prior to this position, she was executive director of Greater Jackson Habitat for Humanity and president and CEO of Jackson Community Foundation. Her career in nonprofit executive leadership and philanthropy has spanned the last 20 years. “We are thrilled to welcome Shelly to the Community Foundation,” said Joe Roberson, FACF board chair and chair of the search committee. “She brings extensive experience in collaborative leadership, community outreach and engagement, and nonprofit best practices. We look forward to the ways she will utilize her expertise and strategic leadership to guide the vision and goals of the Community Foundation forward.” Hendrick Kasprzycki was selected via an extensive nationwide search conducted by executive search firm Kittleman & Associates and coordinated by a local search committee made up of Community Foundation trustees and a cross section of community members. “We built a candidate profile for this position with input from donors, grantees, staff, trustees, and the local community,” said Lori Tubbergen Clark, FACF trustee and search committee vice chair. “Shelly checks all the boxes and brings deep experience in nonprofit development and philanthropy in rural communities. The search committee is thrilled to welcome her to Newaygo County, and we know she will be an invaluable asset to our community.” Hendrick Kasprzycki began her career in public health at the Michigan Department of Community Health in Jackson County and later led the Nonprofit Network, a regional chapter of the American Red Cross, and the Jackson Community Foundation. In her position at Michigan Humanities, she worked with a 25-member board as well as many statewide and national partners, including those in the service area of Fremont Area Community Foundation and its affiliates. Under Hendrick Kasprzycki’s leadership, Michigan Humanities doubled its assets and grantmaking. “Working for an organization with a statewide reach has given Shelly a unique ability to connect the priorities of all kinds of communities and organizations,” said Roberson. “She’s a master of collaboration and relationship-building. We can’t wait to see the ways she will build on the great work of those that came before her and make our organization even more effective.” As a nonprofit and community leader, Hendrick Kasprzycki has been honored as Jackson College’s Martin Luther King Jr Medal of Honor recipient, Rotarian of the Year, and as the Eastern Michigan University College of Health and Human Services Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. She has volunteered for many organizations, including the Jackson Women’s History Council and the Jackson County Michigan Historical Society. Born in a rural community herself, Hendrick Kasprzycki grew up enjoying nature, riding horses, and participating in 4-H. She looks forward to her new position and relocation to Newaygo County. “I’m delighted to be selected to serve as the next president of Fremont Area Community Foundation,” said Hendrick Kasprzycki. “I’ve followed the work of the Community Foundation and its affiliates and am deeply impressed by the community commitment and strategic initiatives. I hope to continue the wonderful work and effective strategies already in place to improve the quality of life for all in our region.”  16 COVID-19 cases connected with event. Attendees urged to get tested
LANSING, Mich. –The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is working with local public health departments on an investigation of cases of COVID-19 associated with the Muskegon Bike Time event held July 15-18. Muskegon Bike Time is a four-day motorcycle event held in West Michigan. At least 16 cases of COVID-19 have been identified among this year’s attendees and their contacts, including individuals who were at the event while they were infectious. If you attended Muskegon Bike Time you may have been exposed to the virus. Attendees of Bike Time are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19. Testing sites are available across the state, many of them offering free COVID-19 testing. Please visit Michigan.gov/coronavirustest to find a testing site near you. People with COVID-19 may be asymptomatic or have a wide range of symptoms – from mild to severe illness. Symptoms generally appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus and may include:
Individuals experiencing severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest pain, inability to wake or stay awake, or pale or blue-colored skin, lips or nail beds, should seek emergency care immediately.  Overly Tired? Not fatigued, I mean are there more unused tires hanging around the garage, shed, backyard etc. that you would like to dispose of once and for all? Well, there’s always the woods where small minded folks take their hard to dispose of trash items because they’re both thoughtless and stupid but you’re neither right? So here’s your chance at being tireless (except for those you’re driving on of course). The Board of Public Works is doing a sequel to the ever popular Hazardous Waste Collection Day by hosting a Free Tire Disposal Day this Saturday, August 7th at the Newaygo County Road Commission (935 One Mile Rd White Cloud) from 8am- Noon. There’s a 10 tire limit (200 if you’re a township dumping the rubber collected at your own junk days) and did I mention it’s free? This is for tires only so leave the paint cans etc. at home but rest assured you are free (that word again) to drop off your unwanted wheel wraparounds. And while retiring your tires if you feel compelled to make a contribution toward the fine work being done by Newaygo County Recycling? Feel Free to do so. For more info contact the NC Drain Office at 231.689.7213.  Consumers Energy crews are preparing for potentially extreme weather, including damaging wind gusts, severe thunderstorms, and heavy rain, that could result in power outages, downed wires and other safety hazards. Regions in the western and southern parts of the state are expected to be hit hardest by the potential storms, starting late Wednesday night and continuing into the early morning hours on Thursday. Some preparation tips for potential severe weather include:
Consumers Energy also urges the public to keep these important storm safety tips in mind:
Customers can report an outage, check the status of an outage and get useful tips what to do after a storm by visiting www.ConsumersEnergy.com/OutageCenter. Customers can also sign up to get outage alerts and restoration times sent to a phone, email or text message, Text ‘REG' to 232273 or visit www.ConsumersEnergy.com/alerts.  Decision driven by health, safety of teams and community, and scientific evidence
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., July 28, 2021– With a focus on the health and safety of its team members and the community, along with thorough review of the scientific evidence, Spectrum Health has announced that it will require the COVID-19 vaccine for team members, medical staff, students, volunteers and contractors. “As a mission-driven organization, we are here to improve health, inspire hope and save lives,” said Spectrum Health President & CEO Tina Freese Decker. “We must do all we can to take care of each other and our community. Together, our actions will serve to save lives and shorten the impact of the pandemic – both clear benefits to the public good. We thoroughly reviewed the scientific evidence and interviewed and debated with experts, both internal and external, to understand the facts. After robust conversations and time spent reviewing the science behind the vaccines, we reached our conclusion.” Scientific evidence and clinical results point to the effectiveness of the vaccine:
“We continue to see the benefits of the vaccine – both among our patients and teams. Almost all people who contract COVID-19 and need hospitalization or die from the virus are unvaccinated,” said Liam Sullivan, DO, Infectious Disease Specialist, Spectrum Health. “The delta variant of COVID-19 is causing significant increases in COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations in areas across the country where vaccination rates are low. We encourage people to be vaccinated, in consultation with their physician’s advice.” More than 163 million Americans are fully vaccinated, demonstrating the safety and effectiveness initially identified in the clinical trials against symptomatic infections, hospitalizations and death. “We agree with the science behind the vaccines, the facts related to the effectiveness of the vaccines and the thorough process the FDA takes in approving vaccines,” said Freese Decker. “We are applying the same logic to the COVID-19 vaccine as we did in requiring the flu and other vaccines. As a health organization that cares about our team members’ health and our communities’ health, we support the science and will act accordingly.” Spectrum Health will require the COVID-19 vaccine within eight weeks of the FDA approving the first vaccine and will consider exemptions as required by law. Spectrum Health may decide to act more quickly if it sees a risk to team member and public health as a result of the delta variant, or subsequent variants, based on data in our local communities.  Photo courtesy Mich DNR Lake use remains safe in all non bloom areas.
From our friends at MDHHS: LANSING, Mich. - If you or your family are living near or visiting Michigan waters in summer or fall months it is important to be aware of the potential for harmful algal blooms (HABs). HABs form due to a rapid overgrowth or bloom of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. Cyanobacteria are naturally present in lakes, rivers and ponds. Unfortunately, some cyanobacteria produce toxins, called cyanotoxins, that can be present in cyanobacterial blooms, which at higher levels can be harmful to people and animals. HABs usually occur in Michigan May through October, most commonly in August and September. The occurrence of cyanobacteria and their toxins has been confirmed in lakes across Michigan in previous years, and elevated toxin levels have been documented in a small percentage of Michigan lakes. During 2020, 61 HABs in 35 Michigan counties were reported to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). "Before going in the water, we recommend Michiganders look for visible algal blooms or scums on any lake, and that people and pets stay out of water in areas that look affected," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health for Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. "If you may have had contact with or swallowed water with a HAB and feel sick, call your doctor or Poison Control at 800-222-1222. If symptoms are severe, seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible." What does a HAB look like? HABs can look like algal scums or mats, spilled paint or pea soup, or colored streaks on the water's surface. Visit the HAB Picture Guide for examples of HABs and other algae and plants. Blooms may last for days or sometimes weeks. Blooms can change in size, toxicity and location within the same day. They also may disappear on a waterbody, but then form at a later time. What should people do if they think they have found a HAB? Consult the HAB Picture Guide for examples of HABs and compare your sighting to other algae and plants found in lakes. If you suspect you have found a HAB or have any suspicion:
Breathing in or swallowing water containing HABs and their toxins may cause the following symptoms: runny eyes or nose, asthma-like symptoms, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, numbness, headaches, dizziness or difficulty breathing. Skin contact can cause rashes, blisters and hives. Should residents be concerned about threats to animal health? Animals, especially dogs, can become ill or die after contact with HABs. Signs of illness can include vomiting, diarrhea, staggered walking and convulsions. Preventative measures for dogs include keeping them out of the water wherever surface scums or discolored water are visible, bringing along clean, fresh water for them to drink and rinsing them off after contact with any lake water. If a pet or livestock animal becomes sick after contact with water that may have a HAB, contact a veterinarian right away. Illness in an animal due to exposure to a HAB is reportable to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Cases can be reported by submitting a Reportable Disease Form, located at Michigan.gov/dvmresources under "Reportable Diseases," or by calling 800-292-3939 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. What can people do to help prevent HABs from occurring? Michigan residents should learn about nutrient pollution, such as excess nitrogen and phosphorus, to reduce and prevent HABs. Excess nutrients may come from detergents, sewers, fertilizers and malfunctioned septic systems. Michiganders can decrease nutrients getting into the water by:
 Stoplog failure alters water levels at White Cloud Dam.Repairs expected in coming days.
From our friends at EGLE: The City of White Cloud is working to repair failed stoplogs at a city-owned dam that resulted in significant changes in water levels both in a pond upstream of the dam, and the river flowing downstream. Michigan EGLE received reports of the problem Tuesday morning. Local officials report the dam is stable, and expect to replace the failed stoplogs within days. The stoplogs hold back water in the dam. County emergency management officials and EGLE Dam Safety Unit staff are at the scene this morning. The White Cloud Dam is rated as a high-hazard dam. Its most recent state inspection in 2019 rated it in fair condition. It was built in 1872, rebuilt in 1920 after it was destroyed by flooding, and reconstructed in 1990.  Newaygo County will hold an online auction beginning Monday August 2, 2021 at 1pm and ending Thursday August 5th at 1pm for parcels foreclosed due to nonpayment of the 2018 Property Taxes. Potential bidders can get a copy of the auction list for free from the county website. https://www.newaygocountymi.gov/departments/county-treasurer/properties-for-auction/ A hard copy is available at the Treasurer’s Office for $7.50 ($1.50/page). There is a list of FAQ’s regarding the auction on the Treasurer’s webpage as well, under “Properties for Auction”. Any questions related to the auction process itself, payment terms, etc.. should be directed to BippusUSA at 1-800-686-6416.  Find licensed companies online at Michigan.gov/MosquitoControlBusiness
LANSING, MI - After an explosion of mosquito populations across the state, many Michiganders are turning to pesticides to combat these annoying pests. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is advising the public to avoid falling victim to scams and illegitimate businesses, and to only hire licensed mosquito control companies. A list of companies licensed to control mosquitoes in Michigan can be found at Michigan.gov/MosquitoControlBusiness. Businesses offering pest control services such as mosquito spraying must be licensed by MDARD, and they must employ applicators who have passed MDARD’s pesticide proficiency examinations. Pest control businesses must also meet minimum experience requirements, carry liability insurance, and may only apply pesticides registered by MDARD. “Licensed mosquito control companies and their certified applicators have demonstrated they have the knowledge to use pesticides safely and effectively,” said Brian Verhougstraete, MDARD’s Pesticide Section Manager. “Utilizing properly licensed and certified applicators protects public health while these professionals work to keep mosquitoes in check around your home.” Along with finding licensed firms, MDARD’s website provides consumers with information about what to look for when hiring a mosquito control company. Before making an application, all licensed companies are required to specify an approximate schedule, frequency, and duration of their services. Consumers should be aware that pest control businesses are legally required to obtain their consent before making a pesticide application and must provide the following information:
“Consumers should do their homework before choosing a mosquito control service, especially when those services are being advertised on social media,” added Verhougstraete. Other steps to take to safely reduce mosquito populations include:
 From NCSO: On July 22, 2021 at approximately 4:45 pm, Deputies from the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to E 8th St near S Thornapple Ave, Everett Township on a report of a truck vs tree crash. Upon arrival on scene Deputies found that the driver of the pickup truck was eastbound on E 8th St when the truck crossed over the centerline and struck a tree. The driver of the pickup truck was identified as a 18-year-old female from White Cloud. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger of the pickup truck was identified as a 14-year-old female from Indiana. She was transported by ambulance to Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids with non-life-threatening injuries. The accident remains under investigation by the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were assisted at the scene by the Michigan State Police, White Cloud Police Department, White Cloud and Big Prairie Fire Departments, Newaygo County Central Dispatch and Jerry’s Towing.
Nearly 100 parcels of state-managed land available via online auctions in August, September
From our friends at DNR: Lake frontage, trail access, small lots to extend a neighborhood lot – these types of acreage and more are available in the next round of surplus land auctions from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. After careful consideration of properties it manages on behalf of Michigan residents, the DNR has selected 97 that are much better suited for private ownership and is preparing those for sale via online auctions in August and early September. Land is available mainly in central/northern Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula in the following counties: Alcona, Allegan, Benzie, Berrien, Chippewa, Clare, Genesee, Huron, Kalkaska, Kent, Lake, Mackinac, Mason, Mecosta, Menominee, Midland, Newaygo, Roscommon and Saginaw. Several of the largest parcels are in Clare, Lake and Menominee counties. Fourteen online auctions, featuring available land parcels by county, are scheduled:
Fourteen online auctions will be offered between Aug. 2 and Sept. 3. Interested bidders may register in advance and get more information about the online auction schedule at Tax-Sale.info/. Those wanting to bid on a property must register before that property’s auction date. Absentee bids can be made online up to 30 days before the auction. The “interactive” bidding portion of an auction will open at 10 a.m. on that auction date. At that time, bidders will be able to see current high bids for each property. Bidders can continue to place bids on a property until 7 p.m. when bidding closes and the winning bidder is determined. Visit Michigan.gov/LandForSale for a detailed list that includes minimum bid, acreage and location information on the available properties. Interested bidders also are encouraged to review the DNR Land Sales: Terms and Conditions. Land parcel details Properties for sale range in size from under an acre to 120 acres. Many of the surplus properties highlighted in the auction are in Yates Township, Lake County. There are several larger 5- to 15-acre properties available in Yates Township. In addition to these properties, two structures are being offered: an old DNR field administration equipment building in Caseville (Huron County) and the abandoned Big Rapids Railroad Depot in Mecosta County. Notable waterfront properties that are accessible include:
Many of the sale parcels are forested and/or have road frontage but are better suited for private ownership. Much of the land offered in these auctions is isolated from other DNR-managed property, which creates some challenges and inefficiencies. Other parcels are included in the auctions because they offer limited recreation benefits to the public. Separate from the online auctions, the DNR is offering additional properties (listed for sale at their former minimum bid prices) that were not sold in previous auctions. These properties are available for view and immediate purchase only via the BuyNow list. For more information about the sale of surplus, state-managed public land, contact Michael Michalek, resource specialist in the DNR's Real Estate Section, at 517-331-8387. Auction proceeds will help provide future outdoor recreation opportunities in keeping with the DNR’s mission to conserve, protect and manage the state’s natural and cultural resources for the use and enjoyment of current and future generations.  An interview (And an ad)
Newaygo County Commission on Aging is currently seeking a MEALS-ON-WHEELS DRIVER. You’ve likely seen the ads before. Maybe you’ve even considered combining your personal appreciation for the art of driving with a chance to bring in a little extra cash? Beyond the usual requirements found at the end of this article we thought perhaps hearing from someone who has experienced being ‘at the wheel’ of the effort to bring both vittles and a visit to some of the senior members of our county community. We caught up with Kim Mcclernan, one of the drivers for M.O.W. and posed a few questions. What led you to start working at MOW? I like to drive and hence the reason for applying at meals on wheels. Tell us a little about your first days delivering. How did it go, what were the challenges, biggest learning curve, etc. My first days of training were a bit challenging but I very quickly settled into the routine. You learn your route and the people you service at about 1 week after beginning. The biggest challenge was finding some of these clients. Roads in Fremont often change names at the bend in the road or at stop signs. What do you enjoy most about the job? What are the rewards? The rewards are many. You quickly become friends with your clients. Some may only see you for any stretch of time and when they smile or hug you because they are glad to see you that is rewarding. You become part of their family at just 3-5 minutes a day. In your opinion what skills are important in order to do the job well? Communicating is very important. Patience and listening to the clients is also Beneficial. What would you say to someone considering applying to be a driver? Meals on wheels is rewarding, physical, and has great employees to work with. We are always in need of drivers. Even to just be a substitute is very helpful since these people need their meals no matter what the weather or how you feel. Join our family to help Newaygo age well. So...sound like something you might have an interest in? Here’s the skinny. Must have a valid Michigan license, possess a good driving record, and pass a drug and criminal background check. Must have knowledge of Newaygo County and be able to follow driving directions. For more information and an application visit online at newaygocountymi.gov under Human Resources “Apply for a Job.” Applications are also available at the Commission on Aging, 93 S. Gibbs, White Cloud, MI 49349.  Officer Bella keeping an eye on her city Bridgeton Bust part of a busy weekend
During this past weekend the Sheriff’s Office took 173 calls for service which included 75 traffic stops. Then at 02:14am Monday morning, Deputy Rachael Botello conducted a traffic stop on Warner Avenue and 108th Street in Bridgeton Township for a minor traffic violation. During the stop, it was believed that illegal substances may be in the vehicle so a request was placed for Officer Troy Nelson and K9 Bella from the Newaygo Police Department to assist. After Bella indicated an issue with the vehicle, a search was conducted with over 11 grams of Methamphetamine located. Two individuals from Muskegon were lodged in the Newaygo County Jail for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver. This is another great example of departments working together to create a safe environment and keeping illegal substances off the streets. Here are some of the calls for service done by members of the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office: Crashes – 8 Driving on a Suspended License – 5 Driving without Insurance – 7 Assaults and Batteries – 3 Warrant Arrests – 4 Operating While intoxicated – 3 Trespassing – 7 Resist and Obstruct Police Officer – 1 False Information to Police Officer – 1 Possession of Meth - 3  4 hour forest search results in arrest
From our friends at the NCSO: On July 15, 2021 at approximately 1:50 pm, Deputies from the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a black Pontiac Grand Prix for numerous vehicle violations on E 88th St (M-82) near S Beech Ave, Croton Township. The black Pontiac Grand Prix failed to stop for the Sheriff’s Office. During the pursuit, the black Pontiac Grand Prix rammed a Sheriff’s Office Patrol truck. The black Pontiac Grand Prix ended up crashing into the woods on M-82 near S Newcosta Ave. The suspect took off running into the woods. Multiple police K-9 teams assisted with searching the woods. After a lengthy 4 hour search of the wood the 36 year old male from Gaylord was taken into custody. He is currently lodged at the Newaygo County Jail on numerous felony and misdemeanor charges out of the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office. The male suspect is also wanted out of MSP Hart, Otsego County Sheriff’s Office,the Straits Area Narcotics Enforcement and Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office. The Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Michigan State Police – Hart Post, Newaygo Police Department, multiple Michigan State Police K-9 teams, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Newaygo County Central Dispatch and Jerry’s Towing.
FREMONT, Mich. (7/13/2021) Gerber Federal Credit Union (Gerber FCU) today announced several promotions. Brenda Bice to Branch Manager Newaygo Branch, Brent Deur to Assistant Vice President – Consumer Lending, Carla Burmeister to Senior Mortgage Manager and Patti Scherf to Senior Branch Manager Fremont Main Street Branch. “I am very pleased to announce promotions for Brenda, Brent, Carla and Patti! Brenda has developed our contact center culture to the point where we serve members with more than 3,800 phone calls answered each month. Brent has been instrumental in developing our indirect lending program and I am looking forward to what he can accomplish with the entire Consumer Lending portfolio. Carla has been the linchpin of our mortgage efforts, generating significant member satisfaction through both salable and portfolio mortgages. Patti built our Newaygo branch up from its humble beginnings to its current strong status. Congratulations to all! ” said John P. Buckley, Jr., Gerber FCU President/CEO. Ms. Bice joined the credit union as the Corporate Office Branch Manager in 2010. She will now be responsible for the leadership and growth of the Newaygo Branch operations including financial, compliance, and sales and service objectives. Bice has participated with United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Relay for Life, Victims Advocacy Program, Muskegon County Team to Prevent Elder Abuse & Exploitation, Girl Scouts of America and Reeth’s Puffer Schools. She is NMLS licensed. Mr. Deur joined the credit union as the Fremont Main Street Branch Manager in 2005 and was later promoted to Senior Branch Manager. He will lead the Lending department responsible for all Consumer lending as well as the Member Solutions Department. Deur has volunteered for numerous community associations and charitable organizations such as the Business Applied Technology Advisory Board, Fremont Area Foundation Professional Advisor Board, Fremont Christian School Board, Fremont Little League Board and Junior Achievement. Deur holds the Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation from the Credit Union National Association and is NMLS licensed. Ms. Burmeister joined the credit union in 2017 as the Mortgage Manager. She will continue to lead the Mortgage department responsible for Construction and Mortgage lending. Burmeister has served on the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as the President several times and also as the Treasurer and a Director. She also volunteers with BNI, Business Applied Technologies, the Fremont Business Expo Committee, the Fremont Christmas Committee, Junior Achievement, Leadership in Newaygo County and she is a Host Mentor. Burmeister holds the Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation from the Credit Union National Association and is NMLS licensed. Ms. Scherf joined the credit union as a Part-Time Teller in 2001, she was later promoted to Head Teller and then to Newaygo Branch Manager. As the Senior Branch Manager, she is responsible for the leadership and growth of the Fremont Main Street Branch operations including financial, compliance, and sales and service objectives. She has volunteered with Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and the River Country Chamber of Commerce. Patti holds the Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation from the Credit Union National Association and is NMLS licensed.  Hardy Marina had a bit of excitement on Saturday. Seems while launching, a prospective boater jumped out of his truck to catch his boat and apparently left his truck in gear. The truck continued down the ramp, over the large parking bumper at the bottom and into Hardy Pond.   And now a surplus of moths brought to you by those lousy caterpillars
Ok. You’re sitting in your post gypsy-moth-caterpillar-invasion backyard with much less shade and perhaps noticing the trees beginning to make an effort toward returning a bit of foliage to your domain. And just as the post traumatic frass syndrome has started to subside a bit you begin to notice a definite uptick in the amount of fluttering beings flitting about the yard. And they’re not butterflies. No, they are the end product of those bountiful bastards that took advantage of drought conditions to wreak havoc on our landscape. Well, they’re not going to eat any more leaves this year. Their new focus is on hooking up. We turned to our friends at MSU Extension for a little info and a bit of guidance as to what might be done prevention-wise to help forestall a repeat performance next year. Approximately two weeks after cocooning, adult gypsy moths emerge for a short mating cycle. The adult female and male moths look very different from each other. The female is larger than the male and is creamy white with black "V" markings on her fore-wings. Female moths cannot fly; she attracts a mate by emitting a powerful pheromone. Males are a mottled brown and gray and have large feathery antennae. They are similar in appearance to many native moths. They can be distinguished, however, by their behavior, as they fly in search of females in the late afternoon; not at night. Males pick up the scent of the female pheromone with their antennae. The male flies in a zigzag pattern toward the source of the pheromone. Once he locates the female, he communicates by dancing over and around her while rapidly beating his wings and then the pair mates. Shortly after mating the female deposits her eggs in a single mass and covers it with the yellowish-tan colored hairs from her own body. The only function of the adult stage of the gypsy moth is to reproduce leaving behind as many as a thousand descendants. Unlike many other moths and butterflies, the adult gypsy moth cannot feed. The moth has about 2 weeks to find a mate before death; completing their one year life cycle. Egg masses will persist until next spring when the hatch begins. To lessen impacts next year, it is important to look for, remove and destroy egg masses.
To find out more about invasive gypsy moth life stages, identification and management, visit Michigan.gov/Invasives.  Photo of greenish lake water, not an algae bloom Algae Bloom Detected On Hess Lake poses risks for pets, people July 8, 2021 – District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) was notified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) that algae blooms were detected on Hess Lake in Newaygo County. After learning about what looked like algae blooms on Hess Lake, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) took samples on June 28 which were sent to the MDHHS lab where results came back positive for microcystin, an algal toxin released by some types of algae in lakes or rivers. Algae blooms can form when there are high nutrient levels within bodies of water along with warm temperatures. Additional testing will take place the week of July 12, and MDHHS is notifying homeowners about the initial test results. “Algae blooms look like a green mat right on top of the water that smells bad and has a gelatinous texture to them,” stated Tom Reichard, Environmental Health Director 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 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 you have been exposed to algae blooms, take the following precautions:
  From the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Dept: On July 6th,2021 at approximately 3:30pm, Newaygo County Deputies and the Newaygo County Dive Team were dispatched to the 1400 block of Hess Lake Drive on Hess Lake for a boater that had gone overboard. After hours of searching, the body of a 69-year-old Charlotte man was recovered by The Newaygo County Dive Team. The Sheriffs Office was assisted by The Michigan State Police, The Grant Police Department, Michigan DNR, Newaygo Fire Department, Grant Fire Department and Life EMS. |
CategoriesArchives
September 2021
|
RSS Feed