After a pair of meetings that saw an avalanche of outcry protesting their decision to sever ties with Family Health Care and close the Children and Adolescent Health Center, as well as a public demonstration held on the streets of Grant, the School Board gets together once again for their monthly meeting. Apparently their have been negotiations between the Board and FHC https://www.nearnorthnow.com/news/clinic-uncertainty-continues-in-grant and what is expected to once again be a large crowd will be listening to find out the status of the CAHC as the new school year approaches. The meeting begins at 6pm Monday and is being held at the Grant Fine Arts Center. It is also the Board’s organizational meeting where officers will be elected. It will also be the first meeting for newly appointed Board Member Stephanis Deible.
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From our friends at MDOT 15-minute total closures Sunday morning.. Cedar Springs to Sand Lake Short-term (15 minutes) total closures for utility work are scheduled for this Sunday between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. on US-131 between 17 Mile Road and 22 Mile Road. The work is weather dependent. The Grant Child and Adolescent Health Center (CAHC) Advisory Council will meet on September 13, 2023, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Grant CAHC, located in the Grant Middle School at 96. E. 120th St. in Grant. Please use the CAHC entrance on the west side of the middle school and ring the doorbell when you arrive. The public is invited, and lunch will be provided. Please call (231) 834-1350 to RSVP. Energy Provider Considering All Options to Safely Maintain Dam Reservoirs While Minimizing Cost Impact to Customers
JACKSON, Mich., August 9, 2023 – Consumers Energy today announced it will be issuing a request for proposal (RFP) to explore the possibility of selling its 13 hydroelectric facilities as the energy provider continues to evaluate the future of the dams and considers all options to safely maintain the dam reservoirs. Consumers Energy last year held a series of public meetings with community members and local leaders about the dams’ future. Based on community feedback, Consumers Energy understands how important these facilities and the associated reservoirs are to local communities. Therefore, the energy provider is exploring all options to safely maintain the reservoirs – the lakes created by the dams -- while reducing costs for Consumers Energy’s customers. “After numerous conversations over the past year, it is clear the reservoirs are important for economic and recreational opportunities in these communities across Michigan,” said Norm Kapala, Consumers Energy’s vice president of generation operations. “But we also know that the current model for financing our hydroelectric power operations requires customers to pay more than nine times for the cost of energy compared to other sources of generation.” “Today’s announcement is an initial step we need to take to learn more about what selling the facilities might look like. If we choose to move forward and sell these facilities, our intention is to minimize the cost burden for customers while keeping the recreational and economic benefits for our communities. No final decision has been made, and we continue to explore all options.” Consumers Energy began working with local officials and meeting with community leaders last year as licenses for the company’s dams begin to expire in 11 years. Consumers Energy’s 13 dams together produce less than 1 percent of energy used by the energy provider’s nearly 2 million customers, and they are several times more expensive than other energy sources. Consumers Energy is planning another series of public community meetings later this summer and into the fall with the goal of collecting community feedback and discussing what a potential sale of the dams would mean, as well as other options continuing to be considered. For meeting details, to provide comments, and more information about the process, visit: ConsumersEnergy.com/HydroFuture. “We know communities and residents that treasure these dams will have questions about the future. That’s why we will continue to provide timely updates and be transparent throughout this decision-making process,” Kapala said. “We’ve committed to exploring all options for safely maintaining these reservoirs for decades to come.” Consumers Energy’s 30 to 40-year federal operating licenses on the Muskegon, Manistee, Grand, Kalamazoo and Au Sable rivers are set to expire beginning in 2034 through 2041. Random invites will arrive by mail
LANSING, Mich.- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is asking Michiganders in parts of Newaygo, Montcalm, Mecosta and Kent Counties to join the Michigan Chemical Exposure Monitoring (MiChEM) project. The MiChEM project is the first statewide effort to gather data on the amount of certain chemicals in the blood and urine of Michiganders, including lead, mercury and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). People can come in contact with chemicals in what they eat and drink, in products they use, at work and in their environment, like in the air, soil and water. It is not possible to test everyone in the state, so the MiChEM project team used a statistical method to randomly select households in different areas throughout the state. “The MiChEM project will help us understand more about the chemical exposures of Michigan residents, including if some groups have greater amounts of certain chemicals in their bodies and how the amounts compare to national averages,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “This is the first time that a project of this type and scale has been done in Michigan.” The MiChEM project team will be in the area for several weeks in August and September. Over the next few weeks, households in parts of Newaygo, Montcalm and Mecosta Counties and a small part of northern Kent County will receive the project invitations. Any adult who receives an invitation in the mail from MDHHS to participate in the MiChEM project should follow the steps in their invitation to sign up as soon as possible, as the project team will only be in each area for a short amount of time. One adult will be randomly selected to participate from each registered household. Taking part in this project is completely free and participants will receive their individual lab results along with a $65 gift card as a thank you for their time. Approximately 138,000 randomly selected households from across the state will receive an invitation in the mail with details on how to join the MiChEM project. The multi-year MiChEM project began recruitment of selected households from the Lansing area and parts of Jackson, Ingham, Barry and Eaton counties in September 2022. Additional households from other communities are being recruited in following years. People who are randomly selected to participate will be given a survey and asked to provide blood and urine samples. These samples will then be analyzed for a pre-determined number of chemicals at the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DEHBio. Misuse and lack of volunteers cited as reasons
After a number of years of collecting polystyrene, more widely known as “styrofoam” the Fremont recycling drop off center located at 5510 W 56th Street will no longer continue the styrofoam program after August 31, 2023. A number of issues have continued to plague the styrofoam recycling program such as the lack of volunteers to empty and replace the bags, delayed service pick-up from the styrofoam recycler, general misuse of the collection boxes, and an increase of individuals placing trash and other contamination into the collection boxes, Newaygo County leadership decided to stop the program. Regular residential recycling services will not be impacted. “We have asked for help at this site to keep styrofoam recycling available to residents but unfortunately we did not receive one response to assist with this site”, stated Dale Twing, Chairman of the Department of Public Works and the Newaygo County Drain Commissioner. “Our sites are opened and closed by volunteers throughout the county and this site in particular is challenging because of the styrofoam. Between a lack of volunteer support as well as people trying to recycle things like plastic sheeting or insulation with the styrofoam, we had to make the decision to stop.” Residents can utilize the website, www.homeforfoam.com to find other locations that may accept styrofoam. The Newaygo County Board of Commissioners presented the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone with a donation of $250,000 to their endowment fund at the Fremont Area Community Foundation. The funds are part of the American Rescue Plan Act money received by the county to support recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Board Chair Bryan Kolk presented the symbolic outsized check to PZ Board members Blake Prewitt, Holly Moon and Dick Dunning at the regular meeting of the board on Wednesday, July 26th. The Newaygo County Area Promise Zone provides high school graduates with a tuition-free path to an approved apprenticeship or an associate degree from Muskegon Community College. The Promise Zone believes that every student, regardless of financial means, should have the opportunity to earn post-secondary credentials. "On behalf of the Promise Zone Board we extend our appreciation to the Newaygo County Commissioners for their extraordinary and generous financial gift, " said NC RESA Superintendent and PZ Board Chair Blake Prewitt. “ Their donation of $250,000 empowers us to extend our reach and support to an even greater number of students at Muskegon Community College. The unwavering support we receive from our county is a testament to the remarkable commitment and care for our Newaygo County students." "The Newaygo County Board of Commissioners are thanked for their vision and wisdom in making this major grant possible for the Promise Zone. Providing tuition-free higher education possibilities for all Newaygo County students is an exceptional opportunity for us to give thanks,” shared Dick Dunning, Promise Zone Authority Member. By helping to remove the financial barrier that so many students face, the Promise Zone is helping to shift a cultural stigma that college is too expensive. With the Promise Scholarship, many students are starting to believe that higher education is within their reach and taking steps to plan for their future. Promise Zone Authority Member Holly Moon addressed commissioners during public comment: "I can't tell you how many young people's lives will be changed by the County of Newaygo's very generous donation. This is huge!! Many of our Promise Scholars are first generation students and need much guidance and support in their college studies. Our Success Coaching staff will be greatly enhanced by this wonderful gift, and it will ensure greater success and less missteps for these first-time students, as well as enabling wider eligibility for the Promise Scholarship. Our Newaygo County community and families, in addition to business and industry will also be directly impacted. Thank you so much for supporting our efforts to offer tuition- free degrees now and for many years to come!" Since beginning in 2017, the Promise Zone has awarded over $2.4 million in tuition payments in support of over 300 Newaygo County students who have enrolled in pursuing their post-secondary credentials. For more information about the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone visit www.promise.zone, email apply@promise.zone or call 231-924-8888. Pictured from left to right is Paula Casey, Gerber Products/Nutrition; Jacylin Moltzen, National Baby Food Festival Coordinator, Fremont Area Chamber; Roxana Nelson, RN, Gerber Hospital; Gretchen Chase-Rey, CNM, Gerber Hospital; Alexis Trevino, mom, with newborn Zayden Rice; Nick Strait, chief nursing officer, Gerber Hospital; Angela Frye, director of nursing, Gerber Hospital; and Maureen Ruiter, charge RN, Gerber Hospital. 2023 NBBF First Baby Born
The National Baby Food Festival and Corewell Health’s Gerber Hospital welcomed the 2023 First Baby Born, Zayden Quin Rice, on Friday, July 21, 2023 at 11:31 a.m. Zayden was born 30 hours and 31 minutes after the 2023 target date and time of 5 a.m. on Thursday, July 20. The baby born closest to that date and time is the “First Baby Born” at the National Baby Food Festival. Parents Alexis Trevino and Steven Rice III of Shelby celebrate Zayden who weighed in at 8 pounds 9 ounces when he was born. The annual First Baby Born celebration includes gifts for the family donated from area organizations including Gerber Products, Gerber Hospital’s Gift Shop, and Gingerly Clean. Board letter to community sparks response from FHC
A decision that stoked the fires of community activism continues to play itself out in our county’s Gateway City. On Monday the Grant Public School Board issued a letter (link available below) to the community regarding the controversial issue of their recent decision to remove the Child and Adolescent Health Center operated by Family Health Care. It comes on the heels of a move that created a good deal of uncertainty for parents and a series of meetings that saw an outpouring of community members frustrated by a lack of answers from the Board as to the reasons for the decision. In the letter, which never mentions Family Health Care by name, the Board states,”In reviewing the agreement, the district became aware of multiple concerns and chose to step back from the contract so that additional communication could occur.” Family Health Care responded by stating “Family Health Care remains unaware of the concerns noted in the Grant Public Schools Board of Education letter to the community. Despite the letter saying the school board chose to step back from the contract so that additional communication could occur, we have not had any communication that shares what those concerns may be or how they may be addressed. ”Family Health Care is ready to negotiate and willing to find a middle ground to ensure health care services will be available to students in the Grant Public Schools during the upcoming school year.” The Board’s letter goes on to state “As you may be aware, there has been some speculation around the board’s decision to review the clinical services provided to the district. Please be assured that the board initiated the review because we are committed to providing for the health and safety of every Grant student. Our goal is to provide the best possible health care services to the students and families of our community. In our commitment to that goal, we are working to negotiate the contract for clinical services as soon as possible” The statement from FHC added “As it stands, Family Health Care does not have a contract with Grant Public Schools and has been issued notice to vacate the office space in the middle school on or before October 6, 2023. The Child and Adolescent Health Center will close unless the board of education takes action. “With just six weeks until the school year begins, quick action must be taken as Family Health Care can no longer continue to wait as decisions regarding staffing and operations must be made. If the school board cannot make a decision, we will be forced to begin transitioning services out of Grant Public Schools prior to the first day of school in September. While we remain optimistic that an agreement can be reached, the distraction caused by the school board takes the focus away from ensuring children are ready for a healthy school year and places it on the uncertainty of contract negotiations which have yet to begin.” Community member Megan Wirts helped organize the protest held recently in support of the CAHC. ”I am happy that the community united together to hold the board members accountable that voted to terminate the contract with Family Health Care so that they are now in negotiations," she stated. "If they were just reviewing the contract, it seems odd that they would vote to terminate the contract without doing the research first. I am cautiously optimistic that we will have a good outcome.” There is an urgency for this matter to be resolved if in-school health services are to continue to be provided at Grant. The past month has revealed a community that has not wavered in its support for the CAHC, nor in its desire to elicit answers from their school board as to why the initial action was taken. Should the clinic close its doors through board decision or board inaction the chasm that currently exists between the Board and a large and vocal share of their community will likely only widen. Letter from the Board of Education | Grant Public Schools (grantps.net) Right-to-Know—Material Safety Data Sheets NC RESA is dedicated to the safety of its students, employees and community. Each building is provided with information on products used in their facility that may be of concern (i.e., cleaning products, science experiment materials, glue, etc.) Each Material Safety Data Sheet on file presents the ingredients of the product, the potential hazards and recommendations if exposure occurs. The Material Safety Data Sheets under the Right-to-Know Act are available for inspection during normal business hours by contact the Maintenance Department at 231-924-8829. Asbestos Management Plan In compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, the NC RESA is informing all occupants and their guardians that NC RESA facilities are asbestos-free. Asbestos management plans for each building are available for review in the schools administration office. Use of Pesticides As part of NC RESA’s pest management program, pesticides are occasionally applied. Parents/community members have the right to be informed prior to any pesticide application made to school grounds and buildings. During the summer months when school is not in session, pesticide treatment could occur as necessary. If parents/community members wish to be informed prior to pesticide applications during the school year, please contact the Superintendent’s Office at 231-924- 0381. In certain emergencies (i.e., bees nests), pesticides may be applied without prior notice, but parents/community members will be provided notice following such applications. FERPA NC RESA provides database software, information processing equipment, networks and support materials to best use computer technology in support of Agency administrative functions. A student database shall be maintained which contains student administrative and instructional information. School student records are confidential and information from them shall not be released except as provided by law (under the Freedom of Education Rights and Privacy Act, FERPA). NC RESA reserves the right to display a student photo on its website or Facebook page, unless the parent/guardian or student 18 or older opts out. Career and Technical Education Opportunities Each year the Newaygo County Regional Educational Service Agency offers career and technical education programs at the Newaygo County Career-Tech Center. These programs are designed to prepare youth for a broad range of employment and training services and are offered under the guidance of certified instructors. All career and technical education programs follow the Agency’s policies of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, gender, age, height, weight, marital status, or disability in all programs, services, activities and employment. In addition, arrangements can be made to ensure that the lack of English language proficiency is not a barrier to admission or participation. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to Blake Prewitt, Superintendent, 4747 W. 48th Street, Fremont, MI 49412, 231-924-0381. The following is a list of programs being offered in 2023-24: • Accounting • Agriscience • Automotive Technology • Business Applied Technology • Construction • Cosmetology • Culinary Arts • Engineering • Future Educators • Graphic Communications • Health Sciences • Heavy Equipment • Information Technology • Manufacturing • Welding High school students must be enrolled through a high school in their area of residency (or through a school of choice program) prior to being admitted to a CTC program. For general information about these programs, contact Andy Melius, NCCTC Principal, 4645 W. Career Pathway, Fremont, MI 49412, 231-924-0380. Schedule of Board of Education Meetings Unless otherwise noted, all meetings will be held in the Board room in the Educational Service Center located at 4747 W. 48th Street. Meetings begin at 8:30 a.m. Monday, August 14, 2023 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, September 11, 2023 Regular Meeting8:30 a.m. Monday, October 9, 2023 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, November 13, 2023 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, December 11, 2023 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, January 8, 2024 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, February 12, 2024 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, March 11, 2024 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, April 8, 2024 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, May 13, 2024 Regular Meeting 8:30 a.m. Monday, June 24, 2024 Budget Hearing 8:00 a.m. Monday, June 24, 2024 Organizational Meeting immediately following budget hearing Any person with a disability who needs accommodation should contact the Superintendent’s office at 231-924-0381 at least five days in advance of the meeting. Official minutes of all Board meetings are kept in the Superintendent’s office at 4747 W. 48th Street, Fremont, MI. All minutes are available for public inspection during normal work hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Grant School Board Fills Vacancy
Monday morning beginning at 8am the 5 finalists for the vacancy on the Grant Public School Board were preparing to be interviewed. Like many such interviews the candidates would be asked a series of questions by the current board members but unlike most this one would also include about 60 onlookers from the community as well as a gathering of media cameras and microphones. The recent contentious atmosphere at board meetings spurred by the decision to cut ties with the Child and Adolescent Health Center (CAHC) has drawn interest far beyond the boundaries of the Grant School District leading to an increase in media presence. There has also been a groundswell of community activism in an effort to save the CAHC. Prior to the interviews Ken Thorne was nominated to be President of the Board and elected on a 5-1 vote with Rob Schuitema casting the nay vote. The Board also voted unanimously to hold the August meeting at the Fine Arts Center and agreed to discuss holding all future meetings there. But it was the interviews that took center stage Monday morning. One by one Stephanie Deible, Sheila Boyd, Mindy Conley, Mary Brown, and Lindsay Mahlich each presented their case. They responded to the same series of questions from the Board that included asking them how they might manage board conflict, what it might take to pass a much needed millage, and their insight as to the different roles of the Superintendent and the Board. Board members scored their responses to the candidates and Thorne tallied the numbers. Following some discussion the Board decided to take turns commenting on each candidate before deciding on who would move forward for a vote.While each candidate drew complimentary praise from the board members two received motions and support for nomination, Mary Brown and Stephanie Deible. In a 5-1 vote Deible prevailed to the applause of the crowd. We caught up with the newest member of the Grant Public School Board for a few words. “The community of Grant is full of so many wonderful people who all bring immense value to the table," said Ms. Deible. "Knowing that there were over 60 applicants who applied for the vacancy, it is an honor to be selected to work alongside the current board, school leadership and staff, and community to help create the best possible atmosphere for our students. “Being a resident of Grant for over 30 years this is and always will be a place I am invested in. I know first hand our school system and the support and opportunities provided to students is deeply important to many of us who call Grant home. As a board member, I hope I can help create a culture of belonging, bring fresh perspectives, and help engage the community so that we can collectively set students up for success in the classroom and in life. " The Grant School Board will hold their next regular meeting August 14th at the Grant Fine Arts Center beginning at 6pm. From Our Friends At MDOT: Lane closures for permit work are scheduled for 6 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday) through August 31 on westbound M-82 (82nd Street) from Swan Avenue to Island View Drive. Sign up for email from MDOT: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIDOT/subscriber/new Follow MDOT's Grand Region on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/MDOT_West For up-to-date information on this project and others, go to the list of statewide lane closures at: www.michigan.gov/drive. Follow MDOT at: www.twitter.com/MichiganDOT or www.facebook.com/MichiganDOT Fire 80% contained by Tuesday afternoon
Michigan Department of Natural Resources firefighters and two local fire departments continue working today to contain a wildfire in Copemish, northwest of Mesick on the Manistee-Wexford county line. “The 4 Corners Fire started in Wexford County Monday afternoon and quickly spread to Manistee County,” DNR Resource Protection Manager Don Klingler said. “We have confirmed it was caused by a power line. “Several structures were lost during the fire, but we are still working on finalizing our investigation and will release more information as it becomes available.” The fire is estimated at approximately 225 acres as of 1 p.m. today and is currently 80% contained. It is fueled by a mix of jack pine, red pine and hardwoods, Klingler said. Fire danger in the area was extreme Monday due to windy, dry, warm weather and because forests and fields are still dry due to a lack of rain this spring. Fire danger in the area remains high today. Thirty people were evacuated from their homes due to the fire Monday, and road closures in the area accommodated firefighting efforts and ensured public safety. “All evacuation orders have been lifted,” Klingler said. The fire was reported Monday via a 911 call to Wexford County. When DNR crews were dispatched at 3 p.m., it was already at 20 acres. For a fire danger map, to check if burn permits are being issued, for fire prevention information and more, visit Michigan.gov/DNR/FireAlert Demonstration decries School Board decision on health clinic On a drizzly Saturday morning dozens of folks gathered at a parking lot in Grant as a show of support for retaining the Grant Child and Adolescent Health Clinic. Recent actions by the Grant School Board involved severing the ties with Family Health Care who has been providing the clinic to the school since 2010. FHC also has a similar clinic located in White Cloud Schools, a partnership that began years prior to the opening of the Grant facility. The four members of the school board who voted to cut ties with the program were Ken Thorne, Rachal Gort, Sabrina Veltkamp-Blok and Richard Vance and the signage carried by some in the group pointed to their unhappiness with the foursome for making that decision. Megan Wirts, parent of a Grant school student and Grant alumnus organized the event receiving help from a number of community members . The group began the rally chanting “Our school is under attack… What do we do? Take it back!” and similar slogans. The group then began a march down to a parking lot a few blocks away hoisting signs supporting the Health Center. “I’m here to help support the kids, to help support the clinic, and to help bring awareness to the fact that our school board is trying to take accessible health care, mental health services and dental services away from our kids and our schools,” said Pam Hawley one of the many who participated in the walk. “I find it amazing how our little town has rallied together and it’s great to see all these people here to support our kids.” Once the group arrived Wirts introduced a series of speakers beginning with Pastor Jon Riedel of the Newaygo United Church of Christ. “It is my concern that this community, through its elected officials, is turning its back on its neighbors. To be a neighbor is to accommodate, to accept and to care. We as a community work together to provide a safe place for people to receive health care and mental health care. “I will stand behind you. Our church will stand behind you. Because we believe in fair and free access to health care where it's needed.. Because we believe in fair access to mental health services where needed. Because we believe there is room enough for everyone at the table.” Rob Schuitema, the lone dissenting vote on the board on the CAHC decision also spoke, stating he was speaking not as a school board member but as a community member. Schuitema praised the teachers, administrators support staff and all who “take care of our kids every day” “For the last 12 years we’ve had this health care that anyone can access in our building. It is such a unique and rare thing to have in the district. It has literally saved lives and I am dumbfounded that there are people who want to take that away. Our job is to give every opportunity that will ensure our kids have what they need to help them succeed in life.” He went on to point out the positives the CAHC has brought to the schools and recognized the obstacles ahead for supporters of the clinic. “We are in this together. It may be hard and it may get harder but we will not give up.” We caught up with organizer Megan Wirts after the event.
“Today’s rally to save the Grant Child and Adolescent Health Center was remarkable! The community showed up and united together to say that we care about our kids and their overall well-being. We know that the CAHC is a place that not only cares about our kids, but saves lives. The community doesn’t want the CAHC to close. “The atmosphere was positive and enthusiastic! Everyone that showed up, helped out, and took a stand for our kids is greatly appreciated. It was a team effort and it came together really well. “This was a way for us to raise awareness about what is happening here and let the 4 board members that chose to close it that they are doing the wrong thing. We want the Grant Child and Adolescent Health Center to stay.” The Grant School Board will meet this Monday, July 10th at 6pm. The meeting will be held at the Grant Fine Arts Center No injuries reported in Saturday morning crash
On Saturday morning the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Department responded to a plane crash on Hardy Pond. According to reports the pilot and owner of the plane were doing practice landing and the plane made contact with the water then going into a turn for an unknown reason. The plane began to take on water but the pilot and owner were able to get on the wing as the plane began to sink. A houseboat had witnessed the crash and were able to get to the two men. The Sheriff’s Office Dive Team and Jerry’s Towing were able to recover the plane which sank in 65 feet of water. The FAA and DNR were also on site following the incident.. Newaygo County Housing Tool Launched At Developer Day NEWAYGO, MICH : On Thursday June 29th, Fremont Area Community Foundation and the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership (NCEDP), powered by The Right Place, announced the launch of Newaygo County’s Housing Partnership Incentive Tool. As an extension of the successful Developer Day held by The Right Place in Kent County in 2022 and 2023, Newaygo County leaders welcomed local and regional developers to The Stream on June 22. Over twenty-five people gathered to learn about resources from Newaygo County’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan State Housing Development Authority and Fremont Area Community Foundation. Earlier this year, the County of Newaygo Board of Commissioners allocated $1,000,000 to the Fremont Area Community Foundation to develop a housing incentive. “We hope that our housing partnership with Fremont Area Community Foundation can be a catalyst for this much needed movement in housing for Newaygo County,” says Bryan Kolk, Newaygo County Commission Chair. The Community Foundation has allocated additional funds and will be accepting applications for grants and impact investments to stimulate development of housing units. A special grant round will open at the end of June to provide funding for housing development throughout Newaygo County. Projects must target homeowners or renters with incomes between 60% and 120% of the area median income, or $45,420 and $90,840 for a family of four. Applications will be due by August 1. “We are delighted about this groundbreaking partnership with the county to bring more housing to our community,” said Shelly Kasprzycki, Community Foundation president and CEO. “Housing is a significant need in our area, and we are excited to partner to provide funding and leverage resources to begin meeting that need.” “I am thrilled with the collaboration and hard work Newaygo County leaders put in to pull off this event. We had a great turnout with truly incredible content and were able to showcase all five major Newaygo County communities to a captivated audience” shared Julie Burrell, Newaygo County’s Economic Development Director and Regional Partner Lead for The Right Place.
Newaygo County’s 2023 Developer Day was made possible through funding received from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. To learn more about housing development opportunities, please reach out to Julie Burrell at burrellj@rightplace.org. To learn more about the housing partnership tool, please reach out to Lindsay Hager at lhager@facommunityfoundation.org 4 Grant School Board Members stand by decision to close CAHC with Rob Schuitema casting the lone vote opposing the action Story and photos by Ken De Laat The Grant School Board held a special meeting Friday afternoon at 3pm, a meeting necessitated by a violation of the Open Meetings Act that negated the actions taken at the June 19th meeting. These actions included the passage of the budget for the upcoming year and the controversial decision made to sever ties with Family Health Care by doing away with the Grant Child and Adolescent Health Center. A crowd with numbers edging toward 250 filled the Grant Middle School cafeteria to see for themselves a reenactment of the surprise decision that shook the Grant community. Each of the local television stations were on hand for the story. After calling the meeting to order came the first public question section which the Vice President of the Board Ken Thorne (Former President Neil Geers resigned after the last meeting) limited to 30 minutes saw roughly 10 people speak to the board. Each of the speakers presented their support for the Health Center as well as their disdain for the efforts taken to cut ties with it. The board returned to the action item of considering the reenactment/ratification of the Board's decision at the June 19 meeting. Board Member Rob Schuitema, the lone dissenting vote at the previous meeting attempted to introduce a motion to rescind the resolution but his motion died without support. This was despite his appeal to the other members to engage in discussion on the matter, particularly given what was heard from those who had just spoken out in support of the CAHC. The Board then voted 4-1 to reaffirm the actions including the budget and the demise of the Health Center. Board members Ken Thorne, Rachal Gort, Sabrina Veltkamp-Blok and Richard Vance each reprised their vote from the June 19th meeting while Schuitema once again opposed. Board Member Danette Obenauf was not present. Then the community came out in force. For the next three hours the board heard from providers, students, former students, single parents, educators, coaches, parents and grandparents, business people and leaders from other human service agencies who took to the podium to express their displeasure with the Board decision. A few voiced their chagrin in more personal ways directing sharp comments to individual board members while the majority focused on the positivity the presence of CAHC has brought to the school. Others pointed out their displeasure with the lack of transparency displayed by the members who favored the ousting of the Center. Of the close to 60 speakers only 3 supported the decision by the board. Meanwhile, the rest of those making their way to the podium weighed in with personal stories of the help received by the clinic including a mother who related how the staff at the clinic had saved her 7 year old son’s life and several who benefited greatly from the therapy services. Many current and past employees spoke of the benefits the CAHC has brought the district and a former board member took the Board to task for failing the students. Megan Wirts, a resident who attended Grant schools as have her two children, was candid in her response stating, “the decision to remove the CAHC undermines the progress we have made in prioritizing the health and well-being of our students. Your decision Ms.Gort, Ms. Veltkamp-Blok, Mr. Vance and Mr. Thorne, sends a message that the physical and mental health of our students is not a priority, that their well-being can be compromised for the sake of your personal political and religious views and discriminatory beliefs. We must not allow our students to bear the brunt of your bigotry or short-sighted decision-making. It is our duty to fight for their right to accessible healthcare, to advocate for their well-being, and to ensure that they have the resources they need to thrive.” Carol Mills, Executive Director of Newaygo County Mental Health stated, “You have heard many reasons to keep the Health Center open. The reasons to close it are few, and frankly not logical and simply wrong. We need to be providing increased crisis mental health services in our schools to reduce incidents of violence and suicide. Removing the teen health center from Grant Public Schools may result in people getting hurt and dying. At that moment in time in the future, when I learn of an attempted or successful suicide of a Grant Student, I will add that child and their family to my prayer list. I will also hope that each and every person on this Board who made the decision to close the Teen Health Center finally sees and understands that actions have consequences. Every time.” The Board heard many similar responses toward their action and while there were occasional catcalls from the crowd the loudest sound remained the applause given the speakers who advocated for keeping the CAHC. When the line for speakers finally came to an end Schuitema made a motion to move the next meeting to the Grant Fine Arts Center which could offer a better sound system (the microphones stopped functioning properly midway through the meeting) and handle the expected large crowd but once again there was no second of the motion and thus no discussion or vote ensued. As the Board moved to adjourn, the crowd began chanting “Recall, Recall”, and media folks surrounded the board table. None of the 4 who voted to oust the CAHC chose to comment to any media requests nor did they respond to any questions about why their action was taken. After the meeting we asked Schuitema for a comment.
“These are my personal views and not that of the Grant Public Schools Board of Education. The community came out today and showed just how important the CAHC is to our community, especially the students of GPS. Almost 700 of our students use this facility as their primary care facility and as you heard, they have saved lives. Personally, I hope we can find a resolution that protects the best interests of our students, faculty, and support systems. Free healthcare in a low income, free and reduced lunch, promise zone community is essential.” The community came out looking for answers but were met with mostly silence by the four board members who seemed undaunted by the outpouring of dissent toward their action. The Board will convene their next regular meeting on July 10 at 6pm in the Grant Fine Arts Center. Meeting to be held at Grant MS starting at 3pm
Our recent article on the move by the Grant Public Schools Board of Education to sever ties with Family Health Care’s Child and Adolescent Health Center received a good deal of commentary, some on our site and a whole lot on our facebook page. The next regular monthly meeting of the Board was to be July 10th at the Grant Middle School cafeteria beginning at 6pm, however the school website now lists a special meeting that will take place tomorrow Friday June 30th beginning at 3pm also at the MS cafeteria. The Friday meeting should give those who have expressed their views via social media an opportunity to communicate their opinions in an open meeting. It also provides an avenue for hearing the viewpoints others might have on this matter. Once again, Friday June 30th, 3pm Grant MS Cafeteria. Late agenda addition gets board support
Update: Meeting to be held on Monday July 10th at the Grant Middle School Cafeteria beginning at 6pm By Ken De Laat On Monday at the sparsely attended Grant School Board meeting with the Board President not in attendance, a motion that would close the doors of the Child and Adolescent Health Center was put forth by Board Member Rachel Gort as an action item. The motion passed 4-1 with one abstention. Gort, Board VP Ken Thorne, Sabrina Veltkamp-Blok and Richard Vance voted in favor of severing ties with Family Health Care while Danette Obenauf abstained and Rob Schuitema voted against. Board President Neil Geers was not in attendance. As a result the action would end the relationship between Grant Public Schools and Family Health Care who have provided services at the Center for the past 12 years. Last fall a small group of community members complained to the board about a student created mural situated at the Teen Center. The group had issues with the mural’s depictions of gay and trans youth as well as some symbols they felt were promoting Satanism. Some at the time called for the closure of the Center. At a board meeting during the controversy the vast majority of speakers during public comment supported the young artist who created the mural as well as expressing support for the Teen Center. https://www.nearnorthnow.com/news/a-return-to-civility A spokesperson for Family Health Care released this statement: “Family Health Care was not given notice that the Board of Education would be discussing the contract regarding the school-based Child and Adolescent Health Center located within Grant Middle School. We are disappointed with the Board’s decision to end the contract within 90 days and how this will impact students and families in the Grant community. Family Health Care has been providing school-based health care in Grant since 2010. We will continue to provide services at the Grant Child and Adolescent Health Center until the contract officially expires. We also will provide services at our main clinic location at 11 N. Maple St. Family Health Care remains committed to our mission and vision of providing quality, integrated health care services that are accessible to all.” Grant Superintendent Brett Zuver was apparently also blindsided by the move. “ At our Board meeting Monday night there was a surprise motion made and passed by four GPS Board members to terminate the contract of the Child and Adolescent Health Center housed in one of our buildings.. Unfortunately, it will negatively impact hundreds of children and families in our community.” We reached out to Family Health Care President and CEO Julie Tatko for a few questions. CAHC has been in Grant schools since 2010. How many students availed themselves of the service the past 2 years? Family Health Care served 658 students in 2021-2022. We count from October 1-Sept 30 (state fiscal year), so for 2022-2023 we have served 429 students to date and expect to reach that same number if we continue services into the fall. What are the primary services offered? 1) Primary pediatric medical care, including well child visits, sports physicals, care for chronic conditions such as asthma. Students can visit our medical provider if they get sick while at school or injured. 2) Mental health services. We have a licensed master social worker who provides individual counseling to students, in person and via telehealth. This came as a surprise. Was there concern before now? Were the issues raised by the board about meetings suspended during COVID restrictions, added expenses, space an ongoing issue? We have not received any concerns or issues raised by the board apart from discussions about the student mural in the health center in the fall. Those concerns were resolved by the artist in January. Our agreement states that we will host meetings with the Community Advisory Council (CAC) two times each year, and we have been able to offer those. A board member attends those meetings, along with parents, school staff, and Family Health Care staff. Last fall the Michigan State Police asked us to cancel the CAC meeting due to concerns over safety. Most recently we held a CAC meeting in April. No concerns or issues were expressed then, or since that time. Some of the objections have to do with rumors about services provided by the CAHC, i.e. gender affirming care, abortion referrals, etc.. Care to respond? Per Michigan law, Family Health Care does not provide certain services in the school-based health center, including birth control, abortion referrals, and more. We are very clear about that in our communication with parents. We also stay in contact with parents whose kids are seen for services during the school day, so that the parents are informed about treatment their children received. Is parental permission needed for treatment? Yes. Only students who have parental consent can receive care at the health center. What would be the biggest loss for Grant students as well as the community from this action? The school board’s decision will impact the families of more than 650 Grant students who rely on school-based health and mental health care services for their kids’ needs. Without these services, we expect more missed school days, lack of timely treatment for health issues, and lack of support for addressing mental health concerns, including increased suicide and depression risk. Anything to say to the community? We invite the community to show their support for the health center by contacting members of the school board at the GPS administration office: 148 East Elder Ave, Grant, MI 49327; or by email: https://www.grantps.net/Governing-Board. You can attend the GPS Board Meeting on July 10 to voice your support. N3 Note: We have reached out to the School Board President who was not at the meeting and the Vice President who chaired the meeting where the action took place for comments. We will add those comments when received. Ice Mountain The application period for grants from the Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund is now open. Completed applications are due by July 17. Grant requests are accepted online for projects or programs that conserve, enhance, or restore the Muskegon River Watershed and demonstrate collaboration among organizations. Applications are accepted once each year, typically by July 15. However, because the 15th falls on a weekend this year, applications are being accepted until 11:59 p.m. on July 17. The Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund was established at Fremont Area Community Foundation in 2002 by what is now BlueTriton Brands. In 2018, Ice Mountain renewed its support with a $2 million commitment over the next 20+ years. More than $800,000 has been awarded from the fund since its inception. 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. In 2022, grants from the fund supported hazardous waste collection, the creation of a buffer zone at Sandy Beach, work on the Dragon Trail at Hardy Dam, and more. For more information or to begin an online grant application, visit facommunityfoundation.org/icemountain. Amazing X The application for grants from The Amazing X Charitable Trust is now open. Completed applications are due July 17. 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. Grants are accepted for projects or programs that serve people with disabilities, address general charitable needs, and are innovative, collaborative, and have a significant, measurable impact. Past grants have supported respite programs, equine therapy, adult day groups, accessibility projects, and more. Applications are accepted online once each year, typically by July 15. However, because the 15th falls on a weekend this year, applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on July 17. For more information or to begin an online grant application, visit facommunityfoundation.org/grants County hosts first Developer Day
NEWAYGO, MICH (June, 12, 2023): Today, The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, powered by The Right Place, announced Newaygo County’s 2023 Developer Day, to be held on June 22, 2023. As an extension of the successful Developer Day held by The Right Place in Kent County in 2022, regional expansion events are being planned in 2023. Developers from Newaygo County and beyond are invited to join local leaders the morning of June 22 to learn more about state and local incentives and resources, including the launch of the Newaygo County Housing Partnership, a collaboration between the County of Newaygo and the Fremont Area Community Foundation. Following the presentation will be an exclusive tour of Newaygo County, featuring targeted sites for housing development in Grant, Newaygo, White Cloud, Fremont and Hesperia. To learn more or register, visit https://tinyurl.com/newaygoDD. Newaygo County’s 2023 Developer Day is made possible through funding received from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Entrepreneurs to once again compete for cash and prizes
The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, powered by The Right Place, announced the return of Pitch North, an entrepreneurial pitch competition open to those living in Newaygo, Oceana or Lake Counties. Current or aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners are encouraged to submit their pitch for consideration now through July 14th at 11:59pm via an online form. A committee of local leaders will review and score all submissions. Five finalists will be chosen to pitch their ideas for a chance to win cash prizes at the live event. Pitch North will be held at The Pavilion at Waters Edge, 1100 Ramshorn Drive in Fremont on August 16, from 4 to 6pm. The event is free to attend and open to the public. Learn more, register to attend, or submit your idea at rightplace.org/events/pitch-north-2023. Pitch North began in 2019 and has engaged over 100 entrepreneurs in the first four years, awarding over $39,000 in cash and prizes to 20 finalists. Pitch North is hosted by The Right Place, Inc. with our partners: Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, Oceana County Economic Alliance, and Lake County Economic Development Alliance. |
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May 2024
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