 First food distribution at WCUMC- Photo by Chadwick Walenga Food Truck Returns to the Cloud “For I was hungry…” It’s great to see the collaborative efforts of the White Cloud United Methodist Church and the White Cloud Library succeed in bringing back the Feeding America food truck to the area. The Church also sponsors Benny’s House, a nearby emergency food pantry. In June we ran a story on the delivery being canceled abruptly by the White Cloud Church of God Ministry who had been hosting the food truck. Feeding America posted a supportive message about the upcoming Pride Month and soon after the Church shut down the program and told us they would be investing in another food bank in the county. We have reached out since to inquire as to whether they had followed through and found another program but have not heard back as yet. But the good news is the return of this much needed and relied upon effort to help stem hunger in our community. Nicely done WCUMC and WCCL. A true example of compassion and humanity in action. The first run went well and the next date for FA will be September 24th at 5:30pm. You can get updates at the UMC fb site at https://www.facebook.com/whitecloudumc and as with any effort such as this, they will need volunteers so give a little time to a good cause and, more importantly, let yourself feel good about it afterwards. Shhh. They’re on a bit of a roll. I’m not prone to conspiracy theories and generally not superstitious although the last couple of Lions seasons has me sitting on the couch in the same spot with the same snacks and drink with my phone receiving texts from a fellow fan. But quietly and without a shred of expectation the Tigers have forged into a team that has a legitimate, if a tad distant, shot at a wild card berth. Unthinkable during a June swoon the Cubs would be proud of, this cobbled together pitching staff that has seen dozens of faces on the mound this year tossed a 3.06 ERA at opponents in August. They climbed over the 500 mark and gained ground on the Twins and Royals who currently sit in those coveted Wild Card spots. The schedule ahead is tough with the Padres and O’s, both nearly assured of being postseason teams and among the best 2 squads in both leagues. But who’d a thunk these games would even matter? And if we’re close? We end the season with three at home against the White Sox who are rapidly approaching history as they stare down the ‘62 Mets 120 loss record with scant possibilities of avoiding it. Go Tigers! “And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.”- Oscar Wilde Man was that a swift close out to summer or what? At N3 World Headquarters on the shores of Hess it went from full bore summer celebratin’ over the Labor Day weekend to a pretty quiet Monday finish as boats left the water on trailers and folks began hunkering down for the end. Our neighbors over at Brooks will be hauling their stuff out in a hurry as the lake will be drawn down for some needed maintenance along the roadway. Even our remaining orioles and hummingbirds that have extended their stay seem to have departed for warmer climes preceded by many of the other migrators. Football is everywhere, leaves have begun to color up and tumble down and my morning walks involve waving at school bus drivers. And, real or not, when I’m out and about there’s that subtle yet distinctive whiff of Pumpkin Spice entering my olfactory system. Well, so long summer. You’ve once again been a great time in your all too short stay. And that’s smart of you, tossing in the occasional brutal heat wave so we don’t get overly attached. “Autumn seemed to arrive suddenly that year. The morning of the first September was crisp and golden as an apple.”- J.K. Rowling , Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows  A much quieter Hess Lake
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 Forget the curse of Bobby Layne. SI prediction might be worse
By Ken DeLaat After last season and the continued gridiron renaissance of the Detroit Lions anyone who is a long suffering fan of the team has to be looking at the upcoming season with more than a tad of optimism. Coach Dan Campbell is back along with the innovative Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn who directs the defense. They are young and hungry. A recent story in The Athletic named the top 25 players aged 25 and under. There are 32 teams in the NFL and yet 5 of the 25 names wear the Honolulu Blue and Silver. We’ve grown to embrace Jared Goff and can even give Matthew Stafford some love for supplying us with a boatload of draft picks AND a QB who knows how to win. The draft and free agency filled some needs and there are many reasons for a rosy outlook, right? At N3 we were thinking this year’s theme for the Lions would be “It’s Next Year! Then Sports Illustrated had to ruin it all. They predicted the Lions would win the Super Bowl. Over the Cincinnati Bengals. Why is this bad news? Well in the 24 years they have been doing this, they correctly predicted the winner… Once. Last year? Eagles over Bengals. Neither made it. Year before? Bills over Buccaneers. Neither made it past divisional playoffs. Of their 48 selections for Super Bowl participants they got it right 6 times. Though not one to dwell on jinx mentality, it would have been a bit easier had they not chimed in by selecting our Lions. After all, when you are the fans of one of 4 teams to never make it to the big one, there will undoubtedly be a lot of angst, even when you have a team that has seemed to do it right with an eye on the prize. But hey, let them climb aboard what should be a fun bandwagon as former Lion pessimists as myself enjoy the ride and embrace the smugness of being a frontrunner formerly restricted to the Packers and Vikings and even once upon a time the Bears. Whatever happens this season the team has certainly gotten its mojo back. Well, getting it back would mean they once had one. Let's call it mojo acquisition. Go Lions.
From the Newaygo County Democratic Party The Newaygo County Democrats are hosting two local Candidates who are eager to meet with the public and represent our communities in the coming election. “Coffee with Chris” will take place at 10am on Tuesday, August 27 and Tuesday, September 10. Chris Crain is the Democratic Candidate for the Michigan House of Representatives District 101, which includes all of Newaygo County. Coffee and donuts will be provided. “Lunch with Lynch” will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 12noon. Michael Lynch is a Democrat running for Michigan’s 2nd US Congressional District, which sprawls across all or part of 20 Counties, including all of Newaygo County. Lunch will be provided. The Meets & Greets will take place at the Newaygo County Democratic Party Office, 1032 W Main St, Fremont, 49412 (West Village Shopping Center). Chris Crain, a steadfast resident of Wexford County, is seeking to represent the 101st House because “community members feel disconnected from their elected officials, yet their input and feedback are crucial in shaping the policies that affect their lives,” states Chris. “People still struggle with food and housing security, medical care, educational opportunities, and economic mobility.” “In addition, as a US Army Veteran, I could no longer stand by and watch what has been sacrificed by so many for our State and Nation, be destroyed by others for their own benefit,” added Chris. Active, community grassroots participation has led Chris to local township participation, with a focus on housing availability and rent stability. Community, Justice, Equality and Equal Freedom are Chris’ mottos. Michael Lynch resides and works in Gratiot County. A lifelong advocate for working- and middle-class families, his focus is on affordable health care, affordable housing, labor and union issues, reproductive rights and “responsible” gun legislation. “Transparency at all levels of government should be the rule instead of the exception,” states Lynch. “Half-truths, rumors, and misinformation from our elected officials should no longer be circulated or tolerated. I believe that you should be able to trust your representatives and not have to worry about their motivations.” Michael is a manager with the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan and has earned several teaching awards for his work as a lecturer and instructor at universities including DePaul University, West Virginia University and Georgetown University. Community members are encouraged to attend these initial opportunities to meet and question these candidates. The next monthly Newaygo County Democratic Party meeting is Monday, September 9 at 1039 W Main St, Fremont. 6pm offers an open forum for discussions, with the business meeting starting at 6:30pm. For more information, visit https://newaygocodems.org.  By Kathy Morrison Morrison Orchards has been delivering high quality fruits and veggies to our area for decades. Recently Kathy Morrison (an occasional contributor to these pages and an untiring defender of the environment) posted on local social media expressing her thanks for the many folks who have made Morrison Orchards a regular stop over the years. We reached out to her to ask if she might be willing to reprise her thoughts in a guest column. After a bit of arm twisting she agreed. John is 78, I am 63 and the rigors of farming and fruit/corn harvest gets pretty overwhelming at times (gees how did we do it when our 3 sons were young? ) . We talk about cutting back, slowing down, traveling more, etc but then…the comments ….. they make staying the game all worth it. “ My grandma is 95 and she said this was the best peach she’s ever eaten!”. “Hi, I’m from Detroit and your cherries were the best we’ve ever had! What kind were they?” “Hi this is Steve K, we made jam with those “softies” you sold us. It's the best jam we’ve ever had!” “ We travel up here from Illinois because we can't find corn as fresh as yours!" (and often we’re able to say it was picked 40 minutes ago). …. And on and on all summer, the kind words come to us. HUGE HUGE HUGE! THANK YOU to our many customers old and new. Your appreciation and kindness make this a joy. We appreciate you buying local Michigan produce, whether from us or other area growers. Keeping it local and supporting small Michigan farmers is absolutely the way to go! THANK YOU from John, Kathy, and our son Max at Morrison Orchards!  By Ken DeLaat, N3 Publisher Kudos to the folks in Fremont who are going to put a splash pad in Vet’s Park. We got invited to a little celebration touting a contribution from the Gerber CU people but it was raining and Election Day and all so we missed the photo op. We will, however, applaud the effort. In March of ‘22 we posted this as part of a column. How cool would a local splash pad be? That’s right, very very cool. The staff at N3 World Headquarters often stop at the Clam Lake Brewery in Cadillac and park in back where a frequently used splash pad is awash (pun intended) with kids while the parents sit on the edges watching the fun and having conversations with other parents between the usual interruptions for questions or toweling off. It looks relaxing and fun and there are few of the usual fears sometimes associated when it comes to little kids and water. We’re reminded of a line from the movie Field of Dreams, because when it comes to a splash pad? Build it and they will come. Wednesday, March 23rd at 6:30 pm in the community room at the Fremont Area District Library a guest speaker will talk about how Grand Haven worked at getting the splash pad in their community. That meeting must have provided some traction because now it looks to be a reality. And while a splash pad is likely to be vilified by the omnipresent “we got by with a sprinkler in the backyard” contingency we applaud what will be an absolute boon for parents of young children. You know, the kind of folks we would like to have either remain in or come to our community. Yeah, those people. Wow, some election that one was. One candidate facing off with her current boss, another challenging his former boss and a couple of three ways that brought an incumbent a win and saw an election newcomer secure a commission seat. And that was just on the Republican side. The Democrats had no county candidates, a non surprise considering the county continues to be overwhelmingly GOP at about a 3-1 clip but 85% of them cast their votes for Senate candidate Elissa Slotkin over Hill Harper. Slotkin will face off in November with Mike Rogers who outdid the other Senate wannabees garnishing 51% in our county. So now we turn to November. Likely to see less signs since the number of candidates has dwindled considerably. Oh, and it seems no one is stepping up to oppose the current Grant School Board folks this time around. Must be the vile character assassinations and outlandish accusations distributed to the community via a sensationalistic mailing during the recall election were enough to deter any decent, interested citizens from participating. And for those who might think the ends justify the means here? They don't. Not even a little. Panda-monium hits Newaygo. Think our citizenry enjoys their Asian cuisine? Panda Buffet recently opened in Newaygo and ran out of food after being deluged by folks craving something beyond the fast food and the standard options that populate so many menus. Not to say we don’t have some places that offer up some intriguing dishes. NewBrew features some less than commonplace items here and there, Hit the Road Joe is unafraid to be adventurous, and Moon Dance lays out some fine homemade fare but for right down the middle Asian grub that always involves a high level of quantity (always a big draw) Panda seems like the current rage.  Facility may close if millage fails
Voters in the city of Fremont along with Dayton Township and Sheridan Charter Township will be making a decision on the future of the Rec Center when they go to the polls Tuesday. The Center offers a wide variety of programs including swimming, a fitness center and is the area’s hub of indoor pickleball. We caught up with Fremont Community Recreation Authority Board Chair Bryan Kolk for a few questions. Why is the Rec Center seeking a millage? Rec center is seeking to renew their millage which is nearing expiration. We asked for the original millage nine years ago after we had been operating for about three years and thought we knew what the cost was going to be. It wasn't until later that we sorted out the final entanglements and ended up operating in the Red. For the past four years Dawn Finch and Jon Grimes have donated their time and efforts to run the center which is the only reason we are still open. The costs of everything have risen sharply in the past few years dramatically increasing operating expenses. This is why we are also asking for a 1/4 mil increase. Are there other financial supports? Last year the three municipalities that started us (City of Fremont, Dayton Township and Sheridan Charter Township) assisted us with the purchase of many new pieces of workout equipment. Other than that, we have a couple modest lease agreements and also some membership revenue. How long has the Rec Center been open? The Rec Center has been open for 12 years. The effort began about 20-25 years ago when the three municipalities combined to complete a Master Plan and had a Recreation Committee. The Committee operated as such until about 9 years ago when it became an Authority and took over the Rec Center from the School to operate it independently from the Municipalities. Who benefits from the Center? What groups are your primary users? The entire Fremont Area benefits from the Rec Center. Residents of the City of Fremont, Dayton Township and Sheridan Charter Township can take advantage of a reduced rate on the usage whether it's an individual or family membership, pool rental, gym rental or the rental of other space. We have members from a large area of Newaygo County as well as some persons from Muskegon and Oceana Counties. One popular use of the Rec Center is for students to hang out between school letting out and having to be home. We are a safe space that it is easy to congregate at and just hang out, work out or shoot a few hoops. We are also used by a number of more organized groups such as Fremont Wrestlers, Lap swimmers, water aerobics, and things like home shows, gun shows or pancake breakfasts. The Fremont Fire Department holds some training there as does the Newaygo County Law Enforcement Dive Team. What will be the result if the millage doesn’t pass? If our proposal does not pass we will not be able to remain open. Anything to add? The ballot language had to be written by an attorney which makes it difficult to completely understand to begin with. There is one section that mentions the City of Fremont Downtown Development Authority and the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. No, we are not trying to share with either of these. There is a law about TIFA (Tax Increment Finance Authority) which is a way for places like Downtown Development groups to capture a portion of the millages levied on properties in these well defined areas for their own use. This millage would be subject to that as are the mileages for the County Road Patrol, Commission on Aging, Medical Care Facility and others.  By Newaygo County Democratic Party Saturday August 3rd from 1pm-3pm is the Grand Opening and family friendly Ice Cream Social of the Newaygo County Democratic Party (NCDP). The new office is located at 1039 W Main St, Fremont, 49412 (West Village Shopping Center). Fellow Democrats, friends and visitors are welcomed to meet local candidates, pick up yard signs, and join in on tasty ice cream treats. The August Monthly Meeting will be held on Monday August 5 at the same location. An open forum with refreshments begins at 6pm inviting issues and discussion. The business portion of the meeting starts at 6:30pm. The Monthly Meeting will begin volunteer sign up for this election year tasks such as staffing the office, voter registration and outreach, and canvassing. Democratic Party members and non-members alike are encouraged to come to learn more. A zoom option is available, but one must be a Michigan Democratic Party member who has attended at least one NCDP meeting. Becoming Michigan Democratic Party member is free and can be joined online at www.michigandems.com/join. For more information about the Newaygo County Democratic Party, becoming a member of the Michigan Democratic Party, signing up for E-news, and new office hours, please visit: https://newaygocodems.org. Or call 231-709-9007.  NC Board Chair Bryan Kolk Proposed Septic Inpection legislation doesn't add up
By Bryan Kolk Newaygo County Board Chair Health Department #10 Board member We have legitimate concerns about the quality of our water and environment here in Michigan. Senate Bill #299 and #300 also known as the “Environmental protection: sewage; onsite wastewater treatment systems; regulate, and provide for assessments and evaluations.” This does not fairly or clearly address those concerns. We also know that sometimes unnamed concerns can lurk behind the title of something. I believe that is what we have here. These bills make it a requirement for “Onsite wastewater treatment systems” (residential septic systems) to be inspected every 5 years. Doesn’t sound so bad but it is pretty much an impossibility. I live in Newaygo County which is part of the District Health Department #10, which services the 10 counties of Crawford, Kalkaska, Lake, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Newaygo, Oceana and Wexford. Drawing from information to this Health Department we have 165,000 known onsite wastewater treatment systems. That makes 33,000 inspections a year for the 10 county district. Servicing these Counties are 12 Sanitarians. Simple math shows that each of these Sanitarians will be responsible for 2,750 septic system inspections per year or about 1.25 inspections per hour if they do not take any lunches, breaks or vacations. This of course also leaves out travel time between sites or re-inspections when necessary. I spoke to a larger county that is not in our district. They employ 3 full time sanitarians and report to covering 900 inspections per year. There are provisions in the Bill for education and training of new inspectors but I have seen what happens to fees when demand for services far exceeds the supply of providers. I got a call two weeks ago from a contractor complaining that they were building a new home and requested permits for septic and well. They were told scheduling was currently 6 to 8 weeks out. This Bill is also triggering new inspections when building permits are issued for existing homes or when a sale of a home is foreseen. Getting past simple math on inspections we can look at the costs included with these Bills. They are looking for a $3,000.00 Application and Review fee. After the actual costs are covered which includes an administration fee from the State, you should be returned the remainder of the posted fee. Doesn’t specify how timely that comes back. Other concerns are that each of these inspections requires a pumping of the septic tank. A tank of 1,000 gallons is required on homes with 2-3 bedrooms. It varies for more or less bedrooms. Taking 1,000 gallons as a rough average, pumping 33,000 tanks per year is 33 million gallons of sewage. The state lacks the capacity in the number of businesses that pump septics to keep up. If we grow enough to keep up, where do they dump that 33 million gallons of sludge? Back to our Sanitarians. I am guessing that the reactions may differ from household to household when someone they do not know knocks on their door and announces that they are from the local Health Department and need to schedule a septic system inspection. Probably not many smiles with handshakes, possibly putting workers in serious jeopardy. The Sanitarians have other duties as well. In addition to doing all of the septic inspections, they have to do inspections for wells. Campgrounds get regular inspections as do pools, body art locations, restaurants, temporary food service locations (food trucks, fairs and festivals), water service to schools and golf courses. Don’t forget the testing of surface water. Here in District #10 that’s all of the beaches along Lake Michigan and 20 smaller lakes. Our county just had a major algae bloom in one lake with warnings to avoid contact with the water. That is not going to be a one test and done but will need constant monitoring. Let’s remember the PFAS we are discovering in so many locations now. It’s those Sanitarians that must test and monitor these sites as well. One local event (The Electric Forest in Rothbury) took a week from all 12 of our Sanitarians to prepare for. They covered 100 temporary food service licenses as well as testing 24 different wells. The water and environment is very important to me but we cannot pass a law that can only cause a failure back home. These unintended consequences must be reviewed and ways to mitigate those consequences must be developed and written into law. Possibly backing off a bit on the every 5 year requirement. Maybe an initial focus on the more concerning properties that are within 500 feet or 1,000 feet of a waterway, then expanding. In Michigan one regulation does not fit all environments or situations. We have areas that are sand, clay, rock and many conditions in between. Maybe rather than regulations being made by the state we can let the local Health Departments be in on the decisions and approach to keeping Michigan safe. One size does not fit all and remember that all sorts of liquids flow downhill. Let’s not make the local Health Districts be at the bottom of the pond and drowning. Let your Senator and Representative know how you feel.
The final of our series features one of the candidates in the only contested commissioner race, the 5th District which includes Garfield and Brooks Township as well as the City of Newaygo. Once again, early voting begins this Saturday and runs through Sunday, August 4th. Election Day is Tuesday, August 6th. Absentee Ballots can be obtained until Monday, August 5th at 4pm. "Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education."- Franklin D. Roosevelt Lori Tubbergen Clark A lifelong resident of Newaygo County my commitment to the betterment of our community has extended beyond my professional roles as teacher, consultant, curriculum director, and superintendent. I have often acted as a change agent, coaching individuals, and organizations, to move from status quo to new ways of thinking; fostering growth and changing perspective. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education, a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Counseling from Eastern Michigan University. Prior to retiring from public education in December, 2021, I was privileged to serve the education community for 35 years including a 15-year tenure at NC RESA in the role of school superintendent. It has also been my honor to serve on the board of the Fremont Area Community Foundation for 9 years most recently as Board Chair. Why are you running? I am running for county commissioner because I am passionate about the positive momentum Newaygo County is experiencing, and would be excited to contribute to an effective County Commission board. One evening, in one of my former leadership roles, we held a community meeting to discuss a community project and gather input. The turnout was incredible—residents from all walks of life came together, eager to share their thoughts and support the initiative. As I listened to their stories and concerns, I was deeply moved by the community’s passion and dedication to improving our county. This experience was one of many that highlighted the power of community engagement and the importance of listening to and valuing every voice. It reinforced my belief that, together, we can achieve great things for Newaygo County. It also strengthened my resolve to continue serving and advocating for our community, ensuring that we address critical issues and create a brighter future for all residents. This moment was a powerful reminder of why I am committed to Newaygo County and why I am running for county commissioner—to harness this collective energy, drive positive change, and continue the long Newaygo County tradition of collaborating for a common good. What makes you the best candidate? As a lifelong resident of Newaygo County, I am deeply passionate about the positive momentum our community is experiencing, especially with the innovative solutions addressing our housing challenges. With my extensive experience in boardsmanship and governance, I am well-equipped to contribute effectively to our county’s continued growth and success. I have demonstrated my commitment to serving the Newaygo County community through various roles. As the NC RESA superintendent, I managed a governmental budget of approximately $25 million. Additionally, I have served on multiple boards, including the City of Newaygo TIFA board, the United Way of the Lakeshore/Newaygo County board, and most recently, as the Board Chair for the Fremont Area Community Foundation board. I am passionate and competent. What do you see as the 3 main responsibilities of the post you are seeking? County commissioners play an important role in local governance, and three of the main responsibilities include: Budget Approval: Commissioners approve the county budget, ensuring funds are allocated appropriately, and assuring we are living within our means. Personnel and Facility Management: Commissioners authorize payroll and employee benefits. They oversee county facilities, ensuring maintenance and provision. Long-range Planning and Advocacy: Commissioners participate in long-range planning and represent county interests at state and federal levels. How will you serve or better serve the public, if elected or reelected? If elected, I will leverage my skills and dedication to serve our community effectively. I will regularly attend township and City Council meetings to engage with residents, listen to their concerns, and maintain open lines of communication. By transparently keeping stakeholders informed about decisions, policies, and county projects, I aim to build trust and foster collaborative relationships. My priorities will include addressing key issues such as housing, infrastructure, public safety, rural transportation, and economic development. I will stay informed and up-to-date with local, state, and national issues that may impact Newaygo County. If elected, my goal is to make a positive impact as a county commissioner and work to drive Newaygo County forward. County/State officials' responsibilities are not well known by the community members they serve. How will you educate your constituents and help them stay informed? Keeping the public informed is an important responsibility for a county commissioner. The current County Commission Board Chair does an outstanding job of keeping the public informed. I would work to support those effective communication strategies and others, such as newsletters, press releases, open commission meetings (public comment), digital communications, and other media outlets. In your opinion what makes for an effective leader? An effective leader combines various qualities and skills to inspire, guide, and support their team. Integrity is crucial, as it involves upholding high ethical standards and building trust through consistent and transparent actions. Strong communication skills are essential for clearly articulating goals, expectations, and feedback, as well as actively listening to stakeholders and valuing their input. Empathy allows a leader to understand and address the needs and concerns of others while demonstrating compassion and support. Decisiveness is important for making informed decisions and taking responsibility for their outcomes. Accountability involves taking ownership of results and holding oneself and others accountable for their actions. Collaboration means working effectively with others to achieve common goals and building strong, cooperative relationships within the team. Lastly, inspiration and motivation are key to encouraging the team to perform at their best, recognizing their achievements, and creating a positive, productive work environmen  Today we move to the race for Drain Commissioner and the responses from 2 of the 3 candidates running for the office. Once again, early voting begins this Saturday and runs through Sunday, August 4th. Election Day is Tuesday, August 6th. Absentee Ballots can be obtained until Monday, August 5th at 4pm. "The act of voting is one opportunity for us to remember that our whole way of life is predicated on the capacity of ordinary people to judge carefully and well.”-Alan Keyes Dale Twing I am a fourth generation lifelong resident of Newaygo County, a graduate of Grand Valley State University and a past local businessman. My wife Sue and I are blessed with three married daughters Honorable Melissa Dykman, Jenny Hanna and Becky Bergakker. I value our community and serve wherever I feel I can make an impact. I am currently serving on the Fremont Area Community Foundation Economic Development board, Human Trafficking Task Force, Newaygo Community Autism board and NCRESA board president. My Philosophy has been and will continue to be developing relationships and collaboration with agencies and organizations to make and keep Newaygo County the great place we love to live. Adam Campbell I grew up in Bailey, Michigan, and attended Grant Public Schools. I graduated from Grant High School in 1997. In 2001, my wife and I purchased my family farm in Grant where we raised our two sons. After graduation, I started working and utilized the welding skills that I acquired from the Newaygo County Career Tech Center. I was hired by Plummers Environmental Services to construct their industrial wastewater treatment plant, where I discovered my interest in the water treatment industry. This field opened the door to my lifelong career. Over the years, I have co-owned an environmental company and currently work as a Street Supervisor and Waste/Fresh Water Operator in the City of Newaygo. Throughout my career, I have obtained state licenses in wastewater, freshwater, and stormwater certifications, as well as gained valuable experience in drainage systems. Why are you running? Campbell: I'm running for Drain Commissioner because I believe I can make a difference in our community. With over 28 years of experience in the Environmental and Drain industry, including almost 10 years with the City of Newaygo, I am committed to improving our local drains and environment while supporting our community. Twing: I want to continue the really great projects we have started. I have years of experience and excellent relationships that I want to continue for the benefit of Newaygo County. The best part of my work is being effective through collaboration, and we've made great progress in protecting our Waters by working with Lake boards, MSU extension soil conservation, and Fremont Area Community foundation. Another term helps me to see the projects through to completion. My experience and work ethic allows me to connect and collaborate with many different groups which gets the work done more effectively and efficiently with less tax cost for citizens. What makes you the best candidate? Twing: My work ethic allows me to connect and collaborate with many different groups which gets the work done more effectively and efficiently with less tax cost for citizens.I have the required Qualifications for serving as Drain Commissioner: EGL Certification, StormWater Management, Soil Erosion Control SEC, Hazardous Waste Clean-up Management. A big part of my job is to be responsive to all calls and problems, and if they aren’t In the Drain Office Authority, to then refer our citizens to where they can get help or answers.with many different agencies and organizations allowing my office to work more effectively. Campbell: I believe I am the best candidate because I am committed to listening to my community and staying focused on the task at hand. I am confident that I can bring new ideas, and with my experience, I can make a positive difference in our County. What do you see as the 3 main responsibilities of the post you are seeking? Campbell: The three main responsibilities I see are protection, maintenance, and repair. Firstly, it's crucial to protect our most valuable resource, which is water. Secondly, maintenance involves inspecting the structural integrity of our drainage systems and lastly carrying out necessary repairs. Twing: Maintain 200+ legally established drains, issue soil erosion permits and perform inspections. Maintaining lake levels elevation established by the 27th Circuit Court, State statute requires me to be a member of the County Parks board, and six lake Improvement boards. As Chairman of Public Works I’m responsible for the coordination of recycling and household Hazardous waste collection. Applying and receiving grant funding to help support programs and reduce the County Financial commitment. How will you serve or better serve the public, if elected or reelected? Twing: If elected I plan to Work with all our Lakes to inform and help them keep their lakes healthy and ensure land values. This happens through relationships with Egle (DEQ) DNR Officials MSU extension and others, writing and obtaining grants for projects that benefit the Watershed . Also recycle as State has set new goals Campbell: As Drain Commissioner, my primary objective is to serve the public by prioritizing active listening to the needs of the county's residents. I am dedicated to finding cost-effective solutions that not only improve the efficiency of our local drains but also better serve the public. Additionally, I am committed to protecting our watershed, and ensuring the preservation of our natural environment for the benefit of our community. County/State officials' responsibilities are not well known by the community members they serve. How will you educate your constituents and help them stay informed? Campbell: I will establish a plan to keep our constituents informed about environmental issues and the importance of maintaining clean water and land. I aim to collaborate with local schools to educate our youth about the significance of preserving our environment. Additionally, I will utilize social and current media platforms to spread awareness and engage with the community. Together, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier environment for current and future generations. Twing: Very few people understand my job and I have continually attempted to educate the public with meetings, forums and presentations. I have also used social media and occasionally speak at Public Service organizations. In your opinion what makes for an effective leader? Twing: To be an effective leader you must be a good listener to citizens, employees and partners. I understand strengths and weaknesses and hire to compensate for those attributes.. I care for the people I serve and I'm ready, willing and able to commit the time and energy to get things done. Campbell: Integrity, empowerment, strategic thinking, dedication, and experience are all crucial qualities that contribute to an effective leader. These qualities not only enable me to lead effectively but also empower me to make a positive impact on the community. |
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